The Heart of the Ocean: 17th Private Conference and 3rd Annual General Meeting Enlightens and Engages Attendees

Industry professionals and enthusiasts came together for the esteemed 17th Private Conference and 3rd Annual General Meeting hosted in Halifax on May 20 and 21, 2024. This significant gathering, both in person and online, brought enthusiasm and knowledge-sharing opportunities, fostering discussions and networking like never before.
Hosted at the prestigious Lord Nelson Hotel in Halifax, NS, the event preceded the upcoming CAIPIC event, setting the stage for two days of unparalleled experiences.
The conference started with a day brimming with exploration, featuring visits to key landmarks such as the Nova Scotia government building, the Immigration Museum at Pier 21, and the picturesque Peggy’s Cove. Attendees enjoyed culinary delights at the renowned local eatery, the Bicycle Theft, followed by a seaside dinner and a captivating boat tour under the evening sky.

May 21 saw a packed schedule filled with insightful sessions and networking opportunities with immigration experts. Esteemed guests warmly welcomed attendees, including Nova Scotia MLAs Brian Wong and retired Steve Craig, along with Nova Scotia Chinese community leader Mr. Eric Yang, shedding light on the region’s economic, educational, and immigration landscape.

Sponsors Joorney Business Plan and JWP Investment delivered engaging presentations. They were joined by club members Daisy Dong and Phoebe Peng, who shared expertise on PNP programs in Nova Scotia and tips for managing notarized forms for IRCC use, respectively.
Legal counsels Mr. Enoch Wu, Mr. Joshua Slayen, Mr. Antonio Villarin, and Mr. Steven Tress captivated audiences with discussions ranging from personal injury concerns for new immigrants to family sponsorship immigration challenges and recent disciplinary decisions. A panel discussion featuring Wu, Slayen, and Tress provided attendees valuable insights on immigrant life, immigration hurdles, and advice for RCICs.
Peter Lam, the club’s legal advisor, concluded the event with a crucial club announcement, leaving attendees inspired and informed, ready to embark on new beginnings and contribute to the ever-evolving immigration landscape.

In conclusion, the 17th Private Conference and 3rd Annual General Meeting in Halifax was not merely an event, but a pivotal moment that underscored the commitment of industry professionals and enthusiasts to advancing immigration policies and practices. The gathering not only facilitated invaluable knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities but also celebrated the vibrant community of immigration stakeholders. As our members depart Halifax, they carry with them not only new insights and connections but also a renewed dedication to shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future for immigrants in Canada. Looking ahead, the impact of this conference promises to resonate positively within the field, driving innovation and collaboration in immigration services across the country.