StartWork: Refugees transition to meaningful jobs through MRU program

Afshan Khurshid said she's thankful for the StartWork campaign, which is a partnership between MRU, the provincial government and the Northpine Foundation.

Refugees are getting meaningful employment in Calgary thanks to a program co-ordinated through Mount Royal University.

A celebration of the success of StartWork was held on campus Wednesday.

It’s a partnership between MRU, the provincial government and the Northpine Foundation.

In November 2024, 40 refugees left the Alberta Income Support program and received tailored support under StartWork to get job experience and begin developing a sustainable livelihood.

Northpine Foundation provided the upfront investment. Provincial income supports were reinvested for a second contract working with up to 300 people to exit Alberta Income Support and transition into future contracts.

One refugee who came to Canada with a PhD in chemistry is now working at the Women in Need Society (WINS).

“We are very thankful to the StartWork community,” said Afshan Khurshid, “because they provided whatever, whenever we needed it. They are at our back. We never felt unsupported.”

“I’m a very privileged guy, right?” said Shaun Loney of the Institute for Community Prosperity at MRU. “Like, the systems are meant for me and my kids. And so my kids, if they wanted a job, they just phone their uncle and work at the grocery store, and so (for refugees), this is kind of like the uncle that can be that leg up.”

“We were excited about this investment opportunity because of the innovative approach to provide meaningful employment outcomes for refugees. StartWork provides comprehensive support to refugees while delivering resources accordingly — and if it fails, there is no expense to the taxpayer,” said Northpine CEO Aatif Baskanderi in a release.

“StartWork exemplifies how MRU’s research institutes are driving real change,” said MRU provost Chad London. “By applying an outcomes-based approach to social challenges, this initiative creates meaningful employment opportunities that provide lasting benefits for the participants and the broader community.

“It’s about equipping people with the skills and confidence to thrive in Alberta, while demonstrating how innovative funding models can strengthen the social and economic fabric of our province.”

The program is looking to expand from Calgary to Edmonton and Red Deer.

For more about StartWork, go here.