"PACE has been a great contributor to my success. The connections I made with classmates and instructors were invaluable," says Tuyen (Alice) Nguyen, a PACE alumna who completed her Advanced Business Management Diploma in April 2024. Currently, she is a Finance Controller at the Government of Manitoba, playing a key role in financial operations and contributing to community development.
Alice's journey to success was marked by persistence and resilience. Starting her career in Canada as a PACE student, she found the program to be a game-changer, easing her transition and enhancing her adaptability to the Canadian job market.
She credits PACE for helping her build profound connections that supported her job search and strengthened her mental fortitude. "They supported me in my job search and were pillars of my mental strength."
"The practical lessons at PACE, from project-relevant courses to resume-building and cultural dimensions, were crucial in my transition to the Canadian work environment," Alice reflects. Her journey is a testament to the power of dedication and the right educational support.
Alice advises students to "keep striving and believing; your efforts will pay off." Her story encourages all to continue inspiring each other with their achievements.
"PACE helped me land my current job as a Marketing Coordinator because of the tips and quality of education shared in the classroom," says Melissa Sta. Cruz, a PACE graduate from the Public Relations, Marketing, and Strategic Communications Diploma program. She successfully transitioned into a rewarding role at Arctic Co-operatives. Originally from the Philippines, Melissa joined PACE in fall 2022 and found the 13-month program to be an enriching and transformative experience.
Melissa recalls her time at PACE as packed with valuable lessons both inside and outside the classroom. "The best thing about joining PACE is that, beyond the things you learn within the four walls of the classroom, it's also about learning a lot of crucial things to help you find a job and thrive in a working environment," she says. Her class, consisting of 25 people—21 of whom were international students from different parts of the world—provided a diverse learning environment that contributed significantly to her personal and professional growth.
Now working at Arctic Co-operatives, Melissa credits PACE for helping her land the role. "PACE helped me land this role not only through classroom learning but also by teaching me how to align myself with the company I wanted to work with," she explains. She emphasizes the importance of a well-crafted cover letter, a skill she honed at PACE, as a key factor in her successful job search.
Melissa's advice to current and prospective PACE students is to be ready to absorb everything and look beyond the classroom. "Gear up and be ready to absorb everything you need to learn. Look beyond what's inside the classroom; you'll learn a lot more than what's in textbooks or lesson plans. Open your eyes to new experiences and challenges because you'll learn a lot from there too."
Melissa's journey from PACE to Arctic Co-operatives exemplifies the transformative power of practical, industry-relevant education, inspiring current and future students to embrace all learning opportunities and thrive in their careers.
"PACE programs equip you with the skills to solve real-world problems by focusing on market-related case studies taught by industry experts," says Catherine John, a proud graduate of the Project Management Diploma program at PACE, University of Winnipeg. Originally from India, Kate joined PACE in April 2022 and completed her program in April 2023. Her journey through PACE was both academically rigorous and enriching, thanks to the diverse backgrounds and cultures of her classmates.
Reflecting on her experience, Kate shares, "There’s a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the class from my classmates. The connections I built and the networks I engaged with helped me land a job as soon as I graduated through my internship process." These connections played a crucial role in her securing her current position as Project Manager, Support & Planning at The University of Winnipeg.
Kate emphasizes the importance of perseverance and utilizing the skills acquired during the program. "One thing I would want to remind students currently in the program is that the hard stuff will pass, and there is so much more you will experience once you graduate. This includes both professional and personal development."
The skills and knowledge gained from the program have been instrumental in her professional journey. "The skills this program equips you with, such as problem-solving and negotiation, are applicable in both personal and professional life. It’s a very comprehensive and well-rounded experience," Kate explains.
Kate’s advice to current and prospective students is to always bring their best selves to every opportunity. "Never underestimate what you are capable of, and never assume that people aren’t watching. Always bring your most ready and successful self." She encourages students to trust the process, build connections, and remain patient in their job search, as opportunities will arise.
Kate's story is a testament to the value of a PACE education and the opportunities it can create. Her success at The University of Winnipeg highlights the practical and comprehensive nature of the Project Management Diploma program, inspiring current and future students to pursue their goals with confidence and determination.
Catherine (Kate) John Project Manager, Support & Planning The University of Winnipeg
“PACE helped me find a job in my niche,” says Zuleika Bajaro, a recent graduate of the Financial Management Diploma program at PACE, University of Winnipeg. She made a seamless transition into her professional career as an Accounting Clerk at the Government of Manitoba just weeks after completing her program. Her time at PACE played a crucial role in shaping her career path and securing her job.
