Minister of Employment and Social Development for Multiculturalism visited the SCERDO office to make an important announcement.

The Honorable Jason Kenney, Minister of Employment and Social Development for Multiculturalism visited the SCERDO office to make an important announcement.

Many guests were in attendance including Hon. Janice Sarich , MLA- Edmonton-Decore; Mr. Laurie Hawn Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, members of the RCMP;  Edmonton Police Services; Service Canada; Alberta Human Services as well as members of the Somali Canadian community.

Minister Kenney announced that SCERDO is receiving over $351,000 from the Skill Link program in order to train 36 Somali-Canadian youth, over 12 months. The aim of the Skills Link Program is to empower Somali youth by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the workforce. Participants also gain valuable experience by completing a job placement. The Skills Link program provides immense opportunities for youth to overcome barriers and achieve their goals.

Bashir Ahmed, Executive Director of SCERDO, also shared a few words. He expressed his gratitude to Minister Kenney, and all those in attendance, who have continued to support SCERDO throughout the years in numerous ways.

Finally Mohamed Duale, a graduate of the Skills Link program, shared how the program supported him in overcoming obstacles and achieving his goals.  Mohamed now works in the oil industry, and is exploring opportunities to excel in this field.

The continued success of the Skills Link program is an indication that the SCERDO team is continuing to provide a valuable service to the community.   today’s announcement is an opportunity to recognize past achievements, while moving forward towards many more years of development and growth.