Pennsylvania Women Work 2019 Women of Courage
From Pennsylvania Women Work's website: "Pennsylvania Women Work is a non-profit organization that has been dedicated to empowering women for more than two decades by helping them find lasting employment that pays a family-sustaining wage. We help women overcome life obstacles to employment; develop job search and career skills that are transferable to any job; and forge connections that lead to brighter career paths. Our goal is to help each client achieve long-term career stability and financial independence." This was an amazing organization to work with, and I'm honored to have been able to capture such amazing stories.
Idiatou Diallo was a 2019 Woman of Courage honoree at Pennsylvania Women Work's annual fundraising gala. Idiatou moved to the US from Guinea without any knowledge of English, but through various PA Women Work programs, she was able to build to skills and confidence to get into the working world. Idiatou is currently a CNA at UPMC, and has goals to continue schooling and become an RN.
After going through a divorce, Valerry moved to Pittsburgh with her 2 children, and had trouble navigating her way back into the working world because of her lack of local connections. PA Women Work gave her arm to reach out to, giving her the confidence and relationships she needed, and eventually led her to finding her dream job.
Angela had an incredibly difficult childhood, which included a young pregnancy and a car accident that left her with a physical disability. When she was old enough to move out, Angela packed up her stuff and headed out Pittsburgh with nothing but her suitcase and her walker. With the help of PA Women Work, Angela was able to find work that could accompany her physical barriers, and she is now living a happier life here in Pittsburgh.