When Mahmoud found TalentLift, he says he also found a second family.

Mahmoud, a talented electrician and Palestinian refugee living in southern Lebanon, was looking online for opportunities to move to Canada – a country he respected for its human rights reputation. Mahmoud was born in Libya as a refugee from Palestine and forcibly displaced as a child with his family to Lebanon. After thirty years of living in Lebanon, still as a refugee, he says he was tired of the sectarian and economic inequities and lack of opportunity for those wanting to work hard and create good, stable lives for themselves. Sitting down to research immigration possibilities, the very first result to his Google search was the website for TalentLift.

After applying in March 2024, things quickly came together. With a specialty in residential electrical wiring and monitoring systems, his skills are heavily in demand in Canada, where a lack of tradespeople can hinder homebuilders and other construction related industries. He also has experience in outlet configuration, solar power installation, and testing and documentation of electrical systems, giving him a breadth of experience within the field. Mahmoud says the team at TalentLift recognized his skillset and supported him through the process, as he applied, interviewed, and happily accepted a job offer from the Mississauga branch of The Hardwood Outlet, a flooring and renovations company in Ontario.

“I felt immediately comfortable with my employers,” he explains, “like they too could be a second family.” Coming solo to Canada, he says they have made him feel like he has a team supporting him. “Both The Hardwood Outlet and TalentLift have put in incredible effort and support for the upcoming transition in my life, from a Palestinian refugee in Lebanon into Canada,” he says, noting that the team has supported him through his recent displacement during the war in Southern Lebanon.

He wants to return the favour: “I will gladly give whatever I can to Canadian society, I understand Canada needs a lot of manpower for jobs, and I’m excited to contribute and start giving back.”

One thing that particularly excites Mahmoud is Canada’s diversity, and the chance to meet people from different backgrounds. He plans to fill his off hours meeting new people in Mississauga, and in particular wants to join a soccer club, try out running trails, and take part in a book club. “I want to contribute to Canada’s diversity and growth and my local community as soon as I can,” he emphasizes.

Mahmoud also highlighted his gratitude to TalentLift for turning his perspective around. “TalentLift came to me at a time when I thought all doors were closed. They turned the impossible into reality, a life I never thought was possible.”

Asked what else he wants to make clear before his journey to Canada, Mahmoud adds, “Thank you Canada, I’m ready to give you my best.” 

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