Are you a newcomer to Canada with a degree in Engineering, IT, Dentistry, Law, HR, Research, Biotechnology, or Life Sciences? Are you looking to kick off your career here, but finding it hard to navigate the job market?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, The Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants program at Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC) is here to help.
The program pairs experienced career counsellors with clients to provide guidance with their career aspirations, skills, and experience, to support them in developing a career plan that aligns with their goals, and to show them how to navigate the Canadian job market.
For newcomer immigrants with degrees, it’s understandable that starting — or restarting — a career in a new country can be daunting. However, a dedicated staff with a focus on a personal touch is where the Career Paths program stands out from the crowd.
“I would say one thing that sets us apart would be the personalized service that we provide to the clients that we work with. Speaking personally, I’ve been able to build really strong relationships with the clients that I work with,” says Liz Vermunt, Employer Relations Specialist at ISSofBC.
Moving to Canada can be a dream come true for many immigrants, but it can also be a difficult transition. Even for those with years of experience in their field, the hurdles to get back into their career can be daunting. Obtaining a job interview can be challenging while navigating the process of re-credentialing, explains Vermunt, a former recruiter who recently joined the Career Paths team and is enjoying the opportunity to connect with employers or clients.