Meet Cheyla…

This winter, we celebrate the inspiring story of Cheyla, a young, single mom whose journey from struggle to strength is a testament to the power of community and perseverance.

Three years ago, Cheyla was navigating the challenges of single motherhood on EIA when she found The Link through the Nor-West Co-Op Youth Employment Supports for Success (YESS) Program. Cheyla knew she wanted to work in a place that embraced community and Indigenous culture so when The Link reached out, she found a home that supported her growth.

As a Youth Ambassador, Cheyla empowered youth by guiding them to programs and creating safe spaces for discussion. “It was a great role, and I loved it,” she recalls. Her career flourished when she joined the Indigenous Initiatives team, where Cheryl Alexander’s mentorship connected her to her culture and healing traditions. “Getting to know our teachings healed a little bit inside of me,” Cheyla shares.

Balancing work, parenting and education was a struggle, but Cheyla’s devotion to her daughter kept her motivated and with support from her co-parent, she pursued a welding program for women, one of the hardest and most rewarding achievements of her life. “I am very proud of myself for doing that,” Cheyla beams. This accomplishment showed her daughter that education is lifelong, and a brighter future is possible.

The support Cheyla received at The Link was unwavering. “They were the most supportive people ever,” Cheyla says. Supervisors Cheryl and Kerri Irvin-Ross attended her graduation, and the youth she worked with even asked if they could come. “It was amazing to see the relationships I built and the impact I made,” she reflects.

Today, Cheyla continues to inspire with her resilience and belief that, with community support, anything is possible. To young mothers in similar situations, she shares: “Don’t be scared to ask for help. If not for you, do it for your kids. You’ll look back and be proud of what you’ve accomplished.”