A New Chapter Begins for Our ORA Graduates

We were honoured to be invited to participate in LIUNA Local 183’s 2026 Industry Awareness Event, an incredible celebration of opportunity, hard work, and the future of the skilled trades. For the Oaks Revitalization Association, the day was especially meaningful as one of our very own clients received the prestigious

In this 15-minute mini-documentary, five more ORA clients share their experiences in their own words. They reflect on their journey through the program, the support they received, and the mentoring that has helped change the way they think about themselves and their futures.

Two of our graduates came back today to speak to our current mentoring cohort. They didn’t come back with a speech, they came back with the truth. What it felt like before. What it took to change. How the mentoring and training gave them structure, discipline, and a standard to live by.

Under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford’s government, Ontario is building a workforce that is strong, skilled, and reflective of our province’s diversity. A workforce where youth from marginalized communities can access real careers, earn real wages, and contribute to a prosperous Ontario.

At The ORA, we believe knowledge and training are the first steps toward independence and empowerment. When you learn a skill, you’re not just gaining a job. You’re discovering options.

Today, our clients had the incredible opportunity to hear from Mr. Jack Oliveira, Business Manager of LiUNA Local 183, a leader who has lived the journey, earned the respect, and built a legacy through hard work and loyalty. His message was simple, strong, and unforgettable: “You can sleep when you’re dead.”

Training isn’t about getting everything right the first time. It’s about showing up, trying, failing, learning, and coming back stronger the next day.

In the skilled trades, success starts long before the first tool hits the ground. It begins with showing up, early, prepared, and ready to work. Being on time isn’t just about the clock; it’s about respect, for yourself, your crew, and the craft you’re building.

In the skilled trades, every day brings something real. You can see the results of your effort — a wall built, a room finished, a foundation laid strong and steady. That’s pride. That’s purpose.