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IMPACT REPORT 2026 Calgary Region Immigrant Employment CouncilPrepared by REPORTING ON THE 2025-2026 FISCAL YEAR
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, which include the Blackfoot Confederacy (comprised of the Siksika, the Piikani, and the Kainai First Nations), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda (including Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations). The City of Calgary is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta. Finally, we recognize that acknowledging the land is one step towards reconciliation and fulfilling our responsibilities as Treaty people. Working alongside all Nations, Indigenous and non, we strive to create a space of respect, responsibility, and reconciliation.
TABLE OF CONTENTSLETTER FROM LEADERSHIP45ABOUT CRIEC6MENTORSHIP IMPACT7MENTOR SPOTLIGHT & MENTEE TESTIMONIALSOUR PROGRAMS8 Flagship Mentorship Path2Practice for Internationally Educated Nurses Internationally Trained Accounting Professionals Pathway to Employment Internationally Trained Lawyers Pathway to Employment Program Pathway to Entrepreneurship & Mentorship Program for Black Professionals13FINANCIALS14SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACT SPOTLIGHT15IN PERSON CONNECTION & SOCIAL CONNECTION16DIVERSITY CHAMPION17OUR FUNDERS18CONTACT US
LETTERS FROM LEADERSHIPJoining CRIEC as the Executive Director has already connected me with the vibrant, resilient, and talented community we serve, and to see the impact of the work CRIEC is doing. Even though my journey has just begun, I am stepping into an organization with powerful momentum. This year’s impact report is a testament to the success and dedication of our team, community partners, and clients. Thank you for welcoming me so warmly, and for the continued partnership. We are just getting started! D'ANDRE WILSON-IHEJIRIKAExecutive Director PHD, P.ENG, PMP, LSSBBBuilding on the growth of recent years, CRIEC continues to evolve to meet the needs of Calgary’s newcomer professionals. This past year marked an exciting new chapter for us as we welcomed our new Executive Director, D'Andre Wilson-Ihejirika. Amidst this leadership transition, our core work has not wavered. Thanks to your steady support, we’ve continued to break down barriers, offer specialized programs and connect talented newcomers with the networks they need to thrive in Calgary. To our mentors, partners and supporters — thank you. Your insights are the backbone of our success. And thank you to CRIEC’s dedicated staff, whose hard work and dedication keep our mission moving. KENE ILOCHONWUBoard Chair K.C, LL.M.
ABOUT CRIEC Connecting newcomers with professional advancements and pathways to enrich our community and the economy. Building a thriving community strengthened by its diversity, where newcomers can find career fulfillment and maximize their potential. MISSION VISION CRIEC is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping internationally trained professionals (ITPs) secure meaningful employment in their fields. We collaborate with ITPs across industries like Law, Engineering, Finance, IT, and Health Care, providing tailored workshops and connections to industry-specific employers. Recognizing the challenges newcomers face in entering the Canadian labour market, we work with Calgary employers to create pathways to employment, enhance access to qualified ITP talent and support long-term retention.
ORGANIZATIONAL IMPACT At Program Entry 52% Hold a Masters Degree 43% Unemployed Who We Serve 14% Underemployed 57% faced direct employment barriers 37% Working in their desired profession Career Outcomes 68% now on track towards their career goals 31% In a related role --- on pathway 48% Previously underemployed --- significantly reduced Income Growth 58% Increased their income since joining CRIEC 21% Significant income increase 37% moderate income increase 41% Completed accredidation 30% Accredodation in progress Professional Progress 71% actively advancing professinal liscensing Skills Gained Canadian Certifications Micro- Credentials Job-Ready Skills Building professional confidence Navigating Canadian workplace culture Resume & Interview Skills Networking in Canada 81% Program Impact Say CRIEC was a major or key contributor to their career progress Top Areas of Mentorship Impact 81%Credit CRIEC for career progress 98%Said they would recommend CRIEC of clents say they are Satisfied or Very Satisfied 89% Key Statistics
08Racheal A.I'm thrilled to share the news that I've landed my first job as an RN at the Peter Lougheed Centre!!! I couldn't have achieved this without the incredible support from CRIEC and the Pivot-Ed program at Bow Valley College.MENTOR SPOTLIGHTMykhailo KarpenkoCRIEC provides invaluable support for internationally trained professionals. Their events are essential for navigating the Canadian labor market and finding opportunities to realize one's potential here. Highly recommend their programs to anyone starting their professional journey in Canada! Farah Kaleem Mentoring newcomers through CRIEC has been a deeply rewarding experience. It's a privilege to empower them to build confidence, secure meaningful employment, and thrive in Calgary. I'm proud to help advance CRIEC's mission of fostering inclusive economic growth. Farah has taken on 3 mentees so far in 2026, adding to her 12+ total mentees with CRIEC What Our Mentees are saying
FLAGSHIP MENTORSHIPMentees Engaged187Mentorship hours2000+Active Mentors152Job Readiness Training Job Readiness TrainingConnector Meetings Connector MeetingsOne-on-One MentorshipSmart ConnectionsNetworking Events Networking Events Program Overview The IRCC continues to invest in relevant settlement and resettlement initiatives for newcomers, and the Flagship mentorship is one of such program where it support newcomers to integrate into the Canadian work environment. The program objective is getting newcomers prepared and ready for the Canadian market primarily through mentorship, using five offerings. Key Statistics Five Key Offerings Our Flagship Mentorship Program connects newcomers with experienced Canadian professionals to build confidence, expand networks, and enhance career readiness in the Canadian context. My mentor's advice, mentorship, and professional insights were invaluable in helping me better understand the Canadian engineering industry and move forward with confidence. - Anonymous
