EduNova Annual Report 2022-23

Building For Success

2022-2023 Annual Report

We Are All Treaty People

We acknowledge that EduNova’s office, members, students, graduates and Nova Scotia-based partners are in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq.

Message from the Board Chair and the President & CEO

On behalf of the Board of Directors, management, and staff of EduNova, we are pleased to submit EduNova’s 2022-2023 Annual Report titled Building for Success

Much of the work that EduNova has undertaken over the past year can be summed up by the aphorism, “A rising tide lifts all boats,” as our work has been grounded in the understanding that our efforts to support new and returning international students in the province will benefit all our members, schools and partners and international students in the province.

Helen Keller’s quote, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” also represents the main idea of the vision and mission of EduNova.

EduNova’s best work represents connection, collaboration, and community. We recognize that collaboration is often challenging, as our institutional policies are not always designed to share whether that is in-market intelligence, student enrolment data, or intellectual property. Yet together, we have created numerous examples of how we continue to find ways to overcome these challenges to work to collectively support international students, often in the face of obstacles and adversity, which we affectionately call “co-opitition.”

To implement this mandate, EduNova staff worked collaboratively with provincial government ministries (Ministry of Advanced Education and Ministry of Labour, Skills and Immigration) and EduNova’s Board of Directors to fulfill its operational activities

supporting the sector and these emerging provincial international education priorities.

5. Agent Training Program - Completed training for the first cohort of 32 agents with CBIE.

EduNova’s current strategic plan includes three pillars:

1) Collaborative Recruitment, 2) International Student Retention, and 3) Internationalization of the Student Experience.

For the 2022/23 year, EduNova coordinated the following activities and events under each pillar:

Pillar - Collaborative Recruitment

EduNova staff continued to find new and innovative ways to support Nova Scotia schools and institutions, attending student recruitment fairs to profile Nova Scotia as a study destination and hosting virtual market fairs.

1. Student Recruitment Kickoff Event - Hosted an event for international student recruiters to kick off the season.

2. South Asia Agent B2B Event - Partnered with BONARD to offer an opportunity for institutions to meet with agents from across five countries in South Asia.

3. Nova Scotia Curriculum Virtual Fair - Organized virtual events for students at NS Curriculum Schools in China and Bangladesh.

4. EduCanada STEM - Social media campaign focusing on Atlantic Canadian undergraduate postsecondary STEM programming.

6. Student Fam Tour - 47 international students from the Nova Scotia International Student Program (NSISP) toured Nova Scotia universities.

7. FPP Study in Canada Virtual Recruitment Fairs - 22 Atlantic institutions participated in virtual recruitment fairs in 11 locations worldwide.

8. Immigrant Impact Marketing Collateral Development – developed collateral on the experiences of 10 international graduates from across the province.

9. Discover Nova Scotia New Student Resource Hubaims to support prospective international students with reliable, accessible information, positioning Nova Scotia as a study and stay destination of choice.

Pillar II: International Student Retention

1. Post-Graduation Immigration Support (PGIS) Program – This program supports international graduates with 1v1 personalized immigration coaching with our partners at Inspired Immigration.

2. Study and Stay CONNECT Project - The Study and Stay™ CONNECT project was launched in September 2022. With an average retention rate of 86% of participants in the province one-year postgraduation, the program maintains the original goal of helping international students stay in Nova Scotia and succeed in their transition to the

workplace. The Connect strategy is implemented through three sub-programs, and more information on this program is outlined later in the report.

Study and Stay™ Capstone – Final year program for 100 students.

Study and Stay™ Foundations – Years 1-3 for 400 students.

Study and Stay™ Entrepreneurship – A program to develop international entrepreneurs.

Pillar III: Internationalization of Student Experience

1. NSISP Ambassador Awards – Last year, this program offered 28 NS students intercultural training to welcome international students to high schools across the province and a $2,000 award to attend a NS post-secondary institution.

2. Nova Scotia’s International Education Day 2023 Nova Scotia’s International Education Day was held in Ottawa and provided a forum to connect, collaborate and further international education and research partnerships.

3. EIP Pitch Competition

The EIP Pitch Competition hosted six Nova Scotia businesses, nine students, and three judges, where students pitched to the companies for a one-year internship experience, and the businesses pitched right back to the graduates about why they should work for them.

Strong two-way communication and collaboration with government and community partners remained a priority throughout this exciting year. EduNova met regularly with our Board, committees, and government to ensure strategic alignment with international education priorities and to discuss progress on EduNova’s projects. EduNova continued ongoing discussions with the Board regarding planning for Board member succession, financial sustainability, and overall Board governance Ethical, evidence-based best practices and democratic decision-making was highlighted in the development of Nova Scotia’s Agent Training Program.

EduNova’s financial statement has come back with a clean bill of the financial health of the organization, showing significant growth in the past year in the cash invested for projects, an increase in our net assets, and a small operating excess of revenues over expenses.

