On Friday June 20, JVS Toronto hosted its 6th annual Bridges to Career Success event. This annual newcomer mentorship and hiring event helps empower immigrating professionals–both pre- and post-arrival–to build their professional networks, gain insights into varying professions, connect with mentors, and apply for jobs.
The virtual event started with a keynote discussion led by JVS Toronto CEO, Allison Steinberg, alongside CIBC Bank Leader, Dhaval Vediya. Dhaval shared his own immigration success story, highlighting his experience of overcoming barriers to entering the workforce, and served as a reminder to Canadian newcomers that even those in advanced careers have had similar experiences and challenges when looking for employment in a new country.
During the event, employers spoke to participants about job opportunities and community partners provided resources that support participants in their journeys to Canada. Additionally, mentors shared their knowledge and insights on a variety of industries, providing guidance to job seekers.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in helping newcomers navigate new work environments and cultures. 60% of recent newcomers expressed difficulty finding employment due to a lack of Canadian experience and holding foreign credentials. (The struggle for success: a look at the barriers faced by immigrants to Canada). Mentoring can help bridge that gap in knowledge and lead to increased job opportunities.
For both pre- and post-arrival immigrants hoping to apply their expertise and credentials in Canada, virtual mentoring and networking is a way to better navigate challenges earlier on. Bridges to Career Success provided newcomers with skills to build their confidence, learn from industry leaders, and better understand how job search and integrate into the Candian labour market.
Over 400 participants engaged in 48 roundtable discussions on various topics including: leveraging transferable skills, AI and labor market trends, and fireside chats where industry leaders provided practical advice and sector-specific insights. One participant said:
Thank you for your efforts in making this event a meaningful experience for attendees like me. I truly appreciated the opportunity to connect with peers and mentors. Looking forward to more such events!
In all, Bridges to Career Success led to meaningful connections, access to resources, and meaningful discussions on the common obstacles that newcomers face. With a hands-on approach, participants were able to gain clarity and inspiration to continuing their careers in Canada. JVS Toronto’s Newcomer Services division is proud to help newcomers thrive in the workplace and beyond as they develop essential networking and employable skills.
We would like to thank Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for helping to fund our newcomer programs, as well as CIBC for sponsoring the event. A special thank you to our mentors, employers, and community partners who gave their time and expertise. Your participation ensures the success of events like this and of the clients we serve.
For more information on all our employment and job search services, contact us.
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