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London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership

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Agenda

LMLIP Employment Sub-Council Date and Time: January 27, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Meeting Location: Room 604 (sixth floor), 141 Dundas Street

Item Description

1. Welcome and Introductions

2. Approval of November 18, 2015 Minutes

3. Additions to Agenda

4. Reports and Actions from Previous Business (2013-2016 Strategic Plan)

a. We Are London TV Show: Martin Withenshaw

b. We Are Middlesex TV Show: Pauline Andrew

c. Session with the Small Business Centre: Ayshin Mousavi/Pauline Andrew d. London & Middlesex Resource Fair: Jennifer Hollis

5. LMLIP Strategic Plan 2016-2019 – Discussion of draft plan: Wilma de Rond 6. Roundtable updates 7. New Business 8. Chairperson’s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items

9. Adjourn

10. Next Meeting: March 16, 2016 – Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building

(399 Ridout St. N)


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Minutes

LMLIP Employment Sub-council Date and Time: January 27, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Meeting Location: Board Room- WIL Employment Connections, 141 Dundas Street, 6

th floor

Present: Robert Collins, Bill Pigram, Martin Withenshaw, Nancy McQuillan, Bharati Sethi, Wilma de Rond, Pauline Andrew, Jennifer Hollis, Ayshin Mousavi, Vivette Martin

Regrets: Christelle Desforges

Absent: Yvonne Lindsay Guest: Thomas Briginshaw, Middlesex Project Officer

Item Description Information, Update, Action, Lead and Due Date

1. Chair’s Opening Remarks

Wilma de Rond welcomed members and noted Nathan Ross has now retired. 2. Adoption of Previous Minutes

Motion to approve November 18, 2015 Minutes was moved by Nancy McQuillan, seconded by Pauline Andew and approved.


No additions.

4. Reports and Actions from Previous Business

a. We Are London: Martin Withenshaw

Update from Laila Almawy - had some trouble getting the media group together, so unsure where the program is going;

Five cooking segments were shot: Dutch, Ethiopian, Polish, Korean, Caribbean and Italian. There are enough episodes to last until April;

There were unforeseen problems with some shooting, so earlier episodes will play, and

London’s episodes are completed, unless the committee decides they want to do more. Laila’s contract expires in November.

b. We are Middlesex: Pauline Andrew

Leila Almawy was present and gave feedback. She expressed, what worked - the project was organized, planned, hosts were good;

Leila expressed the collaboration between We Are Middlesex and We Are London, which was positive;

Culinary segments will all be shot in one day, still to be determined what this will look like;

The committee expressed the production was able to go on without too many challenges. Shannon and Pauline will continue as hosts, and


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In 2016: we will be showcasing the eight municipalities and the mayors. Need to look at how this ties into the new immigrant population. Need lots of brainstorming and conversations to attract culture, entrepreneurism and volunteerism.

c. Session with Small Business Centre: Pauline Andrew & Ayshin Mousavi

Has been a challenge to meet with conflicting schedule;

Ayshin Mousavi has created a plan for the sessions and has put information together for the sub-council to give feedback. This session will help people who are trying to start a new business;

Four new people have been added to the panel for their expertise. Chris Clifford and Hatem Abouzeenni from Scotiabank, Terry Webb Wheable Centre for Adult Education, Mark Richardson, London Public Library;

Tentative dates proposed are April 27, May 4 or June 15;

Location - needs to be free of charge;

Suggestions from the group: Bring the panel to the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB), to speak at the “English for Employment in the Small Business Sector” class. Need to do some research as how many people are in the course;

Moving forward; Ayshin/Pauline will have a conversation with Terry Webb on how to proceed and if this event is feasible at Wheable, and

There is a video that could be used instead of having two business owners, since there may be too many people on the panel.

d. London and Middlesex Resource Fair: Jennifer Hollis, Pauline Andrew, Martin Withenshaw and Christelle Desforges

Members were asked to register if they have not yet done so; the audience are employers;

The goal is to have employers comprise 90% of attendees. There are around 75 individuals, event will be on February 3;

Middlesex County has provided the venue in kind and the Francophone network has provided free French translation;

Each table will get two scenarios; there will be 12 resource booths around the room. Each scenario answer will lead someone to a booth;

If you are attending the event and see another sub-council member, take a separate table;

Every booth is invited to have two designates, a door prize and the opportunity to collect business cards;

The morning will include a hot breakfast at 7am;

Parking may be challenging, a map will be sent out. Businesses are invited to come a day earlier to set up;

Please continue to circulate information about the event, it is in the best interest of newcomers and employers, and

Fanshawe and Western are active referral partners.

5. LMLIP Strategic Plan 2016-2019 – Discussion of draft plan: Wilma de Rond

Wilma provided the group with the new ratified themes and provided new information. She noted that the outcomes of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada are the ultimate goals we want to connect to. We are now more equipped to be able to support the LIP as an employment sub-council

Central Council had a good discussion about the mandate of what LMLIP is doing in the community. The Governance Task Group formulated and approved


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the strategic themes.

The key points were bringing everyone back to the mandate of the LIP – we do not provide services, cannot seek out funding opportunities, or develop positions to address these specific issues.

One significant theme is communication and information sharing. Communication internally, between sub-councils, and the community. We need to communicate what these issues are.

Some discussion: something we should do as a Sub-council is more data collection. Collectively what work has been done with the LIP and the Labour Council? How often does the LIP have a conversation with the Job Development Network?

To raise awareness with employers – is there something we can do to celebrate this? Celebrating those that are reaching out can be good to encourage others to do the same.

Example- with Syrian refuges, they are getting ‘survival jobs’. They are still learning the language, but exciting they are accessing services so fast, and finding jobs. Is this something that can be done through I am London? There could be an opportunity to collaborate with ICE Sub-Council.

