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Cold and winter weather is about to settle in and CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO), Toronto Police Service (TPS), Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and the Ontario Government want to know: are you winter ready? The four organizations have joined forces to help inform Ontarians that now is the time to get your winter tires installed, check your car battery and stock your car with an emergency kit with all the essentials needed for the winter months. “Our weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter. It’s important to think ahead and prepare before driving conditions become hazardous,” says Nadia Matos, Manager External Communications, CAA SCO. “It all comes down to safety and there’s no time like the present to ensure you and your car are properly equipped.” TPS, OPP and the Ontario Government are also reinforcing the importance of driver behaviour. "The safety of Ontario’s roads is always a top priority, and we are continuing to work closely with our road safety partners to promote safe driving habits this winter season,” says Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, so when you’re heading out, always remember to slow down and drive according to weather and road conditions. Together, we can keep Ontario’s roads and highways safe for everyone this winter.” “Winter driving can be stressful. Motorists need to be alert at all times when on the road, even in the most routine circumstances like driving to and from work,” says Police Constable Sean Shapiro, Toronto Police Service. “That includes slowing down and driving according to weather conditions and ensuring you give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.” This year motorists also need to be aware of new amendments to the Highway Traffic Act. “It is now illegal to pass snowplows working side by side on Ontario highways. Only pass a snowplow if the lane is completely clear of any part of the plow, including its blade,” says Sargeant Kerry Schmidt, Ontario Provincial Police. Offenders may face a fine ranging from $150 to $1,000. This winter, before heading out on the road motorists can download and use the 511 app to check the weather and road conditions before they leave home. The 511 app can be found at 511on.ca or in the app store on your mobile device. Motorists should also refer to some other tips to help make their winter drive a safer one: Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times. Cold weather causes condensation in the system, which can lead to fuel-line freeze-up and can prevent your car from starting. Remove excess snow from your car before driving off. Any snow left on the roof might slide down onto the windshield and obstruct your vision. Keep your wiper fluid full. Keep extra fluid in your trunk. Make sure it’s rated for -40℃. Pack a fully stocked emergency kit. The kit should include a flashlight and extra batteries, warning devices (e.g., flares, reflective vests/strips), a first aid kit, blankets, jumper cables, non-perishable food and water plus a phone charger. Be sure to also keep an ice scraper, small shovel and snow brush handy in your car at all times.
A recent survey conducted on behalf of CAA Insurance Company has found that a growing number of Ontarians have significant concerns about vehicle theft. The findings indicate that almost half of respondents (47 per cent) are very concerned about auto theft. That number increases to 57 per cent for those living in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). In contrast, those who live in either Northern (14 per cent) or Southwestern Ontario (10 per cent) were less worried about auto theft. "As an organization, we are deeply concerned about the rising trend of auto theft in Ontario and across the country. The survey results highlight the urgency of taking comprehensive action to protect our communities," says Elliott Silverstein, director of government relations CAA Insurance Company. Many Ontarians have a false sense of security. While many of those surveyed are concerned about the increase in vehicle theft, far fewer (30 per cent) are worried that their vehicle is at risk of getting stolen. This discrepancy suggests that many Ontarians may have a false sense of security when trusting that their cars are not at risk of being stolen. In most cases, basic auto theft prevention does not go far enough. According to the Solicitor General of Ontario, a car is stolen every 48 minutes. From 2014 to 2021, there was a 72 per cent increase in auto theft across the province, with a 14 per cent increase in the last year alone. While many people are diligent about locking their doors, basic auto theft prevention does not go far enough. Eighty-two per cent of drivers are ensuring their vehicle is always locked. Seventy-seven per cent of drivers ensure valuables are out of sight. Nearly 50 per cent of drivers park their cars in locked garages. Six per cent of drivers use a steering wheel lock, and only 8 per cent use a Faraday box to block the transmission of RFID signals. "Auto theft can happen to anyone, and drivers need to do more than just lock their doors to make their vehicle difficult to steal. We are urging Ontarians to take additional preventive measures to safeguard their vehicles, making them less appealing targets for thieves," adds Silverstein. Tips that can help deter vehicle theft As car-related thefts in Ontario have risen dramatically. Here are tips that can help deter vehicle theft: Secure your parked vehicle with an anti-theft deterrent such as a steering wheel lock, brake pedal lock or wheel & tire lock device like "The Club" Store your key fob in a Faraday box/pouch to block its signal from being hacked Lock your doors, and if you have a garage, park your vehicle inside If you have multiple vehicles, park the less expensive one closest to the street Install motion sensors on your driveway and a camera to capture any activity Cover the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) so that it’s not visible on the dashboard Store an Air Tag in your vehicle to track your vehicle should it be stolen Ensure items are out of sight, and do not leave valuables in your vehicle at all Never leave your vehicle running Share any suspicious activity with law enforcement CAA Insurance believes that to combat auto theft properly; it will require collaboration with the government, insurers, vehicle manufacturers, and others, including Canada Border Services Agency. About This Survey The survey conducted for CAA Insurance Company is a representative sample of 2,000 Ontarians balanced and weighted on age, gender, and region. Comparative margin of error = +/-3.1%
