Sohani’s Story: Kindness Makes a Difference

Sohani Shaikh was born in the dynamic city of Anand, Gujarat, known as the “Milk city of India”. The region is renowned for more than just milk production. It is also home to the world’s largest statue, the Statue of Unity, a symbol of pride and unity. In August 2023, Sohani moved from India to Regina in order to pursue her education.

Through her studies in the Disability Support Worker program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic,  Sohani met COR’s Employee Experience Advisors during an in-class presentation. Sohani expressed that she felt the need to to be part of COR when she heard about COR’s central purpose. Program instructors encouraged her to apply to complete her practicum with COR — she was successful in also becoming an employee as well! During her practicum, Sohani expressed that she learned so much and accredits her good grades to the experience and training she received from COR.

Sohani recently completed her program, receiving her Disability Support Worker Certificate. She is proud of the knowledge she has learned and the difference she is making in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Sohani said she chose Canada to complete her education as Canada has a good educational system and there are many great opportunities available.

Like many new immigrants, everything is not always sunshine and roses! Sohani said her biggest culture shock was the cold weather — she has never experienced that type of cold winter back home. She also said that coming here as a young adult makes her miss her family a lot. Before coming to Canada, she had never lived alone. “I didn’t even know how to cook when I came here. But I am proud of myself for taking this opportunity to become more independent. I am also mentally and emotionally stronger than before,” said Sohani.

She also shared that she was fortunate to have her brother here in Regina. He helped her a lot in settling in to her new life in Regina. “My instructors at Saskpolytech were also very supportive and I could count on them when I had questions or needed help.” Sohani shared that she misses the street food in India. “While we have a variety of restaurants in Regina, street food comes with its own flavour and it’s difficult to find the same type of food here in Regina.”

“Everyone at COR is very supportive. People treat me with kindness and are so welcoming. This makes a big difference to newcomers.”

Sohani shares that she feels privileged to work in an organization where the philosophy of Gentle Teaching is embedded at the core of everything we do.

“The culture of gentle teaching is very unique and when you start to practise it in your professional life, you see the need to have it in all aspects of one’s life. Practising Gentle Teaching is about creating long lasting relationships. When I see support workers that no longer work at COR come visit the people we support, and the love you see on everyone faces, it’s beautiful. Working at COR is more than just a job. It’s creating trusting relationships where everyone feels valued and appreciated. I also feel a sense of belonging as diversity is celebrated. For example, the celebration of Eid Ul Fitr at COR provides a place where people can come and celebrate with each other; meeting and sharing information, it makes the connection stronger. I feel included and like I belong here.”

Thank you, Sohani, for choosing to work at COR. We are grateful to have you a part of our organization and you make a difference just by being you.