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Open Hour at Jumpstart Refugee Talent: Ask Me Anything

Jun 04 2025
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Time Zone: EDT
Online
Ask Me Anything
Jun 04 2025
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Time Zone: EDT
Online

Pathways to Education & Social Justice for Newcomer Refugees

Are you a newcomer refugee navigating your future in Canada? Join Jumpstart Refugee Talent for our next Ask Me Anything (AMA) session focused on education access, employment pathways, and social justice advocacy.

In this one-hour virtual event, we’re honoured to welcome two change-making leaders who have dedicated their work to equity and inclusion for people with precarious immigration status.

This is a safe, welcoming space for you to:

    • Ask questions about pursuing post-secondary education

    • Learn how to access programs designed for refugee and newcomer students

    • Explore employment support pathways

    • Be inspired by real-life stories of impact and advocacy

Featured Speakers

Philip Ackerman

Philip Ackerman, smiling gently with shoulder-length wavy hair and a beard, standing against a bright blue background.
Meet Philip Ackerman — educator, advocate, and expert in trauma-informed learning. As a faculty member at Seneca Polytechnic, Philip helps students challenge systemic barriers and access the tools they need to succeed. He joins our upcoming AMA to share his journey and insights on equity in education for refugees newcomers.

Faculty Member, Seneca Polytechnic
Philip is a passionate human rights advocate, educator, and trauma-informed facilitator. At Seneca, he supports students in building the tools and confidence to challenge systemic barriers. His work centers on inclusive education, refugee empowerment, and creating equitable learning environments that make a real difference.

Tanya Aberman

Tanya Aberman, smiling and wearing glasses, with curly blonde hair, seated indoors in front of a neutral background.
Meet Tanya Aberman — co-founder of the Sanctuary Students Solidarity and Support (S4) Collective, and a fierce advocate for education equity. She’s joining us for our next AMA to talk about how newcomer refugees can access post-secondary education and build empowered futures in Canada.

Sanctuary Scholars Program Coordinator, York University & Toronto Metropolitan University
Tanya is a researcher, advocate, and co-founder of the Sanctuary Students Solidarity and Support (S4) Collective. With a PhD in Gender, Feminist, and Women’s Studies, she works to expand access to education for students with precarious immigration status through system-wide transformation and grassroots solidarity.

What You’ll Learn

  • How to navigate education access with refugee or precarious status

  • What post-secondary programs and supports are available

  • Real-world stories of education advocacy and systemic change

  • How to get involved in community-led support networks

  • Where to find employment prep, workshops, and legal information

Agenda

Welcome & Introductions

Guest Presentations
Philip and Tanya will share their work and stories around education, refugee rights, and inclusive advocacy.

Q&A and Open Discussion
Bring your questions and your voice! Engage directly with the speakers in a supportive, open space.

Key Takeaways & Next Steps
Receive links, contacts, and info on programs to help guide your next move.