Can we support all of these networks to bring the community succinct info?

Is there a skill shortage or a mismatch of skills?

Create specific data sheets, plan something along the lines of ‘Day of Learning

Wilma will review suggestions and send out revised Strategic Plan Charts to members for further input as soon as possible.

6. Roundtable updates

Jennifer Hollis: After employers indicated a desire to help employ Syrian refugees, LMIEC has been identified as the one stop access point for those seeking to hire Syrian refugees. Link to LMIEC will be added to the Immigration portal.

Bharati Sethi: hosting Social Work week March 7, 2016 at King’s College. Will be discussing the relationship between employment and health. Her exhibition ‘Photovoice’ showcases findings from women into 21 art pieces. More information will be sent out.

7. New Business

None.

8. Chairperson’s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items

Wilma thanked the group for coming.

9. Adjourn

Meeting adjourned at 3:00 pm.

10. Next Meeting Location and Date:

March 16, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 p.m, Councilors Lounge at the Middlesex County Building (399 Ridout St N)


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Agenda

LMLIP Employment Sub-Council Date and Time: March 16, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Meeting Location: Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St. N

Item Description


2. Approval of January 27, 2016 Minutes


4. Reports and Actions from Previous Business (2013-2016 Strategic Plan)



c. Session with the Small Business Centre: Ayshin Mousavi/Pauline Andrew d. London & Middlesex Resource Fair – Final Update: Jennifer Hollis

5. LMLIP Strategic Plan 2016-2019 – Discussion of the final draft plan: Wilma de Rond 6. Roundtable updates 7. New Business 8. Dates for next year’s meetings ( currently third Wednesday of the month, 1-3 pm April 20, June

15, Sep 21, Nov 16 2016; January 18 and March 15 2017) –We need to confirm the dates with the group and location with Pauline)


10. Adjourn


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Minutes

LMLIP Employment Sub-council Date and Time: March 16, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Meeting Location: Councillors Lounge, Middlesex County Building,(399 Ridout St N

Present: Christelle Desforges, Robert Collins, Bill Pigram, Nancy McQuillan, Wilma de Rond, Pauline Andrew, Jennifer Hollis, Ayshin Mousavi, Maria D’Souza

Regrets: Martin Withenshaw, Yvonne Lindsay, Bharati Sethi, Huda Hussein

Guest: Thomas Briginshaw, Middlesex Project Officer



Wilma de Rond welcomed members.

2. Adoption of Previous Minutes

Motion to approve January 27, 2016 Minutes was moved by Robert Collins, seconded by Nancy McQuillan and approved.


No additions.

4. Reports and Actions from Previous Business

a. We are London: Martin Withenshaw (no update since he could not attend)


Series producer Leila Almawy, Cindy Howard and Pauline Andrew met to discuss the direction and development of the series;

The journey through Middlesex will include a historical account with the mayor introducing each municipality. Historic buildings, stores, parks and churches will be showcased. A walk through downtown areas of Lucan, Strathroy etc are planned;

The search is on for a new host as Shannon Churchill is no longer available;

There will be more snapshots and travelling for the cameraman;

Stories of immigrant journeys will be captured, and

Cooking segments may be replaced with a culinary journey through Middlesex County featuring immigrants’ that have started businesses related to food such as Heeman’s Berry Farm and Appleland.

e. Panel of Experts and Small Business Information session: Pauline Andrew & Ayshin Mousavi

The session will be held at Wheable Adult Education Centre. The response from


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the Centre has been very positive. It will be held on April 27 from 9:30-12:30 pm;

Invitations will be extended to former attendees. Around 40 people are expected to attend and Pauline will confirm the number to see if others can be invited. Past Wheable students will also be invited to attend;

The invitations and agenda have been drafted;

Panel of experts include: Hatem Abouzeenni from Scotiabank, Mark Richardson, London Public Library, Phil Singeris from the London Small Business Centre, Nicole Musicco from the City of London and Steven Teal of Szemenyei MacKenzie Group;

New immigrant entrepreneurs will be featured;

As Nancy McQuillan is away, Susan Abdulla will assist with the event, and

Donations of goody bags, food and coffee are sought;

f. London and Middlesex Resource Fair – Final Update: Jennifer Hollis,

Jennifer Hollis noted that it was a successful event with 84 people attending. She thanked Christelle Desforges, Martin Whitenshaw and Pauline Andrew for their efforts.

Attendee breakdown was as follows:

53 employer representatives covering 42 companies

14 employer resource exhibitors

6 other service providers

2 politicians

9 LMLIP representatives (Staff and LMLIP Employment Sub-council members)

Employers were surveyed after the event and 24% responded. Their responses can be found at: http://www.questionpro.com/t/PTFyZTjDq, and

A major outcome of the fair was that Cuddy’s Farms arranged with Wheable to conduct ESL classes on site.

5. LMLIP Strategic Plan 2016-2019 – Discussion of final draft plan: Wilma de Rond

The Strategic Draft Plan was reviewed and finalized by the Sub-council.


Robert Collins: A video called “Start in London” has been uploaded on the London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) website. Designed to attract international entrepreneurs to London, the video will be translated into various languages including Mandarin and Spanish.

LEDC is collaborating with CTV on a series called, “London and Area Works”. Guests featured on the TV program report that it has generated responses from new clients.

LEDC is organizing two community job fairs called “London and Area Job Fair” on April 14 and October 18. The fairs are targeted at employers looking to hire.

LEDC are organizing an event on November 3 to focus on London’s technology requirements. Community agencies are being requested to prepare job seekers

http://www.questionpro.com/t/PTFyZTjDq


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for participation in job fairs.

Pauline Andrew: Looking to duplicate the Session with the Small Business Centre for the Business Help Centre in Poplar Hill.

