The PICS Surrey Mega Job Fair, held at the North Surrey Sports and Ice Complex, marked another successful chapter in its history, attracting a diverse crowd of job seekers and exhibitors. The event, organized by the Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS) Society, saw participation from over 60 exhibitors and continued its tradition of fostering connections between potential employees and employers.
The job fair showcased a broad array of companies, including title sponsor BC Corrections and Bronze Sponsors Western Community College, University Canada West, PICS Foreign Credential Recognition, and PICS Career Services. From private businesses to public-sector organizations, exhibitors offered on-the-spot interviews and immediate job opportunities, creating a dynamic environment for job seekers. Attendees had the chance to engage with representatives from various sectors, including employers such as Fraser Health, Swift Management, and Securiguard; service providers like ICBC and WorkBC; and educational institutions such as Kwantlen Polytechnic University, BCIT, and Langara College.
Randeep Sarai, MP for Surrey Centre and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, commended the event as one of the best job fairs, highlighting the variety of employers and service providers present. Sarai encouraged job seekers to leverage the opportunities available and make the most of the event.
Bruce Ralston, MLA for Surrey-Whalley and Minister of Forests, addressed the challenges faced by newcomers in the competitive labor market, such as the lack of Canadian experience and the recognition of foreign credentials. He emphasized the government’s efforts to streamline the credential recognition process, aiming to support job seekers in their career pursuits.
Harry Bains, MLA for Surrey-Newton and Minister of Labour, expressed gratitude for the employers participating in the fair and echoed Ralston’s comments on credential recognition. Bains urged employers to create a welcoming environment for new Canadians, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in the workplace.
Garry Begg, MLA for Surrey-Guildford, extended his congratulations to the PICS Society for organizing the Mega Job Fair since 2005. He encouraged job seekers to explore all available booths and take full advantage of the opportunities presented.
Jinny Sims, MLA for Surrey-Panorama and member of the Government Caucus Committee on Social Initiatives, praised the efforts of PICS Society workers and volunteers, calling the event “superb.” Sims noted her appreciation for the presence of educational institutions at the fair, which offer opportunities for skill development and career advancement.
Satbir S. Cheema, President and CEO of PICS Society, expressed his gratitude to the organizations and sponsors that made the event possible. He acknowledged the ongoing support from title sponsor BC Corrections and Bronze Sponsors Western Community College, University Canada West, PICS Foreign Credential Recognition, and PICS Career Services, as well as media partners like Sanjha TV and Times of Canada, which were instrumental in the fair’s success.
Raj Hundal, Senior Director of Employment, Planning & Program Development at PICS Society, thanked all the employers, not-for-profit organizations, the City of Surrey, and provincial and federal governments for their support. Raj also thanked Satbir Cheema, President and CEO of PICS Society, for initiating what he described as the biggest job fair in Metro Vancouver.
With a robust turnout and enthusiastic participation, the 2024 Mega Job Fair has once again demonstrated its significance as a vital platform for job seekers and employers. As PICS Society looks ahead to future events, the community eagerly anticipates continued growth and opportunity in the realm of employment.
