Join CAPIC in celebrating its 20th anniversary at the 2025 National Citizenship and Immigration Conference set in majestic Lake Louise!
Be inspired as we learn, engage and network together in a setting unlike no other. From program updates to operational processes to policy changes, participate in sessions that brings you to the summit! We'll tackle challenging, complex and confusing areas of practice and leave you information and knowledge. What will tomorrow look like from evolving AI to automatic processes as immigration is reshaped and redefined! Be part of something great!
The conference will take place at the historic Chateau Lake Louise! Sip your coffee overlooking the pristine lake before you wander to the conference hall and breakout rooms! Consider your next session while overlooking nearby mountains and breakdown a tough case while on a meandering trail.
Sustainability, renewal and the way forward will be huge themes in 2025 as we look ahead! We can't way to see you!
Government Speakers
Jasmyne Bois
Executive Director, Compliance Operations- ESDC
Jasmyne Bois
Executive Director, Compliance Operations- ESDC
Steve Pageau
Director, Program Operations- ESDC
Steve Pageau
Director, Program Operations- ESDC
Jonathan Leblanc
Director, Program Policy, ESDC
Jonathan Leblanc
Director, Program Policy, ESDC
Sinéad Tuite
Director General, Program Policy- ESDC
Sinéad Tuite
Director General, Program Policy- ESDC
Suzine Racine
IRCC Representative
Suzine Racine
IRCC Representative
Ellen O'Halloran
IRCC Representative
Ellen O'Halloran
IRCC Representative
James Mc Namee
IRCC Representative
James Mc Namee
IRCC Representative
Ian Ross
BC PNP Representative
Ian Ross
BC PNP Representative
Johanna Felske
IRCC Representative
Johanna Felske
IRCC Representative
Rob Stewart
CICC Special Investigator
Rob Stewart
CICC Special Investigator
Jonathan Joshi-Koop
Director of the Permanent Economic Immigration Branch at IRCC
Jonathan Joshi-Koop
Director of the Permanent Economic Immigration Branch at IRCCJonathan is the A/Senior Director of the Permanent Economic Immigration Branch at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), where he is responsible for providing strategic policy advice regarding Express Entry, the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Federal Skilled Workers Program. Prior to taking on this role, Jonathan held various management and analyst positions at IRCC, the Treasury Board Secretariat, and at the Immigration and Refugee Board, where he provided policy advice on the use of biometrics in Canada’s immigration system, Canada’s regulatory making process, and on the operations of Canada’s refugee determination system.
Ian Smart
IRCC Representative
Ian Smart
IRCC Representative
Previous Keynotes
The Honourable Marc Miller
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
The Honourable Marc Miller
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
The Honourable Marc Miller was first elected in 2015 as the Member of Parliament for Ville-Marie—Le Sud-Ouest—Île-des-Sœurs, in Montréal. He has previously served as Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and as Minister of Indigenous Services. Before entering politics, Minister Miller was a practising lawyer. He specialized in mergers and acquisitions, with a focus on international and commercial law, and worked in Montréal, Stockholm, and New York City. Previously, he served as an infantry soldier in the Canadian Armed Forces. Minister Miller made history in 2017 when he delivered a statement in the House of Commons entirely in Mohawk, marking the first time the language had been spoken in either the House of Commons or Senate since Confederation. He has also been a forceful advocate for increased federal investment in affordable housing, public transit, and the Canada Child Benefit. Minister Miller has been involved in several charitable and pro bono legal initiatives. He has also authored articles on constitutional and human rights law. Minister Miller is a graduate of the Université de Montréal, where he earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Political Science. He also graduated from McGill University with degrees in Common Law and Civil Law. He was born and raised in Montréal.
The Honourable Sean Fraser
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (NCIC 2022)
The Honourable Sean Fraser
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (NCIC 2022)The Honourable Sean Fraser was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Central Nova in 2015. Minister Fraser previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and to the Minister of Middle Class Prosperity and Associate Minister of Finance from 2019 to 2021, and as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change from 2018 to 2019. In 2021, he also served concurrently as Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Prime Minister. Before entering politics, Minister Fraser had a successful legal career with one of Canada’s top-ranked law firms, where he practised commercial litigation and international dispute resolution. He is a long-time volunteer, having served as the Vice-President of a local branch of the United Nations Association in Canada, acted as a Research Fellow with the Centre for International Sustainable Development Law, and provided pro bono legal services to the local BGC Club and vulnerable community members. Minister Fraser holds a law degree from Dalhousie University, a Master’s degree in Public International Law from Leiden University in the Netherlands, and a Bachelor of Science from St. Francis Xavier University. Minister Fraser grew up in Pictou County, and has family throughout the Town and County of Antigonish. He enjoys spending time in Central Nova with his wife, Sarah, and their children, Molly and Jack.
The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (NCIC 2020)
The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (NCIC 2020)
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, The Honourable Matt DeCourcey
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (NCIC 2019)
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, The Honourable Matt DeCourcey
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (NCIC 2019)
Matt DeCourcey was elected in October 2015 as a Member of Parliament for the riding of Fredericton, New Brunswick, where he was born, raised and educated. He served on the Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Special Committee on Pay Equity and the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development.
Mr. DeCourcey worked as an assistant to former Fredericton Member of Parliament and cabinet minister, Andy Scott, in 2005 and 2006. He also worked with former Labrador Member of Parliament and Métis leader, Todd Russell. After a five-month international development project in West Africa, Mr. DeCourcey established the Wanderers Friendship Cup – a soccer tournament and health-education initiative for youth in The Gambia. Armed with his unwavering vision for a caring and compassionate Canada, Mr. DeCourcey has dedicated the years prior to being elected to bettering the lives of disenfranchised youth through his role as Director of Communications, Education and Outreach, with the New Brunswick Child and Youth Advocate.
Mr. DeCourcey holds a Master of Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, and a Bachelor of Arts from St. Thomas University. He is a 2012-13 Action Canada Fellow, co-authoring the report, Who Cares About Young Carers? Raising Awareness for an Invisible Population, and a former provincial coordinator for the Canadian Commission for UNESCO’s Youth Advisory Group.
Mr. DeCourcey has served as a Parliamentary Secretary since 2017, and is currently Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
Mayor Naheed Nenshi
Calgary Mayor (NCIC 2019)
Mayor Naheed Nenshi
Calgary Mayor (NCIC 2019)
Naheed Nenshi, A’paistootsiipsii, was sworn in as Calgary's 36th mayor on October 25, 2010 and was re-elected in 2013 and 2017.
Prior to being elected, Mayor Nenshi was with McKinsey and Company, later forming his own business to help public, private and non-profit organizations grow. He designed policy for the Government of Alberta, helped create a Canadian strategy for The Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy, and worked with the United Nations to determine how business can help the poorest people on the planet. He then entered academia, where he was Canada's first tenured professor in the field of nonprofit management, at Mount Royal University's Bissett School of Business.
For his work, Mayor Nenshi was named a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum, was awarded the President’s Award from the Canadian Institute of Planners, and received the Humanitarian Award from the Canadian Psychological Association for his contributions to community mental health. In 2013, after his stewardship of the community during devastating flooding, Maclean’s magazine called him the second-most influential person in Canada, after the Prime Minister. He was also awarded the 2014 World Mayor Prize by the UK-based City Mayor’s Foundation as the best mayor in the world.