EduNova’s current strategic plan will come to an end in 2024. As we move into the next phase of EduNova’s journey, what does the work ahead look like? What do our communities, committees, and our needs look like? We will start facilitating these conversations heading into 2023/24 with an eye to sustainable growth and the future of transforming Nova Scotia through international education – where students study, stay and thrive.

Behind another year of success at EduNova is a dynamic and committed support team dedicated to Nova Scotia’s success. Thank you to everyone who helps to breathe life into EduNova’s vision and mission, in particular:

EduNova’s board, members and community partners for championing our initiatives and ensuring their success;

Peter Ricketts, Katie Orr, Brett MacLean, and Ashley Pinsent-Tobin for their leadership and commitment to EduNova’s future via their leadership; Our funding partners — the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), the Nova Scotia Department of Advanced Education (AE), and Labour, Skills and Immigration (LSI) — for their belief in our mission and ongoing support to foster collaboration in the province and ensure the continued success of our member institutions.

Most importantly, thanks to all the students who choose to study and stay in Nova Scotia.

– Shawna Garrett, President & CEO, EduNova Cooperative Ltd

Annual Report 2022-2023

About EduNova

EduNova, located in Halifax, N.S., Is a provincial co-operative association of education providers — the only one of its kind in Canada. EduNova’s membership is composed of colleges, universities, language schools and K-12 schools that work together to bring international students to Nova Scotia and help them build their futures in the province.

Vision

Transforming Nova Scotia through international education — where students study, stay and thrive.

Mission

We champion Nova Scotia as a leader in international student experience while advancing social and economic growth in our province.

Recruitment

2022 represented another inflection point in international student recruitment practice. While the previous two years (2020 and 2021) were characterized by an almost universal pivot to online or virtual recruitment activities, necessitated by pandemic-era travel restrictions, 2022 was marked by student demand for in-person interaction and diminished interest in virtual events of all sorts.

Most Nova Scotian institutions resumed in-person recruitment travel in 2022 while also maintaining their participation in virtual events as a hedging strategy designed to generate the maximum number of potential applicant contacts possible. This hybrid recruitment strategy employed by institutions resulted in the highest participation rate in virtual events that we have seen to date.

International student recruitment has also witnessed an increasing necessity to build and maintain agent relationships across the globe. EduNova members have actively participated in agent B2B events in which new relationships were formed and in 2022, Nova Scotia became just the second Canadian province to adopt

an agent training program, in collaboration with CBIE. This training will continue throughout 2023 with the goal of establishing best in class service delivery to students and promoting our shared values of honesty, transparency and accountability in recruitment practice. Agent training has the potential to address the Nova Scotian challenge of low study permit conversion and ensure that motivated and qualified students have the opportunity to access the world-class education offered in our province.

While many institutions welcomed a rebound in international student numbers on their campuses, this good news story has not been shared equally across EduNova’s membership. EduNova has initiated sector specific conversations with language sector members to learn more about these challenges and has been active in advocacy efforts on their behalf. We will continue to seek out opportunities to ensure the vitality of our language members. Additionally, EduNova will work to jointly create marketing materials with language and other members and distribute these globally to interested parties.

Key Student Recruitment Initiatives

Recruitment Kickoff

On August 26, 2022, EduNova hosted the Recruitment Kickoff - a social dinner for international student recruiters to meet one another and share best practices before heading out for the recruitment season. International student recruiters from educational institutions across the province (K-12, language schools, and post-secondary institutions) attended this event, including Atlantic Canada Language Academy, Cape Breton University, Cape Breton Language Centre, Dalhousie University, Halifax Language Institute of Canada, Mount Saint Vincent University, Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University, Nova Scotia International Student Program, Nova Scotia Community College, Oxford International Halifax, St. Francis Xavier University, and Saint Mary's University.

NS Curriculum Schools Virtual Recruitment South Asia Agent B2B Event

EduNova partnered with Bonard to offer an opportunity for institutions to meet with agents from across five countries in South Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. Bonard recruited 15 agent participants interested in forming connections with Atlantic Canadian institutions. The event provided an introduction to education opportunities in the region and served as a conduit for matchmaking between agents and education institutions. Education institutions from all four Atlantic provinces participated in the two-day event from December 12 - 13, 2022.

EduNova organized a virtual event for students at NS Curriculum Schools in China and Bangladesh on November 14,16, 21, and 22, 2022. The event featured Nova Scotia-specific information and presentations on the academic course offerings of Acadia University, Mount Saint Vincent University, Dalhousie University, St. Mary’s University, Nova Scotia College of Art and Design University, St. Francis Xavier University, and Cape Breton University. The NS Curriculum students had engaging Q&A sessions with the university representatives at the end of each event.

EduCanada STEM

EduNova partnered with EduCanada in Fall 2022 to support a social media campaign focusing on college and undergraduate STEM programming at Atlantic Canadian post-secondary institutions. EduCanada focused these marketing efforts on Brazil, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Ghana, and Kenya. The intent was to generate visibility for Atlantic Canadian STEM education and prospective applicant leads for follow-up. This campaign included the added innovation of individual Akero back-end access for participating PSE institutions to download and manage their leads.

