August 1, 2024 | British Columbia

Meet Curtis S., a recent graduate of CDI College at the Mississauga campus. He earned a diploma in the Child and Youth Services Worker program and now works as a Parents Coach and Well-being Worker at Ifarada Centre for Excellence.  
 

Pursuing a career in Child and Youth Services was a natural progression of a long-held passion. Inspired by a desire to address racism and its impact on parents and children within his community, Curtis is dedicated to making a difference. His current role allows him to provide practical guidance to families, advocate for youth, offer individual counselling, and empower family members.  

A Journey Fueled by Passion  

Curtis's journey into the field of Child and Youth Services was not a random choice but a deliberate and heartfelt decision driven by his subjective experiences and a deep-seated desire to address significant social issues. Growing up in a community where he witnessed the impacts of systemic racism and social injustice firsthand, Curtis was motivated to make a difference. He realized that equipping himself with the proper knowledge and skills could be pivotal in supporting and uplifting his community.  
 

His role at Ifarada Centre for Excellence is multifaceted, allowing him to engage with families and youth in various impactful ways. As a Parents Coach, Curtis provides practical guidance, helping parents navigate the complexities of raising children in a challenging environment. His work as a Well-being Worker involves advocating for youth, offering individual counselling sessions, and empowering family members to build stronger, more resilient relationships.  

The Role of Education in Curtis's Success  

Curtis attributes much of his success to his comprehensive education at CDI College. The Child and Youth Services Worker program gave him the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel. The program's curriculum, which covers diverse topics, including psychology, social work principles, and counselling techniques, provided Curtis with a solid foundation to build his career.  
 

Moreover, the hands-on training and real-world experience offered by CDI College were invaluable. Curtis had the opportunity to engage in field placements and internships that allowed him to apply his classroom learning in real-life scenarios. These experiences enhanced his skills and helped him build a professional network, opening doors to future career opportunities.  

The Child and Youth Services Worker Program at CDI College: A Gateway to Impactful Careers  

The Child and Youth Services Worker program at CDI College is a strong starting point for students seeking to enter social services. Helping children and youth through issues like poverty, addiction, and mental health is not only personally rewarding, but it can also turn into a life-long career. With the proper training, your compassion for others can make a difference.  
 

The CDI College program is designed to prepare students for the diverse challenges they will face in their careers. Courses cover several topics, including child development, counselling techniques, crisis intervention, and community resources. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are well-equipped to support the needs of children and youth from various backgrounds.  
 

By specializing in child and youth services, students will be prepared to work in various settings, providing counselling, resources, and guidance to young people. Graduates will emerge with the job search skills needed to find that coveted first job out of school. They will also possess the tools to promote self-care while on the job.  
 

Curtis S. is a shining example of how passion, education, and dedication can converge to create meaningful change. His story is a testament to the impact that CDI College graduates can have on their communities. If Curtis's journey inspires you, consider exploring the Child and Youth Services Worker program at CDI College to start your path toward making a difference.  
 

At CDI College, we are proud to see our graduates making a difference. Thank you, Curtis, for sharing your inspiring story! We are pleased to have you as part of the CDI College community.