Potholes and Cracked Pavement Keep Barton Street East in the Top Spot on the provincial CAA Worst Roads List. The votes are in, and the CAA Worst Road for 2023 is Barton Street East in Hamilton. Barton Street's persistent issues with potholes and severe alligator cracking in the pavement have led to its dubious distinction. The road first appeared on the top 10 list in 2019 and has steadily climbed its way to the top now for the second year in a row. Taking the second and third place spots are roads that at one point have also crowned the top of the list, Eglinton Avenue West in Toronto and County Road 49 in Prince Edward County. "The 2023 CAA Worst Roads campaign provides a valuable snapshot of the roads that the public perceives as pain points," said Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice president for CAA South Central Ontario. "For 20 years, this campaign has served as a powerful advocacy tool, initiating dialogues with decision-makers and driving positive change for safer roads across Ontario." Four new roads have debuted this year on the provincial top 10 list. Laclie Street, Orillia, Steeles Avenue East, Toronto, Aberdeen Avenue, Hamilton and Hurontario Street, Mississauga. Many of the roads nominated have undergone or are undergoing significant improvements. The success stories of the campaign are primarily attributed to the government's prioritization of infrastructure through multi-year capital investments. These investments demonstrate the impact of proactive measures on enhancing road conditions and addressing public concerns. The CAA Worst Road list is verified this year by the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario (RCCAO). “RCCAO is proud to support and partner with this year’s CAA Worst Roads advocacy campaign to give Ontarians a platform to raise awareness about the state of vital road infrastructure in their communities,” said Nadia Todorova, Executive Director of RCCAO. “The campaign highlights once again the need for dedicated funding to address the state-of-good-repair and maintenance of critical infrastructure needed to support our growing province. I want to thank RCCAO members for their initiative to offer their technical expertise to this campaign, including the Greater Toronto Sewer and Watermain Contractors Association (GTSWCA), Heavy Construction Association of Toronto (HCAT), and the Toronto and Area Road Builders Association (TARBA).” Ontario's Top 10 Worst Roads for 2023 Barton Street East, Hamilton Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto County Road 49, Prince Edward County Carling Avenue, Ottawa Finch Avenue West, Toronto Laclie Street, Orillia Steeles Avenue East, Toronto Aberdeen Avenue, Hamilton Lake Shore Boulevard East, Toronto Hurontario Street, Mississauga Worst Roads by Region Central— Laclie Street, Orillia Eastern— County Road 49, Prince Edward County Halton-Peel-York-Durham— Hurontario Street, Mississauga Niagara— Portage Road, Niagara Falls North— Algonquin Boulevard East, Timmins Southwest— Lauzon Parkway, Windsor Western— York Road, Guelph Ottawa— Carling Avenue, Ottawa For regional lists and historical results please visit: https://www.caasco.com/advocacy/worst-roads
STORY: CAA gives the gift of live theatre to 200 guests
Life for some of Toronto’s youth just became more magical thanks to CAA’s ticket donation to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. What beats the magic of live theatre? At CAA, the only thing more powerful is the gift of giving back. To help spread some cheer, CAA partnered with Kids Up Front Toronto to donate 200 tickets for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Saturday, November 26, 2022. Kids Up Front Toronto is an organization that distributes tickets to various arts, culture and sporting events to deserving kids and their families in the Toronto Area. Before the show, CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre staff welcomed the lucky recipients with complimentary snacks and giveaways. Plus, they hosted a pre-show photo opportunity for the guests of honour to strike their best wizard poses. After the performance, the cast further delighted the children with an exclusive post-show Q&A session. “We are giving more than just a ticket,” says Taz Ratanshi, Supervisor of Brand Partnership and Events at CCG. “We are enriching children’s lives with valuable experiences by enabling them to engage with the community.” CAA is thrilled to be back at live events to host unique and exclusive theatre offerings that help add financial and emotional value to the community. Learn more about how you can support Kids Up Front Toronto by donating your unused tickets towards this good cause. Experience the magic of this special event by checking out the photos below:
MEDIA RELEASE: Hamilton's Barton Street East voted Ontario's Worst Road
The votes are in and the CAA Worst Road for 2022 is Barton Street East in Hamilton. After making its debut on the provincial top 10 list in 2019, Barton Street East has ranked fifth place (2019), third place (2021) and climbed to first place this year due to potholes and severe alligator cracking in the pavement. It has also taken the top spot as Hamilton’s worst road for the third year in a row. Taking the second and third place spots are Eglinton Avenue West in Toronto and Barker Street in Prince Edward County. “We know the campaign works. People vote in the annual CAA Worst Roads Campaign because it gives Ontarians a platform to continue putting pressure on various levels of government to understand what roads they believe are in urgent need of repair,” says Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice president, government and community relations, CAA SCO. “The campaign has been able to demonstrate that decision-makers are paying attention to the results, which has prompted municipal officials to move up infrastructure projects in their communities.” This year, four out of 10 of the province’s Worst Roads are