How are South Asian migrant women in Canada overcoming employment challenges?

A look at the challenges and signs of resilience in pandemic times

South Asian women, who comprise the largest share of migrant women in Canada, face numerous challenges in accessing employment and many take precarious and low-paid jobs in order to survive. Gender- and race-based discrimination in the labour market, domestic and care responsibilities, lack of access to information and employment services are among the many barriers they encounter while seeking employment. In response, South Asian women in Canada often engage in entrepreneurship and create alternative employment avenues using family and community resources, and social networks.

Against this backdrop, how are South Asian women faring during the Covid-19 pandemic? What unique challenges do these women face as they struggle to access employment, information and social connections? What avenues of support could create employment opportunities for these women?

Join CERC Migration for a webinar to discuss the impact of the pandemic on South Asian women’s employment and what proactive approaches could enhance their participation in paid work and entrepreneurship.

Panelists include:

• Sutama Ghosh, Associate Professor, Department Geography and Environmental Studies, Ryerson University
• Manjeet Dhiman, Senior Vice President, Services & Strategic Initiatives, ACCES Employment
• Vathsala Illesinghe, PhD Candidate, Policy Studies, Ryerson University

Chair: Marshia Akbar, Senior Research Associate, CERC Migration and integration