Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA)

Saskatchewan Peer Networking: My City: Saskatoon
2025-10-15 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Toronto)
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 15, 11 am ET
Description: Come learn about the city of Saskatoon! Former SOPA client Rajeev Sobti wants to share his new home with you! Join us to learn about Saskatoon and Rajeev’s experiences as a newcomer in Saskatchewan’s own City of Bridges. After he shares his experiences with us, there will be an opportunity to network with your fellow SOPA clients who are headed to Saskatoon.
Presenter: Former SOPA Client, Rajeev Sobti
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Ontario Peer Networking Event: Pathways for Networking & Mentorship
2025-10-10 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Toronto)
Date & Time: Friday, October 10, 10 am ET
Description: Join us at this SOPA webinar to connect, learn, and leave with practical strategies — and maybe even some new contacts! We’ll discuss effective networking strategies, where to find community and professional networking groups in Ontario, and learn about the TRIEC Mentoring Partnership program for newcomers. Limited spots available, register now!
Presenter: Mar Smaili and Maggie Alongi-Maxwell, SOPA Employment Specialist and Mentor Coach, respectively
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Ontario Peer Networking Event: Thriving in Tech as a Newcomer
2025-10-09 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Toronto)
Date & Time: Thursday, October 9th, 11 am ET
Description: Join us at this SOPA webinar to learn about opportunities for newcomers in tech and discuss tips to help foster community engagement, mentorship, and career growth. Limited spots available, register now!
Presenter: Cyril Bandolo, Solutions Architect at Air Canada
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Upcoming October event: Women's Conversation Circle
2025-10-08 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 8th, 1 pm AT
Description: Please join us for a networking event that brings together women planning to move to Canada with female SOPA clients who have already settled successfully. Through a panel discussion and open conversation, attendees will gain insights into finding work, building community, and adjusting to life in Canada, while sharing their own questions and experiences in a supportive space.
Presenter: Several SOPA Alumni from Across Canada + more details to come closer to the event!
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: Treaties and Reconciliation in Saskatchewan
2025-09-29 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Regina)
Date & Time: September 29th, 9:00 to 11:00 AM Central Standard Time (Saskatchewan).
Description: Join Jennifer from the Saskatchewan SOPA team to learn about the history of treaties in the province of Saskatchewan. This presentation will look at colonial policies from the time of the fur trade in Canada all the way to modern day efforts at reconciliation. The focus of this presentation will be on the numbered treaties on the prairies of Western
Canada, and more particularly on Saskatchewan, however the information will be valuable to SOPA clients from coast to coast.
Presenter: Jennifer Dixon, SOPA Employment Counsellor in Saskatchewan
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: Pre-departure information
2025-09-25 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax)
Date and Time: Sep 25, 2025+ 1:00-2:00 PM (AT)
Description: In this session, you will gain essential knowledge about what you can and cannot bring into Canada, the landing process, and important practical preparation.
Presenter: Sayed Hashim Sadat (he/him) Pre-Arrival Canada Connect Coordinator-SOPA
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

My City: Manitoba - All About Steinbach
2025-09-25 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: September 29, 2025, 12 noon Atlantic time
Description: Come explore Steinbach!! – One of Manitoba’s fastest growing communities. Steinbach’s Eastman Immigrant Services’ Iryna Sosnii will be co-hosting this even as we virtually explore the City of Steinbach and then engage in meaningful networking questions provided by our SOPA (Settlement Online Pre-Arrival) team. All Manitoba-bound clients are invited to come converse about your expectations about moving to Manitoba.
Presenter: Iryna Sosnii of Eastman Immigrant Services will be hosting the first 20 minutes of our time together, giving us insights into what makes Steinbach the vibrant community about one hour east of Winnipeg that it has become today.