in Toronto. They are, Eglinton Avenue West, Eglinton Avenue East, Lake Shore Boulevard East and Finch Avenue West. This is double the number of roads in Toronto that appeared on provincial list compared to last year. In 2021, Victoria Road in Prince Edward County made its debut on the provincial top 10 list and this year, it has completely dropped off the list. Other roads that have come off the provincial top 10 list include: Hunt Club Road and Innes Road in Ottawa and Algonquin Boulevard West in Timmins. "These campaign success stories are because governments are prioritizing infrastructure through multi-year capital investments," added Di Felice. “The results this year show us that Ontarians are relentless in using the campaign to advocate for roads they believe are in urgent need of repair, which is why we have seen Barton Street bubble up to the top spot and roads like Eglinton Avenue continue to garner attention." In Ontario, 182 municipalities had roads in their communities nominated. Drivers accounted for the majority of the votes being cast, with cyclists and pedestrians accounting for about a quarter of the votes. Voters shared their primary reasons for selecting a road, with 80 per cent citing potholes, followed by poor road maintenance (71 per cent) and no or poor cycling infrastructure (29 per cent). Ontario's top 10 list is verified by the Ontario Road Builders' Association (ORBA). “This year’s Worst Roads campaign once again solidified the fact that although much work has been done across the province to maintain and repair Ontario’s roads, greater investment is needed to tackle the staggering municipal infrastructure deficit in Ontario,” says Bryan Hocking, CEO, ORBA. “Building and maintaining infrastructure is a critical part of Ontario’s long-term economic plan, and even more important to our economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. We must begin to build the necessary infrastructure today so we can be ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.” Ontario's Top 10 Worst Roads for 2022 1. Barton Street East, Hamilton 2. Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto 3. Barker Street, Prince Edward County 4. County Road 49, Prince Edward County 5. Carling Avenue, Ottawa 6. Eglinton Avenue East, Toronto 7. Lake Shore Boulevard East, Toronto 8. Finch Avenue West, Toronto 9. Bronson Avenue, Ottawa 10. Queen Street, Kingston Worst Roads by Region • Central— Laclie Street, Orillia • Eastern— Barker Street, Prince Edward County • Halton-Peel-York-Durham— Hurontario Street, Mississauga • Niagara— Ontario Street, St. Catharines • North— Algonquin Boulevard East, Timmins • Southwest— Plank Road, Sarnia • Western— Speedvale Avenue West, Guelph • Ottawa— Carling Avenue, Ottawa The CAA Worst Roads campaign is a platform for Ontarians to make roads safer by helping municipal and provincial governments understand what roadway improvements are important to citizens and where they need to be made. Votes submitted to the CAA Worst Roads campaign are compiled and released as an annual provincial top 10 list along with a series on regional lists, all designed to spark a dialogue with governments and to help pave the way for safer roads across Ontario. For the full list of the 2022 Worst Roads, please visit www.caasco.com/worstroads
MEDIA RELEASE: Less than a week left to vote for Ontario's Worst Roads
With just six days left for Ontarians to vote in the annual CAA Worst Roads campaign, CAA South Central Ontario (SCO) continues to call on motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to nominate their worst road. “CAA research indicates that 41 per cent of Ontarians have had their vehicles damaged from poor road conditions, however most (82 per cent), did not take action by either filing a claim with their insurance company or a damage claim as part of their municipality/province. CAA Worst Roads campaign gives Ontarians an easy way to let their politicians know what roads are important to fix,” says Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice-president, government and community relations for CAA SCO. “Our research also shows us that despite the frustration associated with construction delays, most Ontarians (88 per cent) are willing to incur some inconvenience to have better roads.” Contenders for the provincial top 10 list reflect a number of communities across Ontario, including Hamilton, Toronto, Prince Edward County, and Mississauga. Some of the biggest complaints from voters so far are potholes, poor road maintenance, poor cycling infrastructure, unpaved roads. Once voting closes, CAA will compile a list of the top 10 Worst Roads in Ontario, along with a series of regional top five lists across the province. Collectively, the campaign results will help to shine a light on the state of roads in communities across Ontario. Nominations for CAA's Worst Roads can be cast at caaworstroads.com until April 19th, results will be announced in June.
![“More Brains – Less Bots: Driving Reputation & Revenue with Expertise Marketing” – Collision 2019 Keynote [VIDEO] featured image](https://media-speakerfile-pre.s3.amazonaws.com/spotlightv2_images/7c404fee-cf9a-493e-bbc3-1d768d67e090_m.png)
On May 22, in Toronto, ExpertFile’s CEO and Co-founder Peter Evans presented at the Collision Conference in the “Growth Summit Track.” As the fastest growing tech conference in North America, Collision drew over 25,000 attendees. As one of the world’s largest and most influential tech events, Collision attracted CEOs of the world’s largest companies, founders of the most exciting start-ups, leading investors and media, from more than 120 countries. Click here to watch the keynote. In his keynote session titled “More Brains, Less Bots: Driving Reputation & Revenue with Expertise Marketing,” Peter speaks to how organizations can better engage their internal experts to competitively differentiate their brand and drive new revenues. The session outlined how trends such as the erosion of consumer trust and increasingly complex buyer journey are driving enterprises and institutions to make experts more approachable to key audiences as media sources, speakers and customer advisors. Peter also shared key insights learned from working with top organizations in sectors such as corporate, healthcare, higher education and industry associations.
