© UNHCR/ Braeden King
Through innovative programs like the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), Canada is providing a lifeline to skilled refugees, while addressing crucial labour shortages at the same time
By Soo-Jung Kim in Ottawa, Canada
“Beginning from my academic journey, I was passionate and ambitious [about becoming] a healthcare professional… From my early age, I saw people suffering… I just want to help people and support people who are in health need.”
For Tekle Mehari, being offered a job at Chancellor Park in St. John’s, Newfoundland, wasn’t just a once in a lifetime opportunity, but a testament to the power of hope, determination, and the support of a community that believes in the potential of every individual, no matter their background.
Originally from Eritrea, Tekle was living in Ethiopia without access to permanent work and struggled to secure a stable future. With help from the Ethiopian government and UNHCR, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and his dream of becoming a healthcare professional was within reach.
“As a qualified and experienced nurse, I believe I’m taking part in a considerable contribution to the healthcare and the work environment in Canada.”
– Tekle Mehari
Canada has a long tradition of offering hope and opportunity to people from all walks of life, including those who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict or persecution.
A win-win solution
What is the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)? It’s an immigration program that helps Canadian employers fill critical labour gaps and allows refugees to put their skills and experience to work with meaningful jobs in Canada. With the help of partners like TalentLift who support employers to source talent, skilled refugees like Tekle, have found a new beginning in Canada’s healthcare sector.
“When we found out about the economic mobility program, it really seemed like the best way to combine all of our interests. Finding skilled labour to meet our labour needs and supporting refugees to improve their own circumstances,” said Allison Billard, Human Resource Manager at Chancellor Park.
Refugees bring a wealth of education and experience that make them well-suited to fill critical positions in various industries. For employers, this means a unique opportunity to hire dedicated, skilled workers who offer a fresh outlook and commitment to their professions.
“There’s been something special about the refugee applicants. They come with the experience and the education that we’re looking for and also a different sense of purpose when they come to the workplace.”
– Allison Billard
It’s a perspective shift, Allison mentions. Many people don’t realize that refugees often come with impressive skills and education, just waiting for the chance to re-enter the workforce. “These people have been through the same kinds of education many of us have done,” she said. “They are just in a different circumstance, unable to work in their field due to the situation they’ve found themselves in.”
Through the EMPP and NGO partners, Canadian businesses connect with talented refugees, giving companies the chance to fill much-needed positions and refugees to contribute to their new communities and move forward with their lives.
A perfect match
For Allison, the work being done at Chancellor Park, and the impact on the lives of refugees, is more than just a response to need — it’s a recognition of the incredible value that these candidates bring to the economy, the community, and workplaces. Through their resilience and dedication, these individuals are not just rebuilding their own lives but enriching the lives of everyone around them.
It’s been an eye-opening experience she recalls. “It’s given me an appreciation for what people are going through in the rest of the world… You hear about it on the news, but when you’re actually able to connect with someone who’s lived it, it makes it real. And that’s been so important for me personally — and for the organization as well.”
Reflections on the future
Tekle’s message to other refugees is one of optimism and resilience: “Do not be hopeless. Just keep searching. There are too many opportunities in life. Just keep searching and do your best towards your dream.”
His dreams for the future?
“I do hope to be licensed [as an] RN, a registered nurse… [I want the] chance to become licensed with my degree here.”
For more information on economic mobility and how skilled refugees can navigate immigration opportunities in Canada, visit the UNHCR Canada’s Economic Immigration for Skilled Refugees help page.
