In this episode of The Immigrant Project, we welcome Jane Katkova, founder of Jane Katkova & Associates and a leading voice in Canadian immigration consultancy. Jane shares her candid views on the challenges facing Canada’s immigration system, from massive application backlogs to the hostile climate towards international students and refugees.

We dive deep into:

•The root causes of the current immigration crisis in Canada.

•The economic and emotional toll on international students and temporary workers.

•The myths and realities of “bad actors” in the immigration process.

•Jane’s strong defense of immigration consultants and their role in the system.

This is a must-listen episode for anyone navigating or interested in Canada’s immigration landscape.

Thank you for watching; please check out our other episodes and leave us a review on

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-immigrant-project/id1738790849
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zLFLVztOarA5G4fBcsGw2

Jane can be reached at: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/jane-katkova-brown

Please Subscribe to us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKkg9AspkrfUSjs179JW_HA

Follow the Host, Girish Jaggi, on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girish-jaggi-06935497/ and the Producer, Aastha Taneja, here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/aastha-taneja-3abb4980/

Check out and subscribe to Girish's Personal YouTube page : https://www.youtube.com/@MrGirishjaggi, where he documents his life in Canada

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Girish Jaggi - https://www.instagram.com/girish_jaggi/

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In this episode of The Immigrant Project, we dive deep into the realities of immigration law with Randolf Hahn, Partner at Garcon Immigration Law. Randy sheds light on the spike in inquiries about moving to Canada during pivotal political moments in the US and unpacks systemic challenges within Canada’s immigration framework.

From the exploitation of international students to labor market fraud, Randy explains how bad actors undermine the system and what can be done to restore trust. He also discusses the key pathways for Americans to move to Canada, including CUSMA, provincial nominee programs, and refugee claims, while addressing the human side of immigration—how policies impact individual lives and families.

If you’re curious about Canada’s immigration trends, this episode is a must-listen!

Thank you for watching; please check out our other episodes and leave us a review on

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-immigrant-project/id1738790849
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zLFLVztOarA5G4fBcsGw2

Please Subscribe to us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKkg9AspkrfUSjs179JW_HA

Follow the Host, Girish Jaggi, on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girish-jaggi-06935497/ and the Producer, Aastha Taneja, here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/aastha-taneja-3abb4980/

Check out and subscribe to Girish's Personal YouTube page : https://www.youtube.com/@MrGirishjaggi, where he documents his life in Canada

You can follow us on Instagram here:
The Immigrant Project - https://www.instagram.com/theimmigrantproject_/
Girish Jaggi - https://www.instagram.com/girish_jaggi/

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This week, we’re recording from Jody Steinhauer’s office, the powerhouse behind Bargains Group and a trailblazer in Canadian entrepreneurship. As President and Chief Bargain Officer, Jody has turned her vision of helping others into a multi-million-dollar enterprise that empowers businesses and not-for-profits alike.

In this episode, Jody opens up about:

•Her entrepreneurial journey, from her apartment to nationwide success.

•Why giving back is key to thriving in business.

•The pressing need for skilled immigrants to drive innovation and growth in Canada.

Tune in to hear Jody’s insights on the changes in the Canadian business landscape and her call to action for more immigrant-driven innovation.

Thank you for watching; please check out our other episodes and leave us a review on

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-immigrant-project/id1738790849
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zLFLVztOarA5G4fBcsGw2

Please Subscribe to us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKkg9AspkrfUSjs179JW_HA

Follow the Host, Girish Jaggi, on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girish-jaggi-06935497/ and the Producer, Aastha Taneja, here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/aastha-taneja-3abb4980/

Check out and subscribe to Girish's Personal YouTube page : https://www.youtube.com/@MrGirishjaggi, where he documents his life in Canada

You can follow us on Instagram here:
The Immigrant Project - https://www.instagram.com/theimmigrantproject_/
Girish Jaggi - https://www.instagram.com/girish_jaggi/

DM us if you would like to be the next guest, or email us at theimmigrantprojectbyga@gmail.com

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In this episode, we sit down with Steven Tress, an immigration lawyer, to delve into the complexities of Canada’s immigration policies, the points-based Permanent Residency (PR) system, and what aspiring immigrants need to know.

We start by discussing the sentiment around immigration and unemployment, questioning whether policy changes are truly addressing public concerns. Steven shares insights into the points-based system, explaining what it takes to get a PR in Canada and offering guidance for those navigating the process.

We then explore the Express Entry system—how the government caps entries and selects applicants—and discuss how provinces, like Quebec with its pioneering selection model, impact immigration. Steven also covers the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and how these programs help meet local labor market needs.

For entrepreneurs, we touch on pathways to move businesses to Canada, including the startup visa program, and outline the benefits and potential drawbacks of Canadian citizenship. Steven also breaks down the intersections between criminal and immigration law, offering a unique perspective for those interested in legal practice in these areas.

Thank you for watching; please check out our other episodes and leave us a review on

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-immigrant-project/id1738790849
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zLFLVztOarA5G4fBcsGw2

Please Subscribe to us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKkg9AspkrfUSjs179JW_HA

Follow the Host, Girish Jaggi, on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girish-jaggi-06935497/ and the Producer, Aastha Taneja, here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/aastha-taneja-3abb4980/

Check out and subscribe to Girish's Personal YouTube page : https://www.youtube.com/@MrGirishjaggi, where he documents his life in Canada

You can follow us on Instagram here:
Girish Jaggi - https://www.instagram.com/girish_jaggi/

DM us if you would like to be the next guest, or email us at theimmigrantprojectbyga@gmail.com

You can connect with Steven here - https://steventress.com/

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In this episode, we sit down with Joel, an experienced immigration lawyer with over 40 years of practice in U.S. and Canadian immigration law. He has spent his career helping a diverse range of clients, from senior executives to individuals and large multinational organizations, navigate the complex rules and processes related to cross-border business. Joel's deep expertise allows him to provide tailored advice that addresses the unique needs of each client.