Scholarship opportunities for international students in Canada
Pursuing a university or college education in Canada can open many career doors, but unfortunately tuition usually doesn’t come cheap. Tuition fees alone can cost tens of thousands of dollars per year, depending on your school and program of choice. In addition, international students in Canada spend anywhere between $27,000 CAD and $64,000 CAD per year on living expenses. Luckily, there are many fully-funded scholarships available to help international students manage the costs of a post-secondary education in Canada. To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top scholarships for newcomers that can help you achieve your academic goals in 2022 and beyond. It’s important to note that the application process and deadlines for the various scholarship options vary. For scholarships that are offered by universities or colleges, you’ll usually only be able to apply after you’ve been accepted into a study program. In some cases, you may be automatically considered for scholarships based on your academic or extracurricular achievements, without having to submit a separate application. For graduate-level scholarships awarded by schools, you may also need to be recommended or selected by your department. Be sure to keep track of the scholarships you’re planning to apply for, so you don’t miss out on application deadlines. Undergraduate scholarships for international students Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships This scholarship program at the University of Toronto assists international students who’ve demonstrated significant academic potential, creativity, and leadership. Around 37 international students receive this scholarship each year. Eligibility: You must be an international student (a non-Canadian who requires a study permit), currently in your final year of secondary school or have graduated no earlier than June 2021, and begin your studies at the University of Toronto in September 2022. What it covers: Tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years. Deadline to apply: January 17, 2022 Other criteria: To become a Lester B. Pearson Scholar, you must be nominated by your school and apply to undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto. For more information on the application process, visit the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships webpage. University of British Columbia International Scholars Program These scholarships are distributed based on both merit and need. UBC offers fifty scholarships each academic year, spread across four categories: the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award, the Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award, the International Impact Award, and the Vantage One Excellence Award. Eligibility: You must be an international student on a Canadian study permit entering UBC from a recognized secondary school or transferring from your first year at another college or university. You must have graduated from high school no earlier than June 2021 and be applying for your first undergraduate degree. In addition, you must demonstrate a level of financial need that would otherwise prevent you from pursuing a degree at UBC. What it covers: Awards are based on need, with the university dedicating approximately $10 million CAD a year to the fifty recipients in the program. Recipients also gain access to unique learning opportunities, annual retreats, dedicated advisors, and more. Deadline to apply: December 1, 2021 Other criteria: You only submit one application and don’t choose which award you’d like to receive. Rather, UBC will automatically consider you for all awards you’re eligible for. For more information on the application process, visit the UBC’s International Scholars Program webpage. Carleton Entrance Awards for International Students This program awards international students entering their first year of study at Carleton University with a record of high academic achievement. Eligibility: You must be admitted to Carleton with an average of 80 per cent or higher in high school, as well as meet the university’s language requirements. What it covers: Award amounts vary based on your grade average, but begin at a total of $4,000 CAD ($1,000 x four years) and go up to $16,000 CAD ($4,000 x four years) for the 2022 academic year. Deadline to apply: No separate application required. If you’ve been admitted to Carleton, you’ll automatically be considered for a scholarship. Other criteria: Scholarship value is calculated on your grade average at time of admission and won’t be recalculated based on your final marks. For more information, visit the Carleton’s Entrance Awards for International Students webpage. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship This program awards international students beginning their studies at the University of Calgary who have a track record of stellar accomplishments inside and outside the classroom. Currently, this scholarship is awarded two students each year, based on merit. Eligibility: You must be an international student registered full-time in an undergraduate degree program at the University of Calgary that commences in the Fall 2022 term. You must be a new student and present a minimum GPA of 3.20. You also must meet the university’s English Language Proficiency requirement. What it covers: The scholarship is $15,000 CAD, renewable annually in the second, third and fourth years at the University of Calgary, provided you achieve a GPA of 2.60 or more over a minimum of 24.00 units in the previous fall and winter terms. The total award amount is $60,000 CAD. Deadline to apply: December 1, 2021. You can apply for scholarships directly through the UCalgary portal. For more information, visit the University of Calgary’s International Entrance Scholarship webpage. Humber International Entrance Scholarships This program helps new international students enrolled in Graduate Certificate, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma programs at Humber College achieve their academic goals. This scholarship is awarded to ten undergraduate and ten graduate students each year. Eligibility: You must be enrolling at Humber College directly from a recognized secondary school, be a non-transfer student, and have a minimum final admission average of 85 per cent. In addition, you’ll need a 6.5+ score in IELTS (or equivalent) to qualify. What it covers: $2,000 CAD, over the first two semesters of your study Deadline to apply: September intake: the last day of May prior to Fall semester. January intake: the last day of September prior to Winter semester. May intake: the last day of January prior to Spring/Summer semester Other criteria: Even if you receive this scholarship, you’ll still have to pay the full tuition amount up front. The scholarship amount will be credited to your account after the tenth day of classes. In order to be eligible, you’ll need to provide the following: Your Humber Student ID number Confirmed Letter of Acceptance from Humber College for full-time program commencing in the appropriate Semester Personal statement of interest, including your Grade Point Average 2 reference letters Humber College also offers Bachelor’s Degree scholarships to all meritorious international students coming directly from high school with a grade of 75 per cent and above. If you qualify, you’ll automatically be awarded the scholarship without filing a separate application. For more information, visit the Humber International Entrance