Conversation Circle: Building Your Future in Canada - Stories and Strategies
2025-09-25 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Toronto)
Date and time: Thursday, September 25th at 10 a.m. Eastern Time
Description: Whether you’re new to Canada or planning your arrival soon, join us to hear an uplifting newcomer success story, connect with peers, and explore strategies to support your career growth in Canada. This networking event offers an opportunity to gain practical insights and connect with others who share your experiences and goals.
Presenter: Siddharth Sood
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Foreign Credential Recognition Information Session with Manitoba Start
2025-09-23 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Winnipeg)
Date & Time: Date and Time: September 23, 2025, 12 PM MNT
Description: Moving to Manitoba? Join this session to learn how Manitoba Start—the first stop for newcomers in Manitoba—can support your transition and career journey. Designed specifically for SOPA clients, the session will cover career services to help you find meaningful employment, support for navigating Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR), job matching services that connect you with local employers, and how SOPA services transition seamlessly into Manitoba Start supports once you arrive.
Presenter: Manitoba Start
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: Saskatchewan Children’s School Registration
2025-09-23 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Regina)
Date & Time: September 23, 2025 (9 am-10 am, Saskatchewan time zone)
Description: In this session, the presenter will provide information specific to children’s school registration in Saskatchewan. Topics will include eligibility and government regulations for schooling, different school divisions and options in the province, the registration process, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten options, adult secondary education, the role of the RODS SWIS team, and other supports available in schools.
Presenter: Tanuj Kanti Dhar- Orientation Services for Newcomers (OSN) Caseworker Settlement, Family and Community Services
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: Newcomer Services in British Columbia: WorkBC and Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants Programs
2025-09-19 08:00 - 09:00 (America/Vancouver)
Date & Time: 19 September 2025 • 8:00 am – Pacific time (Vancouver time)
Description: In this session, you will learn about programs and supports available to help you settle and find meaningful employment in British Columbia, including an overview of WorkBC Employment Services, the Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants program, steps to access these services, and what to expect after registration.
Presenter: Vaneza Villaceran, WorkBC Catchment Manager; Vivian Rafla, Coordinator – Employment Programs -MOSAIC
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: New Country, New Start: 9 Reasons Volunteering Helps Immigrants Succeed in Atlantic Canada
2025-09-18 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: September 18, 2025; 1pm AST
Description: Volunteering can help you settle successfully in Atlantic Canada. Through volunteering, you gain Canadian work experience, improve your English or French skills, build a network, understand Canadian culture and much more! Join us to learn about the benefits of volunteering, and where to find volunteer opportunities in Atlantic Canada.
Presenter: Debra Power, SOPA Atlantic Intake Counsellor
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

My City: Alberta - Edmonton with Careene McCallum
2025-09-15 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Regina)
Date & Time: September 15, 10 am MST.
Description: Are you new to Canada or considering Edmonton as your new home? Join us for My City Event: Edmonton, a special session designed to help newcomers and immigrants learn more about life in our city. This interactive session will cover: Community resources and opportunities in Edmonton, Navigating life in a new city (driving, weather, and more), Tips to make your settlement journey smoother Personal experiences from community members who now call Edmonton home.
Presenter: Careene McCallum: International Education Consultant, Digital Learning Coach and Computer Science Educator.
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Meet the Employer: Ontario - Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)
2025-09-10 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Toronto)
Date and Time: Wednesday, September 10th at 10 a.m. Eastern Time
Description: Working at RBC – Careers Panel and Story Telling. Join us at this SOPA employer event to learn more about the Canadian employer RBC. You will hear directly from experienced RBC branch managers and staff as they share insights about working at RBC, discuss their career journeys, and answer your questions live. Limited spots available, register now!
Presenter: RBC Staff
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: Saskatchewan Daycare
2025-09-09 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Regina)
Date & Time: September 9, 2025 (9 am-10 am, Saskatchewan time zone)
Description: Join us for an informative session where the presenter will share details specific to childcare in Saskatchewan. This session will cover important topics such as the different types of child care available, age groups and the number of children in care, how to choose quality child care, tips on finding childcare services, the cost of regulated child care, and childcare options for LINC students.
Presenter: Marzieh Fathi- Community Childcare Liaison/School Counsellor
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: Understanding AI in Recruitment: What Job Seekers Need to Know
2025-08-29 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: August 29th, 2025, 1:00-2:00 PM (AT)
Description: In this session, you will gain essential knowledge about common technologies used by recruiters today, how these technologies influence hiring decisions, and what job seekers need to be aware of when applying.
Presenter: Liyana Johan (she/her) Customer Success & Education Manager at Jobscan.co
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Conversation Circle: IT Networking Event- Digital Nova Scotia
2025-08-28 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: August 28th, 2025, 10:00 am – 11:00 am AST
Description: This session will include a short presentation from Vimbayi Handara of Digital Nova Scotia, who will speak about programs and supports for newcomers in the ICT industry. There will also be time for discussion to share job search tips, industry insights, and helpful resources.
Presenter: Vimbayi Handara is a passionate advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion in the tech sector. As the Program Manager for Diversity & Inclusion at Digital Nova Scotia, she works closely with underrepresented groups, industry partners, and newcomers to ensure equitable access to opportunities in the province’s growing ICT ecosystem.
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

