Program helps integrate international students into Canadian workforce

Ignite will begin the fourth year of its Integration Success Program (ISP) on Feb. 4 with the goal of helping prepare international students for their careers post-graduation.

Doyin Somorin, the integration and retention manager at Ignite and the manager of the ISP, emphasizes the dynamic of the program.

“The unique thing about the program is we create this safe and supportive environment for them,” said Somorin. “[The students] have other like-minded international students in the room as well … so at the end of the program, they get the opportunity to better understand and have a deeper knowledge about how they can enter the Canadian workforce.”

The initiative teaches students about the Canadian workplace culture, financial literacy, how to build a resume and increase their emotional intelligence. 

The ISP was created for international students in their final two years of post-secondary education. 

Once potential applicants have completed an interview process and are accepted, the program typically runs two nights per week for four to six weeks.

Though the program usually runs in-person, the upcoming course is virtual. The virtual version has closed applications, but due to high demand the program will be followed by an in-person cohort with 20 additional spots in the fall.

Along with practical skills and connections, graduates exit the program with a certificate they are able to share on their LinkedIn profiles.

“Most of our participants have reported significant improvements in their confidence [and] in their readiness to pursue career and personal goals in Canada. The program has facilitated numerous opportunities for students to connect with their peers, to connect with mentors,” said Somorin. 

The ISP has been honoured with the Excellence in Economic Development Award from the International Economic Development Society, with Somorin noting how the award underscores the program’s impact.

“Integration of newcomers, international students, immigrants, is very key and integration leads to retention, so we need to be able to support the students,” she said. “We want to start preparing them for post-study success.”

Mariano Padruno graduated from the program in the fall semester of his second year at St. Thomas University. His interest was piqued when a friend who had completed the program recommended it to him. After getting the chance to chat with Somorin about it, he enrolled.

“I think it’s really helpful as an international student,” he said. “They have different programs and advice so you can succeed in a new country, from [creating] a LinkedIn profile, to how to present yourself in a professional environment.”

Padruno recalled a guest speaker who came in to teach him and his peers how to improve their public speaking skills.

“I think that really helped me during my internships and classes because she showed us a lot of tips on how to breathe, how to deal with the pressure and everything. That was one of my favourite moments that we had at the program.”

Padruno is currently preparing to graduate this spring, after which he will begin his internship at the Benefit Body Spa. He said that the ISP helped him build his resume and make connections.

“If you want to build new skills or just be part of something, connect with people, meet people, grow as a person and professionally, [the ISP is] really helpful. I think it’s always important to be part of something that will help you grow.”

He advises his peers to, “Do as much as you can, volunteer, be surrounded by professionals that can help you grow in that environment. It’s the best thing that you can do.”