February 5, 2024

A leading non-profit organization dedicated to working with newcomers and underserved communities, Skills for Change is pleased to announce that we have partnered with Computek College to deliver an innovative Newcomer Cybersecurity Talent Pod, aimed at bridging the skills gap in the cybersecurity industry for newcomers to Canada. This program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario through the Skills Development Fund Training Stream.

The Skills Development Fund Training Stream recognizes the importance of investing in programs that empower underserved communities to develop essential skills and contribute meaningfully to the workforce. Skills for Change has been granted this funding to create the Newcomer Cybersecurity Talent Pod, an initiative that will equip newcomers with the necessary knowledge and expertise to thrive in the cybersecurity field.

Launched in 2023, the Newcomer Cybersecurity Talent Pod has provided comprehensive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience in cybersecurity to 100 newcomers, enabling them to gain valuable skills and certifications. Participants underwent an intensive program that covers a wide range of topics, including network security, threat analysis, ethical hacking, data protection, and incident response. The program has offered specialized workshops to enhance participants' professional development and improve their employability in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity industry. Participants have now graduated from the program and have commenced with workplace experience and employment opportunities.

“We are proud to partner with Skills for Change as they bring forward innovative training programs to help people find good jobs and to address the labour shortage in cybersecurity by offering training opportunities to Ontario’s newcomers,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Together we can provide opportunities to gain skills training in high-demand fields and build a stronger Ontario for all.”

“We are thrilled that the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development's has been able to fund our Newcomer Cybersecurity Talent Pod through the Skills Development Fund," said Surranna Sandy, CEO of Skills for Change. "This initiative has played a crucial role in addressing the shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals in Canada while providing newcomers to Canada with the opportunity to secure meaningful employment in this high-demand field."

Skills for Change would also like to express its sincere gratitude to our partner Computek College for their invaluable support in bringing the Newcomer Cybersecurity Talent Pod to life. Computek College, a renowned provider of technology education and training, has partnered with Skills for Change to offer their expertise, resources, and state-of-the-art facilities for the program. This partnership has further enhanced the quality and effectiveness of the training provided, ensuring that participants receive the best possible education and practical experience.

"With cybersecurity staffing pressures expected to increase exponentially over the next five years, especially in the Greater Toronto Area, labour shortages in the sector can be addressed by creating opportunities for a more diverse population and representative workforce to enter the industry through innovative work-integrated training programs,” said Muraly Srinarayanathas, Chief Executive Officer, Computek College. “This is why we are excited to bring our expertise in cybersecurity training for marginalized populations such as newcomers and immigrants and do our part to ensure that Ontario’s technology sector becomes more representative of the society it serves."

"We extend our deepest appreciation to Computek College for their commitment and collaboration in this important program," added Surranna Sandy. "Their contribution has greatly enhanced the success of the Newcomer Cybersecurity Talent Pod and enable us to empower more newcomers with the skills needed to build prosperous futures in Canada."

For more information about the Newcomer Cybersecurity Talent Pod and to learn how to get involved, please visit Skills for Change's website at https://skillsforchange.org/newcomer-cybersecurity-talent-pod

About Skills for Change

Founded in 1982, Skills for Change is a leading non-profit organization serving immigrants, refugees and underserved communities in Canada. Skills for Change is known for pioneering programs that respond to shifting trends. Our Agency has played a major role in uplifting immigrant, refugee and underserved communities for 41 years. We offer more than 25 programs and services, and annually serve 20,000+ people, including newcomers, immigrants, refugees, women, seniors, youth, Black Canadians and members of LGBTQ+ community with services in settlement, language training, employment, career development, mental health, leadership, entrepreneurship, climate change and more. SfC’s programs are designed through a social justice lens and delivered with the intent to balance inequities, engage the unengaged, and serve the underserved. Program delivery allows for specialized frameworks for clients who face intersectional barriers.

About Computek College

Established over 30 years ago, Computek College is one of Ontario's leading regulated career colleges. It provides diploma and certificate programs to upskill newcomers, reskill globally trained professionals, and train immigrant, second career, and international students for jobs in business, healthcare, and technology.