In 2014, he was also honoured by Elder Pete Standing Alone with the Blackfoot name A’paistootsiipsii, which means "Clan Leader" or "He who moves camp and the others follow". In 2016, Elder Bruce Starlight of the Tsuu T'ina First Nation honoured him with the name Iitiya: "Always Ready".
Mayor Nenshi holds a Bachelor of Commerce (with distinction) from the University of Calgary, where he was President of the Students' Union, and a Master in Public Policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, where he studied as a Kennedy Fellow.
Jean-Nicolas Beuze
UNHCR Representative Canada (NCIC 2017)
Jean-Nicolas Beuze
UNHCR Representative Canada (NCIC 2017)Jean-Nicolas Beuze worked for more than 20 years with the United Nations in the areas of Human Rights (OHCHR), Peacekeeping (DPKO) and UNICEF at Headquarters and in the field (Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Afghanistan and the Middle-East and North Africa region) before joining UNHCR in Lebanon as Deputy Representative for Protection and Inter-Agency Coordination. Prior to joining UNHCR, he was the UNICEF Child Protection Advisor for the MENA region (2010-13) working on emergency responses in Iraq, Libya, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, and strengthening public child protection and education systems in the region. He was previously appointed as the Deputy Director of the Human Rights Unit of UN Peace-Keeping/DPKO mission in Afghanistan/UNAMA (2008-10) focusing on women’s rights, elections, poverty and the protection of civilians. He previously worked as a Research Director in a human rights think-tank (International Council on Human Rights Policy) on issues of peace agreements, transitional justice, national human rights institutions and the reform of the UN human rights system. Jean-Nicolas Beuze holds a LL.M in international human rights law from Essex University, UK, and a Master in international relations from the Graduate Institute of International Relations, Geneva/Switzerland.
Janet Dench
Executive Director for Canadian Council of Refugees (NCIC 2016)
Janet Dench
Executive Director for Canadian Council of Refugees (NCIC 2016)
2016 AWARD RECIPIENT: JANET DENCH - CANADIAN COUNCIL FOR REFUGEES
The Canadian Council for Refugees is a national non-profit umbrella organization committed to the rights and protection of refugees and other vulnerable migrants in Canada and around the world, and to the settlement of refugees and immigrants in Canada. Its membership is made up of organizations involved in the settlement, sponsorship, and protection of refugees and immigrants. The CCR serves the networking, information-exchange, and advocacy needs of its membership.
Visit the CCR website for more information.
Mario Dion
Chairperson of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (NCIC 2015)
Mario Dion
Chairperson of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (NCIC 2015)A Montréal native, Mr. Dion, now a retired lawyer, obtained a law degree from the University of Ottawa in 1979. Mr. Dion began his legal career in 1980 as a legal advisor at the then-Ministry of the Solicitor General. In 1988, he became the Assistant Deputy Minister of Communications, Evaluation and Research at Corrections Canada. From Corrections Canada, Mr. Dion moved to the Department of Justice where he became the Assistant Deputy Minister of Corporate Services in 1992. In 1995 he was appointed Associate Deputy Minister of Justice. From 1996 to 1997 he served as Deputy Clerk and Counsel at the Privy Council Office, responsible for Legislative House Planning and Machinery of Government and then returned to the Department of Justice as Associate Deputy Minister. In 2003, Mr. Dion was appointed Deputy Minister of Indian Residential Schools Resolution of Canada, where he led efforts to bring closure to 16,000 pending litigation files and, ultimately, the historic 2006 agreement with former residential school students. Mr. Dion also served as Chairperson of the National Parole Board from 2006-2009 and most recently as Commissioner of Public Sector Integrity from 2011-2014. In 2015, Mr. Dion was appointed as Chairperson of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
Speakers
Rekha P. McNutt
Lawyer
Manprit Aujla-Grewal
RCIC / CRIC
Martine Varekamp-Bos
RCIC / CRIC
Catharine Baier
RCIC/CRIC
Warwick Immigration Canada was founded by Catharine in 2016, and has offices in both British Columbia and Alberta. Catharine is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (R515749) and received her master’s degree in business administration from the University of Fredericton in 2024. In addition, Catharine is an Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Law for the Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law at Queen's University. With 30 years of paralegal experience in both the legal and business communities, Catharine's skills encompass various areas including immigration, residential real estate, corporate commercial transactions, and small claims.
Steven Meurrens
Lawyer
Steven is a Vancouver based Canadian immigration lawyer who advises clients on all Canadian immigration and citizenship issues. He has significant experience representing corporate and individual clients in obtaining visas and permits for many business-related purposes, including, but not limited to, Labour Market Impact Assessments, intracompany transfers, international trade agreements, speciality business visits, and transitioning from temporary to permanent resident under numerous federal economic streams. His corporate clients include businesses engaged in mining, telecommunications, construction, hospitality, and technolgy start-ups.
In addition to his business immigration practice, Steven has extensive experience in family-based immigration matters. He also has an active practice assisting people who have been denied entry to Canada and to those whom have had visa applications refused. He has appeared before the Immigration and Refugee Board and the Federal Court.
Steven is the past-Chair of the Canadian Bar Association of British Columbia’s Immigration Subsection. He is a published columnist, a regular panelist at immigration law conferences, an instructor at the University of British Columbia’s Certificate in Immigration Laws, Policies and Procedures, the author of a very widely read blog on Canadian immigration law and the creator of an immigration podcast.
Neera Agnihotri
RCIC / RCIC
Born to a hard working immigrant family, Neera Agnihotri knows first-hand the challenges that we can face when entering a new community, let alone a new country to live, work or visit. Her personal experience is the driving force behind her passion to help others complete their venture into new land, with as much ease as possible Prior to attining her Immigration Practitioner Licence in 2006, Neera was immersed in the Travel and Tourism industry. Her hard work ethic and professionalism landed her a job on only her third day of practicum with BTI International, where she worked for many years. Neera was praised for her incredible focus and was considered an asset to their firm. But, being an ambitious female entrepreneur and driven young mother motivated her to take her career to the next level. She then attained her CSIC License and started her own firm
Since then she has been providing her clients with honest, efficient and transparent immigration services
There is a terrible stigma attached to the Immigration Consultant profession due to numerous reports of people engaging themselves in unethical behavior. These unfortunate situations are another source of motivation for Neera and her team to set the standard in her industry with ethical practice at all times
Jacques Therrien
RCIC / CRIC
Svetlana Balaba
RCIC/CRIC
Svetlana Balaba, RCIC, serves as the Executive Director of Student Retention, Records, and International Student Advising (ISA) at GUS Canada. GUS Canada is a part of the Global University Systems (GUS) network, which encompasses eight institutions across the country. Since becoming a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in 2017, Svetlana has held various roles in international education, with extensive experience in admissions, enrollment management, and student recruitment.
