May 2007 - Brampton Board of Trade receives provincial award

The Brampton Board of Trade has received provincial recognition for excellence in chamber operations for its year-long Skills Without Borders campaign Skills Without Borders was one of three initiatives from local chambers of commerce in Ontario to receive a Chair’s Award at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting in London in May.

“The skills shortage is one of the most pressing issues facing our province,” explains Len Crispino, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “Skills Without Borders has effectively enabled employers with vacancies, to understand and access foreign-trained workers with training.”

Skills Without Borders is a comprehensive program designed to raise awareness about labour needs in North Peel and the ability of skilled immigrants to meet those needs. In depth research and resource information has been developed and is being provided to employers through events, marketing and online resources, including in an employer resource guide.

“Skills Without Borders has become a model for other communities in Ontario and has received well-deserved accolades from government, employers and immigrants,” adds Crispino. “We’re happy to add our praise.”

The following are some of the reasons Skills Without Borders was recognized with a Chair’s Award:
•Heightened awareness among employers about the benefits of hiring immigrants and resources available.
•Fewer long-term vacancies and skills shortages experienced by local employers.
•More immigrants maximizing employment potential and contributions to local economy.
•Increased profile of the Brampton Board of Trade in the business community, local ethnic community, and public.
•Innovative model that can be replicated in other communities facing similar challenges

The Brampton Board of Trade CEO Sheldon Leiba was on hand to accept the award.
“This is tremendous recognition for what we believe is a meaningful and unique program, particularly in Brampton,” said BBOT President Wayne Waters. “I would like to thank CEO Sheldon Leiba for his vision and leadership in getting this project off the ground.”

“As the leading voice for business in Brampton we have a responsibility to provide programs that meet the needs of business. We believe Skills Without Borders helps raise awareness about the disconnect between skilled immigrants and labour needs in North Peel. I would like to thank Project Coordinator Dr. Yamil Alonso for guiding this project through to its completion. I would also like to thank The Marketing PAD for providing their marketing expertise,” said Leiba.

The OCC represents more than 57,000 businesses through 160 local Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, and has been Ontario’s business advocate since 1911.

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