A Journey to Success: TIES Client Goes from Getting Help to Helping Others

When Prabhneet Kaur left India two-and-a-half years ago, she was beyond excited to come to Canada.

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But she was also terrified. For the first time ever, she was completely on her own.

“I was always under my parents' shadow, and I always used to follow them, whatever they say I do that,” she describes.  

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“So, being up here alone, totally alone, settling in Canada, renting a house, cooking for myself and everything — it was not easy.”

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Add to that ... the pressure of studying.

Prab was also an international student at SAIT (Southern Institute of Technology) and her studies were her top priority.

“I had to do my studies,” she points out. “
I can't compromise on my studies. I can't let my family down.”

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Prab’s Introduction to TIES

Prab first became aware of TIES (The Immigrant Education Society) at school, via volunteer posting boards.

“I love to volunteer,” she says. “I was very interested in Money Smart (program) because I’m studying accounting.”

While volunteering, she also took advantage of TIES services, getting help filing her taxes. She had never had a bank account in India, nor did she know she was entitled to certain benefits.

That set her up perfectly for when tax time came around, and she stepped up to volunteer at the TIES Tax Clinic.

“I was very excited, very happy,” she recounts.

“There are so many clients, many of them with language barriers. Just your simple smile makes them really happy.”

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TIES becomes Prab’s second home…

Settlement and Literacy Manager Noha El Tanahi was also happy — with Prab’s performance. So much so that she invited her to apply for summer student jobs.  

The rest is history.

Those placements were followed by practicums and eventually a job offer this past February after Prab had graduated from SAIT.

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A series of events Prab says wouldn’t have happened without Noha’s mentorship… and kindness.  

Prab recounts getting into a car accident and not knowing what to do. Noha recommended that she exchange insurance information and guided her on the process of filing a claim.

“She always treats me like a daughter,” she says. “She's always there for me, always.”

Noha says TIES sees “firsthand the incredible value newcomers bring to Canada”.  

“Individuals like Prab perfectly exemplify this. Their dedication, diverse perspectives, and skills not only enrich our organization but also significantly contribute to our economy and community.”

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Prab says she still has a lot to learn.  

She’s just grateful she has TIES to help her, help others.

“I went from an international student, a newcomer to now helping newcomers!”

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Media RSVP, Interviews & Inquiries:

Tomasia DaSilva

Media and Relationship Strategist

Email: tomasiadasilva@immigrant-education.ca

Phone: 403-291-0002

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