Empowering Racialized Newcomer Women

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Employment Program for Racialized Newcomer Women

The Empowering Racialized Newcomer Women (ERNW) Program, developed by World Skills and funded by IRCC, in partnership with Immigrant Women Services Ottawa (IWSO), is an innovative initiative dedicated to facilitating the integration of racialized newcomer women into the Canadian labour market. Originating from a successful pilot research project, the ERNW program remains committed to empowering racialized newcomer women by addressing the specific challenges they face, thereby breaking down barriers to employment.

Workshop Highlights:

The ERNW Program hosts a series of monthly workshops spanning two weeks each, providing personalized assessments, coaching, and skill-building opportunities. These workshops include:

Women Empowerment and Employment Workshop: Guides participants through empowerment, positive mindset development, and career planning.
Mastering Personal Branding & Leveraging Networking Workshop: Focuses on building strong personal brands and effective networking strategies for career advancement.
Understanding the Labour Market Workshop: Provides insights into the labour market intelligence and practical tools for effective job search strategies.
Resume and Cover Letter Development Workshop: Offers essential guidance on crafting compelling application materials tailored to different job opportunities.
Mastering Interview Skills from Employers’ Perspectives Workshop: This workshop comprehensively prepares participants for interviews, providing insights into employer expectations and essential topics, such as follow-up etiquette and effective post-interview communication strategies.
Digital Interview Skills Workshop: Equips participants with skills to excel in virtual interviews, addressing challenges and strategies for success.
Interview Confidence Building Workshop: Enhances interview skills through mock interviews and personalized feedback sessions.
Leveraging Cold Calling, Networking, and LinkedIn Workshop: Provides insights into building a professional network and leveraging digital platforms for professional career growth.
Strengthening Essential Skills for a Diverse Workplace: Focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, empowering participants to advocate for inclusive practices.
Be Heard by Canadian Employers Workshop: Enhances communication skills and ability to engage effectively with Canadian employers.

Gender-Specific Programming for Racialized Newcomer Women

Over 50 % of program participants secured employment within 3 months and 73% within 6 months of joining the program

Provides a holistic approach to labour market integration

Access to retention support

Direct matching to employers and employment opportunities

Six months of employment counseling and recruitment support

Access to a network of employers and employment opportunities

Development of career action plans

Participants can be matched to a professional mentor

99% of clients say that the program exceeded their expectations

Employer Engagement

Additionally, the ERNW program offers valuable opportunities for participants to engage directly with employers through events like the monthly Employer Coaching Sessions and the monthly Targeted Recruitment Events.

During the Employer Coaching Sessions, participants have the unique opportunity to present their branding statement and elevator pitch to employers, thereby showcasing their skills and making a lasting impression. Moreover, they have the opportunity to directly engage with employers, asking questions to gain valuable insights and forge new networking connections.

The monthly Targeted Recruitment Events stand as a strategic platform for participants to interact with potential employers, in a focused environment, significantly heightening their prospects of securing meaningful employment opportunities.

By actively participating in these employer-led events, participants elevate their visibility, expand their professional network, and markedly enhance their employability in the competitive Canadian labour market.

Circle of Champions

The Circle of Champions stands as one of the cornerstone initiatives within the Empowering Racialized Newcomer Women (ERNW) program. Designed as a dynamic hub of support and empowerment, it serves as a pivotal platform for individuals committed to advancing the careers and opportunities of racialized newcomer women in Canada. Within this circle, participants engage in a variety of activities aimed at fostering mentorship, expanding networks, and advocating for inclusive practices within various industries.

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Job Retention Support Workshop

The journey of ERNW participants extends beyond securing employment as they continue with the program. The Job Retention Support workshop is meticulously crafted to support racialized newcomer women during their initial 3 months of employment, focusing on equipping them with essential knowledge, skills, and strategies vital for sustained job retention and career advancement. Through interactive sessions and personalized coaching, participants acquire the abilities to navigate workplace dynamics, cultivate positive relationships, and implement proactive measures for long-term career stability. By focusing on job retention strategies, the workshop empowers participants to identify and overcome challenges, creating a nurturing environment where racialized newcomer women can flourish professionally.

Eligibility Criteria

Vible Minority Newcomer Woman

Permanent Resident of Canada OR Protected Person and/or Convention Refugee with a valid work permit

Unemployed or underemployed

Canadian Language Benchmark 5 or higher or equivalent in English

See What Past Clients Have to Say About Their Experience!

“The ERNW workshop was truly exceptional. It not only exceeded my expectations but also left me feeling empowered, encouraged, and more confident. The program’s comprehensive approach extended beyond job search strategies to foster mental well-being, creating a truly uplifting experience. The team’s passion and commitment were evident in every aspect, and I’m incredibly grateful for their support. This program is a game-changer for anyone looking to succeed in their professional journey.”

Michou, ERNW client

“The ERNW program was transformative. The sessions provided invaluable tools like resume writing, LinkedIn optimization, and interview techniques that prepared me to confidently approach the job market. The supportive environment and the team’s dedication made all the difference. They genuinely care about helping newcomers succeed. This program doesn’t just prepare you for a job; it equips you with the confidence and knowledge to build a successful career.”