How mentorship helped Ali Ahmed rebuild his legal career

When Ali Ahmed moved from Egypt to Ontario, he brought with him nearly 25 years of experience practising law. His goal in Canada is to build a secure future for his family while returning to the profession that shaped much of his life.

Re-establishing a legal career in a new country, however, requires internationally trained professionals to navigate unfamiliar licensing processes, workplace expectations and professional networks. Ali is working toward becoming licensed to practise law in Ontario by completing the accreditation requirements for internationally trained lawyers and expanding his knowledge of the Canadian legal system. As part of this journey, he  has also strengthened his skills through York University’s Internationally Educated Professionals Bridging program and Power BI at Seneca Polytechnic.

Windmill Microlending provided Ali with financial support to continue his professional development and licensing journey. “Having an organization believe in my abilities and invest in my future gave me confidence and motivation during a challenging transition period,” Ali says.

Through MentorChats, Windmill’s mentorship program, Ali was matched with an employee volunteer from Definity Financial Corporation as part of its active volunteer engagement whose practical advice and encouragement helped him better understand the Canadian workplace and recognize the value of his international experience.

“One of the most valuable pieces of advice Shirlee shared with me was the importance of patience, continuous learning and networking,” Ali says. “She reminded me that my previous international experience is a strength that can be adapted and applied in the Canadian environment.”

With his mentor’s guidance, Ali has become more proactive in building professional relationships, seeking learning opportunities and communicating how his legal background and transferable skills can contribute in Canada.

Support from Definity helps make mentorship opportunities like Ali’s possible. Through both its donation and its commitment to employee volunteerism, Definity is helping internationally trained professionals access meaningful mentorship and the guidance they need to move forward in Canada. 

Ali remains focused on his long-term goal of becoming a lawyer in Ontario. He is grateful to Windmill and Definity for recognizing the potential newcomers bring. The result is stronger, healthier and more resilient communities where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and flourish in Canada.

Are you interested in becoming a Windmill mentor? Sign up to mentor a newcomer today.

‍