The Career Mentorship Program (CMP) matches newcomer immigrant professionals in the Edmonton region with mentors who share a similar occupational background and create networks through real-life connections and experience.
Kerry-Ann shares her story:
"When I landed in Edmonton as a permanent resident from Jamaica, my goal was to find a job. I applied to multiple organizations with no clear connection or direction, so I didn't experience success with this strategy. After weeks of frustration and disappointment, I reached out to ERIEC because the Government of Canada listed them as an employment resource for newcomers. I am thankful I did because their Career Mentorship Program (CMP) helped me become targeted in my job search and clarify my career goals.
I'll share a bit about this program. CMP matches skilled immigrants with local mentors (business leaders) to make the career transition easier. Before being matched with a suitable mentor, mentees need to (1) provide their short and long-term career goals and (2) submit a professional biography. These two requirements challenged me to begin thinking like a specialist, instead of a generalist because now I understand that the Canadian job market is niche-driven. No wonder my previous strategy was proving ineffective! With my career goals clarified, I was happy to be paired with a healthcare professional, who was able to skillfully guide and mentor me.
"I am beyond grateful for my mentor and the ERIEC team, who were supportive, encouraging and understanding. They will always be a part of my success story as a professionally skilled immigrant in Canada."
When I received an interview for a healthcare position, my mentor shared expert interview tips and coached me in responding to common interview questions within the healthcare industry. She was supportive throughout the interview process and celebrated with me when I got the job! After that, she helped me hone my networking skills, succeed during the probation period, and excel in my career journey.
This program also provided workshops that taught me about navigating the Canadian workplace culture, and networking sessions that enabled me to meet exceptional employers and immigrants. My most memorable event was the RBC and ERIEC Networking in the Park event this past summer where I was deeply inspired by the stories of struggle and triumph of successful local and immigrant professionals."
If you are an immigrant professional, a Permanent Resident currently living in Edmonton, and interested in ERIEC’s Mentorship or Connector Program, please contact [email protected].
If you are an established professional or business leader looking to volunteer as a mentor or establish corporate partnerships, please contact Shashi Shashikanth at [email protected].