Exploring Bright Futures: Career Day at Hope
In a powerful new 2025 initiative spearheaded by Board Member and Zooming with Zambia volunteer, Sue Bernstein, the Grade 11 and 12 learners at Hope Community School are gaining valuable insights to the world of professional possibilities through Career Day sessions!
Each month, students gather over Zoom and welcome a member from the Spark community to share their professional journeys. These sessions offer more than just a glimpse into various career paths—they’re creating connections, sparking passions, and providing students with the opportunity to ask real-world questions and gain firsthand insight.
So far, students have been visited by a range of guests, each sharing their own experiences and advice. Associate Board Co-Chair Jason Kuker, a Trader and Developer at Consolidated Trading LLC, highlighted the importance of finding a career that you love. Andreina Yanes, Director of Supply and Data Partnerships for Microsoft Advertising, spoke about the value of being curious and asking questions. Spark Co-Founder Scott Barbeau shared his journey as a musician, encouraging students to embrace their uniqueness. Entrepreneur Sue Dewan emphasized that no career path is off-limits—especially for girls. These sessions have sparked curiosity, broaden perspectives, and empowered students to pursue their passions.
Most recently, the students met with Human Resources professional, Jamie Charles. Jamie’s visit was engaging and fun, taking the students on a journey through her career path with a colorful presentation—from McDonalds to childcare to mental health work, and eventually to her current role at Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City. Each chapter of her story emphasized how skills gained in one role can transfer powerfully to the next. Jamie didn’t just talk about growing her own skillset, she also highlighted how she used her roles to give back.
That generous spirit has already directly benefited the Hope Community School. While working for the UMKC School of Dentistry, Jamie secured a donation of hundreds of toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes, which were then brought to Hope in Zambia by Spark travelers. Jamie was able to create a meaningful impact at Hope by leveraging her personal network and connections.
This career day program has solidified what Spark has always known, donating your time and talent can be deeply impactful. Whether it is joining a career day, volunteering, or using your connections to secure donations, there are so many ways to contribute meaningfully that extend beyond a financial contribution.
If you’re interested in participating in career days with Hope, email [email protected] for more information!
Upcoming Career Days:
September 24, 2025
October 29, 2025
2026 dates TBD