Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA)

Information Session: Career Pathways for Healthcare Professionals in Alberta & Ontario
2026-01-09 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Toronto)
Date & Time: Friday, January 9, 11.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m. EST
Description: Moving to Alberta or Ontario as a healthcare professional? Join our free session to learn about EPIC-HC, specialized training, funding options, and career pathways. Get the tools and resources you need for a successful transition in Canada.
Presenter: Manal Atta, Career Counsellor, Employment Pathways in Canada – Health Careers, Achēv
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Healthcare in Ontario
2026-01-13 11:00 - 12:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 13, 11.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m. EST
Description: Join us to learn how Ontario’s healthcare system works, including the Ontario Health Insurance Program (OHIP) coverage, how to access walk-in clinics, and what to expect in emergency rooms.
Presenter: Dragana Mrdjenovic, SOPA Ontario Employment Specialist
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Settlement Services at MOSAIC, British Columbia
2026-01-14 11:00 - 12:00
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 14, 11.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m. EST
Description: Join our info session for newcomers to BC and learn how MOSAIC can help you and your family settle and thrive. Explore personalized support, workshops, referrals, and programs for language, employment, and community connections.
Presenter: Fairuz Zenati, Settlement Worker, Newcomers & Community Building Program, MOSAIC BC
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Discover Canada: Your Essential Guide
2026-01-15 12:00 - 13:00
Date & Time: Thursday, January 15, 12.00 -1.00 p.m. EST
Description: Join us an engaging info session where we’ll explore the fascinating geography, diverse climate, vibrant cultures, and rich history that make Canada unique. We’ll also cover steps to become a permanent resident or citizen and how to get your SIN.
Presenter:Martin Blumrich,Cultural Communications and Job Search Strategies Facilitator, SOPA MB
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Soft Skills Workshop: Complex Conversations
2026-01-20 10:00 - 2026-01-22 12:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 20 & Thursday January 22, 10.00-12.00 p.m. EST
Description: Learn how to navigate sensitive topics and resolve conflicts professionally with our Complex Conversations workshop. Gain practical strategies to communicate clearly, manage emotions, and maintain positive relationships in the workplace. Start today and turn challenges into opportunities!
Why join?
These workshops offer practical, hands-on experience that employers value. You’ll leave with strategies to boost your confidence and thrive in your new environment.
To earn your certificate of completion, you must:

Attend both sessions on January 20 and 22
Complete the short assignments provided

Presenter: Sajjad Syed, Cultural Communications and Job Search Strategies Facilitator, SOPA SK
*To register, SOPA clients contact your Intake Counselor and/or check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

FCR Webinar: Starting Your Career In Canada’s Construction Industry
2026-01-21 12:30 - 13:30
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 21, 12.30 p.m.-1.30 p.m. EST
Description: Join us to learn about the BCCA-IN program for newcomers in construction. Discover training sponsorship, mentorship, and resources to help you prepare for work and advance your career in Canada’s construction industry.
Presenter: Alice Calmettes, Program Manager, BC Construction Association – Integrating Newcomers
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Support For Parents Of School Age Children, New Brunswick
2026-01-22 12:00 - 13:00
Date & Time: Thursday, January 22, 12.00 p.m.-1.00 p.m. EST
Description: Join us to learn how the SWIS (Settlement Workers in Schools) program supports families arriving in New Brunswick with school-age children. Discover how it helps register your kids for school and guides you until you’re comfortable with the education system. Find out how this program works and how it can help you!
Presenter: Olivia Finnamore, SWIS Regional Coordinator
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Conversation Circle: My Manitoba: Focus on Brandon
2026-01-23 11:00 - 12:00
Date & Time: Friday, January 23, 11.00 p.m.-12.00 p.m. EST
Description: Join us for this networking event to learn about Western Manitoba (simply known as Westman), a region rich in industries and provincial parks. Whether you are planning to move to Brandon or are just interested in exploring what Manitoba has to offer outside of Winnipeg, take this opportunity to ask questions with Westman Immigrant Services and talk to other Manitoba-bound professionals.
Presenter: Anu Gabriella Faronbi, Settlement Facilitator at Westman Immigrant Services
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Health Insurance, Health Card & Benefits, Saskatchewan
2026-01-27 10:00 - 11:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 27, 10.00 a.m.-11.00 a.m. EST
Description: Join our session for an overview of health care in Canada and Saskatchewan. Learn about eligibility, coverage, applying for a health card, what’s covered and what’s not, finding services, patient responsibilities, FAQs, and key takeaways—plus a live Q&A.
Presenter: Tanuj Kanti Dhar, Orientation Services for Newcomers Caseworker
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Soft Skills workshop: Social Interactions
2026-01-27 10:00 - 2026-01-29 12:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 27 & Thursday, January 29, 10.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m. EST
Description: Join us for a fun, practical learning experience that will help you succeed in Canadian workplaces! In this interactive workshop, you’ll practice real-life conversation skills, learn how to network effectively, and discover why these abilities are essential for building relationships and finding opportunities in Canada.
Why join?
These workshops offer practical, hands-on experience that employers value. You’ll leave with strategies to boost your confidence and thrive in your new environment.
To earn your certificate of completion, you must:

