Unlocking Global Talent
In British Columbia (BC), foreign credential recognition can present significant challenges for individuals seeking to utilize their education and professional qualifications obtained outside of Canada. Between a complex and costly evaluation process, language proficiency requirements, limited validation of previous experience, and potentially, the further occupationally specific requirements, the pathway to recognition can be daunting to say the least.
The Skills Bridge program seeks to reduce barriers to foreign credential recognition and create opportunities to support foreign trained workers to transition their skills to employment in their fields of education within the North Vancouver Island labour market.
About Skills Bridge
The Skills Bridge Fund offers financial support with costs related to the process of foreign credential recognition. The focus is to address gaps in funding not currently covered by other programming. Examples of the types of support available are:
- Assessment costs
- Language testing fees
- Travel & Accommodation expenses required to pursue steps in credential recognition
- Training costs related to upgrading required to secure credentials
- Interpretation and Translation costs
- Licensing Fees
Eligibility
Skills Bridge is open to Foreign Trained Professionals seeking employment opportunities within the North Island Labour Market and/or requiring assistance with costs related to credential recognition.
Unlocking Global Talent, Shaping Canada's Future
Every picture tells a story, but a video has the unique ability to bring that story to life. Working alongside filmmaker Daniel Kooman from Unveil Studios in Courtenay, BC to capture the genuine impact of the Skills Bridge Program through a series of short videos was an unforgettable experience.
It was both humbling and inspiring to give people this opportunity to share their personal journeys and reflect on their participation in the Skills Bridge program. Hearing how this initiative has been a pivotal part of their Canadian journey and witnessing their heartfelt gratitude for the support they received was truly moving.
While we could offer a page full of statistics and a long list of all the incredible things about this program, we believe the following voices and stories speak louder than any words we could offer.
Unlocking Global Talent, Shaping Canada's Future
NIEFS Board provided funding over the past year to continue with Skills Bridge (originally funded as a pilot project by the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills from November 2023-March 2024 and administered by ASPECT BC ) which has helped over 120 newcomers across the North Island with foreign credential recognition and recently approved using charitable donations to support a video project to capture participant stories.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the NIEFS Board of Directors for financially supporting this initiative, Unveil Studios for their excellent work, and Skills Bridge Program Coordinator, Dianne Hawkins for her passion and dedication to the program and its participants.
Skills Bridge Connector Events
In a dynamic effort to foster collaboration between local employers, service organizations, and foreign-trained professionals, Skills Bridge networking events were held in both Campbell River and Port Hardy in February of 2024 to provide opportunities for North Island employers to connect directly with foreign trained professionals in their industries.
In a wonderful display of community synergy, the Campbell River event drew in more than 45 eager participants, setting the stage for some riveting exchanges of ideas and information. Attendees, including professionals, employers, and service providers alike were able to foster meaningful interactions that offered insights into diverse skill sets, global perspectives, and available services and supports.
These connector events have strengthened ties between North Island employers and foreign-trained professionals and laid the groundwork for similar events in the future.
What People are Saying
"The event was a great success! It was wonderful to have nations from all over the world represented under one roof, and to see people connecting, socializing, and getting the information they need." Dianne Hawkins, Skills Bridge Coordinator
“ …appreciated the event was small and intimate and allowed for much information sharing amongst the service providers as well as building valuable connections with clients”. anonymous
“The Skills Bridge event was a great way for Newcomers to learn about the Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants program, as this program guides individuals through the credentialing process, offers mentoring, job search and financial support for them to return to their pre-arrival occupation in BC.”
Carey Karlsson, Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society
Contact
Project Coordinator - Dianne H.
Telephone: 250-286-3441