IEP Conference Overview
Your Canadian career starts here! The 19th Annual Internationally Educated Professionals (IEP) Conference is a free, one-day event designed to help internationally trained professionals turn potential into progress. For two decades, this conference has been a launchpad for thousands of newcomers seeking meaningful employment in Canada.
The IEP Conference brings together industry leaders, licensing and accreditation bodies, service providers, and educators—all in one place. Through interactive workshops, sector-specific sector hubs with expert panelist, you will gain the insights, strategies, and connections you need to succeed in the Canadian job market.
Expect a full day of:
Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025
Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building (255 Front Street West, Toronto, ON M5V 2W6)
Grace Lin is a seasoned news anchor and international journalist at OMNI TV. She has covered major global events and is known for delivering accurate, engaging news with professionalism. Grace is also an experienced host, having planned and led high-profile conferences and cultural events across Asia, Europe, and North America.
Steve Teekens is the Executive Director at Na-Me-Res (Native Men’s Residence) where he has worked since 2008. He has been working with the marginalized and homeless sector in Toronto since 1995. Steve is a member of Nipissing First Nation, has a master’s degree in public administration from Queen’s University. Steve is very active in Toronto’s Indigenous Community where he volunteers at Toronto Aboriginal Social Services Council (TASSC), Aboriginal Legal Services Community Council Program. Steve also teaches traditional drumming and to the youth and men at various Native organizations inside and outside of Toronto. Steve enjoys working and volunteering in the Indigenous Community and wishes to see people overcome their obstacles and find the resilience in themselves to succeed in life.
Wiingushk Kwe Teekens is Ojibway and Cree, is a member of Nipissing First Nation with roots also from Beaver Lake Cree Nation in Alberta. Wiingushk has been a Fancy Shawl Dancer since she could walk. Wiingushk has traveled dancing at Pow wow allover Ontario.
The fancy shawl dance is the most modern of the women's pow wow dances. This is an extremely athletic dance involving kicks and twirls and fast movement. It is said this dance represents the movements of a butterfly in flight.
Rahul Sethi is a veteran multicultural research and insights leader with deep expertise in demography, consumer behavior, and data storytelling. He is Managing Director at Cultural Intel, a division of Ethnicity Matters, where he helps leading brands connect with Canada’s diverse and fast-growing newcomer and ethnic communities through culturally intelligent research and inclusive insights.
Under Rahul’s leadership, Cultural Intel has been at the forefront of integrating AI-powered tools and methodologies into market research; using conversational AI to deepen qualitative probing in surveys, automate data synthesis, and uncover richer cultural insights at scale. This innovation has strengthened the team’s ability to deliver actionable, nuanced intelligence that drives brand growth in an increasingly diverse marketplace.
Previously, Rahul served as a VP of Research and Development, and Consumer Insights at Vividata, where he led national studies on Canadian media consumption, consumer behaviour and psychographics, and multicultural and newcomer audiences to help marketers understand the nuances of Canada's rapidly evolving population.
Rahul is a sought-after speaker at industry events where he shares insights from Cultural Intel’s research on cultural identity, newcomer integration, ethnic consumer behaviour, and the impact of culture on media engagement and purchase decisions. He has also served as a professor of Data Communication at the University of Toronto and often guest lectures at academic institutions.
Pragya Porwal, CPA is a Senior Financial Analyst at Revlon Inc. with over eight years of global experience in audit, assurance, and finance. She is a qualified Chartered accountant from India and began her career at Deloitte and later played a key role at Marico India, a leading FMCG company. Since moving to Canada, she has earned her Canadian CPA designation. At Revlon, she excels in financial reporting, compliance, and strategic support. Pragya has deep expertise in IFRS and US GAAP. A former board member and educator, she is passionate about mentorship and knowledge-sharing. Her career reflects adaptability, resilience, and a strong commitment to continuous growth across industries and international markets.
Wondwossen Fekyibelu is a proven leader in construction quality management and project delivery with over 15 years of global experience. Since immigrating to Canada in 2019, he has transformed challenges into opportunity — rapidly advancing from a Quality Control Intern from to Quality Lead on Metrolinx’s Ontario Line project with Accenture Infrastructure and Capital Projects. An Engineer-in-Training (EIT) and certified Project Management Professional (PMP), he is also a dedicated Community Benefits Ambassador with the Toronto Community Benefits Network, mentoring internationally trained engineers and championing inclusive workforce development that strengthens Canada’s infrastructure future.
