Immigrant Professionals

Host Mentoring Services

For more information about Host Mentoring Services, please contact Karolien Swaak at kswaakicavictoria [dot] org or 250-38... ext. 122.

What is the Host Mentoring Services Program?

Host Mentoring Services matches internationally trained professionals with qualified mentors in the same or related career field to help newcomers become familiar with their profession in the Canadian context. It allows for a safe environment for immigrant professionals to explore the local labour market, the “unspoken rules” of the field, and much more. It is a relationship based on mutual learning and sharing of knowledge.

How often do mentoring pairs meet and for how long?

Mentoring pairs are generally matched for a period of 3-6 months and commit to meeting with each other on a regular basis depending on availability. Each face-to-face meeting usually lasts 1 hour. Connecting by email and telephone are also acceptable meeting alternatives, but meetings should be done in person where possible.

What topics do mentoring pairs usually explore?

Although each matched pair looks different, some common topics of interest may include:

Canadian workplace culture and occupational practices;
The local job market;
Professional credentials, education, and work experience;
Networks of professionals and potential colleagues;
Broader services and systems in the community;
Career-related programs, services, and resources;
Job specific language skills; and
Canadian and BC culture in general.

Once matched, what support is available for the mentoring pair?

The Host Mentoring Facilitator provides training and support for the mentoring pair and organizes occasional group gatherings and learning opportunities. Regular check-ins and an end-of-match evaluation are an integral part of the program.

What professions do you match?

We match immigrant professionals and mentors in a wide variety of professions and trades.

Examples include:

Accountants
Architects
Biologists
Chemists
Environmentalists
Mathematicians
Computer Software and Interactive Media Developers
Economists
Information Systems and Database Analysts
Conference and Event Planners
Human Resource Professionals
Engineers (All Fields)
Financial and Investment Analysts
Business and Marketing Professionals
Geologists and Geochemists
Registered Nurses and Physicians
Social Workers
Veterinarians
Writers (Advertising, Interactive Media, and Technical)
… and MORE

Testimonials

“I really think that through the mentorship program, I gain more than what I give”

Thomas, Venture Capitalist, Mentor

“My experience with the ICA mentoring program was exceptional. I was really lucky to have a mentor who is truly intelligent, wise, open, and kind. He provided guidance for me, answering my questions about the job market in BC, about the industry, and about hiring practices in Canada. I hope to remain friends with my mentor.”

Anna, Economist, Mentee

“The ICA’s Host Mentoring program provides newcomers with excellent information sources and speeds up the integration of newcomers into the local community”

Robert, Software Developer, Mentee

“The ICA, through its mentorship program, can justly claim they play a key role in helping newcomers find the right path for them by helping to match them with someone who has walked some of that path”

Larry, Agricultural Economist, Mentor

“For me, the mentorship program was a successful link between my past experiences and future possibilities. It provided me with a sense of inclusion within my new community. I wish every person could have a mentor. They pass on their experiences and enrich lives”

Natalia, Marketing Professional, Mentee

“I had a very successful career prior to moving to Canada six years ago. I haven’t had an opportunity to work within my career since moving here and didn’t really know how to change the situation. After getting involved in the mentorship program, I feel like I have hope and feel like I have people supporting me. This is a wonderful thing that has happened to me. Someone believes in me and now I believe I can practice my career here.”

Grace, Culinary Artist, Mentee

For more information about Host Mentoring Services, please contact Karolien Swaak at kswaakicavictoria [dot] org or 250-388-4728 ext. 122.