My City: Vancouver with Behzad Aeinevand
2025-08-28 08:00 - 09:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: August 28th, 2025 (08:00 am -09:00 am PST)
Description: A newcomer shares their journey settling in Vancouver, including tips, lessons, and local resources you can use, and build connections with other newcomers moving to Vancouver.
What to expect:

An overview of life in Vancouver from a newcomer’s perspective
Tips on housing, transportation, healthcare, and community services
Insights into schools, family life, and recreational activities

Presenter: Behzad Aeinevand, a proud graduate of the SOPA Pre-Arrival Program (British Columbia), now empowers future talents by teaching English and French in Vancouver. With a passion for language and teaching, he helps learners reach their academic goals and thrive in diverse classrooms.
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Employer Session– Ontario: Meet the Canadian Employer Keydata
2025-08-20 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: August 20th at 10 a.m. Eastern Time
Description: Join us at this SOPA employer event to learn more about the Canadian employer Keydata and careers in the IAM industry. Keydata will introduce the company and share more about the hiring process. Limited spots available, register now!
Presenter: Keydata staff
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: IWS Programs and Services in Saskatchewan
2025-08-20 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: August 20th, 2025 (9 am-10 am, Saskatchewan time zone)
Description: International Women of Saskatoon (IWS) Inc is a non-for-profit settlement organization established to help improve the status of newcomers, immigrants, refugees and their families residing in Saskatoon and the area by assisting them to become full participating members in all aspects of Canadian Society. We also deliver limited services to clients residing in Regina, Moose Jaw, Prince Albert and Lloydminster.
Presenter: Shahin, Assistant Program Manager, IWS Regina. Nomin, Provincial Program Manager, IWS Saskatoon
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Conversation Circle: Talking About The Weather - Small Talk Success in Canada's Work Places
2025-07-31 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: July 31st, 2025, 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Description: Let’s informally and casually discuss with one another what are our expectations for workplace conversations in Canada. Be ready to network, to talk about your past and current experiences, and how you expect them to compare with the future.
Presenter: Martin Blumrich- SOPA Facilitator specializing in Cultural Communication and Job Search Strategies, helping newcomers prepare for the Canadian workplace before arrival
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: Information & Orientation Session- Understanding Healthcare in British Columbia - MSP
2025-07-25 08:00 - 09:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: July 25th, 2025 (08:00 am -09:00 am PST)
Description: Join us for an insightful webinar on “Healthcare in British Columbia” where we’ll explore the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in British Columbia (BC). Gain valuable insights into how MSP works, coverage eligibility, enrollment process, and important considerations for newcomers to BC.
Presenter: Anna Romaniuk – SOPA Employment Facilitator who helps pre-arrival clients with their professional job search goals
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: The Halifax Public Libraries as a Settlement Resource – Nova Scotia
2025-07-24 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: July 24th, 2025, at 1 PM (EST)
Description: Halifax Public Libraries are cornerstones of your neighbourhood—bringing together learning, technology, creativity, and community for everyone, every day. “Libraries” means so much more than books. These dynamic community hubs seamlessly blend culture and connection, at no charge.
Presenter: Debra Power, SOPA Atlantic Intake Counsellor
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Foreign Credential Recognition: Navigating Credential Recognition & Career Advancement for Internationally Trained Professionals moving to BC, Alberta and Ontario
2025-07-22 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax)
Date and Time: Tue, July 22nd, 2025, 10 am – 11 am Mountain Time
Description: Join us for an informative and empowering webinar presented by Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS) Society.
This session is designed to support internationally educated professionals on their journey to meaningful employment in Canada.
