.:: H U M A N E N D E A V O U R ::.

According to a study, York Region is the preferred location of residence and work by a large number of recent immigrants. Community Snapshots published by York Region reports, “In York Region, our newest Canadians the recent immigrant population is increasing at a faster rate than the non-immigrant population. Between 1991-2001, the number of recent immigrants increased by 132% and the number of non-immigrants increased by 31%.”

Vaughan is one of the fastest growing cities in Canada and has become a major business centre. Our economy and prosperity depends on profitable businesses and diverse workforce.

Business in almost every field is booming, however, we hear about a different viewpoint from the immigrants. Their biggest challenge is lack of work opportunity to demonstrate their skills in their own field.

It's been reported that by 2011 immigration will account for 100% of Canada's labour force growth, making it even more important that employers and immigrants connect says Deborah Bonk, CEO Vaughan Chamber of Commerce. The Vaughan Chamber of Commerce was pleased to speak at a recent information session organized by chamber member, Noor Din, Human Endeavours to answer any questions that could assist immigrants to maximize their employment searches.

Ms. Bonk briefly introduced VCC and its mission. VCC helps 970 registered businesses. Its six staff members are reflective of the diversity of Vaughan.

Immigrants raised a number of issues, including lack of recognition of foreign experience and education, not having Canadian experience, difficulty to enter into the work force, too much focus on resume and cover letters, lack of awareness about job finding info, lack of internship opportunities etc.

Ms. Bonk from the very beginning engaged the participants in positive and interactive discussion. To everyone’s surprise she started the meeting with a light exercise that she felt was necessary to create friendlier and interactive environment.

Ms. Bonk emphasized the importance of determination that helps in overcoming all challenges with a positive outlook. Confidence, volunteering and networking for marketing one’s skills are the best ways to get noticed and get into the job market.

She stressed everyone to set goals and assign a time period for realization and make a plan for achieving them.

When applying for a job, make resumes according to the job description, make sure to do research about the company, be confident and convey what benefit or advantage the company would have with your skills.

She explained that sometimes not being hired for a particular job is not necessarily a bad thing. If the individual is not qualified or not suitable at this particular time, hiring this individual is not helping either the employee or the employer. The employer would have expectations that perhaps the employee cannot fulfil. This can create negative situations and emotions which can lead to frustration and unhappiness for both parties.

Her suggestion to immigrants was to not give up hope if they do not get accepted in companies of their choice. Chances of getting accepted in larger companies are much lower and chances to grow are much smaller. However, possibilities of getting into smaller companies are higher with opportunities to grow and gain valuable Canadian experience. She urged to volunteer in a variety of places to network and get them noticed.

Answering the question of internships, Ms. Deborah suggested that government should create opportunities and properly compensate employers for their efforts in supporting interns.

Noor Din thanked Ms. Bonk for taking special interest and giving valuable advice to immigrant that will help them integrate into local workforce.

“Human Endeavour strongly feels that this type of dialogue between business sector and immigrants will help understand the expectations from both sides, eliminate misunderstanding and help create an environment that will be beneficial for both” says Noor Din, Executive Director of Human Endeavour.