PATH2PRACTICE FOR INTERNATIONALLY EDUCATED NURSES108 Mentorship Matches 108 Mentorship Matches183 Participants 183 Participants283 Job-Readiness Certifications Recieved 283 Job-Readiness Certifications Recieved The Path2Practice for IENs (P2P for IENs) program is officially recognized by the Alberta Ministry of Advanced Education, meeting national quality standards in Canada’s post-secondary education system. Students completing the program earn a certificate of achievement with academic credit, enhancing their professional profile and career pathways in Canada. The initiative is delivered by Bow Valley College in partnership with the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC) and is funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Program Overview54%Employment Rate Post Program Completement Immediate Impact Our program will prepares Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) for their career as a nurse in Canada, ensuring they are fully employment-ready. It features job readiness training, mentorship, Registered Nurse Pathway to Canadian Practice Bridging Program and opportunities to engage with employers.7 Events Hosted7 Events Hosted I am grateful for CRIEC's online program last year. The 8-week workshop transformed my emotional intelligence and interview skills and provided valuable insights into the Canadian healthcare system. The mentoring was particularly impactful. I will forever be an ambassador for this great program. I highly recommend it for professional and personal growth. - Abigail Owusu Opoku
INTERNATIONALLY TRAINED ACCOUNTING PROFESSIONALS PATHWAY TO EMPLOYMENT11 Employers Supporting Work Placement 11 Employers Supporting Work Placement45+ Participants Completed Job Readiness Training 45+ Participants Completed Job Readiness Training46 Active Candidates 46 Active Candidates This program helps internationally trained accounting professionals launch their Canadian careers by connecting them with employers for one-year paid work placements supported by wage subsidies and tailored industry mentorship. Funded by Participants receive comprehensive career support designed to help them successfully transition into the Canadian workforce. The program includes job-readiness training, industry mentorship, cohort-based learning, networking opportunities, and workplace integration support. Participants also complete a one-year work placement with a Canadian employer. Together, these experiences provide the skills, professional connections, and Canadian work experience needed for long- term career success.99.5%Approval rating from mentees Program Overview Measurable Satisfaction The mentorship gave me the confidence and clarity I needed to feel a sense of belonging in the Canadian professional environment. - Augustina Nwadike, Ph.D., ACSI, FCA
The ITL Pathway to Employment Program (ITL-PEP) supports Internationally Trained Lawyers (ITL) in their journey toward entering the legal practice in Canada. The program provides mentorship, Canadian workplace culture training, and job-readiness workshops to help participants navigate the Canadian legal profession. For participants who have obtained their Certificate of Qualification, ITL- PEP also facilitates articling placements to support ITLs transition into legal practice in Canada. INTERNATIONALLY TRAINED LAWYERS PATHWAY TO EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM34 Law Firms Engaged 34 Law Firms Engaged86 Participants 86 Participants47 Articiling Placements 47 Articiling Placements70% of Employers shared interest in retaining the Articling Students 70% of Employers shared interest in retaining the Articling Students19Program Participants Called to the Bar or completing their finals. Program Overview Immediate Impact A strategic collaboration with the Government of Alberta, the program addresses systemic barriers for internationally trained lawyers by providing targeted mentorship and critical grant- supported articling opportunities. Funded by Working with Charles is like opening a new chapter every day, with each day bringing fresh lessons, deeper insight, and a greater appreciation for the practice of law. He has been far more than a mentor to me; he has been a remarkable example of excellence, discipline, and true leadership. The incredible work he does and the way he pours into those around him have profoundly shaped my professional journey. His mentorship has given me growth, confidence, and the privilege of learning under someone who leads with both brilliance and integrity. I am deeply grateful for his guidance, his patience, and the lasting impact he continues to have on my development. - Enaya Emuveyan
PATHWAY TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP & MENTORSHIP PROGRAM FOR BLACK PROFESSIONALS73 Participants73 ParticipantsHosted 15+ Work shops and Events Hosted 15+ Work shops and Events400+ Custom 1:1 Sessions Delivered to Participants 400+ Custom 1:1 Sessions Delivered to Participants69 Participants 69 Participants40 Participants Graduated 40 Participants Graduated Designed to support job seekers and career advancers, the program provided guidance and workplace navigation skills that helped participants progress in their careers. The program reached capacity early and surpassed its client target by 12%. Mentorship Program Entrepreneurship Program The Pathway Program for Black Professionals in Calgary supports Black individuals in achieving entrepreneurial success or meaningful employment. Funded by the Government of Alberta, it is organized by the Nigerian Canadian Association of Calgary (NCAC) in partnership with the Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC). Funded by Designed to support Black entrepreneurs, the program provided mentorship, business development skills, and strategies for success at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey. Strong demand for the program resulted in client participation exceeding targets by 15%. Program Delivery Partner