Agent Training Program

EduNova, in partnership with the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), completed training for the first cohort of agents under the Nova Scotia Agent Training Program in the Fall of 2022. The Nova Scotia Agent Training Program trained international recruitment agents to ensure prospective students receive high-quality service and are supported with consistent NS-based instruction and resources. The goal was to up-skill approved agents to inform students and parents about the study permit application process and immigration pathways available in Nova Scotia. 32 agents attended the program, following a curriculum developed and delivered virtually by CBIE and EduNova. The course covered the Canadian education system, the post-secondary options available in Nova Scotia, and the immigration pathways available to overseas students. This free training was specifically targeted

at agents working with Nova Scotia’s post-secondary institutions, aiming to decrease study permit rejection rates and increase the number of international students studying in Nova Scotia. Major themes of professionalism, honesty, transparency, and accountability resonated with all the agencies in attendance. EduNova followed up with eligible graduates with graduation certificates and will include a list of these agents on EduNova’s website. This training is a historic achievement, as Nova Scotia is only the second province in Canada to undertake such a training program. It demonstrates our commitment to achieving top-class standards in working with student recruitment agencies and finding best-fit study opportunities for students.

Student Familiarization Tour FPP Virtual Recruitment Fairs Nova Scotia Marketing Collateral Campaign Global Agent B2B

EduNova organized a tour of Nova Scotia universities for a group of 47 international students from the Nova Scotia International Student Program (NSISP). The tour visited Acadia University, Mount Saint Vincent University, University of King’s College, Dalhousie University, St. Francis Xavier University, and Cape Breton University between October 28 – 31, 2022. This was the first FAM tour post-COVID, and the interest from students was excellent, with 106 applications submitted for the 47 available spots. The students came from diverse home countries, including Vietnam, Italy, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Germany, Holland, Spain, and others.

In the spring and winter of 2022, 22 Atlantic institutions participated in FPP Study in Canada virtual recruitment fairs in 11 locations worldwide. This project represents the third time institutions from Atlantic provinces have participated in the FPP virtual recruitment events. Though there are many virtual events and platforms to choose from in the post-Covid recruitment landscape, FPP Study in Canada events offer several advantages and are overwhelmingly popular with EduNova members and Atlantic Institutions. The 2022 events generated 8713 booth visits and 6934 qualified leads, predicted to result in 346 applications and 104 enrollments.

EduNova, in partnership with National Public Relations, has completed a collateral development campaign supported by the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration. The campaign drew upon the varied experiences of 10 recent international graduates from post-secondary institutions across the province. It resulted in 10 long-form documentary-style written testimonials, high-quality still portraits and video testimonials from each of the student subjects. The testimonials focused on the theme of the things that bring these students joy in their new surroundings, and they were encouraged to describe the challenge of being a newcomer to Nova Scotia along with how they each found a resolution to these challenges – most often with support from Nova Scotians. The collateral, which is currently displayed on the EduNova YouTube channel, will be available via the new Discover Nova Scotia Hub and will be deployed as part of future Study in Nova Scotia marketing campaigns.

In May 2023, EduNova organized a global agent B2B event focusing on growth markets around the world. Nine EduNova members participated in the event, including institutions from the language, K-12 and post-secondary sectors. Participants developed selection criteria which were used to help identify the types of agencies to be recruited to the event by our partner Bonard. Overall, ten agencies from Japan, Korea and Vietnam met with Nova Scotian institutions on the first night of the event and ten agencies from Latin America, Europe and Turkey met with the nine participants on day two. The event was a success and will help institutions form recruitment partnerships that will lead to greater diversity on Nova Scotian campuses.

Ambassador Awards

The Nova Scotia Student Ambassador Program offers Nova Scotian students the opportunity to engage in intercultural training to welcome international students to high schools and communities across the province. These student ambassadors will continue this work as they embark on their university and college studies at campuses across the province, helping to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students. The 2022 award winners graduated from high schools across the province and attended nine of the region’s 11 post-secondary institutions.

The Nova Scotia International Student Program (NSISP) has annually trained more than 120 Nova Scotia students in grades 10, 11, and 12 to assist their international student colleagues in adjusting to life in Nova Scotia,

becoming involved in campus and community activities, and creating friendships and connections that will allow them to be successful in their high school careers. The Ambassador Awards are designed to attract domestic Nova Scotian students to study within the province and continue working with international students to ease their transition into Nova Scotian communities. The ultimate goals of the International Ambassador Award Program are to increase international student retention rates on campuses across the province and attract more Nova Scotian students to study in the province’s post-secondary institutions.

