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Soon after arriving from Algeria, Derroiche
Kada Belghitri found work as an insulation installer in Nantes,
France. Demand for his skill was strong, and in 2001 he opened
his own insulation business. But after running his company
for three years, business dropped off and Derroiche's company
was forced into bankruptcy. Despite his experience, his job-site
management skills and education (in Algeria, he had earned
an advanced technical certificate in oil machinery mechanics)
Derroiche was unable to land another job. With a wife and
child depending on him, Derroiche was desperate for an opportunity
- any opportunity.
Finally, a social workers told him about
the Job Academy - a cooperative program between Manpower
France, the French Ministry of Social Cohesion and Equality,
and the Foundation for Action to Combat Exclusion (FACE).
The Job Academy was established to help educated individuals
from disadvantaged areas overcome barriers to employment,
and match them with companies that needed their skills.
Through the Academy, Derroiche completed a rigorous
preparatory course in maintenance. Manpower trainers
also provided one-on-one instruction in effective interview
techniques. Since then, a steady series of assignments
have kept Derroiche happily employed, and able to support
his wife and child.
He credits the Job Academy with helping him turn his
life around. "I wouldn't have been able to sell
my skills and experience alone. With the help of Manpower,
I've managed to convince employers."
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