Episode 6 of We are Middlesex is currently airing.

Thomas Briginshaw: The Local Employment Planning Council completed its Strategic Plan on March 16. It will be launched to the public in May.

Ayshin Mousavi: Sears has a position available for a Clinique beauty advisor.

Christelle Desforges: The Reseaux will be holding an event in March targeted at employers in northern Ontario.

An event for international francophone students was held at Western University on March 15.

Jennifer Hollis: The London-Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) is formulating its Strategy Plan, which will be finalized in May and launched in the fall.

Nancy McQuillan: London Employment Help Centre (LEHC) is organizing an event, “Refueling the Fund” on May 13. The event is aimed at generating revenue to refuel the fund that the LEHC uses to help its clients and their families with food, transportation, clothing and supports.

Wilma de Rond: WIL Employment Services organizes the ‘Steps for Success’ series regularly. Different topics are covered by various speakers with the aim of helping clients to integrate into the workplace.

7. New Business

None.


Wilma mentioned that she would make changes to the Strategy Plan and forward it to Project staff. She thanked the group for attending.

9. Adjourn



April 20, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 p.m, Location to be decided.


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Agenda

LMLIP Employment Sub-Council Date and Time: April 20, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Meeting Location: LMLIP Office, 141 Dundas Street, 3

rd floor

Item Description


2. Approval of March 16, 2016 Minutes


4. Final Reports and Actions from Previous Business (2013-2016 Strategic Plan):



5. Annual Implementation Plan 2016-2017: Prioritizing - Wilma de Rond Session with the Small Business Centre: Ayshin Mousavi/Pauline Andrew

6. Roundtable updates 7. New Business 8. Chairperson’s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items

9. Adjourn

10. Next meeting: June 15, 2016, Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St. N


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Minutes

LMLIP Employment Sub-council Date and Time: April 20, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Meeting Location: LMLIP Office, 141 Dundas Street 3

rd floor

Present: Martin Withenshaw, Robert Collins, Wilma de Rond, Jennifer Hollis, Yvonne Lindsay, Bharati Sethi, Huda Hussein

Regrets: Christelle Desforges, Bill Pigram, Pauline Andrew, Ayshin Mousavi, Nancy McQuillan, Maria D’Souza





Motion to approve March 16,, 2016 meeting was deferred due to absence of a seconder who attended March meeting.


Add two standing items on the agenda under New Business:

Local Employment Planning Council (LEPC)

London Economic Road Map Motion to accept the updated agenda moved by Jennifer Hollis, seconded by Bharati Sethi.

4. Final Reports and Actions from Previous Business (2013-2016)

a. We are London: Martin Withenshaw:

The Media Engagement Work Group is no longer active and therefore there is no update


Pauline is away and no update was provided

5. Annual Implementation Plan 2016-2017: Prioritizing - Wilma de Rond

Wilma noted that the next Session with the Small Business Centre will fall under the Implementation plan for 2016-2017. Event is planned for April 27, 2016. Pauline Andrew and Ayshin Mousavi are away and no update was provided. Group reviewed the Employment Plan and discussed the following:

Under the first theme of “Welcoming communities”; the group decided to address the

Group agreed to capture this action under the theme of “Supports and services for Immigrants”


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priority of raising awareness of success related to immigrant employment. Group discussed how to proceed with an event that will recognize employers who hire immigrants and showcase successful stories of immigrants who are employed while being mindful of what London-Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) is doing in terms of acknowledging employers who hire immigrants. In response to Wilma’s question as to how to proceed with this strategy: The following options were raised:

By showcasing successful stories of immigrants, other immigrants will be inspired to learn that they can succeed as well and remove any myths around employment

Employment process, the steps taken toward successful employment. This will include the employer, services and immigrant

An event that celebrate champions within the employer and immigrants will help others to learn about available resources (an indirect outcome)

Showcase employers as per sector and size

Highlight success stories – immigrant and employer throughout the year leading up to a recognition event

Demonstrate to employers the need to hire foreign trained immigrants as our population is diminishing and we will rely on immigrants

Showcase successful immigrants throughout the year – Huda notified the group that the Inclusion & Civic Engagement (ICE) Sub-council is planning to use a different format for their annual I am London social campaign. The ICE Sub-council is looking into showcasing one story per month from January to December 2017 coinciding with the Canada 150 celebration

Group decided:

To check in with the ICE Sub-council to explore working together to showcase four of the 12 participants related to the success in employment

An event to culminate the showcasing of the four stories

For further impact, use a variety of venues to showcase such as London Free Press which showcases a profile of a person on Mondays; a show on Rogers TV; CTV through London & Area Works; faith groups to reach immigrants who have not yet accessed services

As the Sub-council will meet in two months, the group was requested to think about successful stories, strategies to get out to community, and conduits of finding successful stories.

Under the theme of “Communication and access to information”, the group discussed the first priority (Access to current and relevant information related to employment sector).

The activity of researching facts for the area was discussed. It was noted that London and Middlesex lack data on employment whereas other regions have data in terms of the education level of immigrants coming to the regions, the skill sets and employment. There is a need to find this information in the different categories of immigration. It was noted that Elgin Middlesex Oxford Workforce Planning and Development Board has recently hired a researcher to carry out research on the local information market. Martin was requested to check in and report back if some information relevant to immigrant employment in the region may be extracted from the research that is underway.

Wilma noted that at this stage, this Sub-council may gather information on what is available and to work on a fact sheet next year.

Wilma to connect with Rose Aquino to discuss the I am London and if Employment Sub-council idea

Martin to share with Wilma the criterion for the Chamber Award for Ability First Coalition

Martin will check with the researcher and report back


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Jennifer noted that in the event that no research is available, the group may explore how to work with other partners to pool funds to hire a researcher.

