When Wunmi Adekanmbi first stepped into the Alberta tech scene out of sheer curiosity in 2019, she had no idea what awaited her. To her pleasant surprise, she discovered a vibrant and innovative community governed by a social contract of giving first, with a strong support system and valuable industry connections for startups. Calgary was actively diversifying its economy, transitioning from its oil and gas legacy to embrace the potential of the thriving tech industry. However, there was one glaring issue that caught Wunmi’s attention the lack of diversity in the Alberta tech community, with few individuals who looked like her. While she felt welcomed, she knew she was not particularly invited. Wunmi recognized the need to extend a more explicit invitation to immigrants and newcomers, leading her to create a transformative initiative known as Immigrant Techies Alberta.
INTRODUCING IMMIGRANT TECHIES ALBERTA
With a vision to bridge the gap and create a sense of belonging, Wunmi established Immigrant Techies Alberta—a community grassroots movement designed to facilitate the integration of highly skilled STEM immigrants into the Alberta tech space. Realizing that simply extending an invitation would not be sufficient, Wunmi understood the importance of providing tailored support and empowerment. This realization led her to create ReSkill Calgary, an ecosystem builder committed to strengthening Calgary’s tech industry by leveraging the immigrant talent pool. and breaking down barriers that hinder synergy.
EMPOWERING NEWCOMERS THROUGH RESKILL CALGARY
ReSkill Calgary’s flagship program, PathwayPro, was launched in March 2023, offering a comprehensive framework to fast track the Canadian work experience of newcomers in the tech industry. PathwayPro is a multi-faceted initiative that engages participants in hands-on software product development, future-readiness workshops, and provides personalized 1:1 coaching support.
Through the PathwayPro program, immigrant tech professionals are given the opportunity to immerse themselves in real-world projects, equipping them with the practical skills and experience necessary to succeed in the Canadian tech landscape. By engaging with industry experts and gaining exposure to cutting-edge technologies, participants develop a solid foundation that paves the way for long-term success.
Furthermore, PathwayPro goes beyond technical training by offering future-readiness workshops that address crucial aspects such as effective communication, networking, and cultural integration. These workshops empower newcomers with the necessary soft skills, enabling them to navigate the complexities of the tech industry and thrive in a new environment.
The program’s personalized 1:1 coaching support ensures that participants receive individualized guidance and mentorship, helping them navigate the challenges they may encounter along their journey. ReSkill Calgary understands that each immigrant tech professional has a unique set of experiences and aspirations, and the coaching support aims to provide tailored guidance to address their specific needs.
Wunmi Adekanmbi’s passion and determination to create an inclusive tech community have led to the establishment of Immigrant Techies Alberta and the transformative PathwayPro program offered by ReSkill Calgary. By extending a heartfelt invitation to immigrants and newcomers, and by providing them with the necessary support and empowerment, Immigrant Techies Alberta and ReSkill Calgary are shaping the future of the Alberta tech industry. Through their initiatives, they are not only breaking down barriers but also unlocking the vast potential of diverse talent, fostering innovation, and creating a truly inclusive and prosperous tech ecosystem in Alberta.
