Norma j.A.

Forty-nine-year-old Norma is a mother and grandmother from Fond Du Lac First Nation in Saskatchewan. It was in Saskatchewan where she graduated from high school, and went on to complete her Heavy Equipment Operator course.

Norma contacted the Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) for guidance in obtaining her certification in Security Service and Investigators Act, a goal that she had held for quite some time. With the help and support of ATC’s Project Coordinator, Natalie Cunningham, Norma was able to participate in the Security Guard Online Training Program.

“The support and guidance I got from Natalie was spectacular. She has guided me throughout this program, and I really appreciate all her help,” said Norma.

A typical day during this course consisted of going through the online material and completing practice quizzes, which was all a part of Norma’s at-home training leading up to the exam.

During her experience in this program, Norma learned the value of perseverance.

“Never give up even though you think you can’t do it,” she said. “Keep going forward with positive thoughts. You can make it all happen as long as you believe in yourself.”

For Norma, the highlight of the program was achieving 90% on her exam, and receiving support and motivation from Natalie at ATC.

“She encouraged me not to give up, and reminded me that I was going to pass the exam.”

Attending the Security Guard Online Training Program and receiving such a high mark on her exam has led to Norma being contacted by companies that would like to interview her for employment.

When asked what she would tell someone who is thinking about taking the Security Service program or similar program, she said: “There is a great line of people waiting to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be. Never let go of your dreams; go out there and take the leap.”

Indigenous Security Guard Program is funded by Service Canada and the Government of Alberta – Indigenous Relations and administered by ATC. GardaWorld is the hiring partner.