David LeBlanc
RCIC / CRICManaging Director, Senior Counsel Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant RCIC – ICCRC David is a High Honours Graduate of Seneca College’s Immigration Practitioner Program, and a Member of the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants. He has been with Ferreira-Wells since 2002. In April 2004, he was among the first hundred registrants listed with the former regulatory body Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants – CSIC, and is now a member of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council – ICCRC. He is a specialist in Family and Economic Class applications, refugee and H&C clients, attends Appeals and Admissibility hearings at all immigration tribunals, prepares final submissions, and responds to all challenges from Canada Immigration. A former banker and National Credit – Customer Service Manager with Fortune 500 corporations, David is the firm’s Managing Director and senior counsel, and oversees staff and daily business operations. He has taught classes at Seneca in the Professional Practice Management module, and is a founding member of the Immigration Consultant’s Listserv, a professional forum established in 2004 dedicated to the advancement of Immigration Consultant’s Continuing Professional Development. David is an avid portrait, travel and urban scene photographer, and has been a volunteer telephone crisis counselor with Distress Centres, family counselor with Survivor Support Program and Big Brothers. A world traveler, he was the past president of The Hemingway, an equity co-op for ten years, and oversaw its conversion to condominium. David was born in Montreal on Bastille Day, the national holiday of France, and one day he hopes to find himself in Paris on his birthday so he can see the fireworks and pretend they are for him.
Claudia Mei Mei Chan
RCIC/ CRIC
Kevin Zemp
Barrister & Solicitor
Kevin Zemp is the founder of Zemp Law Group, with over 28 years of experience working in the immigration field. He is licensed to practice immigration and citizenship law in both Canada and the United States, which provides him with considerable flexibility to service clients with both Canadian and US immigration and citizenship needs.
Kevin acts for corporations, industry associations and individuals in providing advice and assistance with respect to cross-border issues and immigration requirements. His practice serves clients involved in the manufacturing, energy, high technology, telecommunications, automotive and entertainment industries, among others. He assists both individuals and corporations with work permit matters, residency and citizenship applications and many other immigration issues.
Prior to his admission to the bar, Kevin was employed as a senior immigration officer for the Canadian government. He previously served as Chair of the Alberta South section of the Canadian Bar Association and is a former Chair of the National Immigration section of the Canadian Bar Association. With his many years of experience in dealing with immigration matters, Kevin is able to apply significant background knowledge and understanding in order to resolve complex immigration issues on behalf of his clients.
Klaudios Mustakas
RCIC / CRIC
Mia Loebach-Readings
RCIC / CRIC
•RCIC for 16 years; member of CICC and CAPIC •Employed by and managed a mid-size immigration law firm for 15 years, and did a short stint as an immigration advisor at Western University, before opening a consulting practice last year •Teaching at Queen’s University in the GDipICL practice management course for the past two terms •Sit on the mentoring committee and do work with the specialization program at CICC as a Subject Matter Expert •Invited by community service organizations to lead CPD and public information sessions for it’s employees and clients •Sit on the Interfaith Refugee Committee in London, privately sponsoring refugees under the Community Sponsorship program •Practice areas that I've been focusing on lately are RPD and RAD cases, as well as H&C applications
Mario D. Bellissimo
LL.B. C.S
Mario D. Bellissimo is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School and is a Certified Specialist in Citizenship and Immigration Law and Refugee Protection. He is the founder of BELLISSIMO LAW GROUP PC and the principal lawyer with a practice focus on citizenship, immigration and protected person litigation and inadmissibility law. Mr. Bellissimo has appeared before all levels of immigration tribunals and courts including the Supreme Court of Canada. He is the past Chair of the Canadian Bar Association National Immigration Law Section, serves as an appointed member of the Federal Court Rules Committee and participates on multiple stakeholder committees involving the Federal Courts, the Immigration and Refugee Board, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Canada Border Services Agency, Employment and Social Development Canada, and the Department of Justice.
Mr. Bellissimo has testified before Parliamentary and Senate Committees on several proposed amendments to immigration law over the years. He has been lead on policy papers, legal analysis and proposed recommendations to government on behalf of immigration advocacy associations and in his personal capacity.
Mr. Bellissimo acts on a pro bono basis for Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital and Pro Bono Law
Ontario and as the National Immigration Law and Policy Advisor for COSTI Immigration
Resettlement Services. He and his team represent clients from all over the world and Bellissimo
Immigration Law Group PC is exclusively committed to Canadian citizenship, immigration and
refugee matters. Bellissimo Immigration Law Group PC handles hundreds of files each year and
represents clients at every stage of the immigration process.
Olena Weber
RCIC / CRICOlena Weber helps RCICs build profitable businesses without burnout. As an immigrant entrepreneur herself, she is passionate about supporting immigrant women in creating businesses they are proud of. In 2024, she was recognized as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce. Fun fact: Olena swears by running a business without a phone number! Success of your business doesn’t require being on call 24/7.
Brooke Finlay
RCIC / CRIC
Burcu Akyol
RCIC / CRICBurcu embarked on her career path as an RCIC in February 2019. She started her immigration consulting business after seventeen years of experience as an educator and educational leader. Although she is relatively new in the industry, setting clear entrepreneurial career goals helped her scale her business from one employee to seven employees in three years. She believes whether it is three years or thirty years in the profession, being an RCIC and a business owner require embracing a dynamic approach, a growth mindset, and positioning yourself strategically in your market.
Dalia Milmantas
RCIC / CRIC
Brandon Miller
RCIC / CRIC
Brandon D.K. Miller is a seasoned Immigration Consultant, Educator, and Entrepreneur whose unwavering sense of entrepreneurship, integrity, and professionalism have earned him the reputation as an “Immigration Superhero” and innovative leader across Canada and beyond.
As a world-traveled professional, Brandon has been imparted with a deep understanding of a multitude of different cultures, enabling him to better serve his clientele who is equally as diverse. For several years, he also assisted new immigrants in not only settling in, but taking the action steps necessary to succeed in their new home. This previous experience grants him the ability to take the most holistic possible approach to an individual’s migration.
Currently, Brandon proudly serves as a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant at Maple Immigration Services and an Immigration Program Instructor at Herzing College.
In addition to his Certification in Immigration Consultation (with honours) from Humber College, Brandon D.K. Miller holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Psychology from Carleton University and an Instructor Diploma in TESOL (Teaching English to Speaker of Other Languages) from Global TESOL College.
Each day, Brandon D.K. Miller is deeply inspired by his clients who face untold adversity to create a better life for not only themselves, but their loved ones. As a dedicated Immigration Consultant and Educator who has traveled extensively, he has the golden opportunity to make his valued clients’ dreams a reality, which he finds both rewarding and humbling.
Katina Hunter Sutcliffe
LL.BKatina Sutcliffe attended University of Windsor Law School and earned her LLB. She also holds a JD from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Her background is wide and varied and includes a clerkship at the Ontario Court of Appeal and a decade working as a global relocation facilitator. During this time, Katina raised her young family and it is only in the last several years, Katina has become more active again in the law profession. She attended an IPP course and developed a passion for immigration advocacy. She focuses on inadmissibility issues and has worked closely with other practitioners on a variety of immigration cases. Another passion is Katina's thirst for case law research and administrative law approach. Katina has been a presenter at the chapter and national level and is a regular attendee at many CAPIC events! When not researching Katina can be found at her beloved cottage and sailing around the Great Lakes!