Reflecting on her experience, Zuleika shares, "PACE did a great job in helping me find a job here in Winnipeg because I was able to get a job a few weeks after my program completed." She highlights the importance of making the most out of the university experience. "One piece of advice I can give to current PACE students is to make the most out of your experience at the university. Find mentors and excel in your studies."
Zuleika also emphasizes the value of engagement and curiosity during the program. "Make sure to ask more questions to your professors and find a mentor as well," she advises. Her proactive approach and dedication to her studies have clearly paid off, leading to a successful career in the finance sector.
With over a decade of experience in finance operations from Philippines, Zuleika brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. She has led global projects and has been recognized by both the CFA Institute and the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment. Her commitment to excellence and continuous learning is evident in her achievements and her role at the Department of Finance, Province of Manitoba.
Zuleika’s journey from PACE to her current position serves as an inspiring example for current and prospective students, showcasing the impact of a PACE education on professional success.
"Whether you're looking to upgrade your skills or switch paths like me, PACE prepares you to shine in today's competitive job market," says Hillary Castaneda, a PACE alumna from Colombia, who completed her Human Resource Management Diploma in September 2023. Currently serving as the Regional Communications Business Partner at Qualico, Hillary excels in managing regional communications, stakeholder relationships, and philanthropy initiatives.
Hillary’s journey at PACE was both rewarding and transformative. "As an organizational communications professional, completing my HR Management Diploma has been instrumental. PACE provided me with essential HR knowledge and a profound understanding of cultural adaptation and diversity, empowering me to excel in the workplace," she reflects.
She emphasizes the importance of networking for current students: "Dive deep into networking! Connect with peers and professionals, and don't underestimate the power of LinkedIn—it’s your ultimate ally."
Hillary advises prospective students to join PACE because it offers practical, industry-relevant programs tailored to boost your career. With a robust background in crafting tailored communications strategies, Hillary has a proven track record in enhancing brand recognition and driving business growth. Her hands-on experience across various sectors has enabled her to develop and implement effective communication frameworks that resonate with diverse audiences.
With a robust background in crafting tailored communications strategies, Hillary has a proven track record in enhancing brand recognition and driving business growth. Her hands-on experience across various sectors has enabled her to develop and implement effective communication frameworks that resonate with diverse audiences.
Jake Sacher, a 2022 graduate of the Project Management Diploma program at PACE, successfully transitioned to a fulfilling role as a Creative Services Coordinator at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. His experience at PACE played a significant role in shaping his career and equipping him with the skills needed to excel in his current position.
Reflecting on his time at PACE, Jake shares, "I had a great experience there. I learned a lot of relevant and useful information that led to my full-time employment at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights." He emphasizes the importance of staying on top of assignments, advising current students to "not procrastinate and do your homework early. Trust me, there will be a lot of it, so please get on it early and don't leave it until the last minute."
Jake attributes much of his success to the quality of instruction at PACE. He notes, "You have some great instructors. They're real-world professionals who understand how to get a job and how to be productive and get the most out of this program."
Jake's journey from PACE to his role at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a testament to the practical, industry-relevant education he received. His story serves as an inspiration to current and prospective students, highlighting the transformative power of a PACE education in achieving professional success.
“During my time at PACE, I discovered that the comprehensive curriculum, which included real-life experiences and case studies, was a major highlight. These practical elements allowed me to connect with the industry and prepared me effectively for the workplace,” says Lynda Ori, who completed her studies in the Public Relations, Marketing & Strategic Communications program in the fall of 2023.
Lynda actively engaged with student memberships, including the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) and the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), which were part of her admission package. These memberships provided crucial networking opportunities with industry experts. Her involvement with CPRS even led to her securing the student liaison position on the board, allowing her to connect with professionals in Winnipeg.
By actively participating in class and maintaining strong ties with professional boards, Lynda honed her networking skills. As a result, she secured a position as a Digital Content Marketing Specialist at Perimeter Aviation four months before graduation—an impressive success story!
Lynda’s advice to current PACE students is clear: “Networking is key! Make the most of the networking opportunities provided by PACE, such as professional student memberships, volunteering, and connecting with industry professionals. These connections are invaluable for your future career.”
For prospective students, Lynda recommends PACE because of its combination of a comprehensive curriculum, real-world experience, and industry connections—all of which ensure graduates are well-prepared for successful careers.
