At Jumpstart Refugee Talent, we believe that close collaboration between employers and refugees is crucial to ensure that refugees are well integrated into society and the diversification of Canada’s workforce. Our Meaningful Employment program, also known as the Talent Hub, is an online portal that connects local refugees with Canadian employers from various kinds of businesses and industries at no cost. Through this resource, Jumpstart helps refugees get meaningfully employed and helps employers access talent. This blog outlines how the program works by highlighting the roles that Jumpstart, refugees, and employers play.  

How Refugees Can Participate in the Talent Hub 

1. Refugees examine the criteria for becoming part of the Talent Hub.

2. Refugees complete Jumpstart’s intake form.

• The intake form asks for relevant client information, including your resume and job aspirations, as well as demographic information 
• Select the “Employment support” option for the first question.

3. Jumpstart will review your application and get in touch with you for more details to complete your client profile.

4. As a registered Jumpstart client, you will have access to a wide range of resources and services for career readiness 

• Clients are encouraged to make the most of them by keeping up to date with Jumpstart’s social media posts, website content, and emails.

5. In contact with Canadian employers, we will oversee and match you with potential job opportunities and reach out to you to assess your interest 

• If you are interested in the opportunity, we will continue to support you with customized mock interviews.
  

  

How Employers Can Participate in Job Hub 

1. Employers consider available positions in their organizations and their details, including qualifications of interest, and salary ranges.
2. Employers fill out Jumpstart’s contact form.
   a.The contact form seeks to get a glimpse of the industry and what positions can be offered to refugees.
3. Jumpstart will contact employers to receive additional details about your interested candidates.
4. Jumpstart pre-screens candidates (currently, we have more than 2500 local candidates from over 60 countries) and will share which candidates are suitable for further consideration.
   a.This process takes roughly 3-7 business days.
5. Employers will interview the shortlisted candidates and evaluate their skills and fit.
6. If candidates are selected, employers will issue job offers. Jumpstart can, by request, help employers with the onboarding processes of candidates.
   

   

Common Misconceptions  

“Refugee candidates are not qualified”   

There are misconceptions about the potential qualifications of refugees and the value they bring to the workforce, often deeming them undereducated and underskilled. Employers may be affected by these common, inaccurate assumptions. These misconceptions unjustly restrict the advancement of refugees, as our clients have professional expertise, educational histories, and good English proficiency. Most importantly, they express resilience and strong determination to build better futures for themselves. 

“Refugees cannot or should not work in Canada” 

Refugees are protected under Canadian law and can apply for work permits. Jumpstart specifically collaborates with refugees whose applications have been approved.  

In Canada, we strive to uphold democratic values and take pride in being a multicultural nation. Refugees flee their home countries for protection, and their dignity is violated when they are not granted equal employment opportunities. True inclusivity means equal employment opportunities. 

Key Takeaways 

As an intermediary, Jumpstart supports refugees in taking their first steps towards meaningful employment and Canadian professionals in promoting inclusivity and equity in their workplaces. It is essential to counter misconceptions surrounding the value of refugees to not only uphold refugee rights but also uplift Canada’s economy. Please consider reading our blog on the great potential of refugees here.