Affordable career loans for newcomers from a government funded charity

Charles, a lawyer with 20+ years of experience from Nigeria, faced challenges re-entering his profession in Canada without a license. Working as a security guard, he struggled to balance studying for exams with supporting his family. With a loan from Windmill Microlending, he covered exam fees and dedicated time to study. Today, Charles practices law in Canada, fulfilling his dream of returning to his profession.

Binal, an established dentist in India, moved to Canada in 2014 and began working at a sandwich shop to support her family. Despite long shifts handling meat products as a vegetarian, her life changed when she connected with her Windmill career coach, Robert. With support from a Windmill loan, Binal completed her exams and is now back to her profession, bringing smiles to her patients.

Payam immigrated to Canada to continue his medical education and secure a residency. The path to obtaining a medical license was challenging, requiring costly exams and certifications. With financial assistance from Windmill Microlending, Payam covered these expenses, easing the financial burden and letting him focus on his studies. Despite the challenges of recertifying skills and adjusting to life in a new country, Payam eventually matched into a family medicine residency at the University of British Columbia.

Mina and her husband moved to Calgary in April 2020, seeking freedom and better opportunities due to political unrest in Iran. Despite pandemic challenges and job shortages, Mina pursued TESOL certification with a $6,000 Windmill loan. She rebuilt her teaching career, advancing to a management role while continuing to teach part-time. Mina now shares her experiences with other immigrants, advising them to focus on building a new life in Canada without comparing it to their past.

Parikshit, originally from India, moved to Canada in 2019 to study psychotherapy. Facing financial challenges during an internship in BC, he turned to Windmill for support. The loan helped him cover living expenses, complete his studies, and become a registered counsellor. He now works in BC, supports an online mental health initiative in India, and credits Windmill for helping him achieve his career goals and find meaningful work in his field.

Liliana, originally a dentist from Bogota, Colombia, now lives in Barrie, Ontario, and has found a new career in healthcare. After moving to Canada in 2019, she faced accreditation barriers and financial challenges, leading Liliana to work in a factory. With a Windmill loan, she retrained in osteopathy and now finds joy in helping her clients. Liliana plans to open a clinic with her husband in the near future.