Under the third theme, “Coordination and collaboration”, the group discussed the first priority with an idea of establishing a baseline on what is known, what is not, what is available and what is needed.

The group discussed how to address this information gap. The group discussed having a directory of services. Huda informed group that the Networking for an Inclusive Community (NIC) produces and updates an annual directory of services and shares it with their e-list.

Group discussed how to make use of such directory, how to navigate and equip individuals with such information. Action will be taken once the group reviews the NIC Directory of Services.


Robert Collins: May 18, the London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) will be hosting a Job Fair with 795 various job opportunities. The event is posted on the website and 113 individuals have already registered

Bharati Sethi – King’s University College has its Open House on May 7

Jennifer Hollis: The London-Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) is completing its strategic plan which will be launched in the fall

Wilma de Rond: WIL Employment Services is finalizing its strategic plan which has been approved. The plan will be presented to staff on Friday followed by two further sessions focused on first year implementation plan..

Huda Hussein – LMLIP strategic plan for 2016-2019 will be ratified by Council on Monday April 25; print copies may be distributed in June meetings

7. New Business

Local Employment Planning Council (LEPC) – Martin Withenshaw

Martin reported that the LEPC has completed its project stage in March and is currently completing its Strategic Plan; the final strategy will be sent for approval to the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. The team of the project is composed of four project officers. Wilma de Rond represents Employment Sector Council London-Middlesex, and Robert Collins represents the London Economic Development Corporation on the central planning committee.

London Economic Road Map:

This group is seen as a working group of the LEPC; Robert is the vice chair for the employment sector of this group. The group is collecting information on available employment resources; agencies and projects such as LMIEC have been approached; LMLIP will also be approached to provide information on resources.

Robert noted that it will be valuable to compare and contrast LEPC and the London Economic Road Map along with other initiatives to crystalize some of the action and confirm the work of difference among groups and ultimately identifying those with similar focus. Martin is working on comparing the two projects.

Huda to check with the SWO LIPs if they know of any employment specific data for the region

Huda to send the group the most recent NIC Directory

Martin will continue to update the Sub-council


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Wilma thanked the group for their participation and commitment.

9. Adjourn



June 15 2016 1:00 – 3:00 p.m, Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St N.


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Agenda

LMLIP Employment Sub-Council Date and Time: June 15, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm


rd floor

Item Description


2. Approval of April 20, 2016 Minutes





c. Local Employment Planning Council (LEPC)

d. London Economic Road Map

5. Annual Implementation Plan 2016-2017 - Updates - Wilma de Rond a. Session with the Small Business Centre: Update: Ayshin Mousavi/Pauline Andrew b. Celebrate and recognize employers and immigrants who have successfully engaged in

offering and securing meaningful employment with in the community.- Wilma de Rond c. Research facts for London and Middlesex – Follow up with Data Sharing Consortium –

what does it have related to immigrants/employment, etc.– Martin Withenshaw; Huda Hussein to report back from SW Ontario LIPs

d. Identify gaps in knowledge – Wilma de Rond


9. Adjourn

10. Next meeting: September 21, 2016, Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout

St. N


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Minutes

LMLIP Employment Sub-council Date and Time: June 15, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm


rd floor

Present: Martin Withenshaw, Robert Collins, Wilma de Rond, Jennifer Hollis, Christelle Desforges, Bill Pigram, Bharati Sethi, Ayshin Mousavi, Nancy McQuillan, Kim Godin, Huda Hussein, Maria D’Souza

Regrets: Yvonne Lindsay, Pauline Andrew





Motion to approve April 20, 2016 meeting was moved by Robert Collins, seconded by Bharati Sethi and approved.


None.


a. We are London: Martin Withenshaw

Rogers has finished shooting the London episodes and is continuing work on the Elgin, Middlesex and Oxford episodes.

Wilma suggested sending a thank you letter to Rogers’ management for their support. Martin will check with management who the letter can be sent to.


Pauline is away and no update was provided

c. Local Employment Planning Council (LEPC)

A call for proposals has gone out. The LEPC is examining how to improve communications to ensure all are informed about the LEPC. One community meeting has been held.

The expectation from the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (MAESD) is to set a goal and strategic plan and a way to get work done.

The call for proposals is to reduce the role of Ontario Works. Systemic change is required to get applicants off social assistance sooner or avoid it totally.

Numerous employers are represented on the board, which helps service providers understand employer needs. Employers also need to be aware of services available to them.

Martin to provide Rogers management contact information to project staff


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Martin noted that a report being released at the end of the summer shows that the participation rate in the workforce in the London-Middlesex-Oxford area is less than the average.

Christelle Desforges mentioned that the Francophone Committee is researching the needs of the community. Jean Pierre Cantin is the lead.


The London Economic Road Map has started looking at activities that may be available for the community and then looking at the gaps that exist. They are planning action that has to be taken. Wilma, Deb Mountenay and Robert Collins are members.

The project is led by the City and the issue of enhancing communication between the City and members working on the London Economic Road Map, is being addressed.

Data is being collected on immigrant employment. Diversity is mentioned in the road map numerous times and is nebulous currently. Parameters have to be defined.

Sub-council members noted that the London Economic Road Map to consider a couple of points:

StatsCan will be updating their data and will be releasing it in March-April 2017.

Rapid changes in technology mean that jobs are changing. For instance some jobs filled in 2010 were not available in 2004.

5. Annual Implementation Plan 2016-2017: Updates - Wilma de Rond

a. Session with the Small Business Centre: Update - Ayshin Mousavi

An information session for immigrants considering setting up their own business was held on April 27. The session was organized in partnership with Middlesex County, Wheable Centre for Adult Education, Small Business Centre, City of London, Scotia Bank and London Public Library.