Lynda Ori Digital Content Marketing Specialist Perimeter Aviation
Public Relations & Strategic Communication Diploma
Munira shares that embarking on the Financial Management Diploma at PACE in January 2022 was a pivotal step in her career. Originally from Pakistan, Munira chose PACE for its reputable curriculum and the promise of real-world applicability.
Reflecting on her educational journey, Munira notes, “The education and experiences with the professors gave me insight into what to expect in a Canadian workplace and what a Canadian employer would expect as well.” This holistic understanding proved invaluable as she transitioned into her current role as a Corporate, Compliance Privacy, and Risk Analyst at Manitoba Blue Cross.
She mentions that her days at PACE were challenging yet enriching, shaped by a rigorous curriculum designed to mimic the pressures and demands of a professional environment. “I was part of a two-year program, which was strenuous yet rewarding. I've seen students take it easy towards the end, and that's where you lose your way,” Munira observes.
Munira’s success is a testament to the efficacy of PACE’s educational model, preparing students not just academically but also for the nuanced demands of the Canadian job market. Her advice to students echoes her own practices: “You need to know what you need to do throughout the program, right from the start to the end.” Munira’s emphasis on planning and maintaining consistency throughout the program was her secret to success.
For prospective students considering PACE, Munira’s story exemplifies the transformative potential of dedicated study and the practical rewards of a well-rounded educational experience. Her journey from Pakistan to a crucial role at Manitoba Blue Cross underscores the global relevance and impact of the education provided at PACE.
Munira Stationers Corporate, Compliance Privacy and Risk Analyst Manitoba Blue Cross
"Pace gave me insights from the technical aspects of this industry to landing my first job here in Canada," says Juan Bernardo Santos, who graduated from the Project Management Diploma program at UWinnipeg PACE in April 2023.
Originally from the Philippines, Juan is now working as a Project Manager at the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba, a role he credits PACE for helping him obtain.
"I chose PACE because of its relevance to my experience. I wanted to hone my skills further in this field, and it is an understatement to say that PACE helped me," Juan says. "Now, I'm working as a project manager at the Workers' Compensation Board. Without PACE, I wouldn't have been able to get my first job here that is related to my work experience back home."
As an internationally educated civil engineer and PMP-certified professional, Juan's passion for innovation drives him to continuously develop new skills and embrace the latest trends in project management. He believes success lies not just in delivering projects efficiently, but in creating a positive impact on people's lives.
Juan emphasizes the importance of trusting the process and diligently following PACE's guidance. "Another thing I want to emphasize is that trusting the process and following PACE's guidance from the start will make a significant difference."
Juan's success story highlights how PACE's project management program equipped him with the necessary skills and knowledge to transition seamlessly into his professional journey in Canada, aligning with his experience and aspirations.
"Joining PACE was a transformative decision for me," shares Sanchit Shangari, who completed his Marketing Management diploma in January 2024. Sanchit’s journey at PACE began with a curiosity and passion for digital marketing, which evolved into expertise through hands-on learning experiences.
“The courses at PACE are designed to meet the highest industry standards, and the faculty comprises professionals who are actively engaged in the marketing sector,” Sanchit explains. His academic projects, often centered around real-life case studies from local Winnipeg employers, not only enhanced his learning but also helped him establish a strong network within the professional community.
After graduating, Sanchit secured a role as the Digital Marketing and Student Engagement Coordinator at PACE, where he applies his knowledge daily. “The transition from student to professional was seamless, thanks to the quality of education and guidance I received at PACE,” he notes.
One of the highlights of his education was the classroom environment. “You get to share the class with industry professionals with years of experience and get taught by experts with extensive Canadian experience. The quality of education will leave you satisfied and land you a job with a top employer,” Sanchit enthusiastically states.
Reflecting on his time at PACE, Sanchit believes that the practical approach to education is what sets PACE apart. “What I learned during my time as a student at PACE has helped me tremendously because I use it every day. I highly recommend becoming a part of this wonderful institution because here you'll not only learn from the instructors but also from your fellow classmates.”
For current and prospective students, Sanchit offers invaluable advice: “Networking is crucial. PACE provides several networking opportunities through various events and professional associations. Be a part of these associations and become an integral part of the Winnipeg community.”
Through his success story, Sanchit hopes to inspire others to explore the opportunities at PACE, encouraging them to take advantage of the well-rounded educational experiences and the thriving professional network it offers.
Sanchit Shangari Digital Marketing and Communications Coordinator PACE, The University of Winnipeg
By clicking "Accept" you allow cookies that improve your experience on our site, help us analyze site performance and usage, and enable us to show relevant marketing content.