Presenter: Diksha Chopra, Career and Financial Counsellor, Foreign Credential Recognition Loans Program
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session: Dealing with Stress and Building Wellbeing in Canada
2025-07-17 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: July 17th, 2025, 1:00-2:00 PM (AT)
Description: In this Information & Orientation session, you will gain essential knowledge regarding some of the most common stresses people experience when settling into a new country and some of the ways we can protect ourselves from the negative effects of stress.
Presenter: Sara Warkentin, Coordinator of the Newcomer Mental Health Program at Resilia Community Wellness Centre.
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session– Ontario: Discover Your New Home: Building Connections That Last in Ontario
2025-07-08 10:00 - 11:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: Tuesday, July 8th at 10 a.m. Eastern Time
Description: Join us to explore the vibrant community life around you—libraries, community centers, immigrant-serving organizations, and local events—where you can meet people, access helpful services, and get answers to your questions in a friendly, welcoming environment.
Presenter: Dragana Mrdjenovic is a dynamic leader based in Ottawa with strong expertise in project management, recruitment, and team development. She has significant experience working with settlement organizations.
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Employer Connection Session: Explore Career at Mars
2025-06-27 11:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: Fri, Jun 27, 2025 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Description: SOPA clients are invited to join a national virtual employer connection session with the Talent Recruitment Team at Mars. Mars Inc. is a global company known for its diverse portfolio of confectionery, pet care, and food products, including iconic brands like M&M’s, Snickers, Pedigree, and Uncle Ben’s. Get an inside look at the company’s hiring process, workplace culture, and career opportunities across various departments. Attendees will have an opportunity to gain firsthand insights into what Mars looks for in top talent and how to stand out as a candidate. You can explore their careers here: https://careers.mars.com/global/en
Presenter: Gordon Kufe, Senior Recruiter
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Sector-Specific Conversation Circle: Careers in Real Estate
2025-06-26 10:00 (America/Edmonton)
Date & Time: Thursday, June 26, 2025 10:00 AM (MT) | 12:00 PM (ET)
Description: Interested in a career as a Real Estate Agent in Canada? Join SOPA Alberta’s upcoming Sector Specific Conversation Circle—a virtual event designed to help you build confidence, network, and learn from industry professionals.
Presenter: Ebru Tutkuner, Real Estate Agent at Royal LePage Benchmark, Calgary Ebru will share her inspiring journey from ESL teacher to real estate agent, with practical tips on how to enter this exciting field.
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Information Session – Ontario: Post-arrival Mentorship Program in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) with the TRIEC Mentoring Partnership
2025-06-25 10:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 25th at 10 a.m. Eastern Time
Description: Join us to learn how a mentor with a similar professional background can support your job search and help you succeed in Canada. Attending this information session is mandatory before proceeding with the next steps in the registration process for the post-arrival mentorship program in the GTA.
Presenter: Maggie is an experienced mentoring coach at Humber Polytechnic’s Community Outreach & Workforce Development team.
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.

Employer Connection Session: Explore Career at Staples
2025-06-20 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Halifax)
Date & Time: Fri, Jun 20, 2025 1:00 PM – 2:00 Eastern Time
Description: SOPA clients are invited to join a national virtual employer connection session with the Staples’ Talent Recruitment Team. Get an inside look at the company’s hiring process, workplace culture, and career opportunities across various departments. Attendees will have an opportunity to gain firsthand insights into what Staples looks for in top talent and how to stand out as a candidate.
Presenter: Valerie Kogan, Talent Manager and Sumeet Nihalani, Talent Acquisition Specialist
Contact person for this event: Elmira Alim, elmira@ottawa-worldskills.org
*To register, email us: info@arriveprepared.ca. If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support.