Almost half of the 21 participants were students at Wheable’s language classes.

A panel of experts spoke followed by a Question and Answer session.

Feedback showed the event could have been better publicized because not many people heard about it. Interpreters can also be arranged in future if required.

Wheable would like to repeat the session in the fall and this could take the form of an interactive workshop. The Small Business Centre has expressed willingness to host an information session.

Martin Withenshaw suggested distributing the ‘Build your own business’ video at the sessions. Copies of the video have been given to Pauline Andrew.

b. Celebrate and recognize employers and immigrants who have successfully engaged in offering and securing meaningful employment with in the community: Wilma de Rond

At the last meeting, it was decided to explore the possibility of collaborating with the Inclusion & Civic Engagement (ICE) Sub-council on the I am London campaign. Rose Aquino, Chair of the ICE Sub-council, contacted Wilma requesting the presence of an Employment Sub-council member on the campaign’s work group. Nancy McQuillan offered to participate.

I am London will have three themes: Inclusion, Employment and Education featuring four people each (one person featured every month in 2017).

Criteria to be used to select success stories were discussed by the group. The jobseeker, supporting agency and employer will be highlighted. An attempt will be


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made to represent a cross section in London Middlesex, including male/female, small, medium and large employers and types of work.

The London & Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) resource “10 Ways to Tap into Immigrant Labour” will be used as a resource.

An application package will be prepared once the criteria is finalized to select the best four stories for I Am London. The package can then be sent to the LMLIP mailing list requesting nominations.

c. Research facts for London and Middlesex – Follow up with Data Sharing Consortium – what does it have related to immigrants/employment, etc.– Martin Withenshaw; Huda Hussein to report back from SW Ontario LIPs

The questions to be asked have to be identified based on the data we are looking for. What are the questions that people have that do not have data for and where can we find that data? Once the questions are finalized other organizations can be approached to help distribute questionnaires. For instance, the questions can be added to the Employer One survey where data is expected to be released in February 2017;

Identify if a source already exists for the data required keeping in mind that a mix of data sources will have to be used. Using only StatsCan data may mean that certain communities in London are omitted. Obtaining data from the Data Sharing Consortium could be explored since they collect information on secondary migration;

New developments in the pipeline should be taken into account. The Ontario government will publish open data in July. A new Canada Research Chair at Western University has been working on immigrant data based on different parameters. He will be meeting with employment sector representatives to discuss data collection. Census data will also be released next year;

Information sheets can be modelled on Hire Immigrants Ottawa, which has six fact sheets that also capture immigrant employment, and

The hypothesis is that immigrants can find work in London and the data will be used to prove or disprove that hypothesis. The fact sheet devised can be used to counteract negativity in the community.

d. Identify gaps in knowledge – Wilma de Rond: Tabled to next meeting


Nancy McQuillan: A walkathon called ‘Walk for Good Work’ is being organized by the London Employment Help Centre on October 1. The fundraiser will be used to support the unemployed and underemployed.

Jennifer Hollis: The LMIEC Strategic Plan will be finalized and launched in the fall.

An event to showcase successful employment stories and mentoring was held in conjunction with Tech Alliance on May 5.

Thirty different employers attended. Successful employment stories and mentoring was showcased. 3M Canada is hosting a panel June 17 as part of their professional debt program.

Christelle Desforges: The Franco Fete is on June from 2-7 pm.

A new program called mobility international was launched on June 1 for Francophone employers. A web conference is being held on June 21 to explain the program.

A national database was launched in January by PETIS. Bilingual jobs can also

Members to submit questions for discussion in September

Kim will bring back information from the Data Sharing Consortium

Robert to invite Western chair to November Sub-council meeting


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be advertised on the website.

Wilma de Rond: WIL Employment Services’ annual general meeting is being held on June 16. The annual report which highlights client success stories will be released at the event. The WIL award for Winning and Innovative leadership has been won by LMLIP Co-chair Elisabeth White, while the Anne Langille award will be given to Jeremiah’s House.

Robert Collins: The Start London video is available in six languages on the immigration portal. It Inspires international students and immigrants to come to London.

The London and Area Works Job Fair on May 18 attracted 51 employers and 1,979 job seekers. Another job fair is planned for October 4 and the London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) will be supporting the event. A survey conducted after the fair showed that 31% of job seekers not aware of free employment resources.

The London & Area Works website is also being revamped and the employment resource area will include service providers, community agencies and colleges.

Kim Godin: On June 6 the City of London Social Services hosted an Employment and Community Resource Fair at the Convention Centre that had 47 agencies and informational displays. More than 200 Social Services staff attended one of the 12 presentations and over lunch heard success stories from Ontario Works clients. Feedback was very positive from all.

Elisabeth White’s retirement party is on June 24.

7. New Business

None.


Wilma thanked the group for their participation and commitment. She noted the following action items:

A thank you letter will be sent to Rogers

Ontario Trillium Foundation has a new officer in town

Application package will be developed for I am London

Questions will be devised for data collection and sent to Wilma Kim will bring back information from the Data Sharing Consortium

Wilma will connect Nancy with the ICE Sub-council

Robert will contact the Western University researcher

9. Adjourn



September 21, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 p.m, Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St N.


