Originally from Botswana, Salani Khutjwe’s career began as a biology teacher in his home country. However, his longing for a change led him towards a new path where he could channel his passion for science and education in a different way—one that would allow him to serve others in a new capacity.

That journey brought Salani to Canada, where he discovered Clean Foundation’s Energy Advisor Training Program. This six-month program offers trainees a living wage while they gain the skills and hand-on experience to become Energy Advisors.

When beginning his training, Salani realized adjusting to a new environment, especially when you’re transitioning from one climate to another, can come with challenges.

“Coming from Africa, our building code is different because our climate is hot,” he explains. “There is little insulation in our buildings. But when you come to Canada, the code is quite different. There’s a lot of lumber, with lots of insulation to mitigate against the cold. It was something that I knew I had to learn in detail without any prior experience.”

Salani found great support in the program’s instructor, Teresa MacKinnon, a seasoned training specialist. Her guidance proved invaluable as she led Salani and his peers through the intricacies of Canadian building standards and energy efficiency.

Reflecting on his journey, Salani expressed his appreciation towards the funders who make the program possible.

“I would like to thank Manulife, the Native Council of Nova Scotia and Natural Resources Canada so much for supporting this program. It requires significant investment given that it’s a paid opportunity which supports the trainees in terms of living allowances in Halifax and provides trainees with the equipment we need to use when we finish training”.

Salani graduated from the program in March 2024 and has recently joined Clean Foundation as an Energy Training Specialist. This role blends his background as an educator with his new designation as an Energy Advisor. He’s excited to contribute to his community by teaching interns about energy efficiency in homes and to help them on their own journeys to becoming energy advisors.