From Lawyer to Construction Worker: How ThankGod Found Opportunity and Community Through EMBERS
When ThankGod moved to Vancouver from Nigeria just six months ago, he left behind a thriving legal career. After seven years of private practice in litigation and corporate law, he relocated to Vancouver a few months after his wedding in Nigeria. “It was a difficult decision to leave my practice,” he says. “But we decided it was the best choice for us.”
Like many newcomers, ThankGod spent his first few weeks in Canada searching for work. He applied for office roles, as he also has a background in IT, but opportunities were hard to find. Then a friend mentioned EMBERS Staffing Solutions: a social enterprise that connects people to real, meaningful work. ThankGod decided to visit the office, where he met Jason, one of our Staffing Specialists. “They got me registered right away,” he recalls. “And soon after, they called me for a job.”
Learning From the Ground Up
Despite his professional background, ThankGod wasn’t afraid to start from scratch. His first jobs through EMBERS were general labour positions on construction sites, which was entirely new to him. “I’d never even held a shovel before,” he laughs. “But I learned quickly. Now I know how to use all kinds of tools and machines, and I can even fix things myself.”
His dedication and willingness to learn stood out. Within a few months, he was referred to the City of Vancouver’s asphalt team, and after just three months, the City hired him full-time. “I didn’t have an asphalt background,” he says, “but I gave it my best and they recognized my effort. It’s a great starting point, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
Building a Future (and a Community)
For ThankGod, steady work has brought not only financial stability, but also confidence and belonging. “When you’re working on contract, you worry about what happens tomorrow,” he explains. “Now I wake up knowing I have a job to go to, and that gives me peace of mind.”
He’s also found friendship and community through EMBERS. “The team is amazing; very cordial, very respectful,” he says. “They believed in me and referred me to the City because they saw my potential.”
Looking ahead, ThankGod plans to complete his NCA (National Committee on Accreditation) program so he can return to his legal career, ideally with the City of Vancouver. “It’s a great place to work,” he says. “I’m looking forward to contributing in a different way someday.”
A Message of Hope
When asked what advice he would give to others considering EMBERS, ThankGod doesn’t hesitate. “It’s a great place to start,” he says. “It gives you hope.”