FPP EduMedia Virtual Student Recruitment Fairs

In the spring and winter of 2022, 22 Atlantic institutions participated in FPP Study in Canada virtual recruitment fairs in 11 locations worldwide. This project represents the third time institutions from Atlantic provinces have participated in the FPP virtual recruitment events.

Though there are many virtual events and platforms to choose from in the post-Covid recruitment landscape, FPP Study in Canada events offer several advantages and are overwhelmingly popular with EduNova members and Atlantic Institutions. The 2022 events generated 8713 booth visits and 6934 qualified leads, predicted to result in 346 applications and 104 enrollments.

8.1% Mexico

4.1%

15.6% Brazil

11.5% Eastern Europe/Central A sia

17.2% South America

2.0% North Africa

11.6% Middle East

6.0%

22.0% A sia

Anglo Africa (Nigeria)

French Africa (Senegal)

New Brand Architecture

Study and Stay™-CONNECT Program

Study and Stay™ CONNECT was launched in September 2022. It combines successes, feedback, and lessons learned during six years of Study and Stay™ program with a more inclusive, expanded, and enhanced model to support international students in Nova Scotia.

With an average retention rate of 89% of participants in the province one year post-graduation, the program maintains the original goal of helping international students stay in Nova Scotia and succeed in their transition to the workplace.

Below you can see the result of the re-branding process to express the evolution of the Study and Stay™ program.

EduNova has identified eight main pillars of support to concentrate the program's efforts, based on students' needs assessments, input received in program activities, observation, and partners' feedback:

• Career Supports

• Networking

• Employer Connection Development

• Mentorship

• Entrepreneurship

• Intercultural/Professional Communication

• Community Integration

• Immigration Support

This evolution of the Study and Stay™ program will focus on scaling up programming and reducing cost, addressing direct connection to employers, leveraging technology, connecting participants to peers, and directing special efforts to students and employers in rural areas.

The Connect strategy is implemented through three sub-programs:

• Study and Stay™ Capstone

• Study and Stay™ Foundations

• Study and Stay™ Entrepreneurship

“I was extremely excited when I realized that my mentor is an expert in the education, and non-profit fields and works in one of the main organizations in these fields in Nova Scotia. My mentor and have been discussing how can improve my skills to launch a successful and meaningful career in Nova Scotia. From networking events to tailoring my LinkedIn profile, Ashley has helped me in a wonderful way.”

- Juan Chaves Baquero

The Study and Stay™ Capstone program is a 10-month program designed to support up to 100 final-year international students transitioning to the workplace in Nova Scotia after completing their studies.

The program counts on virtual and in-person activities, supported by app technology for content sharing, communication, integration, and program tracking. The activities include events, webinars, workshops, and individualized sessions to cover career development, mentorship, access to immigration support and intercultural development. Students must complete a group of mandatory tasks based on the content delivered in order to graduate.

Highlights of Study and Stay™ Capstone Cohort 7

• 97 Students from 27 countries

• Priority topics to students*: Networking, Interview Preparation and Mentorship.

• 78 mentors from a diversity of industries

*According to needs assessment survey

Study and Stay™-Foundations Program

The Study and Stay™ Foundations program provides international students in all year of studies in postsecondary institutions in Nova Scotia with resources to help them succeed in their academic journey and transition to the workplace. Using mobile app technology, participants can learn, connect, reflect, and engage. The program is designed to focus on the following pillars of learning and support:

Intercultural and professional communication

Early career and pre-employment support

Networking essentials

Employer connections and development

Community integration

Mentorship

Access to immigration information and support

Immigration Impact Stories

The Foundations program increases EduNova’s capacity to support more international students by reaching around 400 students annually. With a model where participants can choose their Own Learning Adventure’, students can prioritize tasks and content according to their needs and at their own pace and receive a shareable and verifiable digital credential badge after completing a group of predefined activities.

The program’s activities are grouped in learning levels, that consider where students are in their academic journey. The resources include mini-videos, webinars, learning quizzes and connection and engagement activities. Level one focuses on engagement and opportunities at the campus level, while level two focuses on engagement and opportunities in the community. Levels three and four introduce students to early career supports and pre-employment connections.

Through modular levels, targeted programming and relevant resources, the goal of the Study and Stay™ Foundations’ program is to help participants study, stay, work, and thrive in Nova Scotia.

EduNova has completed a collateral development campaign supported by the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration and in partnership with National Public Relations.

The collateral, which is currently displayed on the EduNova YouTube channel, will be available via the new Discover Nova Scotia Hub and will be deployed as part of future Study in Nova Scotia marketing campaigns.

The campaign drew upon the varied experiences of 10 recent international graduates from post-secondary institutions across the province. It resulted in 10 longform documentary-style written testimonials, high-quality still portraits and video testimonials from each of the student subjects.

The testimonials focused on the theme of the things that bring these students joy in their new surroundings, and they were encouraged to describe the challenge of being a newcomer to Nova Scotia, along with how they each found a resolution to these challenges – most often with support from Nova Scotians.

