Foundation Program

Financial Educator Advisor (Freelance)
WSB National Financial Literacy Campaign

When Anatoli Kaddu arrived in Canada, he, like many internationally educated professionals, faced challenges in finding employment and understanding the local job market. Seeking guidance and clarity, he turned to the IEP Foundation Bridging Program.

Through the program, Anatoli gained valuable insights into the Canadian employment setting and the business environment, preparing him for job opportunities.

Understanding the Canadian Job Market & Business Landscape

For Anatoli, the Foundation Bridging Program provided more than just employment strategies, it gave him a roadmap for navigating both career and business opportunities in Canada.

“I gained clarity of the Canadian employment and business landscape that will guide me in employment and ventures into entrepreneurship,” he shares.

This knowledge helped him refine his career goals, strengthen his entrepreneurial ambitions, and prepare for the realities of doing business in Canada.

Developing Business Communication Skills

Anatoli recognized the importance of effective communication in professional and business settings. Through the program, he refined his business writing skills and analysis.

“I acquired business communication skills: email writing and clear documentary analysis,” he explains.

This skill set has helped him improve workplace interactions, enhance his confidence in professional communication, and prepare for success in both employment and entrepreneurship.

Building Strong Professional Networks

One of the standout benefits of the Foundation Program was its focus on relationship-building through interactive sessions.

“The group activities, tutorials, and interactive sessions enabled strong relationship building,” Anatoli shares.

By participating in these activities, he established meaningful professional and personal connections, which continue to support his career and business aspirations.

Learning from Alumni & Industry Professionals

The program also provided valuable exposure to alumni and industry experts, allowing Anatoli to gain practical knowledge and firsthand insights into the Canadian labor market.

“Visiting alumni sessions and open discussion events were very helpful,” he says.

These experiences gave him a clearer understanding of employer expectations, networking strategies, and the steps needed to succeed in Canada’s competitive job market.

Motivation for Entrepreneurship & Professional Growth

Anatoli credits the program for fueling his entrepreneurial drive and strengthening his management confidence.

“My entrepreneurship ambition was motivated, knowledge of supportive communication and confidence in management,” he states.

The program not only enhanced his business acumen but also helped him develop leadership skills, preparing him for future ventures.

Advice to Newcomers

Anatoli strongly encourages newcomers to enroll in the York University IEP Foundation Bridging Program, as it provides crucial insights into both the Canadian job market and business environment.

“They should enroll to the IEP to gain the right knowledge about the Canadian labor market and business environment,” he advises.

Anatoli’s Takeaway

“You should have your mindset oriented for the new environment.”