By Nina Myronenko, as told to Sharon Aschaiek

Workplace Communication Skills for Entrepreneurship, Sales and Marketing / Workplace Communication Skills for Professional Managers

With the help of two OSLT courses, Canadian newcomer Nina Myronenko has developed the communication skills to re-establish her career as a home repair contractor and advisor.

The Ottawa resident runs a service that connects homeowners with electricians, plumbers and other tradespeople to handle small renovation or maintenance projects. She also provides design guidance and ideas for those seeking help with remodeling or decorating their homes.

Nina started her business in her native Ukraine, and war forced her and her husband to leave the country for Canada in 2023. She was delighted to discover two OSLT courses to support her livelihood: Workplace Communication Skills for Entrepreneurship, Sales and Marketing, and Workplace Communication Skills for Professional Managers.

Nina took these courses online at Seneca Polytechnic in 2025, building essential language skills to communicate effectively with customers and tradespeople. She also learned about the business landscape in Ontario and vital resources for entrepreneurs.

Here, Nina shares her experience in both courses.

How did these courses help you develop your language skills for your business?

It was very helpful for me to renew my English skills, improve my pronunciation, build proper sentences and express myself clearly. The courses had many opportunities to practise the skills we learned. We also learned how to use intonation and nonverbal communication, manage presentation skills and discuss sensitive topics with others. Our faculty members were excellent. They made polite corrections and made you feel like you’re in good hands.

What was a key benefit of the Workplace Communication Skills for Entrepreneurship, Sales and Marketing course?

One of the most important things I learned was about agencies and government services that help newcomers start and run a business in Ontario, and how to access these supports.

What did you gain from the Workplace Communication Skills for Professional Managers course?

I improved my ability to communicate with the different subcontractors I hire for projects, understanding how to make appropriate small talk before moving on to business.

Do you suggest OSLT courses to others who are new to Canada?

I highly recommend newcomers take these courses. They’re a great way to learn communication skills that can open the door to more opportunities. For example, because of my multilingualism, I hope to collaborate with government institutions to help newcomers adapt.