When Keyvan Merati immigrated to Canada, he was filled with equal parts excitement and apprehension.
Having recently moved from Iran, Merati was eager to continue his career in electrical engineering but unsure of how to navigate the job market in a new country. While many immigrants look forward to the opportunities and possibilities presented by their new home, they face an inconceivable amount of challenges upon arrival regardless of where they’re from, or why they came here.
Luckily, he found the Career Paths program offered by the Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC), which helps skilled immigrants continue their careers in Canada.
For over 50 years, the ISSofBC has made it their mission to help newcomers to Canada in this position not just survive but thrive by fusing their international experience and skills with job opportunities in B.C.
Whether your profession requires an educational certificate and experience or does not require a license, or you want to start a business of your own, the ISSofBC can provide you with the knowledge, tools and support to make your transition to Canada as smooth as possible.
And it really works.
The Career Paths program and services provided Merati with essential resources and guidance, starting with resume building and interview preparation. These workshops helped him tailor his application materials to Canadian standards, making him a more competitive candidate. His advisors remained with him throughout the entire process, offering personalized advice and connecting him with valuable industry contacts, ensuring he was equipped with the skills, and more importantly, the support needed to continue his career.
“One of the most impactful aspects of the program was the mentorship component,” describes Merati. “I was paired with an experienced professional in my field who offered insights into the local industry and shared strategies for success. Through this mentorship, I gained a deeper understanding of the expectations and opportunities within the Canadian electrical engineering sector.”
By applying the knowledge and skills he honed within the Career Paths program, Merati was able to secure employment as an Electrical Engineer at OZZ Electric in Metro Vancouver, taking his bachelor's degree and 11 years of experience working as an electrical and electronic engineer in Iran and setting a solid foundation for his life and career in Vancouver.
Since 1968, the ISSofBC has worked to provide a welcoming and empowering environment for all newcomers to B.C., improving the lives of thousands along the way. From English classes to digital skills development, settling in their communities, studying, and finding work, ISSofBC's multilingual staff can help you and your family transition, make new friends and understand your new life in Canada, no matter where you’re from or why you came.
Want to learn more about this program? Join ISSofBC's FREE online, 60-minute info session, available Tuesdays at 12 p.m. PST.
For more information about ISSofBC’s Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants program, visit issofbc.org/careerpaths.