Attend both sessions on January 27 and 29
Complete the short assignments provided

Presenter: Olja Stojanovic, Cultural Communications Facilitator, SOPA AB
*To register, SOPA clients contact your Intake Counselor and/or check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Sector Specific Conversation Circle: Entry-Level HR Careers in Canada
2026-01-29 12:00 - 13:00
Date & Time: Thursday, January 29, 12.00 p.m.-1.00 p.m. EST
Description: Join us to explore entry-level HR roles for newcomers in Canada with Keno Eden Ettah (CPHR). Discover how to start without credentials, plan for growth, and network with peers in your sector. Don’t miss this chance to connect and learn!
Presenter: Keno Eden Ettah, CPHR, Recruitment Team Lead at Canadian Kraft Paper Industries Ltd.

*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Soft Skills workshop: Working with Others
2026-02-03 12:00 - 2026-02-05 14:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 3 & Thursday, February 5, 12.00-2.00 p.m. EST
Description: Success in Canada’s workplace depends on more than technical skills—it’s about collaboration, communication, and building strong relationships. This interactive workshop will help you develop essential teamwork skills, understand workplace expectations, and learn strategies to work effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
Why join?
These workshops offer practical, hands-on experience that employers value. You’ll leave with strategies to boost your confidence and thrive in your new environment.
To earn your certificate of completion, you must:

Attend both sessions on February 3 and 5
Complete the short assignments provided

Presenter: Martin Blumrich, Cultural Communications and Job Search Strategies Facilitator, SOPA MB
*To register, SOPA clients contact your Intake Counselor and/or check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Public Libraries, Manitoba
2026-02-06 10:00 - 11:00
Date & Time: Friday, February 6, 10.00 a.m.-11.00 a.m. EST
Description: Moving to Manitoba or arriving in Winnipeg soon? Join our online session to discover how public libraries offer free support for newcomers, including library cards, learning tools, programs for all ages, digital resources, and welcoming spaces to help you settle and connect.
Presenter: Toby Cygman, Outreach Librarian, Winnipeg Public Library, City of Winnipeg
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Conversation Circle: My Calgary, Alberta
2026-02-06 12:00 - 13:00
Date & Time: Friday, February 6, 12.00 -1.00 p.m. EST
Description: Join us for a special virtual event where former SOPA client Céphas Adimado, who arrived in Calgary from Togo, will share his experiences and insider tips about living in Calgary. Learn what to expect during your first weeks and months, explore the city, and get to know Calgary better.
Presenter: Céphas Adimado, SOPA Alberta Client
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Employer Networking: With KeyData Cyber, Ontario
2026-02-10 10:00 - 11:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 10, 10.00 a.m.-11.00 a.m. EST
Description: You are invited to join a national virtual info session with the Talent Recruitment Team at KeyData Cyber. Get an inside look at the company’s hiring process, workplace culture, and career opportunities. Attendees will have an opportunity to gain firsthand insights into what KeyData Cyber looks for in top talent and how to stand out as a candidate.
Presenter: Wided El Fessi, SOPA Ontario Employment Specialist + Adrita Sarkar, Radika Rathi – Talent Acquisition Team at Key Data
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Soft Skills workshop: Workplace Communication
2026-02-10 12:00 - 2026-02-12 14:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 10 & Thursday, February 12, 12.00 -2.00 p.m. EST
Description: In this workshop you will learn about two key types of workplace communication: presentations and meetings. You will learn how to plan and deliver a successful presentation and actively take part in meetings both as a leader and participant. Start today and turn challenges into opportunities!
Why join?
These workshops offer practical, hands-on experience that employers value. You’ll leave with strategies to boost your confidence and thrive in your new environment.
To earn your certificate of completion, you must:

