MIGRANT JUSTICE Empowering Temporary Foreign Workers during COVID-19

Connie was born in the Philippines and moved to Canada in 1989. Connie joined the ecumenical movement in 1997 with one of the KAIROS’ predecessors, the Interchurch Action for Relief, Justice and Development.   Connie has held different positions and responsibilities at KAIROS since then.  Currently as the Migrant Justice Coordinator,  Connie is responsible for establishing new and nurturing existing relationships with like-minded church groups and civil society organizations mostly in Canada but also with migrant justice seeking groups globally. Major components of the program are providing support and accompaniment to temporary foreign workers and ensures that their voices and positions are brought to bear on critical issues during roundtable discussions and campaigns here in Canada when physical participation are not possible. She has helped organized delegations and participation of temporary foreign workers in government meetings and roundtable on policy issues relating to the rights and welfare of foreign migrant workers. In her spare time, Connie Sorio is a community activist, a seasoned organizer and a passionate human rights defender. 

With 20+ years of experience in working for social change, David has witnessed the impact that empowered people working in collaboration can have. Through his work at the Lakehead University Student Union, with Thunder Pride, organizing the first Pride celebration in Thunder Bay, and working in collaboration with Definitely Superior Art Gallery, he has sought to inspire empowered communities and advocate for needed change. Since moving to Toronto in 2015, David has been involved in grassroots action and supporting eco-justice initiatives. David was with the migrant justice program from January to April and looks forward to continuing to amplify the voices of migrant workers.

Jalyn Smith (she/her) Airport Support Coordinator for the Empowering Temporary Foreign Workers During COVID-19 project. Through her varied work and volunteer opportunities Jalyn has been able to see the meaningful incremental change that can happen when people are given the opportunity and resources to thrive. She has had the opportunity to co-foster and train a guide dog for the Lions Foundation of Guide Dogs Canada, worked alongside newcomer families with the Ready for School Connects program and worked for Parkdale Queen West Community Health Center preparing discharge bags for housing insecure people leaving COVID-19 hotels.

Jalyn has a strong commitment to social justice and continued growth. She completed her Master of Social Work degree at the University of Toronto, specializing in the social justice and diversity stream. During her Social Work degree, she had the opportunity to do her practicum with KAIROS Ecumenical Justice Initiatives under the supervision of Connie Sorio, the Migrant Justice Program Manager. It is through this invaluable experience that she was able to learn more about the Temporary Foreign Worker program and the barriers migrant workers face in Canada.

Jalyn has been a part of the Empowering Temporary Foreign Workers During COVID-19 team since its inception, and now works as the Airport Support Coordinator at Toronto Pearson International Airport (TPIA) working alongside a team of dedicated staff supporting arriving temporary foreign workers.

With over 20 years’ experience in the corporate world of Fortune 500 companies, Mitos continues to find opportunities to contribute to the community. Currently a member of the Federation of Filipino Canadians of Brampton as Community event planner and Communications Officer, as well as a member of the Filipino Canadian Automotive Workers Association. She has also volunteered at the Age-Friendly Brampton Citizen Advisory Committee (City of Brampton), participated as Finance Lead of the Inclusion & Diversity Council, as well as served as a Seniors’ Companion for 2 years at the Victorian Order of Nurses. Being a KAIROS team member for the Migrant Justice Program brings what is close to her heart to the forefront: A passion for justice, the welfare of others, and closing the gaps in systemic shortcomings.