Devi

Born in Guyana, Devi saw violence even at a young age.

When she was 11, her father was murdered by a mob. “At that time in Guyana, those of us of East Indian descent were often victims of violence,” she explains. After her father died, Devi was raised by her mother. “Life was not easy, but we survived.”

She married at the age of 23 and raised four boys. “My kids were viewed as role models in the community,” she says. She felt confident they were safe.

But that confidence was shattered on Valentine’s Day, 2004, when her eldest son, aged 18, was killed by bandits. “He had just graduated from an advanced class in school,” she says, “and was very bright. He was set to go to university.”

Devi’s life changed forever. She no longer felt safe in Guyana, and applied for refugee status in Canada. In the process, she and her husband separated.

When Devi arrived in Toronto with her three sons, they moved in with relatives. “We managed, but we were a burden.”

Then she learned about the Moving on to Success program at the Toronto YWCA. There, Devi learned office administration and computer skills. She now works 30 hours a week in the Community Outreach Program, a job training placement.

Devi, now 46,  reflects back on how the YWCA program – and the support of the counselors – have helped her.

“I am a different person now,” she says. “ I have self esteem, goals, and a sense of direction.”

Life is still a struggle, but Devi is motivated by her three boys, now aged 5, 18 and 20.  “I know it’s not going to be easy, but I want to be independent, be a role model for my kids and see them succeed in life. Whatever it takes, I will do it.”

“I am giving it all I’ve got,” she laughs.