After landing in Canada in 2000, Afshin Ebtekar began studying English and collecting detailed information regarding the job market and job search techniques.
Afshin soon learned about Skills for Change and applied for its Sector-specific Terminology, Information and Counselling (STIC) program for internationally educated engineers. When the course was about to start, however, he found a part-time job as Land Surveyor. Because his work hours conflicted with the STIC program's schedule, he postponed his attendance in program until 2001.
Through the STIC for Engineers program, Afshin learned how to prepare his resume, received information regarding the job market, and improved his English language and interview skills.
After graduation from STIC program, Afshin joined a co-op program at Yorkdale Adult Centre while working in his temporary job. Working, attending a program and job searching simultaneously, brought home the reality of job search being a full-time job. During that period, he barely got three to four hours of sleep each day.
In March 2001, Afshin was hired by his current employer, Halsall Associates, as a structural designer; in 2004, he successfully finished the Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) licensing process and gained his Professional Engineering designation. Now a Project Manager and shareholder with the same company, Afshin has not forgotten the path he had to travel to get there.
As soon as his own employment situation was settled, Afshin started contributing to the community. He began by giving back to the organization that had held his hand and helped him succeed in achieving his employment goals. He became a member of the Skills for Change Alumni and actively participated in its meetings. To serve those who needed help with their job search and to give back to Skills for Change, Afshin joined the Mentoring Program, a relationship he has maintained for years now. Currently he is also involved in the Group Mentoring Program offered by ICNetwork through JVS Toronto. He has also unofficially mentored a number of internationally educated engineers.
Afshin is a member of the PEO Experience Requirement Committee panel on a volunteer basis, which helps PEO accelerate the licensing procedure for new immigrants. As a firm believer in the value of multiculturalism and the strong contribution that new immigrants can make to the Canadian Society, Afshin actively participates in this endeavour.
Afshin's varied activities in the wider community include initiating and organizing information sessions, cultural events and recreational activities. In addition, he has participated in number of charity events and food drives, been an active member and officer of the Toast Master Club, participated and managed a Folkloric Choir Group.
Fully engaged in his profession and community, Afshin exemplifies the strengths and benefits of our multicultural society.
Skills for Change
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3:502008 New Pioneers Awardsby skillsforchange2,069 views
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