Since most government funded training programs are only for people receiving Unemployment Insurance (UI), many immigrant women cannot get into these programs. There are, however, a few other programs for people who are not on UI. Labour Market Language Training programs (LMLT) are funded by Employment and Immigration Canada (EIC) and are available to "visible minority" women who are not receiving UI. These programs provide occupational language upgrading, skills training, job search techniques and work experience.

Wanted: Canadian experience
When you start looking for work you may find that most jobs open to you pay minimum wages (five to six dollars per hour) and have minimum educational requirements. Many immigrant women take these jobs because they have families to support and even the lower wages are better than what they were working for before.

When you first start looking for work in Canada, it's easy to become discouraged because most employers ask for Canadian education or Canadian experience. It is important to remember to take things one step at a time. You have already survived a lot, leaving behind your home country. Find people who will support and encourage you. Ask questions and let people know you are new to Canada. Be persistent and keep going.

Because many employers want you to have Canadian experience, many immigrant women start their Canadian work experience as volunteers. This is a good way to familiarize yourself with the Canadian system and Canadian customs. It is also a very good way to make contacts and find out about paid jobs. Contact your local Volunteer Centre or community organization to find out about volunteer jobs.

Upgrading your education
As you explore your work possibilities you may find that going back to school for retraining is the next step. As a new immigrant you are not alone in this process of continuous learning and adapting. In Canada, the notion of "lifelong education" is becoming increasingly common. This means that even though Canadian workers have finished high school and even obtained a degree or diploma from a university or college, many of them return for further education and training many times throughout their working lives.

Finding training programs
In the chapter on government funded training (page 25) you will find out about training programs which you may be able to take for free. Often the best way to find out about these training programs is through local community groups and immigrant services agencies. Sometimes these organizations run government funded programs.