Zabeen Hirji

Since TRIEC's founding in 2003, it has grown to be a leading voice for immigrant inclusion in the labour market in the Greater Toronto Area and beyond. I'm honoured to have served as Chair of TRIEC's Council. This reflects both RBC's and my personal commitment to championing the skills and talents that newcomers bring to Canada, which is key to inclusive prosperity.

For TRIEC, 2016-2017 has been about looking to the future, developing a new strategic plan and re-envisioning its brand and mentoring program. At RBC, we also know that as we adapt and respond to the changing landscape, we must ensure that diversity and inclusion remain a priority.

Toronto has gained international recognition for being one of the most welcoming and diverse cities in the world. Yet there is more to do. Immigrants have a vital role to play in fueling growth and innovation in our region. To stay competitive, we must remember that the prosperity of our region and country depends on the success of everyone who lives here. TRIEC and its partners will continue to evolve and advance prosperity through immigrant inclusion, creating a lasting positive impact.

Dr. Catherine Chandler-Crichlow

I was pleased to accept the role of Chair of the Board TRIEC’s in September of 2016. Steering the organization through an exciting new period of growth and change is a true privilege.

It has been an eventful year! On the global stage, there have been some twists and turns. However, here in Canada there is great cause for optimism as there is growing recognition that immigrants represent a key part of the human capital mix of the country that is crucial to our future prosperity.

The diversity of the Greater Toronto region is not up for debate. In Toronto in 2017, you are likely to work with colleagues from all over the world – regardless of the sector in which you work. All of us, whether we’re Canadian by birth or by choice, need to know how to work together in synergy, and this past year TRIEC has begun expanding our collaborations to support this objective. This includes growing TRIEC Mentoring Partnership, developing new learning initiatives and deepening our connections with employers, government and partners across the region.

I look forward to the year ahead. The foundation we built in 2016-2017 will lead to more immigrant professionals fully contributing their skills and experience to our region in the years to come.

Margaret Eaton

I am so proud of what we have accomplished at TRIEC this year. Our 2016-2017 fiscal year was a period of change and growth that included the creation of our new strategic plan that will take us forward to 2020.

A strategic plan forces you to dig deep and think about how you can have a greater impact. We spent time reviewing our programs, analyzing how they can better address the needs of GTA employers, immigrant professionals, and our stakeholders. This examination of our work gave us a rare opportunity to engage our partners in consultation, and build stronger relationships across sectors.

TRIEC only works because of our wonderful partners and supporters. We look forward to working with you to create more inclusive workplaces and better the working lives of immigrant professionals across the GTA.