Scholarships webpage. Graduate scholarships for international students University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship This program awards more than $2 million each year to full-time masters and PhD students at the University of Manitoba who have a history of academic excellence. Eligibility: All students accepted into these programs without provisions are welcome to apply, regardless of citizenship, given they have a minimum GPA of 3.0 at the time of admission. What it covers: UMGF master’s awards are valued at $14,000 CAD per year for 12 or 24 months, for up to a total of $28,000 CAD. UMGF doctoral awards are valued at $18,000 CAD per year for 12, 24, 36, or 48 months, for up to a total of $72,000 CAD. Deadline to apply: Students must be recommended by their department or unit to the Faculty of Graduate Studies for a UMGF. Consult your department for information on the application process and deadline. For more information, visit the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships webpage. Waterloo International Master’s Award of Excellence This scholarship recognizes international students who wish to undertake research-based Masters degree programs at the University of Waterloo. Eligibility: Applicants must be international students with a valid Canadian study permit who are registered full time. The scholarship is awarded to Masters degree students in research-based programs, and only students entering the first term of their program are eligible. Additional academic criteria will be decided upon by the faculty and you must not have any outstanding academic or probation issues. What it covers: The scholarship award is valued at $2,500 CAD per term for a maximum of five terms. Deadline to apply: You’ll be automatically considered for this scholarship with the submission of your regular application. The application deadline for most Masters programs commencing September 2022 fall within January to February 2022. For more information, visit the Waterloo International Master’s Award of Excellence webpage. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Leadership Scholarships This three-year scholarship program provides funding and other opportunities to twelve full-time doctoral students, and is not tied to one specific learning institution. Eligibility: Non-Canadians can be either permanent residents or foreign nationals enrolled in a doctoral program at a recognized Canadian institution. Field of study should be related to the humanities or human sciences with direct relevance to Canada’s future. You must already be accepted into years one or two of a doctoral program and expected to complete your studies by 2025. What it covers: Up to $40,000 CAD per year for three years to cover tuition and reasonable living expenses to focus on their doctoral studies and the Foundation’s leadership program. Additionally, up to $20,000 CAD per year for three years, for the learning of languages, for travel and accommodations for the Foundation’s leadership program, and for research, networking, and travel related to their doctoral research. There will also be access to opportunities to acquire greater proficiency in Canada’s official languages (French and English) as well as Indigenous languages. Deadline to apply: December 21, 2021 at 5 p.m. EST Other criteria: The selection process is a rigorous one involving multiple rounds of interviews. If successful, you’ll be expected to participate in and organize activities related to the Foundation outside your normal course of study. For more information, visit the Trudeau Leadership Scholarships webpage. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) This scholarship recognizes students enrolled in graduate studies at 19 publicly-funded Ontario universities, including the University of Toronto, University of Guelph, McMaster University, University of Ottawa, Queen’s University, Ryerson University, University of Waterloo, Western University, and York University. Each award is jointly funded by the Province of Ontario (two thirds) and the school offering the award (one third). Eligibility: International students who are studying or plan to study a full-time graduate program (master’s or doctoral level) at one of the 19 participating universities in Ontario under a valid temporary resident visa (student study permit) are eligible for OGS awards (valid study permits must be effective as of the graduate units’ OGS international application deadline). Currently registered international graduate students who have not yet been able to obtain a study permit due to COVID-19 circumstances are also temporarily eligible to apply. Applications are assessed on merit and must meet the criteria set by the participating schools. What it covers: The value of the OGS is $5,000 CAD per term. Thus, awardees may receive $10,000 CAD for two consecutive terms or $15,000 CAD for three consecutive terms. Deadline to apply: Date will be set by your graduate department or unit, who will then forward selected applications to OGS for final consideration. Other criteria: Applicants must submit an OGS application to their proposed graduate unit using their school’s centralized OGS application portal. If you’re applying to multiple participating schools, you’ll need to submit a different OGS application for each school. For more information, visit the Ontario Graduate Scholarships webpage. Where to find more information about scholarships for international students in Canada This list of scholarships is by no means comprehensive, so make sure to do your own research and see what else is out there! Start by checking if your academic institution offers any international student scholarships that you qualify for. You may also be eligible for program-specific or independent scholarships to fulfill your dream of studying in Canada. Educanada, studentawards.ca and scholarshipscanada.com are great resources to help you get started. Other ways to fund your university or college education in Canada While scholarships are a helpful tool, they’re far from the only way to fund a post-secondary education in Canada. Even if you do receive a scholarship, it may have to be supplemented with other sources. As an international student, you may be able to rely on student loans or lines of credit to fund your education in Canada. You may also qualify for student grants or bursaries that are offered by universities, colleges, and other organizations. Alternatively, many international students choose to work while studying to cover their living expenses in Canada. As an international student, studying in Canada can be expensive. However, the Canadian government and universities offer many scholarships to help international students achieve their academic goals. This resource will provide you with a starting point to research scholarship options to fund your education in Canada. Original article located here, published by Arrive. About Arrive Arrive is powered by RBC Ventures Inc, a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada. An important part of establishing your financial life in Canada is finding the right partner to invest in your financial success. RBC is the largest bank in Canada* and here to be your partner in all of your financial needs. RBC supports Arrive, and with a 150-year commitment to newcomer success in Canada, RBC goes the extra mile in support and funding to ensure that the Arrive newcomer platform is FREE to all. Working with RBC, Arrive can help you get your financial life in Canada started – right now.
