Get ready. Get trained. Get hired.

Pathways to Work is a free program that helps community members in Edmonton build their resume, prepare for interviews, earn job-ready training and connect with employers who value diverse talent.

“I am because we are.” Our employment support is guided by Africentric social work practice and the philosophy of Ubuntu.
Who we support

Is this program for you?

Finding meaningful work in a new city, a new country or at a new stage of life can be hard. You don’t have to do it alone.

  • Afro-Caribbean, Black and Indigenous community members
  • Newcomers, immigrants and refugees
  • Women and youth facing barriers to work
  • People looking for a first Canadian job, returning to their profession or changing careers
  • Other equity-deserving community members
  • To join, you must live in Edmonton and be 18 or older. The Youth Training & Employment Program is open to people aged 15 and older.
What we offer

Support for every step of your job search

Resume review and updating

Get help with your resume, cover letter and LinkedIn profile so employers can see your skills and experience.

Interview and job fair preparation

Practise with mock interviews and coaching, and walk into job fairs knowing what to say and bring.

Career coaching

Work one-on-one with a coach on your goals, your job search and Alberta workplace culture and rights.

Short-term job training

Build practical skills for work in these fields.

  • Kitchen and food services
  • Warehouse and logistics
  • Administration
  • Trades

Tickets for work

Earn the tickets employers ask for, including First Aid, WHMIS and Food Handling.

Employer connections

Meet employers through referrals, networking and recruitment events.

Mentorship

Learn from community members and professionals who understand the challenges you face.

Support after you’re hired

Keep getting guidance and coaching so you can succeed and grow in your job.

How it works

Five steps to work

  1. Meet with us

    Talk with a Career and Employment Coach about your experience, goals and any barriers.

  2. Make your plan

    Build an employment action plan around your goals.

  3. Get job ready

    Update your resume, prepare for interviews and complete training.

  4. Connect with employers

    Join job fairs and recruitment events, and get referrals.

  5. Keep growing

    Get ongoing mentorship and coaching after you start work.

Focused programs

Extra support for your goals

Everyone in Pathways to Work gets coaching and job search support. These programs add focused help.

Women and Youth Employment Program

For women and youth facing barriers such as language, credential recognition or limited knowledge of the Canadian job market.

  • Short-term and long-term skills training
  • Mentors who understand the challenges newcomers face
  • Job placements and long-term opportunities with local employers
  • Interpretation, translation and transportation help

Youth Training & Employment Program

For Afro-Caribbean, Indigenous and newcomer youth aged 15 and older building skills, confidence and a path to work.

  • Job readiness and workplace skills
  • Internships, part-time jobs and entry-level jobs
  • Mentors for cultural, academic and career guidance
  • School success workshops and safe spaces to connect

Custom Installer Training & Placement Program

For people who want a career in installation and the skilled trades.

  • Hands-on training and industry instruction
  • Direct connections to employers
For employers

Hire motivated, job-ready people from our community

Partner with us to meet candidates who have completed coaching and workplace readiness training.

  • Tell us about your open positions and the skills you need
  • Meet candidates at job fairs and recruitment events
  • Offer job placements and long-term opportunities
  • Build a team that reflects Edmonton’s diversity, skills and experience
Questions

Common questions

How do I get started?

Call (780) 477-8220 or email inquiries@acfoodbank.ca. We’ll set up a time for you to meet with a Career and Employment Coach.

Does the program cost anything?

No. All our services and training are free.

What should I bring to my first meeting?

Bring your current resume if you have one. If you don’t, we can help you create it.

Can you help if my education or experience is from outside Canada?

Yes. Our coaches work with people returning to their profession or looking for a first Canadian job, and can refer you to education, skills training and certification programs.

Do you still help after I find a job?

Yes. We continue to offer guidance, mentorship and career coaching after you start work.

Your journey to meaningful employment starts here

Whether you’re looking for work or looking to hire, we’d love to hear from you.

Afro-Caribbean Food Bank Canada Centre (ACFBCC) logo