Don Ghafari
Toronto,ON
Summary
Results-driven Regulated Immigration Consultant with extensive experience providing comprehensive guidance and support to individuals seeking immigration services. Deep understanding of immigration laws, regulations, and procedures ensures strict compliance while delivering personalized strategies aligned with clients' unique needs and goals. Exceptional customer service skills establish trust and rapport, advocating for clients' rights and interests throughout the immigration process. Meticulous attention to detail in preparing and submitting immigration applications, coupled with up-to-date knowledge of policy developments, ensures accurate and reliable advice. Collaborative approach fosters strong relationships with clients and a network of professionals, enabling seamless delivery of comprehensive immigration services. Multilingual proficiency in English, French, Spanish, and Arabic facilitates effective communication with diverse clientele. A solid background in student admission advising further enhances expertise in facilitating successful immigration journeys while upholding ethical and professional standards.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Bilingual International Student Advisor
York University
08.2023 - Current
- Managed the International Visitor Research Trainee program, identifying and eliminating process obstacles.
- Continuously engaged with internal and external partners to ensure excellent delivery.
- Liaised with official authorities to lobby on behalf of incoming students, assisting in the admission of foreign nationals into Canada.
- Increased international student retention rates by developing and implementing targeted orientation programs.
- Contributed to increased enrollment numbers by participating in recruitment fairs at both local and overseas events, promoting the institution''s offerings effectively to prospective students.
- Collaborated with faculty members to address specific needs of international students within their respective departments.
- Organized workshops on various topics, including career planning, study skills, and cultural adjustment, contributing to overall student success.
- Served as a committee member for selecting candidates for Global Affairs Canada scholarships.
Regulated Immigration Consultant
Seven Lakes Immigration Services Inc
05.2023 - Current
- Established and currently operate immigration consultancy service, providing comprehensive guidance and support to individuals seeking immigration services, while ensuring strict compliance with relevant regulatory frameworks.
- Conducted thorough assessments of client profiles, evaluating eligibility criteria, and offering personalized immigration strategies tailored to their specific needs and goals.
- Prepared and submitted immigration applications, including visa applications, work permits, study permits, permanent residency applications, and citizenship applications, meticulously adhering to immigration laws and requirements.
- Offered expert advice on immigration policies, procedures, and regulations, staying up-to-date with latest developments and changes in immigration laws to provide accurate and reliable information to clients.
- Represented clients in dealings with immigration authorities, advocating for their rights and interests, and providing professional representation throughout immigration process.
- Developed strong relationships with clients, fostering trust and confidence through clear communication, empathy, and commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.
- Collaborated with network of professionals in related fields, such as lawyers, translators, and notaries, to provide comprehensive and seamless immigration services to clients.
- Maintained strict confidentiality and ethical standards in handling client information and adhered to professional code of conduct as outlined by regulatory body for immigration consultants.
Bilingual Driver Examiner
DriveTest
08.2021 - 08.2023
- Successfully completed Driver examiner required training set by Ontario's Ministry of transpiration.
- Interact in professional manner with members of public from various background.
- Inspect applicant's vehicle according to MTO's safety standard.
- Use of MTO's drivers handbook to promote safe and responsible driving while examining applicants.
- Evaluate driving abilities of driver's license light vehicle applicants at G2, G, M1 and M level.
- Conduct examination on daily basis using fair and unbiased method by following Ministry's guidelines.
- Provide constructive feedback to drivers applicants while referring to MTO's safe and responsible driving guideline
- Managed diverse portfolio of international clients, diligently ensuring accuracy and authenticity of vital documents in strict adherence to regulatory protocols prescribed by relevant governing bodies
- Manage large workload while maintaining great quality of work
Administrative Assistant & Immigration Case Worker
The Law office of Kamrul Hafiz
09.2019 - 07.2021
- Pointed students to relevant information about academic programs and assisted in applying for study permits.
- Prepared and filed immigration documents.
- Visited CBSA detention center and follow up on client's case status.
- Used coordination and planning skills to achieve results according to schedule.
- Responded to client inquires via phone and emails.
- Researched and summarized new immigration policies to lawyer.
- Attended tribunals to file documents on behalf of office
- On hand to takes notes while attorney discussed case details with client .
- Determined of correct forms for each case (SC Family law, IRB).
- Served Respondents court documents once prepared
- Attended court hearings
Restaurant Manager
Osso Grill
12.2017 - 07.2019
- Developed, implemented and managed business plans to promote profitable food and beverage sales.
- Carefully interviewed, selected, trained and supervised staff.
- Reconciled cash and credit card transactions to maintain accurate records.
- Resolved challenging customer complaints to full satisfaction, promoting brand loyalty and maximizing repeat business.
- Oversaw front of house personnel to maintain adequate staffing and minimize overtime.
- Maintained safe working and guest environment to reduce risk of injury and accidents.
- Prepared for and executed new menu implementations.
- Skillfully interacted with external vendors to obtain best quality in pricing and product.
