“I knew about the STAR method but was not able to apply this technique for the interview. The mock interviews helped me be prepared when I took the real interview. The feedback from the mentors gave me an idea of how I needed to prepare prior to the interview. Through the feedback, I   prepared a lot of answers to the behavioral questions and it made me at ease and comfortable when I had the real interview”

2020-2021 FIN Applicant

“The FIN Program has truly been an eye-opener for me. The level of detail that is required on job applications is a lot more than most candidates normally provide. From the wording, matching my skills to the job and structuring my resume and application letter to each opportunity has been a game-changer. I particularly benefitted from the mock interview and coaching from a FIN Program Alumni member and even got a different opportunity before the end of the program. The FIN Program is valuable job-search skills that go well beyond government internships. I would strongly recommend this to all newcomers for sure!”       

2021-2022 FIN Applicant

The Federal Internship for Newcomers Programs (FINP) helped me get my foot in the door

“This FIN program has been launched since 2020 in Fredericton, New Brunswick and was new to the FIN-partner immigrant-serving organization (ISO) which is the Multicultural Association of Fredericton (MCAF) and candidates. In addition to this, the pandemic has started since I joined this program.

The unforeseen situations made the delay of the process than we expected but I was one of the successful candidates who went through all the processes and was luckily placed in the Government of New Brunswick as an intern. After I got the internship opportunity, I kept trying to find opportunities internally in the government and ended up being a place where I want to be in the provincial government.

With the excellent support of the FINP coordinator at MCAF, I was able to make it. The program coordinator was there for us to support and encourage us to go through all the steps.

Through the FIN program, I have learned a lot of skills and knowledge which are necessary for people who want to work for the federal and provincial governments. I was able to apply the skills and knowledge that I have gained through the program to my new job in the province when I was hired.

Through this program, I was able to get my foot in the door and it opened my door to get to the place where I am now. Even if I am done with my internship, I am still able to access all the benefits from the FIN program. Furthermore, I have a mentor who helps me pursue my career goal and guides me on the right path.

I strongly recommend newcomers, who want to have experience in the public sector, to participate in the FIN program. You would be provided all the supports from the program coordinator and Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and would have opportunities in the public sector.  No matter whether you are screened in or not, this program will help you build your skills, knowledge and networks for your dream in Canada.

I greatly appreciate all the team members of the FIN program at IRCC and the coordinator at MCAF who helped me make it. “

Sungmi Song, FIN Alumni 2020-2021

Federal Internship Program for Newcomers, a pathway to the Public Sector

“My FIN journey started last February 2020, when I attended the first information session instigated by Multicultural Association of Fredericton (MCAF). I don’t have any idea what it is all about and what great opportunity it will bring to me. It never crosses my mind that it will open for me a huge step up in the Canadian Labour Market.

The MCAF FIN Team was very approachable and helpful throughout the process. They have conducted several workshops to boost the skills, build confidence and define the value proposition of their candidates. Their support was remarkable, they do follow-ups and even became my personal reminder. I would like to thank personally, Eman Elgamal who believed in my capabilities and serve as my mentor and coach for this process. Without her, I will not have reached this stage. I will be forever grateful for her patience and guidance.

With their dedication, I was inspired and motivated to achieve my goal and passed the FIN selection process. Last January 2021, I got my placement with the government and it was a huge achievement. I was given an opportunity to increase my awareness of the benefits of diversity and inclusion within the Canadian workplace, to contribute and take part in a project, work-life balance, most especially I have met a supportive and incredible colleague.

Being a FIN Intern, you will have a huge opportunity to boost your interpersonal and professional skills. I had the privilege to attend their training sessions facilitated by the Ottawa FIN Team which includes: Introduction to the Canadian Workplace, Soft Skills in the Canadian Workplace, Behavioural Competencies, Conflict Resolution and Positive Space Awareness. These sessions serve as a guideline to help all FIN interns to have depth knowledge of the Canadian workplace and be part of the integration. Another benefit is you will be matched to a mentor who is working in the public sector who will guide you to achieve your long-term career in the government.

To all newcomers, I strongly recommend participating in the FIN Program and become a FIN intern as this will give your leverage to enter the Canadian workforce.”

Marie Valenciano, FIN Alumni 2020-2021