Our Story: Building a Better Newfoundland
At NewfoundHands, we believe that when a community works together, meaningful change happens. We're building pathways between talent and opportunity, creating careers that strengthen our province.
Our Mission
To remove employment barriers and create sustainable career pathways in skilled trades for immigrants, EI recipients, and youth through community-focused training and support
Our Vision
A Newfoundland where everyone has access to meaningful employment and the opportunity to build rewarding careers in skilled trades
Our Values
Community partnership, equity-first approach, hands-on learning, and sustainable impact in everything we do
Understanding the Challenges
We know the path to a skilled trade isn't always easy. By understanding the challenges, we can create solutions that truly make a difference
Newfoundland has talented people who want to work, but employers struggle to find qualified skilled trades workers. Meanwhile, people face barriers accessing the training and connections they need.
The Reality: Good jobs go unfilled while people who want to work can't access the pathways to get there
It shouldn't be hard to find a good job. Financial barriers, lack of local connections, and unclear pathways prevent talented people from building careers they can be proud of.
The Reality: Systemic barriers keep people from accessing opportunities that could change their lives
Many young people graduate without a clear path to stable, well-paying careers. They're often unaware of the incredible opportunities in skilled trades - careers that are secure, rewarding, and always in demand.
The Reality: Youth miss out on career paths that offer financial stability and job satisfaction
Our Community-Driven Solution
We're building a new way forward - a community-focused approach that breaks down barriers and creates lasting pathways to employment
Hands-on, industry-focused programs that prepare participants for employment and apprenticeships in months, not years
- Pre-apprenticeship preparation
- Industry-certified curriculum
- Practical skill building
- Real-world projects
Culturally responsive programming designed specifically for immigrants, EI recipients, and youth with wraparound support
- Cultural integration support
- Language enhancement
- Mentorship programs
- Peer networks
Direct connections with hiring partners and ongoing career support to ensure sustainable employment
- Partner employer network
- Job placement assistance
- Interview preparation
- Career coaching
Why NewfoundHands?
Our approach is different. We combine deep understanding of community needs with direct employer connections to create real, life-changing results
Community-Rooted
Programs designed with and for the communities we serve, addressing real barriers and building on existing strengths
Fast-Track Results
Focused training that gets participants job-ready quickly while building foundation skills for long-term career growth
Direct Employer Connections
We're building partnerships with employers who are committed to hiring our graduates, not just hoping they find work
Comprehensive Support
From financial assistance during training to ongoing mentorship after placement, we support your entire journey
Ongoing Support
Career coaching and mentorship that continues after program completion to ensure long-term success
Board of Directors
Strategic leaders driving our vision and ensuring organizational excellence in workforce development
Oyedolapo Oyesiji
Director
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Peter Ogban
Director
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Carson Thistle, CLU, CH.F.C., CHS, TEP
Director
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Advisory Board
Community leaders and industry experts guiding our development and ensuring we meet real needs
Leigh Wall
Advisor
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Taejha Young
Advisor
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How to Get Involved
Email us at info@newfoundhands.com and include one of the following in your subject line:
- •"Program Interest" - for training opportunities
- •"Partnership" - for volunteer, employer, or corporate partnerships
- •"General" - for all other questions
Ready to Get Involved?
We're building something meaningful for Newfoundland's workforce, and there's a place for you in our community. Whether you're looking to build your career in skilled trades or want to support others in doing so, let's start the conversation.
Contact us today to be part of building pathways to skilled trades careers in Newfoundland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about our programs and approach
We serve immigrants (whether you are newcomers, permanent residents, or Canadian citizens), individuals currently on EI, and youth aged 18-29 who want to build careers in skilled trades.
Our programs are designed to be fast-track and intensive, but specific timelines will depend on the trade and participant needs. We're finalizing program details and will share timelines as we launch.
We connect participants directly with hiring partners, provide interview preparation, job search assistance, and ongoing career coaching after placement.
No, our programs are free to participants. We also provide financial support during training to help with living expenses.
Our programs will be determined by what our community partners and employers need most. We're committed to training people for jobs that actually exist in Newfoundland, so our specific trades focus will be shaped by real employment opportunities.
Yes, we welcome people who are looking to change careers or upgrade their skills. We'll work with you to find a program structure that fits your situation.
Yes, we provide stipends during training to help participants focus on learning without worrying about basic expenses.
We're community and impact driven, with skilled trades employer partnerships that create real results. Our culturally responsive programming is designed for meaningful change, and we're working to secure funding for participant support throughout the program.