Vinil is a seasoned researcher with over 10 years of experience in Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Operations. His expertise spans ICSR processing, MedDRA coding, Argus database management, and safety documentation for OTC products. Skilled in interpreting clinical safety endpoints, he bridges scientific data with practical insights for stakeholders. Vinil holds a Master’s in Biomedicine from the University of Skövde, Sweden, specializing in endocrinology, toxicology, and experimental design. He also holds a Bachelors Degree in Biotechnology (Btech) from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, India. With experience across India and Canada, he brings a valuable global perspective to drug safety practices.
Moderator, Engineering Sector Hub
Mehemed is a Professional Engineer licensed in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, with over 26 years of comprehensive experience in transportation engineering, project and program management, and business development across both public and private sectors. He holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Traffic and Transportation Engineering and is a long-time advocate and volunteer within the engineering community. Mehemed actively contributes to professional associations including the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC), Ontario Traffic Council (OTC), Association of Consulting Engineering Companies (ACEC) Ontario, Canadian Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE Canada), Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE), and Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO). His volunteer work includes mentorship and guidance for new engineering graduates and internationally trained engineers.
Hazem Yahia is a seasoned professional with a civil engineering background and 20+ years of project management experience in residential, commercial, infrastructure, and nuclear sectors. Hazem’s career includes leadership roles at Parsons, EllisDon, and Bruce Power.
A licensed P.Eng. with a Master’s in Construction Management, he also holds PMP and CCP certifications.
As the Founder of Master VDC, Hazem provides engineering, project management, and BIM services in addition to his position as an instructor at Humber College.
He contributed as a guest speaker at different colleges and newcomer centres while supporting international engineers to achieve their P.Eng license and thrive in the Canadian market.
Vince is a professional engineer with strong experience in Engineering, Operations, and Sales Management, developed over a successful 30+ career at StackTeck. With deep expertise in the mold making industry, he is committed to delivering high-quality solutions and exceptional customer service in plastic manufacturing. Drawing on StackTeck’s leadership in injection mold design for thin wall packaging, medical, and closure applications, Vince leveraged a collaborative team of engineers, designers, and technicians to support global clients. His focus on technical excellence and long-term partnerships reflects a dedication to innovation and sustainable performance in the industry.
Karen is a professional engineer and industry leader with over 20 years’ experience driving large-scale transformation, product launches, and agile adoption across financial services, fintech, telecom, and automotive sectors. She is Founder of Altaris Advisory Inc., providing executive advisory and board guidance. A Fellow of Engineers Canada and a 2022 WXN Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada, Karen is Past-President of the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers and a former Global Ambassador for Canada with the Society of Women Engineers. She is passionate about mentoring internationally educated professionals and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion across Canada’s engineering community.
Rafael Lepra, P.Eng., is a seasoned chemical engineer with over 40 years of experience across the food, chemical, and asphalt industries. A graduate of a rigorous six-year engineering program, he holds certifications in ISO 9000 Systems, HACCP, and Six Sigma Green Belt.
Rafael has led the design and implementation of equipment, processes, and fully integrated production lines, with a strong focus on safety, maintainability, and food safety. Known for his troubleshooting skills and commitment to continuous improvement, he brings a collaborative approach to engineering—engaging frontline personnel in the design process to ensure practical, user-friendly systems.
Rakesh Shreewastav, Ontario Professional Engineer, Value Management Associate, and Fellow Engineers Canada, currently works for Metrolinx, an agency of the Government of Ontario. Previously, he worked for the Ministry of Transportation, Ontario, delivering major programs and initiatives across the province.
Rakesh has served on the Council of Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO), including Vice President, board of directors of Engineers Canada, Association Canadienne- Française de l’Ontario (ACFO), and was appointed to the board of The Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL), as part of the Governor in Council (GIC) appointments made by the Government of Canada. Rakesh is currently the Vice Chair of the FBCL Board.
Moderator, Finance & Accounting Sector Hub
Omar is an audit partner at EY. He is a CPA in Ontario and Peru and has an MBA from the ESADE Business School in Barcelona. Originally from Peru, Omar has over 17 years of progressive experience leading audits for large and complex organizations with operations in developed and emerging markets such as Canada, United States, Australia and China. In 2015 Omar relocated to Toronto where he specializes in mining and renewables leading audits under Canadian and US GAAP requirements.
His experience includes a one-year residency at a global gold producer as a director of financial reporting and corporate accounting looking after the regulatory filings, internal accounting matters and working with the external auditors.
Bernice Francis is a Finance Leader with over 20 years of experience in financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and internal controls across global and Canadian institutions. Currently Director of Finance at Rogers Bank, she oversees financial and regulatory reporting and finance operations while driving process optimization and team development. Her career spans leadership roles at TD Bank, Emirates Airlines, and Ernst & Young, where she built expertise in risk and controls, audit, and cross-functional collaboration. Recognized for delivering accurate, compliant reporting and building high-performing teams, Bernice is committed to excellence, innovation, and strategic financial leadership.
