A large job fair inside the Horticulture Building at Lansdowne Park, showing hundreds of job seekers interacting with employer booths along long aisles.

8th Annual World Skills Job Fair 2025

News

On October 22, 2025, the Horticulture Building at Lansdowne Park was buzzing with energy. World Skills Employment Centre hosted its 8th Annual Job Fair and the results speak for themselves. More than 500 job seekers and 25+ inclusive employers filled the hall, sharing stories, resumes and hopes for the future. The fair’s theme – “Navigating New Realities: Strengthening Resilience” – resonated with every attendee. Conversations flowed easily, connections were made on the spot and job seekers left with renewed confidence.

As we recap the highlights from the job fair, we want to celebrate the people and partners who made it possible and offer to continue promoting the work that World Skills does as Ottawa’s trusted service provider on newcomer employment.

A Packed House – Who Came and Why It Matters

World Skills’ job fair draws participants because it is more than a typical career expo. Employers come ready to meet new talent, and newcomers come prepared to showcase their experience and skills. This year’s  record turnout underscored the demand for skilled talent in Ottawa. Employers praised participants’ preparedness and professionalism, while job seekers left motivated and hopeful about their next steps.

A large job fair inside the Horticulture Building at Lansdowne Park, showing hundreds of job seekers interacting with employer booths along long aisles.
Hundreds of newcomer professionals connected with 25+ inclusive employers at the 8th Annual World Skills Job Fair, held on October 22, 2025, at the Horticulture Building, Lansdowne Park.

An event of this scale requires thought leaders who can speak to the future of work. Ian Lee, Associate Professor at Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business, delivered the keynote address. He presented compelling data showing that as the Baby Boomer generation retires there will be abundant opportunities for skilled workers. His message affirmed that newcomers are arriving at a time when their expertise is needed more than ever.

Ian Lee, keynote speaker stands at a podium addressing attendees during the World Skills Job Fair, with a large audience seated behind him.
Associate Professor Ian Lee, the keynote speaker, delivers an evidence-based talk on labour market trends, emphasizing the growing demand for skilled professionals as Canada’s workforce evolves.

Ottawa’s Mayor Mark Sutcliffe joined virtually to welcome employers, participants and volunteers and to underline the city’s commitment to inclusive hiring. His remarks energized the audience and highlighted Ottawa’s dedication to creating pathways for newcomers to contribute to the local economy.

Audience members watch a large screen showing Ottawa's Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, a virtual speaker delivering remarks during the World Skills Job Fair.
Attendees listen to a virtual welcome message from Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, reinforcing Ottawa’s commitment to inclusive hiring and newcomer success.

Another highlight was Kathryn Southgate of Accenture, who spoke about the company’s mentorship partnership with World Skills. She explained how the resilience newcomers show when adapting to a new country aligns with Accenture’s mentorship programs, helping mentees integrate faster, build confidence and create mutual value for employers. Her address showcased how corporate partners can champion inclusion and benefit from fresh talent.

Employers and Partners – Why They Keep Coming Back

Employers and community partners are the backbone of the World Skills Job Fair. This year, 26 employers were present and represented diverse sectors; technology, finance, hospitality, public service and more, illustrating the breadth of opportunity available to newcomers. Employers praised the event’s organization and the calibre of candidates, with many noting that the fair is a reliable place to meet job‑ready talent. The positive feedback encouraged World Skills to continue innovating and advocating for inclusive hiring.

For companies and organizations considering involvement, the event demonstrates that inclusive hiring is smart business. It offers access to a large pool of skilled candidates in one place and signals a commitment to diversity. Programs such as the Employer Engagement and Corporate Mentorship provide year‑round support to employers, ensuring they can successfully hire, onboard and retain newcomer talent.

Stories of Impact – Voices of Newcomers

World Skills’ impact is best captured through the voices of those it serves. One job fair highlight was hearing directly from attendees about how World Skills programs have shaped their journeys. Rabia Rafiq shared that meeting the organizers and professionals behind World Skills gave her a sense of belonging and clarity. She described the programs as providing valuable guidance, strengthening her professional confidence and offering a new sense of direction in her career. She also noted that the supportive community fostered a genuine feeling of renewal and empowerment.

  • A woman attending the World Skills Job Fair stands holding her phone and event materials, wearing a name badge and looking ahead attentively.

About World Skills – Ottawa’s Leader on Newcomer Employment

World Skills Employment Centre is a non‑profit organization dedicated to meeting the employment needs of new Canadians and the local labour market. For over 25 years, World Skills has developed innovative programs to help immigrants build employability and create partnerships with employers

Core Programs and Services
  • Pre‑Employment Programs: Offer workshops on resume writing, interview skills and Canadian workplace culture.
  • Workplace Language Training: Provides sector-specific language instruction to help clients thrive in professional settings.
  • Employer Engagement Initiatives: Connects employers with job-ready newcomers and offers resources on inclusive hiring.
  • Corporate Mentorship Program: Pairs newcomers with local professionals to accelerate their integration and career advancement.

World Skills’ mission is to enhance the economic integration of immigrants by developing programs that increase their employability and by forming partnerships with employers and the community. Their experienced team speaks multiple languages and understands the challenges newcomers face. Each program is built on decades of expertise and is continually refined to meet the evolving needs of newcomers and employers.

Why This Matters – Call to Employers and Volunteers

Ottawa’s continued growth and prosperity depends on embracing newcomer talent. Employers who partner with World Skills gain access to a trained, motivated workforce and benefit from resources that make inclusive hiring seamless. Volunteers who contribute their time and expertise, whether by reviewing resumes, mentoring a newcomer or presenting at workshops—help individuals transition from potential to professional.

The 8th Annual World Skills Job Fair proved that collaboration yields results. Employers discovered talent they might have otherwise overlooked, and job seekers left feeling valued and connected. In a labour market facing demographic change, working with World Skills isn’t just altruistic—it’s strategic.

If you’re an employer interested in building a diverse and resilient workforce, learn more about World Skills’ Employer Engagement Program and sign up for the next job fair. If you’re a professional who wants to give back, explore opportunities to volunteer as a mentor or facilitator. Your involvement helps newcomers find their footing and enriches our community.

Growing Together

The 2025 World Skills Job Fair celebrated resilience, opportunity and community. As we reflect on the success of the event and the stories shared by clients and employers, one message is clear: Ottawa thrives when newcomers are empowered to contribute. World Skills will continue to innovate, advocate and create spaces where talent and opportunity meet.
Stay tuned for updates on upcoming programs, success stories and ways you can support inclusive hiring. Together, we are building pathways for talent, innovation and community impact!