Claudia Toulany
RCIC / CRIC
Hannah Flostrad
RCIC / CRIC
Hannah Lindy
RCIC / CRIC
Oleksandra Melynkova
RCIC / CRIC
14th May
Wednesday
15th May
Thursday
16th May
Friday
18:00 PM - 20:30 PM
Preconference and cocktail
Conference Overview: In an era of rapid change and evolving immigration policies, staying ahead requires insight, agility, and strategic innovation. The NCIC 2025 conference is more than just an event—it’s a dynamic hub where immigration professionals gather to exchange ideas, challenge conventions, and discover new pathways to success. From thought-provoking sessions to interactive workshops and collaborative panel discussions, attendees will gain invaluable knowledge and practical strategies to navigate the shifting immigration landscape. This is an opportunity to engage with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge solutions, and forge connections that will shape the future of immigration practice. Get ready to embrace change, seize opportunities, and scale new peaks in your professional journey! Start your conference by an engaging discussion with your peers in a casual setting as we explore conference themes! Finish the evening off with networking and making those business connections. We can't wait to see you!
07:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Registration and Breakfast
08:20 AM - 09:00 AM
Exploring New Frontiers | Getting Set for the Day – Welcome & Housekeeping
Embracing Change and Unlocking Opportunities. This day focuses on policy changes, legal insights, and innovative pathways that immigration professionals can leverage to stay ahead in a dynamic immigration system. Opening Ceremonies: A warm welcome to attendees, setting the stage for an insightful and engaging conference.
09:00 AM - 09:45 AM
Opening Plenary: Seizing Opportunities Amidst Change
A high-level discussion on key immigration updates, policy shifts, and emerging opportunities.
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session A
Manprit Aujla-Grewal
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Manprit Aujla-Grewal
RCIC / CRIC
Martine Varekamp-Bos
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Martine Varekamp-Bos
RCIC / CRIC
09:45 AM - 10:30 AM
Inside Canada’s Levels Plan
(45 min CPD) A look at the mechanics of how intake is developed, with key insights into drivers, constraints, operational alignment and data modelling.
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded
Tammy-Lynn Romain
Senior Policy and Program Advisor, Immigration Program Guidance, IRCC
Speaker
Tammy-Lynn Romain
Senior Policy and Program Advisor, Immigration Program Guidance, IRCCTammy-Lynn Romain, Senior Policy and Program Advisor, Immigration Program Guidance, IRCC
Ian Smart
IRCC Representative
Speaker
Ian Smart
IRCC Representative
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Networking Break
Grab a coffee, return that phone call, or network with your colleagues! Another great option – take a peek at the beautiful Rockies
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Federal Court; Leveraging Judicial Reviews
(45 mins CPD) Is judicial review the right path? How can lawyers and consultants work effectively together, while keeping the client informed and empowered?
AT: Mount Temple: in-person and recorded | B1
Rekha P. McNutt
Lawyer
Speaker
Rekha P. McNutt
Lawyer
Catharine Baier
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Catharine Baier
RCIC / CRIC
Warwick Immigration Canada was founded by Catharine in 2016, and has offices in both British Columbia and Alberta. Catharine is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (R515749) and received her master’s degree in business administration from the University of Fredericton in 2024. In addition, Catharine is an Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Law for the Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law at Queen's University.
With 30 years of paralegal experience in both the legal and business communities, Catharine's skills encompass various areas including immigration, residential real estate, corporate commercial transactions, and small claims.
11:50 AM - 12:35 PM
Corporate Immigration – Did You Know?
(45 min CPD) Key insights, lesser-known strategies, and critical updates in corporate immigration. A can't-miss session!
AT: Victoria Ballroom: In-person and recorded session | Session B2
Jade Calver
RCIC
Speaker
Jade Calver
RCICMs. Calver has over a decade of experience in the Canadian immigration field. She has worked for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada as well as one of the country’s leading immigration law firms. She has handled hundreds of Canadian immigration cases, bringing individuals and businesses to Canada to achieve their goals. After completing her degree in Political Science with minors in Canadian Studies and French Literature at McGill University in 2012, Ms. Calver completed a graduate program in Immigration: Law, Policies and Procedures at the University of British Columbia in 2015. Jade Calver is a Regulated Immigration Consultant with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (R513992), and holds the designation of a Commissioner of Oaths for Taking Affidavits with respect to the Citizenship Act and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
11:50 AM - 12:35 PM
Unlocking Opportunities: The Alberta Advantage Program
(45 mins CPD) Do opportunities still exist and how can you client utilize those?
AT: Mount Temple: in-person and recorded | Session C1
Manprit Aujla-Grewal
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Manprit Aujla-Grewal
RCIC / CRIC
Karen Howley
Canadian Immigration Lawyer/Alberta Residential Real Estate Lawyer
Speaker
Karen Howley
Canadian Immigration Lawyer/Alberta Residential Real Estate Lawyer
11:50 AM - 12:35 PM
Caregivers – Pilots to Pathways
(45 mins CPD) Exploring the 2025 caregiver program.
AT: Victoria Ballroom in-person and recorded session | Session C2
Marjorie Newman
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Marjorie Newman
RCIC / CRIC
James Mc Namee
IRCC Representative
Speaker
James Mc Namee
IRCC Representative
Ellen O'Halloran
IRCC Representative
Speaker
Ellen O'Halloran
IRCC Representative
Suzine Racine
IRCC Representative
Speaker
Suzine Racine
IRCC Representative
12:35 PM - 13:45 PM
Networking Lunch (in person)
A busy morning so time to grab lunch, make new friends while overlooking Lake Louise!
13:45 PM - 14:30 PM
Case Law Digest
(45 mins CPD) A review of impactful immigration case law decisions and their implications for practitioners
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session D1
Steven Meurrens
Lawyer
Speaker
Steven Meurrens
Lawyer
Steven is a Vancouver based Canadian immigration lawyer who advises clients on all Canadian immigration and citizenship issues. He has significant experience representing corporate and individual clients in obtaining visas and permits for many business-related purposes, including, but not limited to, Labour Market Impact Assessments, intracompany transfers, international trade agreements, speciality business visits, and transitioning from temporary to permanent resident under numerous federal economic streams. His corporate clients include businesses engaged in mining, telecommunications, construction, hospitality, and technolgy start-ups.
In addition to his business immigration practice, Steven has extensive experience in family-based immigration matters. He also has an active practice assisting people who have been denied entry to Canada and to those whom have had visa applications refused. He has appeared before the Immigration and Refugee Board and the Federal Court.
Steven is the past-Chair of the Canadian Bar Association of British Columbia’s Immigration Subsection. He is a published columnist, a regular panelist at immigration law conferences, an instructor at the University of British Columbia’s Certificate in Immigration Laws, Policies and Procedures, the author of a very widely read blog on Canadian immigration law and the creator of an immigration podcast.
Hannah Lindy
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Hannah Lindy
RCIC / CRIC
13:45 PM - 14:30 PM
Understanding the Updates to British Columbia’s PNP Program
(45 mins CPD) What are the impacts of these changes? Let’s find out together with a roaster of seasoned BC PNP Professionals
AT: Victoria Ballroom: In-person and recorded session | Session D2
Aireen Luney
Manager, Program Development and Promotion in the Immigration Programs Branch
Panel Chair
Aireen Luney
Manager, Program Development and Promotion in the Immigration Programs Branch
Aireen Luney is the Manager, Program Development
and Promotion in the Immigration Programs Branch. She leads the strategic
planning, operational policy and program development for the BC PNP. Her
portfolio also includes managing the
marketing & outreach and engaging with stakeholders.
