This summer the Centre for Employment Innovation (CEI) is lucky to be joined by eight interns that are helping with research, engagement, and communication work alongside full-time staff. The CEI has partnered with St. Francis Xavier University (StFX), Venture for Canada, co-op programming, Nova Scotia Young Leaders, and the inaugural Nova Scotia Works Summer Student Internships funded by the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education’s Skills and Learning Branch Employment Nova Scotia division to hire these youthful and enthusiastic people. We will be sharing more about our interns and the work they are doing throughout the summer on our social media pages, Facebook and Twitter. Our next highlight is Aleesha:

Aleesha Kaitlyn Quinn

Bachelor of Arts and Science in Health, Biomedical Concentration, St. Francis Xavier University

Once again, this summer I am working with the CEI as a Research Intern. The main project that I will be working on this summer is French Services Support to the Nova Scotia Works (NSW) system, it is of particular interest to me as I grew up in the Magdalen Islands, where the Acadian culture and language runs strong to this day. This initiative aims to increase the capacity of the Nova Scotia Works system in promoting and delivering employment services for Acadians and French-speaking individuals in the province. When I am not at work or university, you can find me in the kitchen baking, at my sewing machine, or taking long walks with friends!

From a young age, I have always had a strong desire to work in the healthcare field. This led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Arts and Science in Health at St. Francis Xavier University. In the fall, I will start the final year of this degree. The BAScH program allows students to explore the ever-broadening definition of health and has the social determinants of health (SDH) at its forefront. Employment and Working Conditions is a noteworthy determinant that shapes an individual’s health status in a multitude of ways. Thus, through its work, the CEI contributes to indirectly improving the health of Nova Scotians. This internship will therefore not only present me with the opportunity to further my research skills but also to deepen my understanding of this SDH.

“I consider myself very fortunate to be working with a team of individuals that are truly committed to creating and fostering changes in the way that employment services are developed and delivered in the province, all the while being able to notably develop my professional communication and analytical skills. Working with the CEI is a fulfilling experience both professionally and personally.”