At 22 years old, Anna Gonzaga is already making a profound impact on the lives of young people in Winnipeg. As a Program Coordinator with Career Trek, she leads a team of 11 staff who deliver career exploration programs to youth in Northern Manitoba, helping them dream bigger than they ever thought possible.
But just a few years ago, Anna herself was navigating uncertainty. A psychology student at the University of Manitoba, she was eager to work with children but unsure how her passion could translate into a career. Career Trek became that bridge. “I used to think I could never work a full-time job and go to school at the same time,” she recalls. “Working here challenged me to give myself the chance to try and I discovered I was capable of more than I imagined.”
Career Trek didn’t just offer Anna her first professional role; it transformed how she saw herself. Through managing staff, balancing schedules, and delivering programs, she developed leadership, communication, and organizational skills. More importantly, she discovered a sense of purpose: guiding youth as they explored careers, built confidence, and began imagining their own futures.
Some of the most memorable moments are small, yet profound. One 10-year-old participant anxiously awaited a pastry chef session, attending every week just for that moment. When the day arrived, her joy was palpable, she told Anna she had been counting down the days. Another participant, quiet and sensitive to touch, slowly gained comfort in the program. By graduation, she wanted a photo with Anna, a simple gesture that spoke volumes about trust, connection, and belonging.
“These moments remind me why this work matters,” Anna reflects.
Anna’s journey is just one example of how Career Trek strengthens Winnipeg. The organization has employed over 300 post-secondary students, giving them leadership experience while keeping talent in the city.
“Career Trek woke me up from just going through the motions. I’m not just living to finish school and get a job anymore. There’s a purpose to what I’m doing.“
Anna gonzaga
By opening doors for youth, building leadership pathways for young professionals, and connecting participants to local workplaces, Career Trek creates ripples across Winnipeg. Through programs, partnerships, and mentorship, it gives young people the tools to dream boldly, work confidently, and contribute meaningfully to their city.
For Anna, and the thousands of youth she serves, Career Trek is more than a program, it is a place where purpose, passion, and possibility come to life.