Prior to joining the Immigration
Programs Branch (BC PNP), Aireen had extensive experience in all aspects of
human resource management with the BC Public Service Agency. She has a Bachelor
of Arts from University of Victoria and speaks four languages.
Neera Agnihotri
RCIC / RCIC
Speaker
Neera Agnihotri
RCIC / RCIC
Born to a hard working immigrant family, Neera Agnihotri knows first-hand the challenges that we can face when entering a new community, let alone a new country to live, work or visit. Her personal experience is the driving force behind her passion to help others complete their venture into new land, with as much ease as possible Prior to attining her Immigration Practitioner Licence in 2006, Neera was immersed in the Travel and Tourism industry. Her hard work ethic and professionalism landed her a job on only her third day of practicum with BTI International, where she worked for many years. Neera was praised for her incredible focus and was considered an asset to their firm. But, being an ambitious female entrepreneur and driven young mother motivated her to take her career to the next level. She then attained her CSIC License and started her own firm
Since then she has been providing her clients with honest, efficient and transparent immigration services
There is a terrible stigma attached to the Immigration Consultant profession due to numerous reports of people engaging themselves in unethical behavior. These unfortunate situations are another source of motivation for Neera and her team to set the standard in her industry with ethical practice at all times
Ian Ross
BC PNP Representative
Speaker
Ian Ross
BC PNP Representative
13:45 PM - 14:30 PM
Unconventional pathways; Mixing Paths and Streams
(45 mins CPD) Unconventional pathways – From unique occupations to lost Ukranians.
AT: Lakeshore -in person only | Session D3
Katie Laughlin
RCIC/ CRIC
Speaker
Katie Laughlin
RCIC/ CRIC
Katie graduated from Simon Fraser University in 2006 with a degree in Communication. She went on to graduate from the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) with a Human Resources Management Certificate, and from the University of British Columbia (UBC) with a Certificate in Immigration: Laws, Policies and Procedures.
Before becoming a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in 2015, Katie worked in the areas of immigration and relocation for over 6 years in both educational and corporate environments. Previous to immigration, Katie forged a career in the world of Events Management. Whether she’s managing a large corporate sales event, or helping a family relocate to Canada, she’s passionate about getting people from A to B as smoothly as possible.
Katie is the owner of CanStart Immigration in Burnaby, British Columbia, and when she’s not elbow-deep in IRCC portals, she’s a busy mom of two who enjoys a great cup of tea!
Katie is also a member in good standing with the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) and is a Mentor in the New-Licensee Mentoring Program with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).
Oleksandra Melynkova
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Oleksandra Melynkova
RCIC / CRIC
14:35 PM - 15:20 PM
Bridging the Gap - Students and Workers
(45 min CPD) There’s lots to discuss with fast moving immigration world!
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session E1
Jonathan Joshi-Koop
Director of the Permanent Economic Immigration Branch at IRCC
Speaker
Jonathan Joshi-Koop
Director of the Permanent Economic Immigration Branch at IRCCJonathan is the A/Senior Director of the Permanent Economic Immigration Branch at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), where he is responsible for providing strategic policy advice regarding Express Entry, the Canadian Experience Class, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Federal Skilled Workers Program. Prior to taking on this role, Jonathan held various management and analyst positions at IRCC, the Treasury Board Secretariat, and at the Immigration and Refugee Board, where he provided policy advice on the use of biometrics in Canada’s immigration system, Canada’s regulatory making process, and on the operations of Canada’s refugee determination system.
Hannah Flostrad
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Hannah Flostrad
RCIC / CRIC
Johanna Felske
IRCC Representative
Speaker
Johanna Felske
IRCC Representative
Svetlana Balaba
RCIC/CRIC
Speaker
Svetlana Balaba
RCIC/CRIC
Svetlana Balaba, RCIC, serves as the Executive Director of Student Retention, Records, and International Student Advising (ISA) at GUS Canada. GUS Canada is a part of the Global University Systems (GUS) network, which encompasses eight institutions across the country. Since becoming a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in 2017, Svetlana has held various roles in international education, with extensive experience in admissions, enrollment management, and student recruitment.
Jacques Therrien
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Jacques Therrien
RCIC / CRIC
14:35 PM - 15:20 PM
SINP Opportunities Updates and Opportunities with SINP
(45 mins CPD) Updates and Opportunities with SINP. Let’s discuss
AT: Victoria Ballroom: In-person and recorded session | Session E2
15:20 PM - 15:40 PM
Networking Break (in person)
Last break as we get ready to wind up the day!
15:45 PM - 16:45 PM
The American Exodus: The Future of U.S.-Canada Migration
(1-hour CPD) With political uncertainty and mounting challenges, we are witnessing an unprecedented rise in Americans exploring Canadian immigration pathways. We’ll explore many themes this hour! A can’t miss hour!
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session F
David LeBlanc
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
David LeBlanc
RCIC / CRICManaging Director, Senior Counsel Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant RCIC – ICCRC David is a High Honours Graduate of Seneca College’s Immigration Practitioner Program, and a Member of the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants. He has been with Ferreira-Wells since 2002. In April 2004, he was among the first hundred registrants listed with the former regulatory body Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants – CSIC, and is now a member of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council – ICCRC. He is a specialist in Family and Economic Class applications, refugee and H&C clients, attends Appeals and Admissibility hearings at all immigration tribunals, prepares final submissions, and responds to all challenges from Canada Immigration. A former banker and National Credit – Customer Service Manager with Fortune 500 corporations, David is the firm’s Managing Director and senior counsel, and oversees staff and daily business operations. He has taught classes at Seneca in the Professional Practice Management module, and is a founding member of the Immigration Consultant’s Listserv, a professional forum established in 2004 dedicated to the advancement of Immigration Consultant’s Continuing Professional Development. David is an avid portrait, travel and urban scene photographer, and has been a volunteer telephone crisis counselor with Distress Centres, family counselor with Survivor Support Program and Big Brothers. A world traveler, he was the past president of The Hemingway, an equity co-op for ten years, and oversaw its conversion to condominium. David was born in Montreal on Bastille Day, the national holiday of France, and one day he hopes to find himself in Paris on his birthday so he can see the fireworks and pretend they are for him.
18:45 PM - 23:00 PM
Chair's Gala
An evening of conversation and celebration as we honour this year's Ivor Carvalho Award recipient and celebrate CAPIC’s 20th year! *(must be pre-registered)
07:30 AM - 08:30 AM
Breakfast
Let’s get Day 2 started just right!
08:00 AM - 08:45 AM
Getting Started in Practice
(45 mins CPD) Grab your breakfast and join the “Claudias” as they provide essential insights as you begin your career! We got you!
AT: Victoria Ballroom: In-person and recorded session
Claudia Mei Mei Chan
RCIC/ CRIC
Speaker
Claudia Mei Mei Chan
RCIC/ CRIC
Claudia Toulany
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Claudia Toulany
RCIC / CRIC
09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Border Patrol
(1-hour CPD) It’s a whole new world!
