Amy’s Journey to a Creative and Fulfilling Career with Support from WorkBC Langley
October 6, 2025
At 24 years old, Amy was at a crossroads. After holding various short-term and seasonal roles, including as a customer experience representative in specialty retail and a grocery store cashier, she found herself uncertain about what career path would bring her both satisfaction and stability. While she had completed some commission work in art and design, Amy was unsure how to turn her creative interests into sustainable employment.
Amy had also been navigating additional challenges. Having struggled with depression and anxiety since childhood, and formally diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2020, she often found that these barriers impacted her confidence in both educational and employment settings.
Looking for guidance and support, Amy connected with WorkBC Langley – a step that would prove to be a turning point in her life.
Personalized Support through Customized Employment
Amy was referred to Customized Employment Services at WorkBC, where she began working closely with a Customized Employment Specialist. Through the Discovery Assessment process, Amy was able to identify her strengths, preferences, and employment-related support needs. She consistently expressed a desire to utilize her creativity and artistic talent in her work, but was unsure of the kinds of jobs that would allow her to do so while providing a reliable income.
As part of her customized employment plan, WorkBC arranged an Unpaid Work Experience at Flying Horse Design Studio. There, Amy shadowed both junior and senior designers and had hands-on opportunities to explore different design tools and contribute to real-world design tasks. The experience allowed her to see herself in the field.
Pursuing Education and Career Goals with Confidence
Motivated by her work experience and the clarity it provided, Amy decided to return to school and pursue a formal education in Graphic Design. WorkBC supported her in enrolling in and completing a Graphic Design certificate program at BCIT—providing both financial and wraparound support services along the way.
Upon graduation, Amy returned to WorkBC Langley, this time ready to take the next step: launching her career. She expressed a specific interest in social media and graphic design roles.
Securing Her First Role in the Field
The Team Lead of the Job Development Team at WorkBC Langley reached out to a local employer, Bard in the Valley, and arranged an interview for their Social Media Specialist position. Amy interviewed and was successfully hired for a part-time role—aligning perfectly with her career goals and personal needs. She officially began her new job on September 24, 2025.
In Amy’s Words:
“I’m very thankful for the opportunity to do a job shadow for a career in Graphic Design and moved forward in pursuing an education with confidence that I’ve made the right choice and secured employment in this field. Thank you WorkBC Langley for the whole scope of services provided for me.”