Manuel Delgado

Cong Chen

Kalie Wang

Dewal Boucher-Tyndale Mary Navas

Dafne Guerrero

Lissette Zamora

Wenjing Yan

Vivian Li

Elizabeth Foster

VIVIAN LI

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Vivian Li’s father, Jiaqi Li, had big dreams for his daughter; dreams of her studying outside China and making a name for herself in the medical sciences. He spoke frequently about his hopes, as she went through grade school in Xinxing County, west of Guangdong province, and when she transferred to a school with an English language curriculum in Guangzhou to complete 7th grade. While discussing options for her secondary education with her parents one night, she wondered aloud if the time had come for her to leave China. Her father was elated and the hunt for the right Canadian high school began.

Vancouver, British Columbia seemed to be the obvious choice, owing to its popularity among mainland and diaspora Chinese, but Vivian’s father wanted his daughter to have a more immersive experience in a small city. With the help of the Nova Scotia International Student Program, Vivian came to Nova Scotia on her own in 2013 and lived with a Canadian homestay family in Truro for four years, while she completed grade 9 and high school. She remembers her first year in Canada with a nostalgic smile.

“I was so excited on my first night in Nova Scotia, there was no room for fear. My homestay family was just as excited to meet me and asked questions all the way from Halifax Stanfield airport to their home in Truro. Unfortunately, didn’t

know how to respond to a lot of the questions, because conversational English has a different cadence from what had learned in China, so I frequently said, “I don’t know” and that became my nickname in the family.”

“After the wave of excitement passed, I felt homesick and sad, but my homestay family rallied around me and took me on road trips every weekend to many of the scenic landmarks in the province. They even went as far as to get me registered at a table tennis club in Truro, so could continue practicing and do something I loved. I received so much support from them, that I settled in faster than I had anticipated.”

In 2017, she joined EduNova’s Study and Stay Nova Scotia Program and enrolled at Acadia University in Wolfville to study Biology and Math. She never forgot the impact of her homestay experience and sought out opportunities to help International Students at the University and immerse herself in her new community. When she realised that there was no table tennis club at Acadia, for example, she helped set one up. She believes her experience as an international student from adolescence to adulthood has helped her understand the value of diversity.

“I can certainly say I’m more open minded because have lived for so many years in a more multicultural

country than the one in which I was born. Everyone’s voice, culture, and lived experience matters, no matter their age, gender, or ethnicity. We all have something to contribute. I’m thankful that I’ve had the chance to experience this daily.”

Vivian’s love for Nova Scotia has grown over the years. For her, it’s the place where she can explore her interests and try out new things, while continuing to support newcomers. After graduation, she assisted new international students for a year and planned social events at Acadia’s Wong International Centre. She also served as the New Student Orientation Coordinator organizing the new student orientation during the summer of 2022 and is now a support advisor with Acadia’s Accessible Learning Services. She sees a future filled with opportunities to serve others and give back to the province that molded her.

“I want to keep looking for ways to serve people and help improve the quality of life of my fellow Nova Scotians. am in the process of applying to medical school, and hope I’ll soon be one step closer to becoming a member of the health care profession. This province formed me, and it means so much to me. It has become my home and think contributing to its development is the least can do to say, ‘thank you’.”

LISSETTE ZAMORA

ACROSS THE EQUATOR TO THE TRUE NORTH

Lissette Zamora Bohorquez grew up in the port city of Santiago de Guayaquil, Ecuador. The youngest of three siblings, she spent her childhood doted on by a large, closely knit extended family, who fully expected her to grow up and follow the family’s tradition of settling down close to home.

Lis had other ideas.

In 2013, following the implementation of a policy that would have potentially limited her options for tertiary education and perhaps scuppered her long-held dream of becoming a doctor, 18-yearold Lis decided it was time to set sail for Canada. Despite her fears and her family’s anxiety, she’s never looked back.

“Leaving home was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do –had to detach myself from my baby niece with whom I had bonded and watch my grandparents shed tears because of me but I’ve always wanted to study abroad, so had to steel myself and do it.”

“While searching for universities in Canada with a good reputation for science research, came across Nova Scotia and Dalhousie University, and knew immediately that had found what was looking for.”

Lis settled in quickly. She remembers her drive down from the airport to Halifax and what she describes as the

magic of witnessing fall colours for the first time but what makes her eyes light up are the memories of the kindness and warmth of the people of Nova Scotia: from her Dalhousie University family to the UPS delivery driver who dug her out of a snow drift. She may have migrated from the other side of the equator, but for Lis, Nova Scotia is home.

“It’s been 8 years since was last in Ecuador, but have never been homesick. found a small family at Dalhousie that included and supported me. really love this country and this beautiful province; I feel safe here and all my fondest memories are of my life here.”

“I became an adult in Nova Scotia; I learned to stand on my own feet, make my own decisions, learnt how to cook, and yes, I finally met my partner here. My parents didn’t like the idea of their baby leaving home, as no one else in my family has ever left home permanently, but when they visit, they don’t want to leave either!”

