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Pictured from left to right: Alexis Moss, Yvonne Williamson, Janelle Francis, Calandra Francis and Tomeka Hodge

CLEVELAND – Sept. 14, 2022 – Five women joined the insurance world on Friday, Sept. 2 as they graduated from the first Workforce Cooperative, a six-month career development program that was created in partnership between Oswald Companies and Olivet Housing & Community Development Corporation.

The Workforce Cooperative’s mission is to provide a group of professionals with personal skills, professional development and technical training that leads to learning about insurance brokerage and the “Oswald Way.” Completing the Workforce Cooperative allows graduates employment opportunities within the organization, accountability, and support in representing Oswald’s core values.

Along with the Oswald Internship program, the Workforce Cooperative has been added to the menu of talent pipeline programs that will continue to create a diverse pool of candidates for Oswald and the insurance industry. Additionally, the Cooperative was created with a focus on Oswald’s commitment to community. Diversifying the communities Oswald serves and the partnerships we create is another way Oswald continues to walk the walk on our ongoing journey of being a more diverse, equitable and inclusive employer of choice.

At the commencement, there was excitement in the air from the five graduates and everyone in attendance. Tomeka Hodge, Alexis Moss and Yvonne Williamson shared their inspirational and personal stories of development and accomplishment.

“I have never felt so supported in an employment atmosphere,” Hodge said. “I dug deep down and I did things that I didn’t think I was capable of doing, and I finished what I started.”

Williamson noted how she and her classmates, as well as her instructors, lifted each other up, providing the strength needed to power through the six-month training.

“If someone experienced a problem or needed assistance, someone was ready to assist,” she said.

Moss had a message for Olivet and Oswald.

“Olivet and Oswald have paved a path for individuals. You all have no idea of the doors you have opened for these communities, she said. “I appreciate you all. We appreciate you all.”

We will soon be welcoming them as our newest employee-owners of Oswald.

News Channel 5 covered the story – Click HERE to watch it.