Two days after writing my last university exam, I began working in the accounting department for a large company in downtown Winnipeg. After nearly two years, I found myself feeling unhappy and unfulfilled in my chosen field. I began questioning my career choice, and met with a close friend working in Human Resources to discuss my next career move. We spoke about my areas of interest, such as teaching, training, and the CPHR designation. My curiosity was piqued, and I began researching Human Resources programs. I found the full-time Human Resource Management Diploma Program at The University of Winnipeg and registered.

With no previous experience or education in Human Resources, I dived right into. I knew I wanted to build a solid educational background, and make connections with as many students, instructors, and other individuals in the field, as possible. The internship at the end of the program gave me valuable experience I could add to my resume, and led me to a second internship.  In the fall, I responded to a post on LinkedIn for a recent Human Resources graduate to work temporarily in a Human Resources department. I jumped at the opportunity, and within a few days was place at Wawanesa Insurance. I spent five weeks at Wawanesa completing an employee personnel filing project and assisted with a couple additional projects. From there, a permanent Human Resources Assistant position became available. I went through the recruitment process and at the end was the successful candidate. My experience at Wawanesa gave me the opportunity to work on key Human Resources initiatives and projects, while supporting the Human Resources team in a variety of capacities.

In January 2013 I achieved the CHRP designation, and I am currently working at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) as a Human Resources Coordinator. My role at the CMHR will give me the opportunity to continue to grow and develop my skills in Human Resources, while at the same time being part of a unique national project that comes once in a life time. Sadia is now working for Google in London, UK.

Sadia Hashmi
Senior Human Resources Business Partner
AlayaCare