Stephen Antwi

As a newcomer to Canada, Stephen Antwi doesn’t yet have a valid study permit. He’s hopeful one will be issued soon, but until then he’s limited in what he can do.

“In my search for courses I spoke to the colleges and universities but the issue was the same: I needed my study permit before I could get an opportunity,” Stephen says. “I applied to do a chartered accountant course with York University — but because of my [immigration] status … I couldn’t do it.”

As a newcomer to Canada, Stephen Antwi doesn’t yet have a valid study permit. He’s hopeful one will be issued soon, but until then he’s limited in what he can do.

“In my search for courses I spoke to the colleges and universities but the issue was the same: I needed my study permit before I could get an opportunity,” Stephen says. “I applied to do a chartered accountant course with York University — but because of my [immigration] status … I couldn’t do it.”

Hungry for knowledge but unable to study full-time, Stephen discovered shorter certificate courses with help from Contact North.

“A friend introduced me to a government employment agency. I went to see them and told them I needed to do some courses that meet my status at the moment. I didn’t want to stay [in Canada] without learning anything. They introduced Contact North to me and it has been very helpful.

“It was a dream come true to get to see the works of Contact North and how they are willing to support people in developing knowledge in new fields. It was so easy to get something going. They helped me a lot. It was amazing.”

Hungry for knowledge but unable to study full-time, Stephen discovered shorter certificate courses with help from Contact North.

“A friend introduced me to a government employment agency. I went to see them and told them I needed to do some courses that meet my status at the moment. I didn’t want to stay [in Canada] without learning anything. They introduced Contact North to me and it has been very helpful.

“It was a dream come true to get to see the works of Contact North and how they are willing to support people in developing knowledge in new fields. It was so easy to get something going. They helped me a lot. It was amazing.”

Knowing Stephen’s general area of interest, the Contact North online learning team recommended courses that would suit his longer-term goals.

“I told them I wanted to have some knowledge of the Canadian financial system, what goes on in day-to-day financial management and they showed me some of the courses available,” Stephen says.

“The best thing was it was free. At the start I took two courses in finance and one in fundamentals of the Canadian accounting system. My plan is to get the study permit and take the Canadian chartered accountant course. 

“There is no end to information. There is no end to experience acquisition and knowledge improvement. Anywhere you find yourself you have to be open for different challenges, different opportunities to grow.

“For me, I know that in Canada you have to work, pay your bills. There are also courses out there which fit your busy schedule to go out and work. It’s very flexible. If you find those courses that are so flexible to your schedule it’s a good opportunity to become updated.

“It was so amazing meeting the Contact North team members. Any time you have a problem you can call on them and they’re available any time. It made it so easy for me. I really appreciate Contact North and I hope to continue on my courses.”