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session H
CBSA
Representatives / Représentants
Speaker
CBSA
Representatives / Représentants
Canada Border Services Agency
Kevin Zemp
Barrister & Solicitor
Speaker
Kevin Zemp
Barrister & Solicitor
Kevin Zemp is the founder of Zemp Law Group, with over 28 years of experience working in the immigration field. He is licensed to practice immigration and citizenship law in both Canada and the United States, which provides him with considerable flexibility to service clients with both Canadian and US immigration and citizenship needs.
Kevin acts for corporations, industry associations and individuals in providing advice and assistance with respect to cross-border issues and immigration requirements. His practice serves clients involved in the manufacturing, energy, high technology, telecommunications, automotive and entertainment industries, among others. He assists both individuals and corporations with work permit matters, residency and citizenship applications and many other immigration issues.
Prior to his admission to the bar, Kevin was employed as a senior immigration officer for the Canadian government. He previously served as Chair of the Alberta South section of the Canadian Bar Association and is a former Chair of the National Immigration section of the Canadian Bar Association. With his many years of experience in dealing with immigration matters, Kevin is able to apply significant background knowledge and understanding in order to resolve complex immigration issues on behalf of his clients.
10:05 AM - 10:50 AM
LMIAs Now What? Emerging Trends
(45 mins CPD) It’s been a few months since LMIA changes and we have a changing economic landscape? What are the emerging trends?
AT: Grand Ballroom: in-person and recorded session | Session 11
Kim K.C. Ly
RCIC / CRIC - Board Vice Chair
Speaker
Kim K.C. Ly
RCIC / CRIC - Board Vice Chair
Kim K.C. Ly is a registered Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) with the College of Immigration & Citizenship Consultants (www.college-ic.ca) (CICC) and Principal of her boutique firm, Borders Immigration Consultancy (www.bordersimmigration.com).
Possessing a Master’s Degree in Justice Studies (Royal Roads University) and an Honours Diploma in Immigration Consultancy (Humber College), Kim has over 30 years of experience in the immigration field with particular focus on temporary entry and economic programs. She maintains a client base that ranges from individuals to Fortune 500 corporations.
A long-time member of the CAPIC-ACPII (the only professional association for Immigration Consultants), Kim is also a Chartered Director (McMaster University, DeGroote School of Business) currently serving as Vice Chair of CAPIC’s Board of Directors and Chair of its Lobbying Committee. Her previous term included serving as Chair of its Policy Committee.
Kim also currently serves as Co-Chair for the City of London's Newcomer Policy & Lobbying Taskforce and sits as a Director on the London Chamber of Commerce Board. She is also Immigration Counsel to numerous clients of the LEDC (www.ledc.com), the lead economic development agency for the City of London.
Kim’s previous work includes serving as a member of the Leadership Council of a local community organization (immploy.ca) in London, Ontario that connects local employers to immigrant talent with the aim of strengthening the local economy and was Co-Ordinating Instructor as well as Adjunct Professor at Queen’s University’s Graduate Diploma in Immigration & Citizenship Law, having co-developed and taught its Temporary Entry and Economic Immigration courses. Kim had also served two terms with her professional regulator’s (CICC) Governance and Nominating committee.
A regular presenter on various immigration topics at numerous industry-related events, as well as for various corporations and professional associations, Kim is an advocate for social justice, policy reform, and lobbying initiatives. She is passionate with helping immigrants successfully immigrate to Canada.
Steve Pageau
Director, Program Operations- ESDC
Speaker
Steve Pageau
Director, Program Operations- ESDC
Sinéad Tuite
Director General, Program Policy- ESDC
Speaker
Sinéad Tuite
Director General, Program Policy- ESDC
Jonathan Leblanc
Director, Program Policy, ESDC
Speaker
Jonathan Leblanc
Director, Program Policy, ESDC
Jasmyne Bois
Executive Director, Compliance Operations- ESDC
Speaker
Jasmyne Bois
Executive Director, Compliance Operations- ESDC
Elizabeth Monroe
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Elizabeth Monroe
RCIC / CRIC
Elizabeth Monroe is a seasoned Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) with over 20 years of professional experience in Canadian immigration and regulatory systems.
Known for her comprehensive knowledge and compassionate client approach, Liz specializes in a wide range of immigration pathways, including family sponsorships, economic class applications, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), temporary resident applications, and Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs).
Her diverse employment background includes five years as a case manager at a prominent Toronto law firm, where she worked extensively with caregiver applications and Labour Market Opinions , and another five years with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario in their complaints and discipline department. This role offered Liz deep insight into regulatory frameworks and strengthened her ability to navigate complex legal and administrative systems.
In private practice for over 10 years, Liz combines her legal and regulatory expertise to deliver strategic, results-driven immigration solutions to individuals and employers. She is a licensed recruiter in British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, and Saskatchewan—enhancing her ability to support both Canadian employers and skilled foreign workers, particularly in LMIA-based processes.
Driven by a commitment to ethical practice, personalized service, and successful client outcomes, Liz remains passionate about helping individuals and families achieve their Canadian immigration goals while supporting Canadian businesses in addressing workforce needs.
10:05 AM - 10:50 AM
An Intersection – When Immigration Law Collides with Other Areas of Law
(45 mins CPD) Exploring real examples and best practices when immigration law intersects!
AT: Victoria Ballroom: In-person and recorded session | Session 12
Katina Hunter Sutcliffe
LL.B
Speaker
Katina Hunter Sutcliffe
LL.BKatina Sutcliffe attended University of Windsor Law School and earned her LLB. She also holds a JD from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Her background is wide and varied and includes a clerkship at the Ontario Court of Appeal and a decade working as a global relocation facilitator. During this time, Katina raised her young family and it is only in the last several years, Katina has become more active again in the law profession. She attended an IPP course and developed a passion for immigration advocacy. She focuses on inadmissibility issues and has worked closely with other practitioners on a variety of immigration cases. Another passion is Katina's thirst for case law research and administrative law approach. Katina has been a presenter at the chapter and national level and is a regular attendee at many CAPIC events! When not researching Katina can be found at her beloved cottage and sailing around the Great Lakes!
Brandon Miller
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Brandon Miller
RCIC / CRIC
Brandon D.K. Miller is a seasoned Immigration Consultant, Educator, and Entrepreneur whose unwavering sense of entrepreneurship, integrity, and professionalism have earned him the reputation as an “Immigration Superhero” and innovative leader across Canada and beyond.
As a world-traveled professional, Brandon has been imparted with a deep understanding of a multitude of different cultures, enabling him to better serve his clientele who is equally as diverse. For several years, he also assisted new immigrants in not only settling in, but taking the action steps necessary to succeed in their new home. This previous experience grants him the ability to take the most holistic possible approach to an individual’s migration.
Currently, Brandon proudly serves as a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant at Maple Immigration Services and an Immigration Program Instructor at Herzing College.
In addition to his Certification in Immigration Consultation (with honours) from Humber College, Brandon D.K. Miller holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Psychology from Carleton University and an Instructor Diploma in TESOL (Teaching English to Speaker of Other Languages) from Global TESOL College.