The fulfillment Lis has found in Nova Scotia helped her push through the tough times, giving her comfort and a sense of hope when she lost funding for her education, and providing an anchor whenever she felt adrift during the long wait to become a Canadian Permanent Resident. She’s learned empathy because of what she’s experienced, she says, and

she now finds joy exploring other cultures through food.

“I find joy in doing little things to help new immigrants, because the people of Nova Scotia opened their hearts to me when was alone. Everyone deserves that support. I love trying out new recipes from different countries and hosting gatherings to share them. That way, can interact with new people, share a bit of myself with them and learn even more for my personal development.”

Lis is facing the future with squared shoulders and the steely resolve with which she’s stared down every challenge since she left Ecuador. She recently got promoted to Clinical Vision Science Program Coordinator in the department of Ophthalmology, at the IWK, and she’s excited about the prospect of giving back to Nova Scotia. She plans to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology, while learning French on the side, she says. It’s the next phase of her adventure, and as she gazes back on how far she’s come, she knows Nova Scotia and its people will be there for her and for others like her.

“Settling in Nova Scotia is the best decision you can make – sure, the province isn’t perfect- but if we are being honest, nowhere is. Here, you’ll always have a friend, you’ll find yourself and you will grow. There are endless opportunities here; you only have to take that first step.”

CONG CHEN

LIFELONG LEARNING

Cong Chen hears music in every sound – the tinkle of a spoon striking a glass, the chirping of birds, fingers tapping away on a keyboard. He’s loved music for as long as he can remember, but a family surviving on modest means in a remote, mountainous Chinese village has more pressing things to deal with than hitting high notes and staying on pitch.

A stroke of misfortune in a business venture when Cong was young meant his father was no longer able to support their small family; the task fell to his mother, a homemaker who shouldered her new burden by working multiple jobs. Cong’s eyes fill up with unshed tears as he remembers her stoicism and her advice to her young son who was struggling to adjust to the family’s new reality.

“When she noticed that I was floundering, she called me one day and said “Cong-Cong; I have no money to give you, but if you are going to make something of yourself in life, it’s up to you’’. That changed me. It changed the way see the world and my place in it and gave me the push needed to find a future for myself’”

Filled with a new sense of purpose and a desire to test his boundaries, Cong left China for Nova Scotia in 2018 after earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. A summer vacation spent in the province as part of an exchange program convinced him to look no further.

“I was stunned by the beauty of Nova Scotia and the way people relate to nature here. People rarely go to explore the woods for the fun of it in my hometown, they are too busy making a living. Here, there is balance - the old exists beside the new, concrete cohabits with green spaces - and life is like being in a movie that you are acting in.”

Cong felt lost and uncertain during his first year as an international student and struggled with homesickness and loneliness. Despite holding a degree in English, he struggled with the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and didn’t receive a passing grade on his first attempt. He had to pay for extra tuition to bring his language skills up to speed, which put him under additional financial strain. He also

had some difficulty adjusting to the difference between Chinese and western teaching methods.

With the support of faculty at Mount Saint Vincent University, provincial programs for international students, and his circle of friends, Cong graduated with a Master of Arts in Education in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). He now works as an English as an Additional Language instructor with Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) and finds joy helping new immigrants settle in Nova Scotia.

“Helping immigrants create a new life and thrive in Nova Scotia is the most fulfilling part of my job. It’s worth more than anything I earn now or could ever earn.

I can’t help but reflect on my experience as a newcomer and how this province welcomed me, encouraged me, and supported me. I think I’ll always get excited by immigrants’ good news stories.’’

His advice for international students? “Don’t be afraid, and welcome home”

ELIZABETH FOSTER

FROM MAINE WITH LOVE

Elizabeth Foster had lived in the city of South Portland, Maine, for so long, she felt she knew every street corner by name and could find her way through any nook or cranny blindfolded. By the time she graduated from High School, she was ready for a change big enough to challenge her. She decided to study in Canada.

“I was somewhat familiar with the country, and I liked it, as had visited Nova Scotia and Quebec as a child, but I wasn’t sure which province to choose. A friend of mine recommended Dalhousie University and thought I had nothing to lose from giving it a try. Little did know that I would fall in love with Halifax.”

Elizabeth moved to Nova Scotia in 2018. She spent a brief stint at Dalhousie University before settling on the four-year Bachelor of Journalism program at the University of King’s College. Working on stories and assignments all over Halifax helped her learn more about its history and culture, creating a stronger sense of connection to the province and helping Elizabeth get a sense of stability. She however wasn’t free of the layers of complexity added to the

lives of international students by COVID- 19 protocols and reams of paperwork.

“Applying for a SIN, getting a bank account, learning how to do my taxes- all those things make starting from scratch stressful for newcomers. Things worsened when COVID-19 struck and I lost the option of the 10-hour drive back home, which had always taken for granted. That’s when felt alone and helpless. Having friends in the same boat helped me though, and learnt how important it is to make connections.”

