MEET Rudolf D’souza, Manager, Employer Engagement & Partnerships at Skills for Change!

Tell us a bit about yourself

I am an Innovative and Performance-driven Marketing professional having 10+ years of Leadership and management experience working with employers, strategic business partners and internal stakeholders.

I am a passionate team player and specialize in building, engaging, nurturing employer relationships and enriching customer experiences through various Marketing campaigns, communications, and events.

As an individual, I am a fun-loving person. I love exploring new places, cultures, cuisines, making new friends, and getting along with people.

Can you share a bit about your journey to Canada?

I moved to Canada with my family in August 2019. Since then our journey in Canada has been exciting, filled with new learnings, highs and lows, overcoming challenges and fulfilling achievements. My God and my family consisting of my wife and two beautiful children have been my strength through testing times. There have been many situations that have tested my resolve, but with patience, courage, firm determination I have managed to overcome and grow personally and professionally.

What was life like in your home country?

I come from a land known for its culture and diversity, India. Life back home has been wonderful, full of fun, though it came with its own set of challenges. I had the comfort of being with family, pampered by parents, friends and relatives. A place where you experience and feel each festive season Holi, Janmashtami, Raksha Bandhan, Dussehra, Gudi Padwa, Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and many more. I enjoyed the chat and banter with friends, amazing food, Cricket, Bollywood, Theatre, New Year’s Eve parties, night outs, and a lot of family get-togethers.

How did you get involved with Skills for Change?

My first experience was when I visited the Skills for Change EO east site at 10 Gateway Blvd where I was welcomed and made me feel at home. I was guided and provided with all the support I needed. It’s there I was introduced to volunteering and various other opportunities based on my previous experience, education and professional background. That’s how I started as a Volunteer at Skills for Change and rest is history.

Is there a particular moment or memory that stands out for you?

Getting my Canadian driving license and being able to hit the road taking my family out for long drives, exploring new places and the scenic beauty of the countryside.

What are you most proud of in life?

I am not proud of anything, I am blessed. For anything that I have asked in prayer and have put my heart and mind to I have received. And I am ever grateful.

What inspires you?

Jesus. The word of God in the Bible.

For thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.

What's the best advice you've received in life?

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.

Can you tell us something interesting about yourself that not many people know of?

I have often heard people close to me say that I have an intuitive mind and have a sixth sense of good timing of any event in advance. Ssshhhh! Now that you know.

Is there anything you'd like to share with us?

This is for you if you are reading this right now,

Remember that you are a Masterpiece.

Yes, you are special, you are loved, you are unique, you are extraordinary, you are not alone, you are fearfully and wonderfully made and there is none like you.

In this world you will have challenges, situations, failures, people that will knock you down saying you aren’t good enough. Is that all you’ve got?

Don’t give up, dust yourself and get up because you are not done.

Let the world hear you say, Are you ready! Here comes my best shot. KO. 👊🏻🥊

You are Victorious, you are an Overcomer, a True Champion.

Believer!