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Agenda

LMLIP Employment Sub-Council Date and Time: September 21, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm


Item Description


2. Approval of June 15, 2016 Minutes



a. We Are London TV Show: Wilma de Rond


5. Annual Implementation Plan 2016-2017 - Updates - Wilma de Rond a. Session with the Small Business Centre: Ayshin Mousavi/Pauline Andrew

i. Action Item: Session in 2016-2017- Discussion

b. Celebrate and recognize employers and immigrants who have successfully engaged in offering and securing meaningful employment with in the community. Wilma de Rond

c. I am London Social Campaign – Nancy McQuillan / Maria D’Souza

d. Research facts for London and Middlesex – Robert Collins – Update on the work of the New Canada Research and the possibility of inviting him to November meeting

e. Follow up with Data Sharing Consortium –Information Sharing: Wilma de Rond i. Martin Withenshaw ii. Kim Godin iii. Information from Hamilton LIP iv. Questions from members to be included in the Employer One Survey - Discussion

f. Identify gaps in knowledge related to coordination and collaboration – (deferred from last meeting)

6. Updates from community initiatives: Wilma de Rond a. Local Employment Planning Council (LEPC) b. London Economic Road Map


10. Adjourn

11. Next meeting: November 16, 2016, Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout

St. N


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Minutes

LMLIP Employment Sub-council Date and Time: September 21, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Meeting Location: Councillors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St N

Present: Martin Withenshaw, Robert Collins, Wilma de Rond, Jennifer Hollis, Christelle Desforges, Bharati Sethi, Nancy McQuillan, Kim Godin, Yvonne Lindsay, Pauline Andrew, Maria D’Souza

Regrets: Bill Pigram, Ayshin Mousavi, Huda Hussein





Motion to approve June 15, 2016 meeting minutes was moved by Robert Collins, seconded by Martin Withenshaw and approved.


None.


a. We are London: Wilma de Rond

Wilma de Rond informed members that a letter signed by the LMLIP Co-chairs was sent to Rogers’ management to thank them for their support.


The shooting of all episodes has been completed and all eight municipalities have been featured;

A different format, similar to a roadshow was adopted with mayors speaking about their communities and immigrant guests were featured;

Two youth hosts who live in Middlesex county made their debut and have been helping expand the show’s social media presence;

A red carpet event on September 14 at Arrowwood Farms near Melbourne celebrated the launch of the show. The event featured sampling tables from local businesses that appeared on the show. The Middlesex County Warden welcomed guests to the event and the two youth hosts that were featured on the show were the MCs, and

The show’s participants will receive links to episodes they are featured in.


a. Session with the Small Business Centre:

Pauline to e-mail show schedule


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i. Action Item: Session in 2016-2017: Discussion

After some discussion, it was decided to connect with Wheable Centre for Adult Education to host a fall session and possibly plan for a spring session in Middlesex County;

The session will be included as an action item under Supports and Service for Immigrants in the Annual Implementation Plan update to Central Council;

A suggestion was made to include a mentor and to show the WISE5 (Winning Strategies for Immigrant Entrepreneurship) series to participants, and

Kim Godin will join Pauline on the work group.

b. Celebrate and recognize employers and immigrants who have successfully engaged in offering and securing meaningful employment with in the community: Wilma de Rond

The intention is to focus on successful immigrant employment and to recognize businesses that hire immigrants;

Following discussion, it was decided to develop criteria for identifying employers/immigrants for recognition or inclusion in an awareness raising campaign for successes related to immigrant employment;

A member of the London and Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) Leadership Council will be invited to present on its strategic plan at the November Sub-council meeting. This will help identify common points of support or how we can support each other;

Key messages that will be the centre of the awareness campaign for successes related to immigrant employment will be determined, and

Social media and other outlets can be used for the awareness campaign.

c. I am London social media campaign: Maria D’Souza

The format of the ‘I am London’ social media campaign will be changing for 2017 since it coincides with the 150th anniversary of Canada. One person will be highlighted each month for the whole year. Nomination applications will be sent out shortly for all Sub-councils to nominate candidates pertaining to their own area/theme. The Employment Sub-council can nominate immigrants who have been successful in the Employment sector.

d. Research facts for London and Middlesex – Robert Collins: Update on the work of the new Canada Research Chair at Western University and the possibility of inviting him to the November meeting

A portrait of immigrants in London and an analysis of education levels versus employment has to be done. Are immigrants obtaining jobs in their fields?

Jennifer Hollis mentioned that the LMIEC has applied for funds to research the disconnect between immigrant employment and employers. Why are existing jobs not being filled and how do we attract immigrants to jobs in London?

Kim mentioned that data could be extracted by the City’s research manager, Mo Jeng after the Sub-council specifies its requirements, and

Further discussions will be held at the November meeting on the portrait the Sub-council wants to present related to fact sheets on immigrant employment in London and Middlesex. How will it demonstrate with facts how well immigrants are doing economically/employment wise? Presentations by Michael Haan and Mo Jeng will be deferred for now.

Pauline to check if Ayshin is joining the work group


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e. Follow up with Data Sharing Consortium – information sharing: Wilma de Rond

Information provided by the Hamilton Local Immigration Partnership was shared with Sub-council members prior to the meeting. Martin mentioned that a sister organization of the Work Force Development Board had worked on the project, making it possible for the Sub-council to produce the same documents using London data.

It was decided to circulate the Fact Sheet from Hire Immigrants Ottawa to all Sub-council members. It can be accessed at: http://www.hireimmigrantsottawa.ca/for-employers/facts-and-stats/

Martin noted that the western region Employer One Survey is changing and a question can be added at the end of the survey. The question has to be submitted for consideration before the committee meets in early October. Members decided to propose the following question for addition: Have you hired one or more of the following in the last 12 months (indicate all applicable): Youth, Immigrants, Visible Minority, Person with disability, Francophone, Aboriginal or Older Worker?

f. Identify gaps in knowledge – Wilma de Rond: Tabled to next meeting

6. Updates from community initiatives: Wilma de Rond

a. Local Employment Council (LEPC)

The LEPC met on September 1 and requested members to provide input on developing an evaluation tool. This will help ensure that evaluation can identify the body’s accomplishments, is wide ranging and includes all stakeholders;

The LEPC regional meeting is on September 29, and

As part of its annual business planning cycle, the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (MAESD) MAESD is encouraging providers to do their own business planning. It was also announced that a new division based on high skills development labour market information products will be rolled out.

b. London Economic Road Map

A series of meetings were held over the last few weeks based on action groups developed. The group focused on action and inclusion in the economic road map. What message do we want to give our community about inclusion and diversity? What conduits do we use? How do we make them raise the bar in regard to diversity and inclusion?