Attend both sessions on February 10 and 12
Complete the short assignments provided

Presenter: Olja Stojanovic, Cultural Communications Facilitator, SOPA AB
*To register for Softs Skills workshops – SOPA clients contact your Intake Counselor or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Conversation Circle: My City Regina, Saskatchewan
2026-02-11 10:30 - 11:30
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 11, 10.30 a.m.-11.30 a.m. EST
Description:Join the SOPA Saskatchewan team and learn about the capital city of the province, Regina. Also known as Pile’o’Bones, Regina is situated in the southern part of Saskatchewan and is the second largest city in the province.
Presenter: Allan Pulga, Tamara Tebb, and Robin Chawla with the City of Regina
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Employer Networking: National Event with Mars, Canada-wide
2026-02-17 10:00 - 11:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 17, 10.00 a.m.-11.00 a.m. EST
Description: You are invited to join a national virtual info session with the Senior Recruiter 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.
Presenter: Gordon Kufe, Senior Recruiter
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Understanding Benefits in Alberta
2026-02-18 12:00 - 13:00
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 18, 12.00 -1.00 p.m. EST
Description: This session helps newcomers understand how benefits and supports in Alberta work, including financial, family, and settlement assistance. Learn how these programs can help you and your family settle more easily and access the support you’re eligible for.
Presenter: Idongesit Adegoke, Intake Counsellor, SOPA Alberta
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Pathways for Networking and Mentorship, Ontario
2026-02-19 10:00 - 11:00
Date & Time: Thursday, February 19, 10.00 a.m.-11.00 a.m. EST
Description: Join us to learn about creative pathways to network as a newcomer to Ontario. Our guest speaker will also introduce the post-arrival newcomer mentorship program, the TRIEC Mentoring Partnership (TMP), in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Save your spot now!
Presenter: Maggie Alongi-Maxwell, Mentorship Coach
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Taxes in Canada, Canada-wide
2026-02-19 10:30 - 11:30
Date & Time: Thursday, February 19, 10.30 a.m.-11.30 a.m. EST
Description: This one-hour pre-arrival session offers a clear introduction to the Canadian tax system. Participants will learn when tax responsibilities begin, what taxes to expect, how to file their first tax return, and why filing is important even with low or no income. The session also highlights key newcomer benefits, credits, and trusted sources of free tax support, followed by a live Q&A.
Presenter: Tara Hastoo, Senior Program Officer, Program Development Section – CRA
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Soft Skills workshop: Complex Conversations
2026-02-24 12:00 - 2026-02-26 14:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 24 & Thursday, February 26, 12.00-2.00 p.m. EST
Description: Learn how to navigate sensitive topics and resolve conflicts professionally with our Complex Conversations workshop. Gain practical strategies to communicate clearly, manage emotions, and maintain positive relationships in the workplace. Start today and turn challenges into opportunities!
Why join?
These workshops offer practical, hands-on experience that employers value. You’ll leave with strategies to boost your confidence and thrive in your new environment.
To earn your certificate of completion, you must:

Attend both sessions on February 24 and 26
Complete the short assignments provided

