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Employment Program

Our Employment Program is dedicated to empowering individuals from all backgrounds with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in today’s workforce. We believe in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can unlock their full potential and overcome barriers to employment.

What We Offer

Skill Development Workshops
Learn in-demand technical and soft skills, including resume writing, interview preparation, communication, workplace readiness, and computer literacy.

Job Placement Assistance
We partner with local businesses and organizations to help participants find meaningful employment opportunities that align with their skills, experience, and career goals.

Entrepreneurship Training
For individuals interested in starting their own businesses, we provide guidance on business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and business development.

Mentorship and Networking
Connect with industry professionals and mentors who offer guidance, encouragement, and access to valuable professional networks.

Career Counseling
Receive personalized support to identify career paths that match your interests, strengths, and long-term goals.

Why Choose Us?

Our program is designed to support individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment that promotes confidence, independence, and professional growth. Whether you are entering the workforce for the first time, re-entering after a break, changing careers, or seeking new opportunities, our program is here to support your journey toward meaningful employment and long-term success.

Projects Open for Enrollment

ITDs Accessing Licensure

Breaking Through: Internationally Trained Dentists Accessing Licensure – Continuing the Conversation brought together stakeholders and Internationally Trained Dentists (ITDs) across

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October 29, 2025 No Comments

Needle and Thread

Introduction The Needle and Thread Project is an ANIW sewing initiative launched in November 2024 with the support of the

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January 6, 2025 No Comments

How We’ve Helped: The Impact of Our Work

Our Programs

Support Program for Internationally Trained Dentists (ITDs)

Support Program for Internationally Trained Dentists (ITDs)

Overview of the Project Internationally trained dentists (ITDs) being graduates of non-accredited programs which is not recognized by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC) must follow one of two pathways. Pathway 1: Equivalency…

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Needle and Thread

Needle and Thread

Introduction The Needle and Thread Project is an ANIW sewing initiative launched in November 2024 with the support of the Rotary Club and the Knights of Columbus. Created to offer accessible and inclusive sewing education,…

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The Impact of Our Work

ITDs Accessing Licensure

ITDs Accessing Licensure

Breaking Through: Internationally Trained Dentists Accessing Licensure – Continuing the Conversation brought together stakeholders and Internationally Trained Dentists (ITDs) across Canada to discuss the challenges faced by ITDs and identify potential solutions. The diverse experiences…

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Creating Change in the Workplace

Creating Change in the Workplace

This project “Community Conversation: Creating Change in the Workplace”, supports a feminist response and recovery from the current impacts of Covid-19, through systemic change. ANIW designed and delivered this project over the course of 27…

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Collectively addressing biases in hiring practices

Collectively addressing biases in hiring practices

Introduction Alberta Network of Immigrant Women (ANIW), in partnership with the University of Calgary and the Alberta Men’s Network (AMN), received funding from Women and Gender Equity Canada (WAGE) to carry out a pilot project…

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Ivonne Toledo (Director at large)

International trained Lawer, graduated in Mexico with two bachelors, one in English Language and other in Laws.

Settled in Canada six years ago, faced all the vicissitudes of the immigrants. Now part of an immigration legal team, I want to contribute with team of the board of directors here in ANIW trying to help immigrant women to find their way in this country

Ramona Fernando

Ramona Fernando moved to Edmonton from Sri Lanka in 2000. I am a financial strategist by profession graduated from NAIT in 2016 with a degree in Accounting. I have worked in the banking, hospitality, event planning, accounting, taxation and non-for-profit sectors. Currently I am working at the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights as the Office and Financial Manager. My passion is serving the community, mentoring and coaching youth, adults and seniors. I spent my spare time with family cooking, reading, singing, gardening and learning new challenges in life and community.

Dr. Elham Rahmani

As a dual-immigrant woman, wife, and mother, I am passionate about empowering immigrant women across Alberta through inclusion, connection, and community engagement. With a Ph.D. and over 10 years of experience in research, data analysis, and project development, I bring strong skills in strategic planning and community outreach.

My involvement in building the Iranian community in Lethbridge and organizing cultural initiatives has helped create supportive spaces for immigrant women and families. As a volunteer board member with the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women, I am committed to promoting equality, representation, and empowerment for immigrant women throughout Alberta.

Tracey Campbell

Tracey Campbell is an experienced career practitioner with over 20 years of expertise in career development, employment counseling, and public policy. As a former Senior Policy Analyst with the Government of Alberta, she has contributed to initiatives that support workforce development, diversity, and inclusion. Tracey is deeply passionate about empowering women and newcomers to reach their full potential through meaningful career pathways and community engagement. She looks forward to connecting with individuals and agencies to share knowledge, provide guidance, and collaborate on initiatives that strengthen employment opportunities and social wellbeing.

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Dr. Sandra Dixon

Dr. Sandra Dixon is a Registered Psychologist, Certified Life Coach, and Associate Professor at the University of Lethbridge. Her research focuses on spirituality, race, gender, immigration, and social justice, with special attention to racial trauma and anti-Black racism. She actively serves on several community and professional boards, including the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women. Recognized for her leadership and dedication to equity and inclusion, Dr. Dixon has received multiple awards for her teaching, community service, and advocacy in promoting social justice.

Heidy Panameno (Secretary)

Heidy is an award-winning director, producer, and Emily Carr Institute graduate recognized for her community-building vision and creative leadership. Founder of Panameno Productions, she empowers emerging leaders in arts and culture, fostering collaboration and meaningful, educational media. Her work bridges Indigenous and multicultural communities to preserve storytelling and history. A published author and respected mentor, Heidy has inspired youth through film programs across school boards. Her lifelong mission is to use visual media to build safe, vibrant, and sustainable communities. Her achievements are featured in the Women’s Art Museum of Canada.

Hina Thaker (Treasurer)
Hina comes from a legal practice background of regulatory, privacy, labour and employment and human rights law. She has experience in both the private and public sectors as well as not-for-profit organizations. Her previous roles include in-house counsel at he Canadian Cattle Identification Agency, the Calgary Police Service and an Associate at Fasken Martineau DuMoulin. Hina has been practicing for 20 years and has gained board experience as a corporate secretary, and director throughout her career. She served on the ANIW board for several years in the past and has returned to the board again in 2025. 
Abby Aiyeleye

Abby Aiyeleye is a certified project manager and business analyst with over twelve years of international experience. Holding a Business Administration degree from the University of Greenwich, she is dedicated to empowering underrepresented groups through volunteer work. As a member of the Women’s Advocacy Voice of Edmonton and ANIW, Abby is passionate about helping immigrant women thrive in Alberta and Canada. She encourages women to pursue ambitious careers and businesses while maintaining strong family values.

Dr. Maria Louisa Torres (President)

A mathematician born and raised in Mexico City.  I immigrated to Canada for further studies and a professional life in academia. I am involved with the Latin American Literary Association, Calgary Mexican Association and the Calgary Police Services. Other interests included working for the El Salvador Solidarity of McMaster’s University and the Hamilton Police Services. I am currently the president. I am passionate about the work that ANIW does to empower immigrant women.