Pascaline has always had a love for children. Growing up in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, she found joy and purpose in working with youth. That passion stayed with her when she came to the United States, where she carried a clear dream: to pursue an education in early childhood and one day open her own childcare business.
But turning that dream into reality would take resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering determination.
Overcoming Barriers: Language, Finances, and Family Responsibilities
When Pascaline first arrived in the U.S., accessing education was a challenge. Without the financial means to pay for school, she worked long hours as a caregiver for a community agency. At the same time, she balanced life as a single mother while also caring for her own mother.
Despite these responsibilities, Pascaline took her first step toward her dream by enrolling at Fox Valley Technical College. However, learning in a new language proved difficult.
Determined to succeed, she committed herself to English Language Learning (ELL) classes, studying two hours a day, every day. It took nearly three years, but Pascaline persevered, transforming herself both academically and personally as her confidence bloomed.
A Life-Changing Opportunity Through WIOA
Although encouraged by an instructor to continue her education, Pascaline was forced to pause her studies when financial and life circumstances became overwhelming.
Then, everything changed.
While scrolling through Facebook, she came across an ad for the Road to Success Child Care Training program. Through that ad, she discovered the WIOA program—an opportunity that would help her get back on track.
Finding Strength Through Support and Determination
Even with this new opportunity, Pascaline faced significant challenges. She balanced work, classes, and caring for her children and mother while pushing herself toward her goal.
Through it all, she found encouragement in her WIOA Career Planner, Jasmine.
Pascaline shares:
“I am proud to have a good person who always thought about us (class) and her wanting to help other women like me in the program to succeed. ‘I know you can do it!’ Jasmine’s encouragement was everything! I knew it was not going to be easy.”
Her journey wasn’t without setbacks. After her first licensing visit, Pascaline felt discouraged.
“I was crying after my first licensing visit. I wanted to give up again. I knew I had to keep going. I came to my Career Planner for assistance. Then, I told myself, ‘I can do it.’”
With renewed determination, she kept moving forward—working overtime, studying, and preparing for another opportunity.
Achieving Success: Becoming a Certified Child Care Provider
This February, Pascaline’s perseverance paid off.
After successfully completing the Road to Success Child Care Training program, Pascaline received her official Certificate of Approval from the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families to operate her in-home childcare.
“My Career Planner called me and told me congratulations. I cried again. I was in disbelief. Now, I have my certified childcare. I am forever grateful for this opportunity.”
Her advice to others reflects the mindset that carried her through: “Listen, focus, and believe in the person that told you to do so.”
A Bright Future Ahead in Early Childhood Education
Pascaline’s Career Planner, Jasmine, reflects on her journey with pride:
“I am very proud of this client. Her willingness and determination through it all has been astounding. I have witnessed this client navigate barriers and defeat many challenges that were brought her way. Through her optimism, she was able to achieve her dream. It has been a truly rewarding experience for me as her Career Planner.”
Today, Pascaline is living the dream she once imagined: running her own certified in-home childcare.
Looking ahead, she hopes to expand even further by opening a large group childcare center after gaining more experience.
Her story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance, support, and self-belief, even the most challenging journeys can lead to incredible success.
WIOA in this area is made possible by the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board.
