Things To Know About Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs) In Canada

Integrating into Canada’s business and professional network is often a really challenging process for several newcomers to Canada. Without a longtime Canadian network of business associates who can vouch for your professional credentials as a replacement immigrant, placing yourself on a sure footing professionally in Canada becomes a difficult task.

However, with the guidance of a knowledgeable Immigrant Network (PIN), you’ll avoid many of the pitfalls of trying to leverage professional opportunities during a new country. However, the Toronto Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC) offers support through the Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs) initiative, a network of professional and alumni associations that are volunteer-run and immigrant-led, serving immigrants within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). 

Representing over 20 professions and 100 countries, these associations aim to assist newcomers build networks and achieve their careers.For newcomers in Canada, joining a TRIEC PINs association brings various benefits, starting from professional growth and networking opportunities to career resources, leadership development, and community support. 

This article explores these advantages through the lens of three PINs associations: the Chinese Project Management association of Canada (CPMP), Hispanotech, and therefore the Networking Group for brand spanking new Immigrants in Canada (NIC). During this article we’ll learn more about Professional Immigrant Networks in Canada!

What Does One Mean By Professional Immigrant Networks?

Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs) are beneficial organizations for newcomers who want to start out their job search in Canada. Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs) are invaluable resources for newcomers to Canada who are looking to determine themselves in their chosen fields. These networks contain professionals who have immigrated to Canada and have successfully integrated into the Canadian workforce. 

PINs act as a link between immigrants and:

• Government,
• Immigrant-serving agencies,
• Employers,
• Community groups, and
• Other relevant stakeholders

By connecting with PINs, immigrants can gain access to a wealth of data, support, and opportunities which will help them navigate the Canadian job market and accelerate their career growth.

Who Runs The Professional Immigrant Network?

The PINs are operated by trained professionals, who have expertise in most job industries, including regulated and non-regulated industries. The aim of those individuals is to help new immigrants find employment that matches their skills and skills.

Top Sectors With Professional Immigrant Networks in Canada

The following provides descriptions of professional sectors with PIN examples for every.

1. Business

The business in Canada offers a mess of opportunities for immigrants. Business PINs provide support and guidance to newcomers by sharing insights into the Canadian business culture, helping them understand local market trends, and offering mentorship programs.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Toronto

Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce

Latin American MBA Alumni Network

Toronto French Business Network (TFBN)

2. Architecture and concrete Planning

Canada’s vibrant urban landscape provides a thriving environment for architects and concrete planners. PINs catering to architecture and concrete planning assist immigrant professionals by providing information on Canadian building codes, regulations, and industry standards.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

Canadian Society of Iranian Engineers and designers (Mohandes)

United Architects of the Philippines Ontario Canada Chapter

Canadian Network of Iraqi Engineers and designers

3. Engineering

Engineering may be a highly sought-after profession in Canada, and PINs play an important role in supporting immigrant engineers in their career journey. These networks offer mentorship programs, job boards, and networking events tailored specifically for engineers.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

Association of Bulgarian Engineers in Canada

Association of Filipino Canadian Engineers

Association of Romanian Engineers in Canada (AREC)

CAPE – Council for Access to the Profession of Engineering

4. Education

For immigrants with a background in education, PINs can provide essential support in navigating the Canadian education system. These networks offer guidance on certification requirements, teaching methodologies, and employment opportunities within the education sector.

Examples of PINs within the sector

Philippine Teachers Association – Canada

Alliance pour une Communauté Éducative Inclusive

Elite Exchanges

5. Information Technology (IT)

Canada’s thriving Information Technology (IT) industry offers numerous job opportunities for skilled immigrants. IT PINs facilitate platforms for networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development. They also organize workshops, webinars, and mentorship programs to assist newcomers stay updated with technological advancements and industry trends.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

Hispanotech.ca

Professional IT Occupational Network Inc.

Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications Canada Alumni Association

Alliance of Technology and Science Specialists of Toronto Inc.(ATSS)

6. Finance

The finance sector in Canada is understood for its stability and growth potential. Immigrants looking to pursue a career in finance can benefit greatly from joining a PIN during this sector. PINs within the finance sector assist immigrant financiers and accountants with professional certifications, job search strategies, and networking events.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

Association of Filipino Canadian Accountants

Black Female Accountants Network (BFAN)

Chartered Institute of Management Accountants

Sri Lankan Accountants Association of Canada

7. Healthcare

Healthcare may be a sector in Canada that’s always in demand for skilled professionals. PINs in healthcare offer various services to immigrant professionals, including mentorship programs, information on licensing processes, and navigating provincial or territorial healthcare regulations.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