Each day, Brandon D.K. Miller is deeply inspired by his clients who face untold adversity to create a better life for not only themselves, but their loved ones. As a dedicated Immigration Consultant and Educator who has traveled extensively, he has the golden opportunity to make his valued clients’ dreams a reality, which he finds both rewarding and humbling.
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM
Networking Break
Grab a coffee and visit our sponsors! They would love to meet you!
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Dealing with Difficult Cases, Clients & Bad News
(45 minutes CPD) Ethical considerations and best practices for handling difficult cases, delivering bad news, and maintaining professionalism. It isn’t always easy!
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session J1
Monica O'Brien (RCIC)
Education and Stakeholder Engagement Manager
Speaker
Monica O'Brien (RCIC)
Education and Stakeholder Engagement Manager
Monica has been practicing as an RCIC for 25 years. A CAPIC volunteer since inception, she has served as
Ontario chapter chair and as a member of the national board. With a fundamental
belief in giving back to the profession, Monica also mentors new consultants.
She presently sits on the National Advisory Committee at Queen's University for
the graduate diploma in immigration and citizenship law.
At CAPIC, Monica wears two
hats - an education manager, driving content and education to meet CPD needs for
CAPIC members, and a “policy hat” in facilitating stakeholder engagement.
Integral to her "hats" are members' ideas, and concerns and she states
that her job is only possible with the support of relevant Committees and input
from CAPIC members.
Monica holds both English and Phys. Ed degrees from York university and obtained her immigration diploma from Seneca college. In her spare time, she plays defense on her hockey team and delights in travelling with her spouse and twins. Monica lives in Claremont, Ontario, and is a lifelong Habs fan.
Rob Stewart
CICC Special Investigator
Speaker
Rob Stewart
CICC Special Investigator
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Responding to Procedural Fairness Letters
(45 min CPD) Effective Strategies to safeguard your client’s interest while addressing procedural fairness.
AT: Victoria Ballroom: In-person and recorded session | Session J2
Klaudios Mustakas
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Klaudios Mustakas
RCIC / CRIC
Neerja Bhandari
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Neerja Bhandari
RCIC / CRIC
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Mock Hearing Workshop: Advocating in Admissibility Cases
(45 mins CPD) A hands-on session designed to build confidence and skills in representing clients in admissibility hearings.
AT: Lakeshore -in person only | Session J3
Klaudios Mustakas
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Klaudios Mustakas
RCIC / CRIC
Mia Loebach-Readings
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Mia Loebach-Readings
RCIC / CRIC
•RCIC for 16 years; member of CICC and CAPIC •Employed by and managed a mid-size immigration law firm for 15 years, and did a short stint as an immigration advisor at Western University, before opening a consulting practice last year •Teaching at Queen’s University in the GDipICL practice management course for the past two terms •Sit on the mentoring committee and do work with the specialization program at CICC as a Subject Matter Expert •Invited by community service organizations to lead CPD and public information sessions for it’s employees and clients •Sit on the Interfaith Refugee Committee in London, privately sponsoring refugees under the Community Sponsorship program •Practice areas that I've been focusing on lately are RPD and RAD cases, as well as H&C applications
12:05 PM - 12:50 PM
Decision Making in a Changing System
(45 min CPD) Technology-driven systems – monitoring, advocating, preparing. It’s 2025!
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session K1
Mario D. Bellissimo
LL.B. C.S
Speaker
Mario D. Bellissimo
LL.B. C.S
Mario D. Bellissimo is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School and is a Certified Specialist in Citizenship and Immigration Law and Refugee Protection. He is the founder of BELLISSIMO LAW GROUP PC and the principal lawyer with a practice focus on citizenship, immigration and protected person litigation and inadmissibility law. Mr. Bellissimo has appeared before all levels of immigration tribunals and courts including the Supreme Court of Canada. He is the past Chair of the Canadian Bar Association National Immigration Law Section, serves as an appointed member of the Federal Court Rules Committee and participates on multiple stakeholder committees involving the Federal Courts, the Immigration and Refugee Board, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the Canada Border Services Agency, Employment and Social Development Canada, and the Department of Justice.
Mr. Bellissimo has testified before Parliamentary and Senate Committees on several proposed amendments to immigration law over the years. He has been lead on policy papers, legal analysis and proposed recommendations to government on behalf of immigration advocacy associations and in his personal capacity.
Mr. Bellissimo acts on a pro bono basis for Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital and Pro Bono Law
Ontario and as the National Immigration Law and Policy Advisor for COSTI Immigration
Resettlement Services. He and his team represent clients from all over the world and Bellissimo
Immigration Law Group PC is exclusively committed to Canadian citizenship, immigration and
refugee matters. Bellissimo Immigration Law Group PC handles hundreds of files each year and
represents clients at every stage of the immigration process.
John Murray BA, LLB, LLM
President & CEO, Registrar- the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants
Speaker
John Murray BA, LLB, LLM
President & CEO, Registrar- the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants
IRCC Representatives
IRCC
Speaker
IRCC Representatives
IRCC
12:05 PM - 12:50 PM
Vulnerable Clients and Precarious Situations
(45 min CPD) From an abused spouse, vulnerable worker, disadvantaged student, or traumatized refugee– what are the options and how do you respond? An important session for this mad world!
AT: Victoria Ballroom: In-person and recorded session | Session K2
Aisling Bondy
Barrister and Solicitor
Speaker
Aisling Bondy
Barrister and Solicitor
12:50 PM - 14:00 PM
Networking Lunch (in person)
14:05 PM - 14:50 PM
Can You Scale in Tumultuous Times?
(45 min CPD) Strategies for growing your immigration practice amidst uncertainty, shifting policies, and market disruption. This advanced session explores how to build resilience, seize new opportunities, and expand your practice with purpose and impact. We'll also consider how evolving technologies can quietly support innovation and operational efficiency.
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session L1
Olena Weber
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Olena Weber
RCIC / CRICOlena Weber helps RCICs build profitable businesses without burnout. As an immigrant entrepreneur herself, she is passionate about supporting immigrant women in creating businesses they are proud of. In 2024, she was recognized as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce. Fun fact: Olena swears by running a business without a phone number! Success of your business doesn’t require being on call 24/7.
Brooke Finlay
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Brooke Finlay
RCIC / CRIC
Burcu Akyol
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Burcu Akyol
RCIC / CRICBurcu embarked on her career path as an RCIC in February 2019. She started her immigration consulting business after seventeen years of experience as an educator and educational leader. Although she is relatively new in the industry, setting clear entrepreneurial career goals helped her scale her business from one employee to seven employees in three years. She believes whether it is three years or thirty years in the profession, being an RCIC and a business owner require embracing a dynamic approach, a growth mindset, and positioning yourself strategically in your market.
14:05 PM - 14:50 PM
Tapping into Francophone Pathways
(45 min CPD) Opportunities abound. There is lots to discuss as we say bonjour and determine next steps! Bienvenue!
AT: Victoria Ballroom: In-person and recorded session | Session L2
Louise Willis
RCIC/ CRIC
Speaker
Louise Willis
RCIC/ CRIC
Ryhan Mansour
IRCC Representative
Speaker
Ryhan Mansour
IRCC Representative
James Mc Namee
IRCC Representative
Speaker
James Mc Namee
IRCC Representative
Yves St Germain IRCC
IRCC Representative
Speaker
Yves St Germain IRCC
IRCC Representative
14:50 PM - 15:10 PM
Networking Break
We’re nearly there! Grab your last snack and final coffee run!
