Supporting skilled refugees is not simply the right thing to do, it’s an investment in Canada’s economic growth

A guest blog post by Oumar Dicko, Windmill Microlending National Director, Stakeholder Relations & Quebec 

Note: Names and countries of origin of our refugee clients have been changed to ensure their privacy and security. 

Estimated reading time: 3.5 minutes

In summary:

• Canada's commitment to supporting skilled refugees is not only a testament to our shared values of solidarity and compassion for the most vulnerable but also a shrewd economic decision.
  
  
• Data and studies consistently demonstrate the positive economic impact that refugees make in their host countries.
  
  
• Windmill’s Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) refugee clients inspire us with their stories of resilience and career success in Canada. 

When it comes to writing about or discussing refugee issues and supports, we can sometimes lose sight of the individuals and families behind each and every refugee story. 

At Windmill Microlending, our refugee clients put a human face to these stories. They show us the power and resilience of refugees who arrive to this country, seeking to rebuild their lives as they flee conflict or instability.   

The Economic Mobility Pathway Pilot (EMPP) is a collaborative effort between the government and partner organizations like Windmill, focused on providing complimentary and labour mobility pathways to skilled refugees. In Windmill’s case, this means offering settlement loans to refugees, participating in the pilot, who have secured employment in Canada. Last year, Windmill provided approximately 60 EMPP settlement loans to refugees across the country. 

One such refugee story is that of “Ellen”. 

Arriving from Sudan, Ellen had several factors stacked against her from the start of her Canadian journey. Despite being trained as an architect abroad, she was having difficulty getting her credentials recognized in Canada. She was experiencing mental health challenges, needed the support of a food bank to feed herself and her two young children, was on social assistance. As well, she had problems establishing good credit.  

It was a tough start for anyone, let alone someone fleeing their homeland. 

In the face of these barriers, and with financial support from Windmill, Ellen was able to complete her Canadian certification and earn a well-paying project management role in construction. This enabled her to move on from social assistance and food banks and independently support her young family. 

Ellen’s story demonstrates that a little help can empower refugees to achieve their dreams despite the odds.  

Oumar Dicko (pictured), Windmill Microlending’s National Director, Stakeholder Relations & Quebec highlights the dual importance of supporting refugees to Canada. 

As the global community continues to grapple with humanitarian crises and mass displacements, Canada's commitment to supporting refugees shines as a beacon of hope and compassion. Nations torn by conflict or devastated by natural disasters force individuals and families to seek refuge in safer lands. It is incumbent upon countries like Canada to extend a helping hand. However, beyond the moral obligation to assist those fleeing adversity, there lies a powerful economic argument that underscores the benefits of supporting skilled refugees. Investing in and welcoming skilled refugees from countries such as Ukraine, Afghanistan, Syria, and Sudan is not only the right thing to do but also a strategic decision that can fuel Canada's economic growth. 

Canada's longstanding tradition of welcoming refugees aligns with its commitment to human rights and global solidarity. In the face of daunting challenges, individuals forced to leave their homes can find solace in a country that values their dignity and offers them an opportunity to rebuild their lives. While this moral compass guides Canada's refugee policies, it is essential to recognize that the individuals seeking refuge, bring with them, a wealth of skills, talents, and resilience that can contribute significantly to the Canadian economy. By harnessing the potential of skilled refugees, Canada can strengthen its workforce, bridge skill gaps, and invigorate key sectors. 

Are you an internationally-educated refugee, living in Canada, who needs funds to pay for your accreditation, training, qualifying exams or professional development courses? Over 95% of eligible newcomers are approved for a Windmill Microlending loan of up to $15,000. No Canadian credit history required. Start your application today.  

Data and studies consistently demonstrate the positive economic impact that refugees make in their host countries. A report by the Fiscal Policy Institute found that refugees tend to be entrepreneurial, with higher rates of business ownership compared to other immigrant groups. These entrepreneurial ventures not only create jobs for themselves but also generate employment opportunities for Canadians. Furthermore, refugees who secure stable employment demonstrate higher levels of self-sufficiency, contributing to the overall tax base and reducing reliance on social assistance programs.  

The integration of skilled refugees into Canada's labour market can also address the pressing issue of labour shortages in key sectors. As the baby boomer generation retires and the economy evolves, Canada faces a critical need for skilled workers in industries such as health care, engineering, technology and trades.  

Numerous success stories demonstrate that once given the opportunity, skilled refugees thrive and contribute substantially to their new communities. But I would argue this last one makes the case stronger than I ever could. 

In Newfoundland, the health care labour shortage has been described as being at a crisis level. One former Windmill EMPP refugee client, “Farah”, is an example of how skilled refugees can play a role in addressing such shortages. 

Originally from Afghanistan, Farah completed her practical nursing diploma and worked as a nurse in her country of origin. However, she was forced to leave with her family and seek asylum in Canada. With the support of one of our partner NGOs, she was able to secure a personal care attendant position with a continuing care facility in Newfoundland. She applied for a loan from Windmill to support her initial settlement. Within a few months, Farah managed to repay her Windmill loan in full, and is now planning to pursue her Canadian nursing certification. 

Farah’s story shows us that Canada's commitment to supporting skilled refugees is not only a testament to our shared values of solidarity and compassion for the most vulnerable but also a shrewd economic decision. By embracing the potential and talents of refugees to this country, Canada can address labour shortages, promote innovation, and foster economic growth.  

As the world grapples with ongoing crises, let us recognize that supporting skilled refugees is not only the right thing to do but also an investment in our shared future of prosperity and inclusivity. 

Learn more about Windmill’s involvement in the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) here.