International Doctors Network

Canadian ITDs (Internationally Trained Dentists)

Philippine International Doctors United

8. Legal

PINs within the legal sector play an important role in supporting immigrant professionals within the field of law. These networks provide resources on Canadian legal practices, facilitate legal networking events, and offer mentorship opportunities.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

Canadian Hispanic Bar Association 

Arab Canadian Lawyers Association

CPAC

9. Human Resources (HR)

Human Resources may be a critical function in every industry. Human resource PINs guide Canadian HR practices, industry-specific certifications, and job search strategies.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

Javeriana University Professional Alumni Association in Canada

APT-Association of execs in Thorncliffe

Association of Internationally Trained Professionals

10. Sciences

Canada’s scientific community is renowned for its contributions to varied research fields. The advantages of joining a scientific PIN include access to mentorship programs, cutting-edge research opportunities, collaboration with renowned scientists, and exploration of job opportunities within Canada’s scientific community.

Examples of PINs within the sector:

Alliance of Technology and Science Specialists of Toronto Inc. (ATSS)

Success and Innovation

XChange Ontario

HispanoMine

11. Social Services

PINs within the social services sector provide support to immigrant professionals who are hooked into making a positive impact on society. They provide resources on Canadian social services policies, licensing requirements, insights into the Canadian social services landscape, and connections with professionals with similar aspirations.

I CAN SOW (Internationally Trained Social Workers)

Mississauga Mandarin Association

Armenian Professional Society of Canada

How To Find Your Professional Immigrant Network In Canada

1. Research PINs Online

One of the foremost effective ways to seek out knowledgeable Immigrant Network (PIN) in Canada is by conducting online research. Numerous websites and directories provide information on PINs across various sectors. The foremost prominent and resourceful PIN online directory in Canada is the Toronto Regional Immigrant Employment Canada (TRIEC).

TRIEC provides:

A list of Canadian PINs

Details on the objectives of every PIN,

PIN contact information, and

Upcoming events hosted by PINs.

2. Become a Member of a Canadian association

Many professional associations in Canada have dedicated sections or committees that cater to immigrant professionals and guide joining a PIN. 

Examples of professional associations in Canada include:

Canadian Society for engineering

Canadian Medical Association

Canadian Association for informatics

Canadian Association of caseworker

3. Attend Professional Networking Events

Many PINs organize networking events specifically designed for immigrants. These events provide a platform for immigrants to showcase their skills, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. Attending a PIN networking event is a superb way of deciding whether a PIN suits you. For up-to-date information on PIN networking events, visit triec.ca.

4. Utilize Social Media

Social media platforms are often powerful tools for locating and connecting with Professional Immigrant Networks (PINs). Moreover, many PINs have a robust online presence and actively engage with their members through social media platforms. 

Therefore we recommend joining social media platforms such as:

LinkedIn

Facebook,

Twitter, and

Instagrams.

Social media also facilitates direct communication with PIN members, allowing immigrants to hunt advice, ask questions, and establish valuable connections.

Benefits Of Joining Professional Immigrant Network In Canada

1. Opens the Door to New Professional Job Opportunities in Your Network

Joining a Professional immigrant network in Canada can significantly expand your job prospects. These networks often have access to exclusive job postings and employment opportunities not readily available elsewhere. This will offer you a competitive advantage and increase your chances of finding employment in your required field.

2. Find a Mentor

Having a mentor is often instrumental in your professional growth and success. Joining a knowledgeable immigrant network gives you access to experienced professionals who can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights into the Canadian job market.

3. Build Self-Confidence for Future Job Interviews

Job interviews are often nerve-wracking, especially for immigrants who could also be unacquainted with Canadian interview practices. Many networks offer mock interview sessions, workshops, and seminars where you’ll study Canadian interview etiquette, practice answering common interview questions, and receive feedback from industry professionals.

4. Share Innovative Ideas With People in Your Network

Professional immigrant networks aren’t finding job opportunities. They also provide a platform to connect with like-minded professionals, share ideas, and collaborate on innovative projects.By participating in network events, workshops, and conferences, you’ll expand your knowledge, stay updated on industry trends, and gain insights into new technologies and practices.

Opportunity to create a Dependable Professional Community

Joining knowledgeable immigrant network provides a moment community of execs with similar experiences and goals. PINs foster a way of belonging and support, allowing you to attach with individuals who understand the unique challenges you’ll face as an immigrant professional.

Learn About Canadian Business Culture and Etiquette

Joining knowledgeable immigrant network can provide you with invaluable insights into Canadian business practices, workplace dynamics, and communication styles.

Many networks organize workshops, seminars, and panel discussions that specialise in topics associated with Canadian business culture.