MENSA Formation in Toronto: Discovering Canada and opening doors to international careers

On October 7, 2026, the France Canada Chamber of Commerce (ON, MB) met with students from MENSA Formation at Green & Spiegel’s offices in Toronto as part of their International Experience Program. Together with Business France North America and Green & Spiegel, the session explored Canada’s business ecosystem, professional opportunities and mobility pathways between France and Canada.

The session brought together Riva Walia, Founding Managing Director of the FCCCO; Omar Janjua, Head of Communication & V.I.E Program at Business France North America; Stephen Green, Managing Partner, and Valerie Kleinman, Senior Associate at Green & Spiegel. Their contributions offered students complementary perspectives on pursuing professional experience in Canada.

Discovering the French-Canadian Business Community

Riva Walia presented the FCCCO’s mission and its role in strengthening connections between French and Canadian businesses. Through its events, initiatives and network, the Chamber creates opportunities for business leaders, institutions and professionals across industries to meet and collaborate.

The presentation highlighted initiatives including the CEO Club Lumières, the Annual Gala and Business Awards, and Toronto’s French Mile. These examples illustrated the diversity of the French-Canadian business community and the Chamber’s role in bringing it together.

Riva Walia also highlighted the interest of french businesses to come and grow in Ontario’s economy.

For students considering an experience abroad, the introduction also provided insight into the importance of professional networks and France–Canada connections when building an international career.

Exploring International Experience Through V.I.E.

Omar Janjua, Head of Communication & V.I.E Program at Business France North America, presented professional opportunities in Canada, with a particular focus on the Volontariat International en Entreprise (V.I.E.) program.

Students discovered a pathway that enables young talent to gain professional experience abroad while contributing to the international development of French companies. The presentation also introduced resources to explore when preparing for a career experience in Canada.

Understanding Immigration and Mobility

Stephen Green and Valerie Kleinman, from the immigration law firm Green & Spiegel, addressed immigration pathways, work permits and Francophone mobility.

Their contribution complemented the discussion of career opportunities by introducing the administrative considerations involved in working in Canada. This practical perspective helped students connect their international ambitions with the steps involved in planning a move abroad.

Connecting Students with Experts

An interactive Q&A gave students the opportunity to speak directly with the presenters about international careers, Canada’s professional environment and mobility considerations.

By bringing together the FCCCO, Business France North America and Green & Spiegel, the session combined three complementary perspectives: access to the business community, opportunities for professional experience and immigration expertise.

Through these exchanges, the FCCCO continues to connect emerging talent with the French-Canadian business community and help students explore their international career possibilities.