Presenter: Sajjad Syed, Cultural Communications and Job Search Strategies Facilitator, SOPA SK
*To register, SOPA clients contact your Intake Counselor and/or check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Conversation Circle: Job Search in the Age of AI
2026-02-26 11:00 - 12:00
Date & Time: Thursday, February 26, 11.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m. EST
Description:Join us for this informative networking event to learn about using AI in job search. Many job seekers are unsure what is helpful, what is risky, and what employers actually expect. Join our Conversation Circle, “Job Search in the Age of AI,” to learn how to use AI responsibly in the Canadian labour market
Presenter: Imran Mouna, Co-founder and Director of Strategic Partnerships at InStage
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Understanding Insurance in Canada, Canada-wide
2026-02-26 13:00 - 14:00
Date & Time: Thursday, February 26, 13.00 a.m.-14.00 a.m. EST
Description: You will gain a clear information about Canada’s insurance industry, including key insurance types and how the sector operates. The participants will obtain essential knowledge about why insurance is a stable and essential part of Canada’s financial system, how international experience transfers to Canadian roles.
Presenter: Tara Hastoo, Senior Program Officer, Program Development Section – CRA
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Soft Skills workshop: Social Interactions
2026-03-03 10:00 - 2026-03-05 12:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 3 & Thursday, March 5, 10.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m. EST
Description: Master the art of effective communication and build meaningful connections in Canadian workplaces. Our Social Interactions workshop helps newcomers develop practical strategies for networking, teamwork, and professional etiquette, essential for career success. Register today and start building stronger relationships!
Why join?
These workshops offer practical, hands-on experience that employers value. You’ll leave with strategies to boost your confidence and thrive in your new environment.
To earn your certificate of completion, you must:

Attend both sessions on March 3 and 5
Complete the short assignments provided

Presenter: Olja Stojanovic, Cultural Communications Facilitator, SOPA AB
*To register, SOPA clients contact your Intake Counselor and/or check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Conversation Circle: Labour Laws in Saskatchewan
2026-03-04 10:00 - 11:30
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 4, 10.00 a.m.-11.30 a.m. EST
Description: Join Jennifer Dixon, our SOPA Saskatchewan Employment Specialist, and learn about your rights regarding working in Saskatchewan. We will touch on topics such as rate of pay, scheduling, time off, and protected leaves.
Presenter: Jennifer Dixon, SOPA Employment Specialist
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Credential Recognition in Canada
2026-03-09 13:00 - 14:00
Date & Time: Monday, March 9, 13.00 p.m.-14.00 p.m. EST
Description: This session shares frontline strategies from the SOPA program, showing how early FCR-focused guidance helps newcomers understand credentialing requirements before arriving in Canada. FCR Navigators provide personalized, step-by-step support to help clients make informed decisions.
Presenter: Shivam Oheri and Rajmonda, SOPA FRC Navigators
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Soft Skills workshop: Working with Others
2026-03-10 10:00 - 2026-03-12 12:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 10 & Thursday, March 12, 10.00 a.m.-12.00 p.m. EST
Description: Success in Canada’s workplace depends on more than technical skills—it’s about collaboration, communication, and building strong relationships. This interactive workshop will help you develop essential teamwork skills, understand workplace expectations, and learn strategies to work effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
Why join?
These workshops offer practical, hands-on experience that employers value. You’ll leave with strategies to boost your confidence and thrive in your new environment.
To earn your certificate of completion, you must:

Attend both sessions on March 10 and March 12
Complete the short assignments provided

Presenter: Cynthia Wang, Cultural Communications and Job Search Strategies Facilitator, SOPA Atlantic Canada
*To register, SOPA clients contact your Intake Counselor and/or check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Employer Networking: With Invest Ottawa, Ontario
2026-03-11 10:00 - 11:00
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 11, 10.00 a.m.-11.00 a.m. EST
Description: Join us on this SOPA webinar with Invest Ottawa to learn more about how to connect with employers in Ottawa.
‘Work in Ottawa’ is a talent program from Ottawa’s economic development organization ‘Invest Ottawa’ which promotes Ottawa’s tech employers and job opportunities to attract top talent.
Presenter: Kim Van Der Horst, Manager & Sahr Kazmi, Talent Attraction Strategist
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!

Information Session: Indigenous peoples of Canada
2026-03-12 13:00 - 14:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, March 12, 13.00 p.m.-14.00 p.m. EST
Description: Information session introducing newcomers to the history, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis in Canada. Participants will learn about Truth and Reconciliation, residential schools, and respectful ways to engage with Indigenous communities.
Presenter: Elder Joe Michael, and Elder Ann Labillois
*To register, SOPA clients check your emails for our January events newsletter with links to register or email us: info@arriveprepared.ca.
If you are not yet a SOPA client, please register as a new client to get employment support and access to our monthly events!
