The blog was produced in partnership with the Rotman School of Management’s Intercultural Skills Lab.

For Parantap Parikh, the move to Canada from India was a leap into the unknown. However, the promise of new opportunities meant walking into the challenge of redefining his career. To overcome this challenge, he enrolled in a bridging program for change management professionals at the Rotman School of Management’s Intercultural Skills Lab. This was a huge step in pursuing the future he has always seen for himself.

Meet Parantap

Parantap Parikh moved to Canada only 18 months ago. Despite a secure career back home, Parantap sought more than just the benefits of living in Canada. He yearned for a deeper sense of fulfillment by experiencing life outside his comfort zone. However, within his first year in Canada, Parantap faced unemployment.

Unsure of the next step, Parantap’s wife found a program on Canoo with the Rotman School of Management. This was the shift he was looking for that would propel his career forward.

Photo of Parantap at Rotman School of Change Management — Credit: Rotman School of Management’s Intercultural Skills Lab

The Business Edge Change Management program at the Rotman School of Management is a part of the Intercultural Skills Lab (ISL). Canoo members can access bursaries through our partnership with the Rotman ISL and learn about bridging programs that can help them navigate the Canadian workplace culture.

“Like most things Rotman does, this program is elevated in its approach when compared with similar programs offered by other institutions.”
Parantap

Download Canoo today to see what courses are available!

Why Did You Take the Course?

“My goal is to stop playing catch-up with my peers and be in a position more suited to my abilities and ambitions.”
Parantap

The bridging program became a pivotal part of his journey, offering him the tools to rebuild his career. He sought solutions and a new path towards success. As someone who has always loved being close to the world of academics, this was the perfect way to achieve the changes he desired.

In the Business Edge program, you will receive personalized professional coaching in career management, effective communication, and emotional intelligence. For finance or change management professionals aiming to advance in their current roles or enhance their skills, Business Edge is a critical step towards a dynamic leadership career.

Day 1: Orientation

Orientation at the Business Edge program connects you with classmates in similar positions, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support. You’ll also meet experienced facilitators who are there to make you feel welcome.

“I attended the orientation day with no preconceived notions…After the first day, I was confident that the next 6 months were going to be an enriching experience.”
Parantap

Under the guidance of a career coach, he was able to get out of his comfort zone and overcome his inhibitions about networking. This ability to network effectively is Parantap’s top skill gained from the program and one he uses every day in his career progression.

Final Days: The Success Story

His journey through the Business Edge program taught him the importance of being strategic while remaining persistent and optimistic.

“I came into the program as a person who was recently laid off after being in the country for less than a year. By the end of the program, I had been accepted into my dream company. I attribute a major portion of my success to the Business Edge Change Management program.”
Parantap

With new skills and a new job, Parantap is ready for the successful future that lies ahead.

People discussing change management certificates while holding an tablet. — Credit: Medienstürmer

What’s Next for Parantap?

Looking ahead, Parantap dreams of achieving a position suited to his abilities and ambitions, specifically aiming for a VP of Sales role in a major tech company. Parantap looks forward to embracing the diverse multicultural communities in Canada and creating a welcoming social life for himself and other.

The Business Edge program at the Rotman School of Management’s Intercultural Skills Lab has been instrumental in helping Parantap Parikh rebuild his career and rediscover his potential. The program’s unique approach and support have enabled him to navigate Canadian workplaces successfully and set a strong foundation for his future.

More Information About the Program

For more information about the Business Edge program at the Rotman School of Management, visit their website and explore how this program can help you achieve your career goals in Canada.

This program and funding for bursaries are provided by the Province of Ontario via the Ontario Bridging Participant Assistance Program (OBPAP).