A crucial connection for Elizabeth was EduNova’s Study and Stay program, which she joined in her final year at King’s with the help of the University’s International Centre, when she was considering options for residing in Nova Scotia permanently after graduation.

“I got a lot out of EduNova’s Study and Stay Program. It helped me find a job and stay in Canada; in fact, was able to apply for my post-graduation work permit the day after finished all my academic requirements. wouldn’t be where I am today without the information and guidance received.”

Elizabeth works in the Advancement Office at the University of King’s College. She started out as the website manager but has stepped into a new role as the writing and digital content coordinator and is responsible for the University’s social media accounts, alongside website content. She spices things up with occasional background acting in local films and tv shows.

Elizabeth loves her life in Nova Scotia and has big plans to establish herself in her craft and in the artistic community in the province. She is gearing up for an advanced writing-related degree and hopes to work with a local publisher to someday write a novel set in Halifax.

“I see so much potential for the future in Nova Scotia; It’s a wonderful place to be and this is where I’m happiest. feel I’ll realistically be able to try out different things in Halifax and achieve my dreams. I’ve had people from Maine contact me about my experience studying and settling here and I’ll say to anyone – if you are thinking of moving to Nova Scotia, do it.”

Discover Nova Scotia Hub

The Discover Nova Scotia Hub aims to support prospective international students, positioning Nova Scotia as a study and immigration destination. The hub contains reliable and accessible information on academic programs and institutions, as well as a labour market overview, immigration pathways, and pre-arrival information to help students better plan their settlement in the province. Research and pre-arrival immigrant project results demonstrate that early connections and provision of relevant information increase integration, career, and social success for international students.

The content is delivered through app technology, bringing students to a virtual environment where EduNova offers other programs to support their journey from the first year of study, until applying for permanent residency in the province.

Post-Graduation Immigration Support Program

The Post-Graduation Immigration Support program was developed to support international graduates from Nova Scotian post-secondary institutions with instructional information on immigration programs and personalized immigration coaching. The goal of the program is to encourage the retention of graduates in Nova Scotia by removing immigration barriers.

The program offers graduates free access to Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) services. During an individualized session, consultants help graduates navigate the Canadian immigration system, identify the best immigration pathway to permanent residency and answer

What participants valued the most about the program:

“Tailored information based on my current status and experience, not generic information”

“Having that self-confidence that I am on the right track toward getting my PR”

“Getting to know that could explore other options”

“Filling a pre-assessment form and the advisor having options already figured out with very clear and straightforward instructions”.

“Human interaction that elevates this experience and alleviates all the stress and uncertainty that comes with this process”

82 students had access to immigration advice through the program.

"...project results demonstrate that early connections and provision of relevant information increase integration, career, and social success for international students."

Export Internship Program

The EIP Pitch Competition was held on April 19, 2023 from 6 to 8 pm. Six Nova Scotia businesses, nine students, and three judges attended the event. The three judges that joined us were (1) Journalist, Glennie Langille, (2) a Federal Government employee, Paul Gerin, and (3) Kalie Wang, NSCC faculty. The students pitched to the companies for a one-year internship experience, and the businesses pitched right back to the graduates about why they should work for them.

Companies are now following up with their selection for interviews and we expect to have all six interns in place by the end of the summer. At the end of the evening, the judges selected Leah Nguyen for best pitch.

Photo: Sincerely Media EduNova Annual Report

Conferences and Meetings

2022 CACEE National Conference: Meeting with Air Canada Brazil

November 15 - November 17, 2022, Virtual February 22, 2023, EduNova office, Halifax

CBIE 2022 Annual Conference Meeting with StudentsNS

November 13 - November 16, 2022, Toronto November 18, 2023, virtual

The Study and Stay™

CONNECT BEST Conference 2023

March 11, 2023,

Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax

Languages Canada Conference 2023

February 22-25, 2022, Halifax

Minister's Roundtable on Immigration and Population Growth

March 21, 2023, The Maritime Centre, Halifax

Board of Directors Meeting

April 6, 2023, EduNova office, Halifax

Language Sector Consultation Meetings

March 3 and April 29, 2023, EduNova office, Halifax

Agent Training Program

EduNova, in partnership with the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), completed training for the first cohort of agents under the Nova Scotia Agent Training Program in the Fall of 2022. The Nova Scotia Agent Training Program trained international recruitment agents to ensure prospective students receive high-quality service and are supported with consistent NS-based instruction and resources.

The goal was to up-skill approved agents to inform students and parents about the study permit application process and immigration pathways available in Nova Scotia. 32 agents attended the program, following a curriculum developed and delivered virtually by CBIE and EduNova. The course covered the Canadian education system, the post-secondary options available in Nova Scotia, and the immigration pathways available to overseas students.

