Annual Canadian Immigrant Fair in Toronto a success!
Credit to Author: Ramya Ramanathan| Date: Wed, 12 Jun 2019 22:29:45 +0000
Over 1,200 attendees stopped by for some inspiration, information and networking at the ninth annual Canadian Immigrant Fair at Metro Convention Centre in Toronto on June 10, 2019. The diverse group of attendees included brand-new permanent residents, ready-to-hire internationally trained professionals, people with temporary status looking to stay in Canada permanently, and even ESL teachers and students.
“This is my first fair. I have learned a lot of things I didn’t know about today. My knowledge of the options I have and my scope has expanded. I now see things differently,” says Maria, who has been in Canada for just under six months.
Three pillars of immigrant success
Held in eight cities across Canada, the Fair is a free, one-stop event that offers a dynamic environment for immigrants who need resources and support as they look for jobs, go back to school and settle into their new home. “Through the Canadian Immigrant Fair, we offer information on the three pillars of success for immigrating to Canada: careers, education and settlement,” says Sanjay Agnihotri, publisher of Canadian Immigrant, a national magazine, website and events producer that has been a guiding star for newcomers since 2004.
The Fair’s Speakers’ Series included topics ranging from using social media to find a job, soft skills for newcomers, and a Q & A Panel on career strategies and financial Options for Internationally Educated Professionals. Popular offerings included the Resume Clinic, professional headshot photo booth (for LinkedIn profiles) and the FREE SIM card with talk/text bonus vouchers from Public Mobile.
Says David MacLean, Director of Public Mobile, “Settling into a new country is both exciting and challenging, particularly when also trying to secure employment. To that end, we are thrilled to provide resources to assist with the challenges of today’s job market through free professional photos. We look forward to participating in this cross-country fair and connecting with new members of our community.”
Diverse exhibitors at the Fair included immigrant settlement service providers such as Job Skills, Skills for Change, YMCA, TNO, The Career Foundation, Learning Enrichment Foundation and bilingual service provider MCIS; and educational and continuing education programs including York University, Osgoode Professional Development (a division of Osgoode Law school), Humber College, Seneca College, College Boreal, CDI college. Hiring companies included Air Canada, Drake International and the Government of Ontario Correctional Services were also present.
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