Beverly is currently working with Insurance Career Connections, a division of the Insurance Institute of Canada, which is dedicated to improving the understanding of insurance and educating students and career seekers about careers available in the industry.
You will see Beverly and the Career Connections team moderating panel discussions, presenting at various events on campuses across Canada, and engaging with a variety of career seekers at career fairs, and networking events. Recently she has built and managed the IGNITE Insurance Careers Program, a program designed to help internationally trained professionals, newcomers to Canada and career changers learn the fundamentals of insurance and find rewarding careers.
Beverly holds her Advanced Chartered Insurance Professional (ACIP) designation, is a Certified Career Strategist, member of Career Professionals of Canada, The Canadian Association of Career Educators and Employers and is an active member of a number of industry associations and charities geared toward the BIPOC community. She has over 20 years in the insurance industry and her passion is helping and educating youth and newcomers on their career journeys.
Shraddha Bhagwat, CPA, CMA, is a strategic finance executive with over 13 years of experience in financial planning, brand growth, and acquisition strategy across diverse industries. As the Director of Finance at Quickbite Collective Inc., a dynamic QSR restaurant group, she leads brand acquisitions and financial strategy, aligning creative vision with financial discipline and sustainability. Her expertise in FP&A includes building forecasting models, budgeting frameworks, and investment roadmaps that connect daily performance to long-term goals. A Harvard Business School–trained strategic CFO, Shraddha bridges financial insight with brand strategy—transforming data into actionable stories that fuel growth and elevate business performance.
Ravneet Sachdeva is a CPA in Canada and a Chartered Accountant from India with over 10 years of global experience in tax advisory and compliance across Canada, India, and the UK. His career spans Big4 firms and multinational enterprises, with a strong focus on international taxation and corporate compliance. After earning his Canadian CPA, Ravneet transitioned into full-time entrepreneurship, launching two successful ventures: RavGun CPA Professional Corp., a licensed tax and accounting practice, and RavGun CPA Academy, a coaching platform for aspiring CPAs. His leadership, strategic thinking, and relentless drive have transformed these ventures into thriving businesses.
Guneet Kaur is a Chartered Accountant from India who began her career at Deloitte, gaining extensive US Audit experience. In 2022, she moved to Canada and earned her Canadian CPA while working with Deloitte Toronto, serving clients in insurance and financial services. She now leads the Financial Reporting team at Flexiti, also supporting tax and compliances. After achieving her CPA, Guneet pursued her passion for education—starting small by coaching and mentoring CPA students and gradually building a thriving community platform. Her dedication to empowering others earned widespread appreciation and support. She is committed to making a meaningful impact through mentorship, leadership, and knowledge-sharing.
Moderator, Healthcare Sector Hub
Dr. Rahim Karim is the President & CEO of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), a pan Canadian academic institution with campus locations in Toronto, Ontario and Metro Vancouver, British Columbia. He has an abundance of global leadership experience in the education and health sectors. His background also includes significant governance and external committee involvement including being an active volunteer within the community. An award-winning administrator, educator and clinician, Dr. Karim has operated successful multidisciplinary health clinics, published in peer-reviewed journals, and presented at various local and international conferences. Dr. Karim is the recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal and the Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers from the Governor General of Canada.
Dr. Gulasingam is a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist and Medical Director of rehabilitation, complex continuing care, and transitional care at William Osler Health System. He is an assistant professor at the University of Toronto and a brain and spinal cord physician at Toronto Rehab, University Health Network. He completed medical school in Sri Lanka, PM&R residency at UofT, and fellowships at UofT and UBC. Beyond clinical and academic roles, he contributes to parasports through the International Paralympic Committee and International World Games Association. He has served the CAPMR in various leadership roles and was recognized as one of Canada’s Top 25 Immigrants in 2022.
Luciana Lima is a dedicated Registered Nurse with international experience and a strong commitment to empowering internationally educated nurses (IENs) in Ontario. Trained in Brazil and licensed in Canada, she overcame numerous challenges that inspire her mentorship and advocacy. As a Case Manager at CARE Centre for IENs and instructor at the University of Toronto, she guides nurses through licensure and transition to practice. With nearly seven years in emergency care, she also holds a Lactation Support Certificate, 500 clinical hours in infant feeding, and RN Prescribing Education. Luciana’s work exemplifies leadership, resilience, and dedication to advancing nursing integration in Canada.
