The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership has launched the Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub, a three-year initiative designed to help permanent residents settle, establish, and thrive in Canada.
Funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Newcomer Hub offers targeted support for newcomers navigating employment, entrepreneurship, and community life. Programming is structured around four core pillars: networking and employer connections, résumé building and skills development, entrepreneurship and business building, and mentorship and peer learning.
“The Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub reflects our commitment to building a welcoming, inclusive region where everyone has the opportunity to succeed — be it through participation in the workforce or the creation of a viable new business,” said Matthew Slotwinski, chief executive officer of the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership. “Permanent residents bring valuable skills, perspectives, and ambition to our communities, diversifying our employment base and often creating new economic opportunity that benefits our local municipalities. This initiative ensures the participants are well-supported as they integrate, contribute, and thrive in Sarnia-Lambton, contributing to a growing population.”
The Hub aims to engage at least 170 permanent residents in its first year. The programming includes interview and workplace skills development, networking events, and business venture support.
“At the Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub, we are committed to supporting permanent residents who either live in Lambton County or are looking to make it their home,” said Richa Joshi, program coordinator of the Sarnia-Lambton Newcomer Hub. “Our goal is to connect with and support 170 permanent residents during the first year of the Newcomer Hub. Through skills development for interviews and workplace success, professional networking opportunities, and support for turning business ideas into real ventures, we look forward to helping newcomers start or upgrade their local careers with confidence.”
To mark the official launch, the Hub will host its first skills training event on May 14, 2025, titled “Ready, Set, Connect: Mastering Networking, Résumés and LinkedIn for Canadian Success.” The event takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Four Points by Sheraton, 1498 Venetian Blvd in Point Edward. It is open to individuals with a valid permanent resident card.
The session will cover resume writing, LinkedIn use, and networking strategies relevant to the local job market. Guest speaker Lisa Isaac, owner of Lisa Isaac HR Professional Services, will offer insight drawn from her experience in human resources and employer outreach in the region.
More information about the Newcomer Hub is available at sarnialambton.on.ca/newcomerhub. Registration for the May 14 event can be completed at sarnialambton.on.ca/events/readysetconnect.
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