At Work Program

Held annually, Connecting the Dots is Canada's largest educational and professional development experience focused on braille, technology and employment for people who are blind or partially sighted. This two-day conference will provide opportunities for attendees to: learn more about current trends and innovations in the sight loss community at thought-provoking workshops and informative panel discussions; network with industry experts and connect with other like-minded professionals; experience the latest advancements in braille and assistive technologies; meet a community of braille transcribers, technology experts, academics, and entrepreneurs from diverse organizations and institutions; and, gain practical experience from industry experts.

The work world has changed. Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment are a growing part of our work culture. Maybe you want to start your own business or work as a freelancer or consultant. CNIB’s Entrepreneur Program is here to give you the resources and inspiration to succeed. Vision: A world where passionate entrepreneurs with sight loss transform ideas into successful businesses without barriers. Mission: foster innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit among people living with sight loss; cultivate passion and grow talent; equip entrepreneurs with skills, knowledge and tools for success; nurture successful relationships and create opportunities; and tell your stories of success and achievement.

Services include: International Student Transition Coordinator – Available to meet one-on-one with international students of Memorial University and their spouses, advisors can assist with creating resumes and cover letters according to Canadian standards as well as any other career-related questions or challenges. The Professional Skills Development Program – Helps prepare international students for professional employment in this province and throughout Canada. The program will take place once a week and will cover themes of communication, culture, volunteering and interactive professional skill development. General Career and Employment Advising – All students and alumni of Memorial University can meet one-on-one with Advisors to discuss their career and employment options. Advisors can provide information about working on or off campus, and assist with resumes, cover letters, preparation for job interviews, etc. Coaching and Mentoring – Provides opportunity for current undergraduate and graduate students to connect with alumni and business professionals to discuss career opportunities through one-on-one meetings or more structured programming. Graduate Transition to Employment Program – Assists graduate students to find employment by offering an incentive to employers to offset salary costs. Ten Thousand Coffees Memorial University has partnered with Ten Thousand Coffees to provide students and alumni with another resource to help network and connect. The program is open for students searching for career advice, recent graduates just getting started in their field, or industry experts looking to share ideas with their peers. Ten Thousand Coffees is an effective way to connect with people who interested in impactful conversations, in person or online.

Income Support Benefits include basic and non-basic financial supports such as Family or Individual Benefit to assist with expenses such as food, clothing, personal care, household maintenance, utilities and Shelter including rent and mortgage. Non-basic benefits can include coverage for municipal tax payments, eye exams and prescription glasses, private childcare (related to employment or training) and expenses for burials.