04/27/2026
Navigational Support Forum for PSWs, Caregivers and IENs: Pathways to Nursing Career Advancement”, taking place on Saturday, May 23, 2026 (8:30am - 12:30nn)
This event is being organized by Kababayan Multicultural Centre (KMC), Integrated Filipino Canadian Nurses Association (IFCNA) and CRD College of Health Care, and aims to support Filipino healthcare workers, including personal support workers (PSW), caregivers, and internationally educated nurses (IENs), as they navigate pathways toward nursing and career advancement in Canada.
Panel Discussion #1: From Licensing to Belonging: Navigating Settlement, Immigration, and Community Supports
This panel explores the broader journey of internationally educated nurses (IENs), personal support workers (PSWs), caregivers, and individuals interested in healthcare careers in Canada beyond licensing.
It focuses on the important role of settlement, immigration, and community supports in helping individuals achieve long-term success.
Panelists will share insights on how to navigate systems, address common barriers such as immigration status and access to services, and build a strong foundation for both work and daily life. The discussion highlights how different supports can work together to help individuals move not only toward employment, but toward a sense of belonging.
• Holistic Settlement Support for Individuals Pursuing Nursing- Ms Rizza Solis, Executive Director, Kababayan Multicultural Centre (KMC)
Rizza will discuss how challenges such as housing, financial stability, language barriers, and system navigation can impact an individual's ability to move forward in their career pathway and highlight the importance of holistic settlement support in helping immigrants pursue careers in nursing and healthcare.
• Navigating Immigration Pathways and PR Challenges- Lou Janssen Dangzalan, Barrister & Solicitor, JD Law PC
Mr Lou will provide an overview of immigration pathways relevant to PSWs, caregivers, and internationally educated nurses, with a focus on permanent residency (PR) options and common challenges applicants face. He will break down complex immigration processes into practical guidance, helping participants better understand eligibility requirements, policy changes, and strategic pathways to secure their status in Canada.
•From Registration to Practice: Mentorship, Networking, and Community Support- Irene Reem Hiponia, President, Integrated Filipino Canadian Nurses Association (IFCNA)
Irene will focus on the role of professional associations and community networks in supporting internationally educated nurses, PSWs, and caregivers through the nursing registration process and workforce integration. Drawing from IFCNA's work, she will highlight mentorship, peer support, and networking opportunities that help individuals navigate licensing requirements, build professional connections, and transition into the Canadian healthcare system.
Panel Discussion #2: Building Your Path to Nursing: Education, Credential Recognition & Career Advancement
This panel focuses on the practical steps needed to pursue a nursing career in Canada. It will cover education pathways, credential assessment, and training options that help internationally educated nurses (IENs), PSWs, and caregivers move forward in their careers.
Panelists will share guidance on how to understand credential requirements, access bridging and training programs, and build the skills needed for the Canadian healthcare system. The discussion will also highlight available supports that can help individuals make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.
IEN Education Pathways to RN and RPN in Canada- Sai Vemulakonda Professor & Coordinator and Anagaile Soriano, RN, BSCN, MN-NP, Professor & Practical Nursing Program Clinical Coordinator, George Brown Polytechnic
Sai and Anagaile will provide an overview of education pathways available for internationally educated nurses who want to become Registered Nurses (RN) or Registered Practical Nurses (RPN) in Canada. This includes bridging programs and key steps needed to enter or continue in the nursing profession.
• Upskilling and Micro-Credentials for Career Readiness- Ms Grace Lanceta, RN-BSN/MSN, College Director, CRD College of Health Care
Ms Grace will discuss how upskilling and micro-credential programs can help healthcare workers strengthen their qualifications and prepare for employment in Canada. She will highlight flexible training options that support career growth and readiness.
• Understanding Credential Assessment in Canada- Ms Connie Manzo, Accreditation Specialist, Accreditation and Qualification Information Services (AQIS)
Connie will explain how credential assessment works in Canada and why it is an important step for internationally educated professionals. She will provide guidance on how to prepare documents, understand results, and use assessments for education and employment.
