Bridging Program Bears Fruit in Northern Ontario
The seeds for Professions North/Nord (PNN) were sown at the Faculty of Management at Laurentian University’s Management Development Centre, when they identified the need for a support program that integrates internationally-trained professionals (ITPs) into the workforce in Northern Ontario.
Achieving this goal would enable new immigrants to find employment and get Canadian experience in their field, while providing Northern Communities with the skills of knowledgeable professionals.
But the ground was rocky and needed some grooming and fertilizing. An infrastructure had to be put in place to ensure that newcomers would receive the supports they need to thrive. So, partnerships were created across the North. Economic Development Corporations let the public know about the opportunities for newcomers. Settlement and employment organizations, including North Bay & District Multicultural Centre, YMCA Sudbury, Employment Ontario (Timmins), Thunder Bay Multicultural Association and Sault Community Career Centre (Sault Ste. Marie), came on board as PNN’s frontline service providers.
Funding from the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration enabled PNN to offer both English and French language services free of charge to eligible candidates and supported Northern Ontario in maximizing the benefits of hiring and supporting ITPs. These services include:
Portfolio Development
This tool provides a clear and concise presentation of an individual’s work experience, education and skills. It proves useful in accreditation and job search so employers and evaluators can become quickly familiar with the candidate’s background.
Intercultural Communication for the Canadian Workplace(ICCW)
The ICCW addresses common Canadian norms and nuances in order to enhance internationally-trained professionals’ culture-based professional communication and soft skills.
Bridging to Accreditation
We offer online/distance courses toward certification in accounting and financial services, specifically for the CGA, CA, CMA and CFP designations.
Networking, Mentorship, Work Placement (new in 2012)
ITPs can look forward to interacting with a professional in their field and gaining valuable insight and networking as well as the ability to apply what they have learned at work placements.
By teaching you how to navigate the norms, culture, nuances and lingo in the Canadian workplace, PNN’s services can help you build a network, meet a mentor or find a work placement. Visit the Professions North website to register. Professions North wants to give you a chance to blossom by becoming a valuable member of one of Ontario’s Northern Communities.