Robert Collins: The London and Area Works job fair is being held on October 4. Around 43 employers representing multiple sectors have signed up to date. Service providers are also invited to participate. The website also offers tips to job seekers on how to succeed at job fairs.

Two new projects on the immigration portal were launched on September 21 following an unveiling at the City of London Community and Protective Services Committee meeting. “On the move” is an online tool that can be used by students or those looking to work in London. The Start London video which encourages immigrant entrepreneurship was also launched in five languages. Kim mentioned that the video would be aired at the Employment Sector Council London and

Wilma to email Martin suggested question for inclusion in Employer One Survey


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Middlesex (ESCLM) annual general meeting on September 22.

Kim: Social Services Ontario Work’s new Westmount Centre branch has started operations, currently handling a case load of approximately 2,400 which is expected to grow with possible new Syrian families over the next year.

Christelle Desforges: LMLIP participated in the Francophone Roundtable on June 15 and Jean-Pierre Cantin presented on the LMLIP 2016-2019 Strategic Plan.

ACFO London-Sarnia will no longer provide settlement services. It will continue to offer the Newcomer Settlement Program, Plateforme Ontario (entrepreneurship) and translation services.

The Region of PEEL is organizing an information session for students on September 22 covering various topics including international recruitment of Francophone skilled workers, the Express Entry System and Mobilite Francophone.

The Reseau de Soutien a l’immigration francophone will be announcing its Champion Employer award winner on September 26.

Yvonne Lindsay, who has been a part of the Employment Sub-council since its inception, announced her resignation due to an evaluation of resources at her agency. Wilma thanked her for her participation and contributions.

8. New business

None.


Wilma thanked the group for their participation and commitment. She noted the following action items:

Pauline will move forward with planning Small Business Information Session in conjunction with Wheable (Kim Godin to help). Pauline will also bring back the idea of hosting a similar event in Middlesex County in spring 2017

Wilma will include the small business information session under actions in Supports and Service for Immigrants in the Annual Implementation Plan update to Central Council

The criteria for identifying employers for recognition or inclusion in raising awareness campaign for success related to immigrant employment will be reviewed at the next sub-council meeting

The LMIEC Leadership Council will present on their strategic plan at the next meeting

The Sub-council will determine key messages for the raising awareness campaign for success related to immigrant employment

A further discussion will be held at the next meeting on the portrait we want to present related to fact sheets on immigrant employment in London and Middlesex - what facts do we want to present and how do we demonstrate with facts how well immigrants are doing economically/employment wise?

Martin will be sent the additional question for the Employer One survey

10. Adjourn


Next Meeting Location and Date:


25

November 16, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm, Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St N.


26

Agenda

LMLIP Employment Sub-Council Date and Time: November 16, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm


Item Description


2. Approval of September 21, 2016 Minutes

3. TIMED ITEM: 1:05 pm Lisa Harrison, LMIEC Strategic Plan Presentation


5. Annual Implementation Plan 2016-2017 - Updates - Wilma de Rond a. Session with the Small Business Centre: Ayshin Mousavi/Pauline Andrew/Kim Godin

i. Action Item: Session in 2016-2017- Update

b. Celebrate and recognize employers and immigrants who have successfully engaged in offering and securing meaningful employment within the community and developing criteria for recognition - Wilma de Rond

c. I am London Social Campaign – Information Sharing

d. Identifying key messages to drive raising awareness of success related to immigrant employment. What is the portrait/facts we want to present for the London and area fact sheet we will prepare (reference Hire Immigrants Ottawa which was circulated previously to sub council) – Discussion

e. Follow up with Data Sharing Consortium – Information Sharing: Wilma de Rond v. Questions from members to be included in the Employer One Survey - Update

f. Identify gaps in knowledge related to coordination and collaboration – (deferred from last meeting)

6. Updates from community initiatives: Wilma de Rond g. Local Employment Planning Council (LEPC) h. London Economic Road Map

i. Update on Central Council – Wilma de Rond

7. LIP Logic Model & LMLIP Key Discussion Points for Members: Huda Hussein 8. Roundtable updates 9. New Business 10. Chairperson’s Closing Summary and Review of Action Items

11. Adjourn

12. Next meeting: January 18, 2017, Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St N


27

Minutes

LMLIP Employment Sub-council Date and Time: November 16, 2016 1:00 – 3:00 pm

Meeting Location: Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St N

Present: Wilma de Rond, Jennifer Hollis, Bharati Sethi, Nancy McQuillan, Pauline Andrew, Yenny Medina, Maria D’Souza

Regrets: Martin Withenshaw, Robert Collins, Bill Pigram, Kim Godin, Christelle Desforges, Huda Hussein

Absent: Ayshin Mousavi

Guest: Lisa Harrison



Wilma de Rond welcomed the group, new member Yenny Medina and guest presenter Lisa Harrison, Vice Chair of the London-Middlesex Immigrant Employment Council (LMIEC) Leadership Council and Vice President Corporate Operations, Robarts Clinical Trials.

2. LMIEC Strategic Plan Presentation: Lisa Harrison

Lisa presented the 2016-2021 LMIEC Strategic Plan explaining how it was developed, its mission and objectives and the actions that would be taken to implement the five-year plan.