Throughout our conversation, Joel shares insights into key topics like North American free trade agreements and the different types of visas available for immigrants. His extensive background enables him to explain these intricate matters in a straightforward way, making it easier for listeners to understand their options when it comes to immigration and business. Joel's passion for helping others shines through as he discusses the importance of compliance and strategic planning in immigration matters.

We also explore the current landscape of immigration law and how it impacts skilled workers seeking opportunities across borders. Joel highlights the challenges these individuals face and offers practical tips for navigating the process successfully. Whether you're considering relocating for work or simply want to learn more about the immigration system, this episode is filled with valuable insights that can help you on your journey.


Thank you for watching; please check out our other episodes and leave us a review on

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-immigrant-project/id1738790849
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zLFLVztOarA5G4fBcsGw2
Please Subscribe us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKkg9AspkrfUSjs179JW_HA

Follow the Host, Girish Jaggi, on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girish-jaggi-06935497/ and the Producer, Aastha Taneja, here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/aastha-taneja-3abb4980/

Check out and subscribe to Girish's Personal YouTube page : https://www.youtube.com/@MrGirishjaggi, where he documents his life in Canada

You can follow us on Instagram here:
Girish Jaggi - https://www.instagram.com/girish_jaggi/

DM us if you would like to be the next guest, or email us at theimmigrantprojectbyga@gmail.com

You can connect with Joel here - https://gaimmigrationlawyers.com/about-us/

Support the show

In this episode, we sit down with Nida, a marketing professional with an engineering background, to explore her unique career journey and her experiences as an entrepreneur in Canada. Nida shares the story of what inspired her transition into marketing, the motivation behind her move to Canada, and her insights into the country’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Listeners will gain valuable tips for new immigrants looking to start their own ventures, as well as Nida’s take on the challenges around reverse immigration and what measures could improve the Canadian entrepreneurial ecosystem.

This engaging conversation offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and immigrants alike, focusing on navigating both personal and professional growth in a new country.

Support the show

In this powerful episode of The Immigrant Project, we welcome Soofia Mahmood, a passionate social worker and mom who has called Canada home for the past nine years. Soofia opens up about her transformative journey, sharing how her perspective has evolved since arriving as an immigrant. She touches on critical topics like mental health, the social behaviors that shape individual experiences, and the economic changes Canada has seen in recent years.

Soofia speaks candidly about the challenges of social isolation and offers practical advice to newcomers on how to find their social circle and thrive in their new environment. She emphasizes the importance of building connections and how those first friendships play a pivotal role in feeling accepted in Canada. With love and gratitude for the country that celebrates differences, Soofia describes how Canada became the place where she found acceptance and space to grow both personally and professionally.

Listeners will gain valuable insights from her story, as she also shares tips on how new immigrants can be happier in Canada by embracing their journey and making meaningful social connections. From navigating day-to-day life to setting professional goals, Soofia’s experiences serve as a guide for anyone seeking to find their place in a new country. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt conversation that offers hope and inspiration to immigrants looking to build a life in Canada.

Thank you for watching; please check out our other episodes and leave us a review on

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-immigrant-project/id1738790849
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zLFLVztOarA5G4fBcsGw2
Please Subscribe us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKkg9AspkrfUSjs179JW_HA

Follow the Host, Girish Jaggi, on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girish-jaggi-06935497/ and the Producer, Aastha Taneja, here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/aastha-taneja-3abb4980/

Check out and subscribe to Girish's Personal YouTube page : https://www.youtube.com/@MrGirishjaggi, where he documents his life in Canada

You can follow us on Instagram here:
Girish Jaggi - https://www.instagram.com/girish_jaggi/

DM us if you would like to be the next guest, or email us at theimmigrantprojectbyga@gmail.com

You can connect with Soofia here - https://soofiasays.com/

Support the show

In this insightful episode of The Immigrant Project, we sit down with Anna Sotnykova, an expert in navigating the complex world of entrepreneurship, scholarships, and government grants in Canada. Anna shares practical advice on how immigrants can fund their education, secure jobs, and build an international network in cities like Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, and Vancouver. We also dive deep into housing affordability and real financial literacy—empowering you to achieve success in your new life in Canada. Don’t miss this essential conversation packed with actionable insights!

Thank you for watching; please check out our other episodes and leave us a review on

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-immigrant-project/id1738790849
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zLFLVztOarA5G4fBcsGw2
Please Subscribe us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKkg9AspkrfUSjs179JW_HA

Follow the Host, Girish Jaggi, on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/girish-jaggi-06935497/ and the Producer, Aastha Taneja, here : https://www.linkedin.com/in/aastha-taneja-3abb4980/

Check out and subscribe to Girish's Personal YouTube page : https://www.youtube.com/@MrGirishjaggi, where he documents his life in Canada

You can follow us on Instagram here:
Girish Jaggi - https://www.instagram.com/girish_jaggi/

DM us if you would like to be the next guest, or email us at theimmigrantprojectbyga@gmail.com

You can connect with Anna here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-sotnykova2024/

Support the show