Dwight Baker is a healthcare educator, program developer, and Mentorship Coordinator with PEGASUS Institute and WoodGreen Community Services, leading initiatives that support internationally educated professionals in workforce integration. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Syme-Woolner Neighbourhood and Family Centre, contributing to governance, program planning, and financial oversight. With a background in pharmacy practice, public health, and business management, Dwight brings over a decade of experience in healthcare operations, higher education, and policy development. His work focuses on bridging global talent with Canadian opportunities, fostering inclusion, and empowering internationally trained professionals to thrive.
Dr. Hassan-Ali completed his B.A. (Hons.) in Philosophy & Biology at McMaster University, an M.Sc. in Biomedical Physiology & Kinesiology at Simon Fraser University, and his M.D. at Windsor University School of Medicine, followed by a Pediatrics Residency at McMaster University. A double-board-certified consultant pediatrician serving the Peel and Halton regions, his practice focuses on hospital-based and complex care pediatrics. He is an active member of the PAO and PSOMA. Outside of medicine, he volunteers in advanced first aid and CPR education and engages the public on pediatric health and wellness via social media (@dr.paeds.patrol).
Moderator, Sales, Marketing & Communications Sector Hub
Gerard Keledjian is the Founder and Managing Director of New Horizons Media Inc., a multicultural social enterprise specializing in creative services, storytelling, and newcomer marketing. He leads a diverse team of internationally trained media professionals and Canadian graduates who help nonprofits and businesses with brand messaging, outreach, and engagement.
Driven by a passion for immigrant integration and entrepreneurship, Gerard launched the New Canadians national TV network in April 2015. The platform is a vital resource, helping newcomers and prospective immigrants thrive in their new lives and careers in Canada. A frequent speaker, Gerard has been recognized for his contributions, receiving the Pioneers for Change Award for Excellence in Innovation (2015) and the MNLC Community Impact Award (2016).
Megan Adair Titcomb is the founder of Stella Polaris Canada, a Toronto-based venture architecture firm that helps early-stage organizations and social enterprises design and implement strategies for long-term growth. After relocating to Toronto in 2020, she founded Stella Polaris to bridge business intelligence with social impact, drawing on her background in wealth management and cross-industry consulting. Megan also serves on the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Club of East Scarborough and as a Program Architect for the Genius100 Foundation, a global network of innovators and thought leaders.
Sarita Parchani leads the Student and previously New to Canada Marketing portfolios at TD Bank, driving world-class campaigns that connect with priority audiences and deliver measurable growth. With 18+ years of global experience across Financial, Retail, and Advertising industries, and having lived in five countries—India, Dubai, Finland, Austria, and Canada—she combines multicultural insight with strategic vision to unite business, sales, and marketing. Sarita is a fierce advocate for inclusion and diversity, championing women in leadership and visible minorities. She draws inspiration from family, community impact, and exploring new cultures, creating marketing that truly resonates.
Moderator, Digital Technology Sector Hub
Zahid Junejo is a seasoned business and technology leader, with 20+ years of experience across North America, the Middle East, and South Asia. He has driven digital transformation and portfolio growth exceeding $1B in financial services, payments, and IT solutions. Zahid has held leadership roles at Citigroup, Saudi American Bank, Mashreq Bank, and Western Union. Passionate about empowering internationally educated professionals, he mentors newcomers to thrive in Canada’s digital economy. Recognized for Service Excellence, his signature strategy—Adapt, Upgrade, and Grow!—guides candidates to succeed in the evolving job market.
Ian Langdon is a seasoned digital professional and entrepreneur with a career spanning IT leadership, systems design, and business operations. As the founder and Managing Director of Agile Computer, he has grown a client-focused technology firm that focuses on the small to medium enterprise. He has a wide breadth of experience from interactive media and digital signage to trade show technology and managed IT. His ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver underpins his entrepreneurial lens to every challenge, helping businesses harness technology to achieve growth, resilience, and long-term success.
Florent Lefevre-Schlick "Flo", is an accomplished leader and professional with over 20 years of experience spanning technology integration, operations management, and workforce development. Holding a PhD in Materials Sciences & Engineering from McMaster University, he has developed innovative programs in post secondary education and professional development, led multi-million-dollar pan Canadian and collaborative initiatives, and built strong partnerships across academia and industry. His leadership experience includes roles in the aerospace and defense sector, steel manufacturing, as well as service in the French Foreign Legion. Passionate about lifelong learning, Flo drives collaboration at the intersection of technology, education, and industry transformation.
