February 28, 2024
Former Connectee pays it forward as Connector
Posted: January 10, 2020When Monica Savla first landed in Halifax from India through the Provincial Nominee Program, she was excited to build her career here, and keen to meet other professionals in her field, but unsure of where to begin.
While visiting the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) to begin workplace settlement, she learned about the Halifax Partnership’s Connector Program, and immediately knew it was her key to building a professional network in her new city.
Presented by RBC Future Launch, the Connector Program is a networking program that matches new immigrants and recent graduates (Connectees) in Halifax with established business and community leaders (Connectors). The Connectee and Connector meet for a coffee and a chat, and the Connector refers their Connectee to three people in their network the Connectee can also get in touch with, increasing their chance of finding employment in Halifax.
As a Connectee, Monica met with a Connector at Time + Space Media, who informed her about an open position at MUFG Investor Services. She successfully landed the role, proving that it’s not only what you know, but who you know, that increases your chances of finding employment in your field.
Monica brings extensive experience in accounting, analysis, and financial reporting that is helping her grow in her new fund accounting role. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with MUFG so far, and will continue to strive for more knowledge and experience to excel with this company.”
After settling into her position, Monica became a Connector herself to pay it forward by sharing her own experience and knowledge she gained with other newcomers, and to give back to the community. “It’s a good opportunity to connect and share experiences, especially with immigrants who are new to the field. I can help them understand how to overcome the barriers they are facing.” Having already met with a few Connectees, she is helping others access the same opportunities she was given when she first landed.
Monica believes in the value of the Connector Program. “Networking is key to achieving success when you are in a new city, for both your professional and personal life,” she says. “It really helps boost your confidence and that plays a vital role in whichever role you want to dive into. The Connector Program helped me rectify my CV to capture the eye of the Canadian market and connected me to people already established in their careers. It makes the path of job searching much smoother.”