This free training was specifically targeted at agents working with Nova Scotia’s post-secondary institutions, aiming to decrease study permit rejection rates and increase the number of international students studying in Nova Scotia. Major themes of professionalism, honesty, transparency, and accountability resonated with all the agencies in attendance. EduNova followed up with eligible graduates with graduation certificates and will include a list of these agents on EduNova’s website. This training is a historic achievement, as Nova Scotia is only the second province in Canada to undertake such a training program. It demonstrates our commitment to achieving top-class standards in working with student recruitment agencies and finding best-fit study opportunities for students.

Agent Quotes:

“It was very well-organized and professional training. I appreciate all the efforts your team made to plan this.”

“The facilitators were very thorough in the explanation of necessary concepts regarding Study Permit applications.”

“I enjoyed that the training was very interactive. Polls and breakout rooms were very engaging. The content of the training was very helpful, and I learned a lot that didn't know!”

“The training was informative and enhanced my knowledge of RCIC and RISIA's role. have a better understanding of the factors that need to be considered while assisting any student with a study permit.”

“The various case studies support the training program, and could match the information with the cases. have learned that the RISIA and RCIC can help our students with study permit applications, and will definitely refer the students to them.”

“What I enjoyed the most was the group work where we had some time to brainstorm and think together out loud. This is where discovered that most of the agents share the same issues regarding study permit applications and this is not specific to a single country.”

“Working on case studies, discussions with colleagues from different parts of the world, sharing our experiences and learning their perspectives were extremely beneficial and I enjoyed the most during the training.”

Student Familiarization Tour

EduNova offered a fall 2022 Familiarization Tour for 48 NSISP students from across the province between October 28-31. The tour included visits to Acadia University, Dalhousie University, University of King’s College, Mount Saint Vincent University, St. Francis Xavier University and Cape Breton University. Universities had the opportunity to host NSISP students through a four day tour for the first time since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020.

Nova Scotia International Education Day 2023

EduNova, in partnership with the Province of Nova Scotia and EduNova’s members, hosted the Nova Scotia International Education Day on February 7, 2023, in Ottawa. The event provided a forum to connect, collaborate and further international education and research partnerships.

The event aimed to showcase and celebrate Nova Scotia’s education and training expertise, solidify our relationships in existing markets, and grow our connections into emerging markets for research, collaboration, and student mobility. In attendance were Nova Scotian Members of Parliament and Senators, Ambassadors and High Commissioners from Morocco, Colombia, France, Switzerland, Jordan, St. Kitts & Nevis, Malaysia, Kuwait, Qatar, China, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Belgium, Japan, senior representatives from Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), Global Affairs Canada (GAC), iCent, IDP, Colleges & Institutes Canada, Universities Canada, CONSUP & ApplyBoard and federal government stakeholders from IRCC and ACOA, Nova Scotia’s Departments of Advanced Education and Labour, Skills and Immigration, along with senior representatives from EduNova’s membership.

Media and Awards

Academica Top 10

EduNova launches program to train overseas student recruitment agents

EduNova launches new Discover Nova Scotia student resource hub

NS PSE implements ARUCC MyCreds National Network

The Pie News

Canada: EduNova launches new agent training

Nova Scotia to launch digital hub for internationals

StudyTravel Magazine

New Nova Scotia agent training program to launch MyCreds.ca

Nova Scotia implements MyCreds™ across the province’s public post-secondary education system

Education News Canada

EduNova to launch training program for postsecondary admissions staff

Nova Scotia's first program dedicated to training overseas student recruitment agents

EduNova to launch Discover Nova Scotia

CONSUP and the NSCC implement critical system improvement for the province's post-secondary education system

CBC News

N.S. pilot program aims to clarify immigration process for international students

Canadian Immigration News

Pilot Program To Help International Graduates Immigrate To Nova Scotia University Affairs

The murky world of unregulated international student recruiters

Financial Statement

EduNova is 2022's Most Innovative Regional Education & Training Association of the Year - Eastern Canada

We're excited to announce that EduNova received the Most Innovative Regional Education & Training Association of the Year for Eastern Canada for 2022. It’s an honour to be recognized as a top education and training association in all of Eastern Canada by Corporate Vision. We’re proud to be part of a strong community that works hard to champion Nova Scotia as a leader in the international student experience while advancing social and economic growth in the province.

“Along with building a strong foundation for attracting international students to Nova Scotia, EduNova is creating a plan with a financially-sound strategy and ground-breaking innovation that will deliver value to our members over the next decade.

Throughout the past year, the EduNova team has worked hard to support various projects that positively contributed to our economy and province. It has been a great honour to support the work of EduNova’s board and keep our financial focus on ensuring sustainability as we deliver on our strategic plan.

want to take this opportunity to thank our funders for their continued support, finance team for a job well done, and Grant Thornton for supporting the organization through the transition of our accounting system over the past year.

EduNova is ready for an exciting year ahead and we look forward to continuing to bring value to all of our stakeholders.”

- Saeed El-Darahali Treasurer, EduNova

Our Board

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