Our UPLIFT Program provides women and non-binary individuals the opportunity to reskill or upskill in advanced manufacturing and/or specialized technology fields through certification training with one of our chosen training providers.

Participants access additional supports related to career development and navigating non-traditional workplaces. Skills training is provided alongside wraparound supports and career development.

Since early 2021, twenty-five cohorts involving nearly 600 participants have leveraged this opportunity through YWCA partner organizations across Southern and Eastern Ontario. Over 95% of those “recommend” or “strongly recommend” this program to others.

Participants are enrolled in certification programs at accredited Ontario universities and colleges where they gain job-related technical skills and develop professional competencies, leading to a Declaration of Academic Achievement and/or micro-credentials.

A list of programs on offer will be made available shortly.

Applications will be accepted starting Monday, February 3, 2025. 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Women (cisgender or transgender) or non-binary.
• Bachelor’s degree, diploma or relevant experience.
• Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Canadian Language Benchmark levels 7-8.
• Acceptance into the program is not income dependent.

Steps to Enrollment:

• Request and complete an application form by contacting with our Uplift Program Coordinator, Nicole McNeil-Nuckowski at: nmcneil@ywcaste.ca
• Attend an Information session/Intake Interview.
• Provide proof of eligibility.
• Upon an offer of acceptance, complete and sign the Participant Agreement containing code of conduct, expectations, confidentiality agreement, and consent to release information.
• Enrolment with the training partner is then completed by Program Coordinator.

Applications will be accepted starting Monday, February 3, 2025.