Scotiabank’s generous support helps newcomers like Elda restart their careers and give back as mentors

When Elda arrived in Canada from the Philippines, she was surprised by how hard it was to continue her career in psychotherapy. Like many newcomers, she quickly learned that no matter how successful you were back home, starting over can feel overwhelming and isolating.

Scotiabank’s $2.5 million community investment over three years, helps to support Windmill’s wraparound supports, including one-to-one coaching, financial literacy training and mentorship. The funding support is enabled through ScotiaRISE, the Bank’s initiative to remove barriers to advancement and help people and communities access opportunities to thrive – on their own terms. Clients like Elda receive more than an affordable loan. They gain encouragement, guidance and someone who believes in them when confidence runs low and their professional identity feels lost.

“As newcomers, we often carry grief, pressure and quiet doubts about whether our skills and experiences still count,” says Elda.

Despite a successful career before immigrating, recredentialing barriers nearly pushed Elda to leave Canada altogether. This would have meant a loss of much-needed talent at a time when the country faces a growing mental health crisis.

Today, Elda is the co-founder of Laro Therapy, a Toronto-based clinic supporting children, youth and families. She is also one of Windmill’s most engaged alumni, mentoring newcomers and sharing her story to remind others not to give up.

“Windmill alumni hold something powerful. We offer lived proof that starting over is possible. As mentors, we offer not just guidance, but hope,” Elda says.

With partners like Scotiabank, Windmill can support more newcomers like Elda to move forward with confidence and build meaningful careers.

Every donation creates opportunities for newcomers to rebuild their lives and help strengthen Canada’s future.

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