For the past 4 years, Karen Paul has worked at the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI). Karen started as a trainer but now works as the Indigenous Adult Learning & Literacy Coordinator. She works hard to help clients succeed and her goals are to provide the best service that she can to Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island and to assist them with a career plan and training that will help them to live a better life.
Tell me about your story (where you grew up, etc.).
I grew up in the Oromocto First Nation until I was 9, then my father died and my mother remarried and we moved to Fort Folly, New Brunswick. I was there until I was 18 then I left to go to Maine. I stayed there for 25 years and then finally moved back to New Brunswick, where I am supposed to be.
How did you land your position at JEDI?
I came to Fredericton for the weekend from Maine and I noticed a request for trainers on Facebook. I thought to myself that this would be a perfect opportunity to return home to New Brunswick to be with my family again. The ad said to e-mail Ashley Nash but instead I called her immediately and asked her if I could come in to talk about it that day, and when I left, I had a job!
What is your work and education background?
I attended school at the University of Maine and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Information Systems. I worked mostly all IT work, pc/desktop, network support in the Maine area.
Can you describe your current position (i.e., roles and responsibilities)?
I provide Indigenous Workplace Essential Skills, Digital Literacy, Financial Literacy, UpSkills for work, and Job Search Techniques Workshops to Indigenous Clients across New Brunswick to bridge the gap between them and the workplace.
What benefits do your clients get from taking your training?
My clients gain knowledge and the capability to seek either full time employment or education. This, at times, may open their eyes to all that's available to them. They receive certificates upon completion as well.
Can you give us an example of how your work impacts your clients?
My work impacts people a lot. We had a learner who came to our class who was so shy he could hardly speak, but at the end of the class, he gained employment and he is proud to say that he is working.
What is your favorite thing about working at JEDI?
My favorite thing about working at JEDI is that the staff are truly here to help our Indigenous population gain the skills necessary to make a better life for themselves and their families and communities. I am proud to be a JEDI employee.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like spending time at my home in Maine and playing with my dog. I also enjoy sewing when time allows.