Riwa Abdel Khalek
Foundation Program
Riwa Abdel Khalek joined the IEP program to “get a better understanding of the Canadian work culture and communication practices.” She explained it was hard for her to find work in Canada and decide which career path to follow.
“I was struggling with networking and finding the right people/events to attend to grow my connections here in Toronto,” Riwa said.
Building connections
“The program helped me understand the parts of the Canadian work culture that I was unaware of and it put me in contact with employment and settlement services that were able to fill in any gaps I had about life here”, she explained.
She also shared the program helped her brush up on skills and gain a better understanding of how Canadians communicate in the workplace.
Riwa also found the program very helpful for networking. She elaborated:
“The program was a great help in growing my connections and network here in Toronto”, she said. “I met so many amazing people, both as fellow students in the program as well as alumni and staff members who were so helpful and encouraging, and with their help and through listening to their experiences, I was able to confidently decide on my next steps towards finding employment.”
The outcome of the Foundation program
For Riwa, “the biggest positive result I achieved from my experience in this program is the network I gained from it”. She remarked: “I am very thankful for that. I also gained a better understanding of the business culture here and how I fit into it.”
Riwa’s Advice for new commers
“My advice for another newcomer is to take the time to develop or redevelop certain skills in your field”, she suggested. “Things take time and taking a bridging program or two will help guide you through this long process of finding employment here, she explained.
“The people you meet in these kinds of programs and the friends you make along the way are a great addition to your network and will be a valuable part of your journey here,” she reflected.