91��ɫ

Foundation Program

 Building Career Direction in Canada

Nguyen Ngoc Anh Truong joined the IEP Foundation Program with three clear goals. She shared:

“Firstly, I want to improve my communication and networking skills in the Canadian context, secondly, to enhance my employability in Canada, the lack of networking and Canadian experience has been one of my biggest challenges in finding employment here, and third, I want to transition from my Finance and Accounting background to Human Resources.”

Like many newcomers, Nguyen faced barriers despite strong qualifications. “I knew I had skills and experience, but without Canadian experience and a professional network, it was hard to even get noticed,” Nguyen explained.

Strengthening Knowledge of Life in Canada

Through 91��ɫ’s IEP Foundation Program, Nguyen gained a deeper understanding of Canadian culture, norms, and workplace expectations.

Nguyen also highlighted the impact of the Canadian Laws & Ethics course noting that it has helped her gain “an overview of the legal and ethical framework in Canada, which are very helpful as a newcomer.”  She explained, “it also built the foundation for my other studies; I was able to understand and navigate concepts much more easily when studying another subject.”

Improving Language and Communication Skills

“Communication in the Canadian Context course enhanced my English, and the understanding of English used in Canada, as well as my cultural awareness,” explained Nguyen.

The program directly strengthened Nguyen’s ability to present ideas, both in spoken and written format.  “Besides cultural awareness and English usage, it also enhanced my confidence in presenting verbal and written ideas,” says Nguyen.

Building Professional and Personal Networks

Networking became a core outcome of Nguyen’s experience in IEP, she explained she was able to “ connect with new peers and new employer leaders, learn networking, teamwork, and how to present myself effectively to employers”. 

Nguyen also explained that meaningful interactions with employers also helped her reflect and grow.  She remarked: “The chance to connect with employers, understand their perspectives, and discuss my shortcomings helped me see where I stand in the Canadian employment landscape and where I should focus.”

Preparing for the Canadian Labor Market

Nguyen emphasized how the program translated into practical career readiness. She mentioned she improved her résumé, cover letter, and elevator pitch, “which are essential for job applications” she noted.  

She also found the programs additional IT skills training very helpful, “I was able to participate in many useful training sessions, including Excel and Power BI,” she explained.

She emphasized that the program is “very helpful in both the short and long term to build a career in Canada”.

Positive Outcomes

Nguyen’s goals were met and expanded. “My goals are fulfilled in terms of enhancing my soft skills such as communication and networking,” Nguyen reflected.

In January Nguyen was accepted into the Certificate in Canadian Business for IEPs in Management, she remarked: “Most importantly,  I can continue to participate in the Management Certificate, which will enable me to transition from my original background into Human Resources, a field that I decided to build a long-term career in Canada. Foundation courses enhanced my knowledge and skills a lot.”

Advice to Newcomers

Nguyen's insight is “Believe in yourself and try your best.” ��She noted: “Everything at first is very challenging and possibly vague; being persistent and staying true to the goal will lead to direction and results.”

She also expressed gratitude for the support received throughout the journey by stating: “Special thanks to the IEP team: Mr. Andrew Camacho, Ms. Kayla Chu, and Ms. Monica Brennan, together with our instructors: Mr. Jerry Carson, Mr. Abilash Sathyakumar, and Ms. Diana Damiani who are very dedicated to teaching and supporting students. Your dedication is invaluable to my growth in Canada.”