This November, Jumpstart Refugee Talent invites you to join us for our 12 Days of Giving campaign, showcasing the transformative power of refugee employment and integration. Refugees are more than newcomers—they are skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and creators who enrich Canada’s economy, culture, and communities. Empowering refugees through employment is not only the right thing to do but also a strategic imperative for Canada’s future.
The Case for Refugee Talent
Canada is facing a labor shortage across sectors like healthcare, technology, arts, and trades. Refugees represent an untapped pool of diverse talent, bringing invaluable skills, perspectives, and determination to rebuild their lives in a new country. However, barriers such as unfamiliarity with the Canadian job market, credential recognition, and limited professional networks often prevent them from reaching their full potential.
Programs like Jumpstart Refugee Talent bridge these gaps, creating pathways to employment and unlocking the potential of refugee talent to strengthen Canada’s economy and social fabric.
Transformative Stories of Talent and Resilience
Brian Katte Tinong: Entrepreneurial Excellence
Brian, originally from Cameroon, is an inspiring example of resilience and ingenuity. After arriving in Canada, he founded multiple successful businesses, including an African food venture that caters to the growing demand for authentic, diverse cuisines in Canada. With support from Jumpstart, Brian turned his entrepreneurial dream into reality, creating jobs and showcasing the immense value refugees bring to Canada’s economy. His story is a testament to how targeted support can transform challenges into opportunities.
Jennifer Heynen: The Power of Mentorship
Jennifer Heynen, a financial services professional with Duca Financial, mentored a refugee through Jumpstart’s Welcome Talent Canada program. This mentorship provided critical guidance and support, helping a refugee newcomer navigate the complexities of the Canadian financial industry. Jennifer’s story highlights how mentorship not only accelerates integration but also builds bridges of understanding and fosters mutual growth between mentors and mentees.
Refugees in the Creative Economy
Beyond traditional professions, artistically inclined refugees add unparalleled value to Canada’s cultural and economic fabric. Through Jumpstart’s Creator Series, we’ve witnessed the incredible contributions of refugee artists who use their creativity to express resilience, share unique cultural narratives, and foster connections in diverse communities.These artists enrich Canada’s cultural landscape while contributing economically through exhibitions, performances, and creative collaborations. Investing in refugee creators means nurturing Canada’s reputation as a hub for cultural innovation and diversity.
Why Employers Must Act
Employing refugees is not just about filling jobs—it’s about fostering innovation, diversity, and community. Refugees like Brian, creators featured in the Creator Series, and mentees in programs like Welcome Talent Canada embody resilience and creativity, bringing unique perspectives that drive success in the workplace.
Employers can make a difference by hiring refugees, offering mentorship opportunities, and building inclusive workplaces. In return, they gain skilled, motivated, and loyal employees who contribute to a stronger, more dynamic Canada.
The Call to Action
As we kick off our 12 Days of Giving campaign, we urge Canada’s employers, leaders, and citizens to join us in empowering refugees through meaningful employment. Each mentorship, job opportunity, or donation helps transform lives and strengthen our economy and communities.
Refugees don’t just need Canada—Canada needs them. Together, we can build a future that celebrates diversity, fosters inclusion, and drives prosperity for all.
Join us in this mission. Support Jumpstart Refugee Talent today and be part of Canada’s journey toward a more inclusive, thriving society.