Carla Qualtrough, Federal Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, announced funding of more than $1.3 million for MOSAIC’s new Canadian Work Experience Internship Pilot Program (WorkXP) during a recent visit to MOSAIC.
The funding is part of a $26.5 million announcement over the next three years for 11 different projects under the federal government’s Foreign Credential Recognition Program, which supports the labour market integration of skilled newcomers.
“The work that organizations like MOSAIC do is not only incredibly impactful to the individuals who can then go on to achieve their own career goals; it’s a huge boost to our workforce that needs more skilled workers. Through the Foreign Credential Recognition Program, we’re excited to fund partners across the country who are assisting newcomers to navigate our credential systems, and helping Canada to build the strong, skilled workforce we need,” said Minister Qualtrough.
During the announcement, attendees heard from Karen Rothschuh, a former newcomer participant of MOSAIC’s Fast Track to Client Relationship Management (CRM) program who was hired by her work experience employer; and Emily Dodge of Traction on Demand, a key employer partner of MOSAIC that has been instrumental in the technical training of program participants.
Minister Qualtrough also met with MOSAIC clients and staff during to hear about the benefits of work experience programs for newcomers. Wilson Miao, Member of Parliament for Richmond Centre, and Parm Bains, Member of Parliament for Steveston-Richmond East, were in attendance as well.
“MOSAIC is delighted to receive this funding, which will allow our organization to address a crucial barrier for immigrant professionals to access skills-commensurate jobs, and to utilize the wealth of expertise and experience that newcomers bring to Canada,” said Olga Stachova, Chief Executive Officer of MOSAIC.
Employers interested in hosting an internationally trained professional through MOSAIC’s WorkXP program can register here.