AUDITED FINANCIALSTotal Revenue: $2,706,080 Federal Grants Provinvial Grants Other Contributions Interest Income Other Revenue Federal Grants 65.3% Provinvial Grants 23.7% Other Contributions 8.7%Total Expenses: $2,734,056 Salary and Wages Participant Costs Professional Fees Office Professional Development Other Expenses Salary and Wages 65.9% Participant Costs 17.7% Professional Fees 9%Total Revenues: $2,246,476 Federal Grants Provinvial Grants Other Grants Sponsorship and Other Federal Grants 70% Provinvial Grants 25% Other Grants 2.9% FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 BUDGET 2026-2027Total Expenses: $2,246,476 Payroll Participant Costs Project Expenses Accounting Workshops Project Expenses Office Payroll 54.2%Participant Costs 35% Office 3.3%
15+ Years of Talent Integration & Mentorshop 15+ Years of Talent Integration & Mentorshop300+ Internationally Trained Professionals Placed 300+ Internationally Trained Professionals Placed 15 Legal, Corporate & Community Partners Engaged 15 Legal, Corporate & Community Partners Engaged#1 Canada’s Largest Black- Owned Law Firm #1 Canada’s Largest Black- Owned Law FirmBy helping 300+ internationally trained professionals secure meaningful employment, FIDI has contributed significantly to Calgary's talent pipeline. Using a conservative average salary of $50,000– $70,000 for ITPs in legal, business, and professional roles, these placements represent an estimated:Estimated Economic ImpactCreating Economic Opportunity Through Talent Integration Osuji & Smith Lawyers | Foot in the Door Initiative (FIDI) Founder: Dr. Charles Osuji, C.Dir., LL.D. (Hon.) SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACT SPOTLIGHT In 2011, CRIEC helped an internationally trained lawyer from Nigeria build the local network and confidence to launch his career in Calgary. Today, that early investment has grown into Osuji & Smith Lawyers — Canada's largest Black-owned law firm — and FIDI, a talent-integration program that has since opened doors for hundreds more newcomers. $15M-$21M$15M-$21M in annual employment income generated across 300+ placements $75M-$105M$75M-$105M in cumulative economic activity over five years — wages, spending & tax contributionsFigures are illustrative, high-level estimates intended to demonstrate the broader socioeconomic impact of talent integration, based on approximate ITP salary ranges. Not a formal economic impact study. Many of the professionals supported through FIDI trace their opportunities back to networks, mentorship, and employer connections first made possible through CRIEC. Dr. Osuji's journey shows how investing in one newcomer's success can create pathways for hundreds more — strengthening Calgary's workforce and economic competitiveness. Additionally, there has been 35,000+ training hours dedicated by lawyers at Osuji & Smith to train internationally trained professionals through our Foot In the Door Initiative (FIDI) program. The CRIEC Ripple Effect “Mentorship is using your experience, influence, and network to help someone reach opportunities they may not be able to access on their own. We have a responsibility to do the same for others.” — Dr. Charles Osuji, C.Dir., LL.D. (Hon.)
Followers on Linkedn9,635SOCIAL CONNECTIONFollowers across Meta3,928Newsletter Subscibers2,746 IN-PERSON CONNECTIONEvents Hosted15Attendees700+Speakers30+ Our digital presence is undergoing a key shift to amplify and anchor our community. Going forward, we'll focus on ecosystem stewardship and use our platform to connect, elevate, and spotlight other key players in the immigrant employment sector. This collaborative approach allows us to maintain a high-visibility footprint and drive meaningful community engagement, optimizing our internal resources by celebrating the collective work of our network. Our in-person events focus on fostering real, lasting connections. The keynote event unites internationally trained professionals and industry leaders to strengthen the professional community. Smaller, client-focused sessions throughout the year provide insights into Canadian workplace culture and networking opportunities, giving partners access to experienced talent. These events are made possible by the dedication of our incredible partners and supporters.
DIVERSITY CHAMPION CRIEC proudly recognizes the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) as its Diversity Champion. RBC's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) aligns with CRIEC's mission, making it an invaluable partner. RBC's support extends beyond sponsorship; it signifies a shared vision of equal opportunities for internationally trained professionals. Internally, RBC exemplifies DEI principles, setting a powerful example for others. The bank's philanthropic endeavours have a tangible impact, providing scholarships, mentorship, and employment opportunities for underrepresented groups across Canada. RBC's commitment to education, employment, and community development is reflected in its proactive approach. By investing in programs that address systemic barriers, RBC contributes to the creation of a more inclusive society. CRIEC's recognition of RBC as a Diversity Champion acknowledges their outstanding contributions to advancing diversity and inclusion.
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CONTACT US587.894.7583www.criec.caGet in touchinfo@criec.caBe a Mentor Your firsthand experience can guide success. Stay Connected