When Ishita first began receiving employment services with WISE in late 2023, she had a clear interest in the beauty industry, but finding the right employment opportunity would take time.

Over the next two years, Ishita and her Employment Specialist explored many possibilities. Together, they visited hair salons, nail parlours, retirement homes, and anywhere beauty was possible… by applying to different jobs, completing trial shifts, and visiting local businesses, it became even clearer that this was the path Ishita wanted to follow. While some opportunities did not lead to employment, the feedback received highlighted areas where she could continue building her skills and experiences.

Rather than giving up, after so many trials, Ishita stayed focused on her goal! She decided to invest in herself by completing a one-year training in hairdressing and later continuing her education in medical aesthetics. She practiced her skills through school assignments, worked with models, completed a practicum in a busy salon, and continued exploring different opportunities in this magical industry.

In 2026, all of that hard work finally came together.

Through community job development and connections with local salons, Ishita had an opportunity to complete a trial shift at a nail salon. She showed her skills, worked with clients, and was invited back for another shift. Soon after, she was offered a job.

Since May, Ishita has consistently worked weekends at the salon, providing nail and pedicure services to clients. She has learned to track her hours and tips, communicate with her employer, and manage her work responsibilities alongside full-time school.

Most importantly, Ishita says she really enjoys her job. She describes the salon as welcoming and appreciates the patience and support of her coworkers as she continues to learn and grow.

Today, Ishita is not only working in the beauty industry she dreamed of entering – she is continuing her education and building experience for her future career. One day, she hopes to open a home-based salon of her own.

Her journey is a great reminder that employment success does not always happen quickly. Sometimes it takes many conversations, persistence, applications, interviews, trial shifts, training opportunities, and resilience through disappointment before the right opportunity comes along.

Today, Ishita’s story shows that when determination meets opportunity, great things can happen.

Written by LP