Access Ability Employment Stream
For Participants
For those with self-identified disabilities who want to focus on building transferable skills for success in job hunting and on the job, the Access Ability program offers the Entrepreneurial Mindset Certificate (EMC) and a Wage Subsidy Program. The certificate provides 8 sessions facilitated by leaders in their fields to provide participants with various information, such as mastering self-motivation, expanding their virtual network, and much more. All sessions are provided virtually.
The Wage Subsidy Program is your opportunity to gain real employment experience. The program will help you find supportive employment with the support of a wage subsidy. The goal of the program is to help you get the skills and training necessary to stay on with your employer when the subsidy runs out.
Requirements
- Eligible to work in Canada
- Resident of Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Self-identifies as living with a disability
Benefits
- Build skills and knowledge necessary for personal and workplace success through a wide variety of workshops
- Get paid for expanding your knowledge—earn up to $600 for participating
- Support during your job search
- Flexible online sessions
Training Sessions
- Sessions are provided through guest speakers; topics include Creative thinking and problem-solving, Intrapreneurship: Unleashing your inner entrepreneur, Navigating the hidden job market, etc.
- 8 training sessions are provided throughout the term; 6 must be completed before receiving the certificate
- Earn $50 per session attended, plus receive a $200 bonus after successful completion of six of the eight sessions (up to $600)
- Get involved and expand your network by joining our weekly Roundtable Discussions. This is the perfect session for answering any questions that you may have and getting advice catered to your needs from our staff
Next Cohort:
- Cohort 5:
- Dates: October 14, 2024 – November 8, 2024
Following Cohorts:
- Cohort 6
- Dates: February 10 – March 7, 2024
Are you looking for employment?
- Get support in preparing for job searching (perfecting your resume, cover letter, interviews).
- Access to one-on-one coaching.
- Flexible and hybrid employment opportunities.
- Opprotunities for funding to support your needs and accomodations.
Supportive Employers
FAQ
Do I need to pay to join the program?
The program is free to join. In many case we pay you so that you can join stress free.
How do I get started?
- Fill out the application form.
- Choose your program(s) that interest(s) you.
- Reach out to us at AccessAbility@smu.ca with any questions.
Can I apply for both programs?
Yes, you can do both the Entrepreneurial Mindset Certificate and/or the Work Term. There are a limited number of work placements available and they will be filled on first come first serve basis.
Is there a recruitment process?
Yes. We will review applications and interview, as necessary.
How does payment work?
During the Entrepreneurial Mindset Certificate participants earn $50/session attended. If participant at least 6 of the 8 sessions, they will graduate the program and earn an additional bonus of $200. In total, participants can earn up to $600 if all sessions were attended.
Payment will be paid via mailed cheque 6 weeks after the program is completed. Please be sure to give us an accurate address when you register so we will have the correct address on file.
For the Wage Subsidy Program, participants are hired on by an employed and paid through their payroll system. Our wage susbidy will go directly to the employer.
Is Access Ability just for SMU Students?
No, the program is for anyone that self-identifies as living with a disability in Atlantic Canada.