How to choose the best Canadian bank account as a newcomer
During your first few days as a newcomer in Canada, you will need to complete certain tasks to set the foundation for your long-term financial success. Opening a bank account and applying for a credit card should be a top priority on your list. The Canadian banking industry is large and you’ll have many options to choose from. However, newcomers to Canada have distinct financial needs and not all products will be well-suited to your requirements. Typically, you should start researching banking options in Canada several weeks before your arrival to avoid delays in the bank account opening process. This article will give you an overview of banks and banking products in Canada and some essential tips on choosing the best bank account and credit card for you. Banking options in Canada Most newcomers opt for one of the “Big Five” banks, given their size and presence across the country. By market capitalization, these include Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD), Bank of Nova Scotia (Scotiabank), Bank of Montreal (BMO), and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC). These banks have both a physical and a digital presence. For instance, RBC has 1,201 branches and 4,240 ATMs across Canada, as well as easy-to-use online, mobile, and phone banking options. In addition to the traditional banks, Canada also has a few digital-only banks, such as Tangerine, EQ Bank, Motusbank, and Simplii Financial. These banks also offer financial products, but may not have the full range of services that larger banks offer. Types of bank accounts There are two main types of bank accounts in Canada that serve distinct purposes: Chequing account: Your chequing account is an essential basic account. This is where you keep money that you’ll use for daily transactions, making purchases, and all of your recurring expenses. Typically, with your chequing account, you’ll earn a low or no yearly interest rate on deposits. You may also get a debit card to access this account. Savings account: A savings account is a high-interest account to help you save money over the longer term. This account is not intended for regular, everyday spending transactions. It’s ideal for money that you won’t need daily access to and can set aside as savings for an emergency fund or longer-term needs. Things to keep in mind while choosing a banking partner With all the choices available to you, selecting a banking partner that’s right for your financial needs can be confusing. As this is a crucial decision to make, there are many factors you’ll need to keep in mind to ensure your bank meets your needs. Does the bank have specialized accounts or offers for newcomers or international students? Whether you’re coming to Canada as a permanent resident or an international student, your financial needs as a newcomer will be different from those of residents who’ve been here longer and don’t have financial ties abroad. Some of the larger banks, like RBC, have distinct newcomer banking products that are specially designed to meet your requirements. Does the bank have branches or ATMs near you? Also, look at the overall presence of the banking partner to determine whether you’ll have easy access to your money. You can use the branch locator on the bank’s website to find branches or ATMs close to your home or workplace. Do they have a good reputation of service and does their mission align with your interests? Be sure to check if the bank you’re choosing has a good reputation, has advisors who are able and willing to explain financial products to you, and answers your questions. As a newcomer, you want a trusted banking partner who understands your needs, so compare customer reviews and ask your friends in Canada about their experience with their banks. Also, look at awards or recognitions the banks may have received. For instance, the Global Finance magazine ranked RBC as the #1 World’s Best Bank in North America in 2021. Does the bank offer a wide range of financial products? As a newcomer, your financial needs may be limited initially, but will likely expand over the next few years. Make sure that your bank can offer you the entire range of products from banking basics like chequing accounts and credit cards to products you’ll need over a longer term like mortgages, RESPs, auto loans, and insurance. Does the bank have staff members who speak your language? Language barriers and cultural differences should not stand in the way of your financial success in Canada. If your first language is not English or French, be sure to check if the bank you’re considering has financial advisors who can answer your questions and explain financial products in a language you’re comfortable with. How to choose the right bank account for you Not all bank accounts are the same. The requirements, fees, and account features may vary based on the financial institution and the banking product you’ve picked. Here are some things you should compare to find a bank account that meets your needs: Minimum balance requirements: Some bank accounts require you to maintain a minimum daily or monthly balance. If your balance dips below this required level, you may be charged a penalty. RBC Day to Day Banking, RBC Signature No Limit, and RBC VIP Banking accounts don’t have any minimum balance requirements, allowing you to access all your money, whenever you need it. Speak to a financial advisor to find the best bank account for your needs. Banking fees: Most chequing accounts have a monthly banking fee, which can range from $0 to $30.95. In some cases, the monthly fee can be waived if you maintain a minimum balance in the account. Statement fees: Some banks charge a small monthly fee for issuing paper bank statements. In most cases, you can opt for paperless, e-statements for no charges. Cheque or draft fees: Some chequing accounts come with free personalized cheques or bank drafts. In others, a chequebook with 50 leaves can cost as much as $50 and a bank draft can cost up to $10. Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or Interac e-Transfer limits and charges: Some accounts may have limits for how many ATM withdrawals or peer-to-peer Interac e-Transfers you can make in a month. You should also check if there’s a fee for withdrawing money from another bank’s ATM or making Interac e-Transfers to an account in a different bank. International remittance fees: As a newcomer in Canada, you may want to continue financially supporting your family back home. If you’re planning to make international money transfers regularly, be sure to check the international remittance fees for the chequing accounts you’re considering. RBC offers newcomers up to two free international remittances per month for their first year with an eligible RBC bank account. Interest rates: The interest you’ll receive in savings accounts in Canada may be much less than what you’re used to in your home country. However, High Interest Savings Accounts (HISA) usually offer a higher rate of interest to help you grow your savings faster. Offers: Some bank accounts offer incentives at the time of account opening. For instance, you may receive cash incentives, higher interest rates, or free services if you open a new account and meet some qualifying criteria. As a newcomer in Canada, choosing a bank account will likely be a top priority for you. The banking system and financial products may be very different from those in your home country, so take the time to understand each product and select a bank account and credit card that best fits your needs. Remember that you are not tied down to the banking products you choose when you first arrive, so you can always upgrade to a higher tier account or credit card later. Original article located here, published by Arrive. About Arrive Arrive is powered by RBC Ventures Inc, a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada. An important part of establishing your financial life in Canada is finding the right partner to invest in your financial success. RBC is the largest bank in Canada* and here to be your partner in all of your financial needs. RBC supports Arrive, and with a 150-year commitment to newcomer success in Canada, RBC goes the extra mile in support and funding to ensure that the Arrive newcomer platform is FREE to all. Working with RBC, Arrive can help you get your financial life in Canada started – right now. Learn about your banking options in Canada and be prepared.
Most in-demand jobs in Ontario for newcomers
Ontario is one of the most popular provinces among newcomers. Its cultural diversity, economic prosperity, and ever-growing job market are just some of the reasons newcomers from across the world choose to settle in Ontario. The government of Ontario periodically invites newcomers with the skills and experience to meet the province’s growing labour requirements to work and settle in Ontario as Permanent Residents (PR) through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. This article provides information on Ontario’s job market. This includes the top industries that contribute to its economy, the most in-demand occupations for newcomers in the region, NOC codes, and median wage estimates, so you can arrive prepared to kick-start your career in Canada. What are the top industries in Ontario? Services industry: The services sector is the largest contributor to the province’s economy and employs nearly 79 per cent of the people living in Ontario. Some of the key service industries include banking and financial services, professional, scientific and technical services, and arts and culture. Manufacturing industry: Ontario’s manufacturing industry is one of the biggest in North America. Some of the most prominent manufacturing industries are automotive, information and communication technologies, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. Agriculture: Ontario’s farming sector contributes nearly 25 per cent of Canada’s farm revenue. Mining industry: In addition to being one of the world’s top 10 producers of nickel and platinum, Ontario is also rich in gold, silver, copper, zinc, cobalt, and non-metallic minerals. Southern Ontario also has a sizeable oil and gas industry. Forestry industry: The forestry industry in the province creates nearly 200,000 direct and indirect jobs. Which cities have the most job opportunities in Ontario? Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA): This is the most populous region in the province, and Toronto is the financial hub of Canada. Other large industries in Toronto and the GTA include technology, real estate, trade, and manufacturing. Ottawa: As the capital of Canada, Ottawa offers significant job opportunities in administration. It is also a major centre for the high technology and finance industries. Brantford: This city is a manufacturing hub and offers job opportunities in food and beverage manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, rubber and plastic production, and warehousing and distribution. In addition, Brantford also has a growing media and entertainment sector. Hamilton: Another manufacturing centre, Hamilton has a large job market in the food processing and agribusiness industry, as well as in advanced manufacturing. Waterloo: The Toronto-Waterloo region is often referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley of the North’ and presents significant opportunities in the technology sector. Which jobs are in demand in Ontario? Health care jobs in Ontario Managers in health care (NOC 0311): Managerial positions in health care typically require a degree in management and pay around $48.21 CAD per hour. • Registered nurses and psychiatric nurses (NOC 3012): You’ll need a nursing degree