Meet Khalilah Wilson
A mom to three children, Khalilah Wilson embodies resilience and determination, balancing a deep love for gardening with a steadfast commitment to family and career advancement. Wilson’s journey is not just about her own personal growth, however, but also about inspiring future generations through her achievements.
Family and a Passion for Gardening
For Wilson, family is the cornerstone of life. She takes pride in supporting her children’s dreams and recently celebrated her youngest’s full-ride scholarship acceptance to Southern Illinois University. Beyond family, gardening serves as her peaceful retreat, a passion that began with nurturing plants and has evolved into a profound connection with nature.
One of Wilson’s favorite plants is a fiddle leaf fig tree grown from seeds sourced from a tree originally planted during President Obama’s tenure at the White House, symbolizing growth, perseverance, and the continuity of life.
Diverse Career Path and Skills Journey
While Wilson deeply loves her family, she’s also always had a passion for learning—and a strong work ethic. Her career journey is a testament to her adaptability and determination, from retail and customer service to lifeguarding and even teaching first aid. However, as it can often do, navigating the job market presented challenges, particularly after a hiatus of over two years.
It was during this time that Wilson discovered Skills for Chicagoland’s Future.
Navigating Challenges: A Test of Resilience
Wilson’s journey with Skills began via introduction through the Chicago Lighthouse. She received personalized support in resume preparation and skill assessment and planned to begin a pharmacy tech training program through the a local medical center.
Though the program was unexpectedly terminated just before it was set to begin, Wilson remained undeterred. The resilience she exhibited during this time was a reflection of her determination to forge ahead, supported by the dedicated team at Skills who provided encouragement and guidance.
Career Advancement: From Training to Employment
Now employed as a Pharmacy Technician at Jewel-Osco, Wilson describes her role as a journey of continuous learning and growth. This position, secured through Skills for Chicagoland’s Future, not only provides valuable on-the-job training but also aligns with Khalilah’s long-term career goals.
Building on certifications in Certified Medical Administrative Assistance (CMAA) and Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Wilson sees pharmacy tech work as a stepping stone towards her ultimate ambition: becoming a pharmacist. This career path not only promises financial stability but also the opportunity to set money aside for retirement so that she’ll be able to afford to travel and explore diverse cultures—one of Wilson’s dreams.
Aspirations and Legacy
While Wilson is focused on achieving her own career goals, she is also driven by a desire to leave a legacy for her children and grandchildren. Inspired by her family’s example, she is determined to instill resilience and perseverance in the next generation. Her journey reflects a commitment to lifelong learning, overcoming challenges, and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
Khalilah Wilson’s story is one of passion, resilience, and growth. From her love of gardening to her career aspirations, she exemplifies the spirit of continuous learning and self-improvement. Through her journey, she reminds us of the power of perseverance and the vital role organizations like Skills for Chicagoland’s Future play in empowering individuals to achieve their career goals.
