Empowering Immigrant Women to Flourish in Nova Scotia

By Christine Alvarez, Manager, Business & Workforce Integration

Each year on March 8, International Women’s Day gives us an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while also reflecting on the work that still lies ahead to advance gender equality. This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” is a powerful reminder that when we invest in women through mentorship, opportunities, and support our communities, businesses, and economies all grow stronger

At Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), we witness this transformative impact every day through our work with immigrant women across the province.

Many immigrant women arrive in Nova Scotia with remarkable talent, professional experience, and innovative business ideas. They bring diverse perspectives and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. At the same time, establishing a career or starting and growing a business in a new country can present challenges, from navigating unfamiliar systems to building professional networks and accessing the right resources.

While many of our services support newcomers generally, these two programs focus directly on the unique challenges and bold ambitions of immigrant women.

The Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Network (IWEN) and the Visible Minority Newcomer Women at Work (VMNW) programs support immigrant women pursuing both traditional employment pathways and self-employment trough entrepreneurship. With mentorship, training workshops, networking opportunities, and one-on-one guidance, these programs empower participants to gain the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed.

But what truly makes these programs special is the sense of community they foster. Participants learn not only from mentors and experts, but also from one another. They share experiences, celebrate milestones, and build relationships that often extend far beyond the program itself.

Programs like IWEN and VMNW reflect the spirit of “Give to Gain.” Mentors generously share their expertise, community partners contribute their time and resources, and participants bring determination, creativity, and ambition. Together, these contributions create meaningful opportunities that help women grow and succeed.

When these women succeed, they don’t just find jobs, they create them. They introduce fresh ideas, launch innovative services, and contribute to the cultural and economic heartbeat of our province. Their resilience isn’t just inspiring; it’s a competitive advantage for Nova Scotia.

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the inspiring women participating in the IWEN and VMNW programs as well as the many immigrant women across the province who are pursuing their goals and building their futures.

Their courage and determination remind us that when we support women, we are investing in a more inclusive, innovative, and prosperous future for everyone.