and a provincial nursing licence to qualify. The median hourly pay for registered nurses in Ontario is $36 CAD. • Medical laboratory technologists (NOC 3211): As a lab technologist in Ontario, you can earn a median income of $38 CAD per hour. • Opticians (NOC 3231): Opticians make between $27 CAD and $34 CAD in Ontario. • Licensed practical nurses (NOC 3233): Licensed nurses make a median hourly wage of $27 CAD. • Nurse aides, orderlies, home support workers, and patient service associates (NOC 3413, 4412): For these occupations, the hourly wage ranges between $17.50 CAD and $20 CAD. Service sector jobs in Ontario To qualify for service sector jobs, you’ll usually require at least an undergraduate or graduate degree from a university. Administrative services managers (NOC 0114): Managerial positions in administration typically pay a median salary of $41 CAD per hour. Banking, credit and other investment managers (NOC 0122): Managers in the finance sector earn a median income of $50 CAD per hour. You’ll usually need a degree in management or finance to qualify. Advertising, marketing, and public relations managers (NOC 0124): These roles require a degree in marketing or management and pay a median income of $40 CAD per hour. Business services managers (NOC 0125): These roles pay an average hourly salary of $43 CAD. Corporate sales managers (NOC 0601): Sales manager roles in Ontario can be fairly high paying, with a median hourly wage of $52 CAD per hour. Restaurant and food services managers (0631): Compared to other managerial positions, restaurant and food services managers have the lowest median wage at $19.23 CAD per hour. Construction managers and managers in transportation (NOC 0711, 0731): Employees in these roles earn a median hourly wage between $38 CAD and $40 CAD. Human resources professionals (NOC 1121): HR professionals make an average income of $35 CAD per hour. Professional occupations in business management consulting (NOC 1122): In Ontario, business consultants make a median hourly salary of $41 CAD. Mathematicians, statisticians, and actuaries (NOC 2161): As a mathematician, you can earn an average of $45 CAD per hour. However, you’ll need an advanced degree in mathematics, statistics, or a related subject. Technology sector jobs in Ontario To work as an engineer in Ontario, newcomers require a licence from the province in addition to an engineering degree. Engineering managers, computer and information systems managers (NOC 0211, 0213): Managerial level in-demand jobs in Ontario pay a median hourly wage between $52 CAD and $53 CAD. To qualify, you may require a degree in engineering, management, or both. Computer engineers (NOC 2147): As a computer engineer, you can earn a median income of $44 CAD per hour. Database analysts, software engineers and designers, computer programmers and interactive media developers (NOC 2172, 2173, 2174): These technology sector roles pay between $40 CAD and $46 CAD per hour in Ontario. While many such positions require an engineering degree, some roles may also be open to applicants with a degree in computer science. Web designers and developers (NOC 2175): Web designers in Ontario can earn a median hourly wage of $31 CAD. Manufacturing jobs in Ontario Manufacturing managers (NOC 0911): Managers in manufacturing make a median income of $43 CAD per hour in Ontario. Machine operators in the mining and processing, chemicals, plastics, woodworking, and food and beverage industries (NOC 9411, 9416, 9417, 9418, 9421, 9422, 9437, 9446, 9461): Machine operators and process control workers typically earn a median hourly wage between $15 CAD and $23 CAD, depending on the industry they are in. Assemblers, fabricators, inspectors, and testers in the electronics and mechanical industries (NOC 9523, 9526, 9536, 9537): The median hourly wage for these jobs is between $16 CAD and $22 CAD. Agriculture jobs in Ontario The median hourly wage for in-demand agriculture jobs is between $14.35 CAD and $20 CAD. General farm workers (NOC 8431) Nursery and greenhouse workers (NOC 8432) Harvesting labourers (NOC 8611) Industrial butchers, meat cutters, poultry workers (NOC 9462) What is the minimum wage in Ontario? The general minimum wage in Ontario as of October 1, 2021, is $14.35 CAD per hour. For student workers, the minimum wage is $13.50 per hour. What is the unemployment rate in Ontario? The unemployment rate in Ontario in September 2021 was 7.3 per cent. However, the province’s economy is still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and, with each quarter, the unemployment rate is inching back towards the pre-pandemic level of under six per cent. How can I move to Ontario? In addition to the federal Express Entry program, the province also invites permanent residents through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. If you’re planning to work in Ontario temporarily, you may be able to qualify for a work permit if your skills align with the province’s in-demand occupations. Ontario also boasts of some of the best universities in Canada and, each year, thousands of students come to Canada on study permits, with the aim of receiving a world-class education and settling permanently in Canada. Original article located here, published by Arrive. About Arrive Arrive is powered by RBC Ventures Inc, a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada. An important part of establishing your financial life in Canada is finding the right partner to invest in your financial success. RBC is the largest bank in Canada* and here to be your partner in all of your financial needs. RBC supports Arrive, and with a 150-year commitment to newcomer success in Canada, RBC goes the extra mile in support and funding to ensure that the Arrive newcomer platform is FREE to all. Working with RBC, Arrive can help you get your financial life in Canada started – right now.