Webinar Overview and Objectives
The recent Career Pathing webinar by Jumpstart Refugee Talent, in collaboration with the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), bridged the gap between newcomers and employment opportunities in Canada. With 50 refugees attending, it showcased both organizations’ commitment to providing employment pathways for underrepresented individuals. Refugees learned about TTC’s career opportunities, and this reflection explores the event’s key aspects, its potential impact on refugees seeking jobs, and the Jumpstart-TTC partnership.
TTC Recruitment Process
Darlene Murrain, TTC’s Program Coordinator of Outreach, shared insights into TTC’s recruitment process, highlighting the scale of the organization and its workforce, which is largely unionized. She explained how TTC manually reviews thousands of applications, ensuring a human touch in recruitment. This was key for refugees, especially in avoiding AI filtering and focusing on skills rather than keywords.
Seasonal Maintenance Roles
The upcoming 2025 seasonal maintenance positions offer entry points for refugees with backgrounds in general labour, landscaping, or janitorial work. Darlene emphasized that 90% of seasonal hires transition to permanent roles, making these positions crucial for refugees seeking long-term employment.
Addressing Barriers for Refugees
Darlene stressed that TTC does not require Canadian work experience, focusing instead on qualifications and education equivalency. This inclusive hiring approach reduces barriers and acknowledges refugees’ transferable skills. Additionally, TTC provides accommodations for applicants with disabilities during recruitment, ensuring accessibility for all.
Preparing for the Application Process
Practical advice, including the use of the STAR method for behavioural interviews, was provided to help refugees stand out. While the recruitment process for the 2025 seasonal roles is long, attendees were reassured to be patient and expect updates by early January.
Looking Ahead
This webinar empowered refugees by offering transparent recruitment insights and practical tools. It highlighted TTC’s commitment to inclusivity, recognizing non-Canadian work experience, and fostering a diverse workforce. The partnership between Jumpstart and TTC creates meaningful employment pathways for refugees, where their skills are valued and rewarded.