Growing Together: How Ngan Do Found Success Through Community and Connection

When Ngan Do arrive in Canada, she brought with her extensive experience in finance, accounting, and governance, along with a strong entrepreneurial drive. While she was hopeful and determined, she quickly realized that starting over involved more than finding a job or launching a business it meant rebuilding her confidence, professional network, and sense of belonging.

“Despite my background, the job market was challenging without Canadian experience,” she explains. “There were moments of uncertainty, but I remained committed to finding a path forward.”

That path began when Ngan joined ISANS’ Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Network (IWEN). What started as an opportunity to network soon became something much deeper.

“IWEN became more than just a program. It was a supportive community where I felt seen, heard, and encouraged,” she says. Through the cohort, Ngan rebuilt her skills and strengthened her communication skills and learned how to navigate Canadian workplace culture alongside other immigrant women.

As she grew more confident in her entrepreneurial journey, Ngan identified a recurring need among her peers. Many women launching businesses required support with finance and accounting. Motivated to give back, she began volunteering and facilitating training sessions through ISANS.

“Delivering training to ISANS clients has been incredibly rewarding,” she shares. “It allows me to support other newcomers while strengthening my own sense of purpose and belonging.”

These shared learning environments created significant connections and new opportunities. Through relationships built at ISANS, Ngan secured several consulting clients, helping fellow entrepreneurs grow their businesses while expanding her own finance consulting practice. Through structured networking and community support, she successfully rebuilt her professional confidence and integrated into the Canadian workforce.

One IWEN client reflects on Ngan’s impact:

“I asked countless questions, sometimes the same one in different ways until I fully understood, and Ngan met every single one with patience and clarity. Thanks to her guidance, I now have a strong foundation in accounting and can confidently manage the basics on my own, something I never thought I’d be able to say. It’s easily one of the most valuable outcomes of this experience.”

These connections also led to a significant career milestone. Through professional reference from ISANS, Ngan was introduced to ARAISA, where she stepped into her role as Finance and Administration Manager, re-entering her profession in a meaningful and impactful way.

Reflecting on her journey, Ngan says, “I would not be here today without IWEN or ISANS. Together, they unlocked my potential.”