Motion to approve September 21, 2016 meeting minutes was moved by Nancy McQuillan, seconded by Pauline Andrew and approved. The approval followed a request by Pauline to amend the minutes to reflect that participants of the We Are Middlesex TV show would receive a YouTube link and not a DVD.


None.


a. Session with the Small Business Centre: Pauline Andrew ii. Action Item: Session in 2016-2017: Update

Kim and Pauline met to discuss the event and decided to hold it in the spring at Wheable Centre for Adult Education. Pauline will contact the coordinator at Wheable to find out when the new batch of students will be enrolled and to connect with them.

A session will be planned in fall 2017 for Middlesex County.


28

b. Celebrate and recognize employers and immigrants who have successfully engaged in offering and securing meaningful employment within the community: Wilma de Rond

At the last Sub-council meeting members were requested to suggest for identifying employers/immigrants for recognition or inclusion in an awareness raising campaign for successes related to immigrant employment.

After some discussion, the following criteria were suggested:

Immigrant nominees

- Should have financially sustainable and meaningful employment

- Should have used employment supports (this will encourage and inspire other immigrants)

- Any age will qualify

- Have been in Canada for 2-10 years

- Have contributed to the community through volunteering or mentoring

Employer nominees

- Demonstrate actively employing immigrants for three or more years

- Offer meaningful employment and career growth opportunities

- Have contributed to the community

- Have reached out to employment support agencies for assistance in hiring

A suggestion was made to include all sectors and to define criteria to differentiate between small, medium and large businesses. Mandatory and demonstrated criteria will be used in the selection process.

It was also suggested that selection and submission process used by the Apprenticeship Network Awards be adapted for the group’s use.

The list of criteria will be finalized at the next meeting.

c. I am London social media campaign: Information sharing

Members were informed that Bharati Sethi has been nominated for the I am London campaign. More nominations are required and Sub-council members were encouraged to reach out to their networks.

d. Identifying key messages to drive raising awareness of success related to immigrant employment. What is the portrait/facts we want to present for the London and area fact sheet we will prepare (reference Hire Immigrants Ottawa which was circulated previously to sub council) – Discussion

The group was asked to reflect on what information should be presented through the fact sheet. One of the main aims of the fact sheet is to dispel the myths that there is no work for immigrants in London or that it is hard for them to find employment.

An employment fact sheet is required for London as demographic data is easily accessible. The fact sheet would answer questions such as: Where are immigrants being hired? What is the percentage of immigrants in London employed in their fields and what percentage are underemployed? How many immigrants are we retaining and how many are we losing? Do we have a breakdown of permanent residents, citizens and temporary foreign workers?

Since Michael Haan, Canada Research Chair at Western University developed the Hire Immigrants Ottawa fact sheet, it was suggested that he should be approached for advice on developing a similar one for London.


29

LMIEC will be working with Michael on a project and offered to share the data for London with the Sub-council. Data will possibly be released in a year.

A suggestion was made to contact the Windsor Local Immigration Partnership to see if they would be willing to share their proposal for a similar project they implemented and how they obtained funding for it as there could be costs involved in implementing the project.

e. Follow up with Data Sharing Consortium – information sharing: Wilma de Rond

The group was informed that the question they had suggested for the Employer One survey was submitted: Have you hired one or more of the following in the last 12 months (indicate all applicable): Youth, Immigrants, Visible Minority, Person with Disability, Francophone, Aboriginal or Older Worker?

The question cannot be included at this time because no changes can be made to the existing survey. It may be possible to add a question in future.

f. Identify gaps in knowledge – Wilma de Rond

How do we identify gaps in knowledge related to service providers? There are numerous initiatives that people are not aware of and often service providers do not always know what other service providers are offering.

Service providers may not refer clients to other agencies because of misconceptions/misinformation on criteria for referring clients to certain programs. Disconnects have to be addressed.

Examples were cited of workshops held for service providers where presentations were made by other service providers to inform them of what they offer. A suggestion was made to host a similar half-day forum for service providers which would offer information on programs under Employment Ontario and other initiatives.

6. Updates from community initiatives: Wilma de Rond

c. Local Employment Council (LEPC)

Update provided with meeting materials


A meeting to provide an update on the London Economic Road map was held on November 16. The initiative has been under way for a year and focuses on five priorities: 1) A city for entrepreneurs 2) A supportive business environment 3) An exceptional downtown and a vibrant urban environment 4) A top quality workforce 5) A national centre of excellence for medical innovation and commercialization

The teams responsible for each priority provided updates. Wilma, Robert Collins and Martin Withenshaw are on the committee for a top quality workforce.

e. Central Council

Update provided with meeting materials

7. LIP Logic Model & LMLIP Key Discussion Points for Members: Wilma de Rond

The Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) Logic Model which explains the role and mandates of all LIPs was discussed. Noting that the LMLIP facilitates the coordination of services by agencies, it was explained that LMLIP is a conduit of information that aids collaboration within the community and is not a service


30

provider.

Key messaging which includes tangible examples of Sub-council projects was developed to help members disseminate information on the LMLIP and its Strategic Plan. The messaging approved by Central Council, is being distributed to all LMLIP members.


Bharati: received grants for three research projects focusing on: 1) Social integration of seniors 2) Refugees 3) Caregivers who are employed and still acting as caregivers. How do employers help them?

Pauline: We are Middlesex airs at 2:30 pm on Sunday. A link will be shared with members to post on social media.

Nancy: The London Employment Help Centre is hosting an Open House business lunch on December 9. A Christmas Bazaar will be held on December 15 as a fundraiser for United Way.

9. New business

None.


Wilma thanked the group for their participation and commitment.

11. Adjourn


Next Meeting Location and Date:

January 18, 2017, 1:00 – 3:00 pm, Councilors Lounge, Middlesex County Building, 399 Ridout St N.

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