Presentor: The Brand called YOU
Maham Khalid is an award-nominated innovation leader and strategic changemaker with 15+ years of experience driving transformative initiatives across technology, workforce development, and the emerging Green Grid economy. She serves as Director of Training & Employment at YWCA Hamilton, leading large-scale workforce programs for underrepresented communities, and as Vice President of CIPS, advancing ethical technology adoption and professional standards. Recognized as a finalist for both the Global Women in AI Awards and the Rogers Empowered Women Award, Maham is a sought-after speaker and ecosystem builder committed to shaping inclusive, future-ready talent pathways.
Presentor: Map Your Canadian Career: Align your Credentials to Opportunities.
Sana Javed is a globally experienced HR leader and career strategist with 18+ years of success in workforce development and leadership enablement across the globe in North America, EMEA, and LATAM regions. As a trusted Career Coach, she helps internationally educated professionals and job seekers translate their global experience into locally relevant value. She specializes in guiding individuals to map their expertise to current labour market demands in the GTA .A seasoned speaker and facilitator, she has led large-scale talent initiatives for organizations. She is committed to helping individuals gain clarity, confidence, and strategic positioning to unlock meaningful career opportunities in Canada.
Sabir Sami is the recently retired Global Chief Executive Officer of KFC, one of the world’s largest quick-service restaurant brands, operating in over 150 countries. Over a three-decade career, he has built a reputation as a transformative leader, driving growth, digital innovation, and cultural change in some of the world’s most recognized consumer businesses.
As CEO of KFC, Sabir delivered record growth, expanding the brand by more than 2,000 restaurants in a single year and achieving $1.36 billion in profits in 2024. He spearheaded the brand’s digital transformation, with online sales soaring from 20% to over 50% of the business, while also repositioning the brand for younger consumers. Under his leadership, female representation in global leadership rose from 39% to 50% in just two years, reflecting his commitment to inclusion and talent development.
Prior to becoming CEO, Sabir held senior roles across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas, leading major business turnarounds and landmark deals. He began his career at Procter & Gamble and Coca-Cola, building strong foundations in marketing and operations.
Today, Sabir serves on the Board of Save the Children Canada and continues to share his experience as a global leader passionate about growth, culture, and purpose.
Exceptional partnership opportunities with PCPI.
Reach thousands of skilled professionals at the conference.
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
7:30 am - 8:30 am
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
8:30 am - 8:45 am
Room:
105
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
8:45 am - 9:30 am
Room:
105
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
9:30 am - 10:15 am
Room:
105
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
10:15 am - 10:45 am
Room:
Marketplace
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
10:45 am - 12:15 am
Engineering, Digital Technology, Sales, Marketing & Communications
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
10:45 am - 12:15 am
Session 1: The Brand Called YOU
"The Brand Called You” explores how professionals can harness AI, strategic communication, and intentional networking to craft a powerful personal brand. This session emphasizes the role of AI in visibility and credibility, workplace culture’s impact on perception, and aligning values with organizational goals. Attendees will also gain tools for 360° candidate profile development, equipping them with practical strategies to stand out as authentic, trusted voices in today’s evolving professional landscape.
Session 2: Map Your Canadian Career: Align your Credentials to Opportunities.
You’ve worked hard to build your global career, now it’s time to make it count in Canada. This practical and interactive session helps you position your international experience strategically in the Canadian job market. You’ll learn how to decode labour market trends, identify in-demand roles that fit your background, and align your credentials and transferable skills to real opportunities across key sectors. Walk away with a personalized career roadmap, renewed confidence, and a clear strategy to land meaningful work in Canada.
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
12:15 pm - 1:45 pm
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
1:45 pm - 3:30 pm
Finance & Accounting, Healthcare
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
1:45 pm - 3:30 pm
Session 1: The Brand Called YOU
"The Brand Called You” explores how professionals can harness AI, strategic communication, and intentional networking to craft a powerful personal brand. This session emphasizes the role of AI in visibility and credibility, workplace culture’s impact on perception, and aligning values with organizational goals. Attendees will also gain tools for 360° candidate profile development, equipping them with practical strategies to stand out as authentic, trusted voices in today’s evolving professional landscape.
Session 2: Map Your Canadian Career: Align your Credentials to Opportunities.
You’ve worked hard to build your global career, now it’s time to make it count in Canada. This practical and interactive session helps you position your international experience strategically in the Canadian job market. You’ll learn how to decode labour market trends, identify in-demand roles that fit your background, and align your credentials and transferable skills to real opportunities across key sectors. Walk away with a personalized career roadmap, renewed confidence, and a clear strategy to land meaningful work in Canada.
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
3:30 pm - 4:15 pm
Date:
October 30, 2025
Time:
4:15 pm -