15:10 PM - 16:10 PM
Navigating TRPs and HCs with Integrity and Ethics - (Pre-Recorded)
(1 Hour CPD) Navigating TRPs and H and Cs with ethic and integrity -It's tempting to throw your client a last-minute hope. You have to do this the right way with appropriate counselling. Is your client's situation that compelling? IRCC is not on this panel session yet has answered some key questions! Let's discuss.
Monica O'Brien (RCIC)
Education and Stakeholder Engagement Manager
Speaker
Monica O'Brien (RCIC)
Education and Stakeholder Engagement Manager
Monica has been practicing as an RCIC for 25 years. A CAPIC volunteer since inception, she has served as
Ontario chapter chair and as a member of the national board. With a fundamental
belief in giving back to the profession, Monica also mentors new consultants.
She presently sits on the National Advisory Committee at Queen's University for
the graduate diploma in immigration and citizenship law.
At CAPIC, Monica wears two
hats - an education manager, driving content and education to meet CPD needs for
CAPIC members, and a “policy hat” in facilitating stakeholder engagement.
Integral to her "hats" are members' ideas, and concerns and she states
that her job is only possible with the support of relevant Committees and input
from CAPIC members.
Monica holds both English and Phys. Ed degrees from York university and obtained her immigration diploma from Seneca college. In her spare time, she plays defense on her hockey team and delights in travelling with her spouse and twins. Monica lives in Claremont, Ontario, and is a lifelong Habs fan.
Dalia Milmantas
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Dalia Milmantas
RCIC / CRIC
15:10 PM - 16:10 PM
PRRA in Practice
(30 min CPD) Key triggers, scope, and simple tips to stay informed and prepared when PRAA shows up in your client’s file
Mia Loebach-Readings
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Mia Loebach-Readings
RCIC / CRIC
•RCIC for 16 years; member of CICC and CAPIC •Employed by and managed a mid-size immigration law firm for 15 years, and did a short stint as an immigration advisor at Western University, before opening a consulting practice last year •Teaching at Queen’s University in the GDipICL practice management course for the past two terms •Sit on the mentoring committee and do work with the specialization program at CICC as a Subject Matter Expert •Invited by community service organizations to lead CPD and public information sessions for it’s employees and clients •Sit on the Interfaith Refugee Committee in London, privately sponsoring refugees under the Community Sponsorship program •Practice areas that I've been focusing on lately are RPD and RAD cases, as well as H&C applications
15:10 PM - 16:10 PM
Lightning Session: "30 Tips in 60 Minutes"
(1 Hour CPD) Rapid-fire expert insights and tips from a panel of your peers. Watch for hot tips and expert takeaways. You’ll love this fast-paced session as we get ready for NCIC 2026
AT: Mount Temple: in person and recorded | Session M
Tim Morson
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
Tim Morson
RCIC / CRIC
David LeBlanc
RCIC / CRIC
Speaker
David LeBlanc
RCIC / CRICManaging Director, Senior Counsel Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant RCIC – ICCRC David is a High Honours Graduate of Seneca College’s Immigration Practitioner Program, and a Member of the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants. He has been with Ferreira-Wells since 2002. In April 2004, he was among the first hundred registrants listed with the former regulatory body Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants – CSIC, and is now a member of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council – ICCRC. He is a specialist in Family and Economic Class applications, refugee and H&C clients, attends Appeals and Admissibility hearings at all immigration tribunals, prepares final submissions, and responds to all challenges from Canada Immigration. A former banker and National Credit – Customer Service Manager with Fortune 500 corporations, David is the firm’s Managing Director and senior counsel, and oversees staff and daily business operations. He has taught classes at Seneca in the Professional Practice Management module, and is a founding member of the Immigration Consultant’s Listserv, a professional forum established in 2004 dedicated to the advancement of Immigration Consultant’s Continuing Professional Development. David is an avid portrait, travel and urban scene photographer, and has been a volunteer telephone crisis counselor with Distress Centres, family counselor with Survivor Support Program and Big Brothers. A world traveler, he was the past president of The Hemingway, an equity co-op for ten years, and oversaw its conversion to condominium. David was born in Montreal on Bastille Day, the national holiday of France, and one day he hopes to find himself in Paris on his birthday so he can see the fireworks and pretend they are for him.
16:15 PM - 16:30 PM
Closing remarks as we get ready for NCIC 2026!
Book Your Discounted Airport Transfer
You can now easily book your transfer from Calgary Airport to the conference hotel! Take advantage of a discounted rate by clicking HERE and adding your promo code NCIC2025 to reserve your ride with Brewster Express.
Travel
We are able to offer 5% off Econo* and 10% off EconoFlex and Premium fares for travel within Canada and 2% off Econo*, 5% off EconoFlex and 10% off Premium base fares for guests travelling Trans-border. No discount will apply to Ultra Basic or Business class bookings.
To take advantage of this offer, you will need the discount code listed. Please visit www.westjet.com/conventions to make a booking online.
Applicable Rules
- The booking is to be made to the following city: Lake Louise
- The travel period begins: 5/8/2025
- The travel period ends: 5/24/2025
|
Coupon
Code: Guest web/Travel Agent web |
4R5X6ZB |
|
Promo
Code: Travel Agent GDS only |
YBM78 |
Hotel
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0
Fairmont Lake Louise - Surrounded by soaring mountain peaks of the majestic Victoria Glacier, and a glistening Emerald lake, the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel offers 5-star luxury amid unparalleled natural beauty. Explore Banff National Park on a guided tour or enjoy world-class skiing at one of three Rocky Mountains ski resorts. Unwind with an indulgent spa treatment before savoring seasonally inspired cuisine at our Lake Louise hotel. Little ones are also taken care of with our exclusive Kid’s Adventure Camp activities. To make reservations please call 1 866 540 4413 and advise you are with CAPIC Conference, to get directed to the group rate of $299 per night plus taxes and fees.
We are pleased to inform you that the room block for your upcoming event is now ready to start accepting reservations either online at your event-dedicated GroupMax website, https://book.passkey.com/e/50540773 OR by calling 1-800-230-8988 or 1-800-441-1414. Kindly ask all guests to quote your group name. Reservations will be accepted in the group block up to April 13, 2025.
https://www.lakelouiseinn.com/accommodations/
As the main hotel room block is sold out, please consider reserving at the overflow hotel, Lake Louise Inn, which is located 10 minutes away. The room rate is $209 plus taxes and includes complimentary WIFI and parking. To make a reservation, please follow the instructions below:
Method of Reservations: Individual
All guests who identify themselves as members of your group should make their reservation by April 28, 2025, using one of the following methods:
- By Phone: (403) 522-3791
- By Email: reservations@lakelouiseinn.com
The booking link for Lake Louise Inn is provided below. To reserve a room, guests may contact the hotel directly at 403-522-3791 and reference "Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) 2025," or use the unique booking link: https://reservations.travelclick.com/107317?groupID=4497207
Visit Banff
Visiting Lake Louise
Regular Rates
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