Hats Off to VACC's Danaë Josaphat
submitted by Terry Lin, VACC Assistant Centre Director
We are thrilled to share the news that Verdun Adult and Career Centre student, Danaë Josaphat, has been honored with a prestigious award from “Hats Off to You!” contest organized by the Quebec Ministry of Education on June 17, 2024. The main objective of the competition is to highlight and celebrate female students who choose a traditionally male-dominated program of study. Danaë’s inspiring journey was recognized with a 2000 $ award offered by the Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA).
Danaë is currently enrolled in the Computing Support program at VACC. She will soon be graduating in August 2024. Since she started in March of 2023, Danaë has persevered through her challenges and flourished into a confident woman in her field. As a young black woman with a physical disability and learning difficulties, she had faced anxiety and self-doubt about coming to back school and entering a technology program. Through informal interactions and discussions within the program, Danaë had the opportunity to share her experiences and listen to those of other women facing similar challenges. These exchanges have created a supportive community where she felt uplifted and inspired to continue through her studies.
Through her experience in the Computing Support program, she has learned to be more compassionate toward herself and with her own difficulties. She is an advocate for challenging stereotypes associated with women, especially those from minority backgrounds, in traditionally male-dominant fields.
In her application, Danaë highlights that representation is crucial and that she is grateful to have connected with Ms. Cassandra Alicia Whyte, a teacher in the Computing Support program who has been a great mentor to her. Danaë wrote that more concerted effort from organizations and training centres should be made to promote inclusivity and diversity in vocational training programs.
Danaë is truly an inspiration and VACC is extremely proud to see her continue to excel in her program. Please join us in congratulating her on this well-deserved honor and in celebrating her remarkable journey.
