Inspiring testimonials from DYP youths

Cristhin is a modern-day hero. Abused by her stepmother, abandoned by her father—at 15, she had to make a heartbreaking choice, one that ultimately allowed her to build her own future. Just a few days from becoming a nuclear medicine technologist and diving headfirst into adulthood, she can finally say, “Mission accomplished!”

The Foundation offered financial support to Cristhin enabling her to focus upon her studies. She is now on her way to graduating in nuclear medicine technology, Cristhin can be proud of how far she has come!

Here is an inspiring story of a courageous young man who chose to study law to make an impact on people’s lives. Immigration law, youth law, criminal law, he still doesn’t know what field he will be specializing in, but does know that he wants to give back as he receives significant support from a collaboration between the two foundations.

Jacques was taken into the care of the DYP from age 14 to 17. Despite the hardships caused by his parents’ alcohol addiction, he persevered by hanging onto his dream. Here is the touching story of a courageous boy who was able to show extreme resilience in dealing with the turmoil that riddled his life.

Samuel was taken into DYP care before he was even born. He was fortunate to grow up in a loving foster family, with whom he still has ties. A diligent and motivated student, he dreamed of pursuing a university education from an early age. When he arrived at Cégep, he turned to the Foundation to achieve this goal. He obtained financial support which will be continually renewed throughout his career. Today, Samuel is a master’s student at Laval University. He aims to work on natural exploitation projects in remote areas.

Walid * is a young person from the DPJ who experienced a challenging path. His adolescence was marked by family crises, delinquency, and episodes of running away. His beginnings at a Youth Centre were not easy. Walid rebelled, refusing to accept his new reality. When he was remanded to a youth centre with a higher level of control, things began to fall into place. He understood that his studies were the only way out from a life of delinquency. When he left the centre, Walid obtained financial support from the Foundation which helped him to complete his studies. He finished high school at age 21 and responded to the government’s call when there was a shortage of orderlies. Today, Walid works in a CHSLD and is continuing his studies at Cégep.

*The name is fictitious, but every detail of the story is true.