- Continuously developed and implemented marketing campaign
Sales Associate
Virgin Mobile
04.2013 - 07.2017
- Engaged with customers to effectively build rapport and lasting relationships.
- Collaborated with clients to maintain relationships and provide customers with thorough support and guidance.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing.
- Processed product returns and assisted customers with other selections.
- Educated Client's on contracts terms
- Demonstrated ability to work in teams
- Received numerous awards for maintaining top performer spot
Student Enrollment Coordinator- Remote
Educom
08.2012 - 05.2013
- Orchestrated the seamless enrollment process for prospective students, assuming the pivotal role of a Student Enrollment Coordinator to facilitate smooth interactions between students and Canadian universities.
- Initiated proactive communication with universities, establishing robust connections with admissions representatives to gather comprehensive program information, admission requirements, and crucial deadlines.
- Provided personalized guidance to students, empowering them to make informed decisions in selecting appropriate programs aligned with their academic background, career objectives, and individual preferences.
- Offered comprehensive support throughout the application journey, meticulously overseeing document submission within stipulated timelines, while strictly adhering to university policies and maintaining the utmost confidentiality.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize workflows, leveraging automation systems and process enhancements to enhance efficiency and elevate the student experience.
- Kept abreast of evolving admission policies, program offerings, and immigration regulations, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information delivery to students.
- Cultivated strong relationships with universities, fostering a network of contacts to expedite resolution of admission inquiries, while promoting seamless collaboration between the student services office and partner institutions.
Procurement and Logistics Specialist- Remote
Cedarmed Nigeria
06.2008 - 07.2012
- Spearheaded negotiations and facilitated the successful procurement of large-scale construction equipment, ensuring optimal terms and conditions while adhering to budgetary guidelines.
- Acted as the primary company representative during supplier interactions, establishing and nurturing strategic partnerships to secure competitive pricing and timely delivery.
- Streamlined logistics operations by coordinating the efficient shipment of equipment, coordinating with freight forwarders, and overseeing customs compliance for seamless import/export processes.
- Implemented cost-saving initiatives by analyzing market trends, conducting supplier evaluations, and leveraging volume discounts, resulting in substantial savings for the organization.
- Proactively monitored supply chain performance, identified potential risks, and implemented contingency plans to mitigate disruptions and maintain uninterrupted operations.
Bilingual Credit Collection Consultant
Rogers Communications Inc
08.2010 - 06.2012
- Responded to client inquires via Phone and Email.
- Passionately connected and built rapport with variety of customers.
- Diagnosed problems, proposed solutions and negotiated settlements while following policies and guidelines.
- Complete accurate transactions, update accounts, collect overdue balances, and provide confirmations and follow up as necessary in accordance with law, all with sense of urgency and eye for detail.
- Owned and solved issues from beginning to end with min supervision.
- Incorporated feedback on regular basis, to improve personal and professional development.
- Received several awards for being one of top 10 employees in department.
Education
No Degree - Risk Management
University of Toronto
Toronto, ON05.2024
Diploma - Immigration Consultant
Herzing College
Toronto11.2019
Diploma - Electromechanical Engineering
George Brown College
Toronto, ON06.2012
Skills
- Exceptional Customer Service: Proven track record of receiving and promptly responding to inquiries from individuals seeking information on programs and admission requirements Provide outstanding customer service, addressing concerns and questions in professional manner
- Tailored Correspondence: Proficient in developing and delivering customized correspondence to clients with unique circumstances, ensuring personalized attention beyond standard admission letters
- English Proficiency Assessment: Familiarity with English proficiency tests such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or other recognized assessments Verify applicants' English language proficiency prior to issuing admission letters
- Effective Problem-Solving: Capable of addressing admission problems, resolving issues, and suggesting alternatives as required, ensuring smooth application process for individual applicants
- Data Analysis and Reporting: Proficient in providing and interpreting statistical information related to program applications, waitlists, number of applicants Deliver accurate and insightful reports to support decision-making processes
- Collaboration and Liaison: Skilled in fostering strong relationships and effective communication with Registrar's admissions office Work collaboratively with colleagues to address issues, promote seamless operations, and maintain cohesive work environment
- Fluent in English, French, Spanish and Arabic
Certification
- American Associations of Motor Vehicles Administrator :
Certified Driver Examiner
Certified Motorcycle Driver Examiner
- The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants License number R713248
Timeline
Bilingual International Student Advisor
York University
08.2023 - Current
Regulated Immigration Consultant
Seven Lakes Immigration Services Inc
05.2023 - Current
Bilingual Driver Examiner
DriveTest
08.2021 - 08.2023
Administrative Assistant & Immigration Case Worker
The Law office of Kamrul Hafiz
09.2019 - 07.2021
Restaurant Manager
Osso Grill
12.2017 - 07.2019
Sales Associate
Virgin Mobile
04.2013 - 07.2017
Student Enrollment Coordinator- Remote
Educom
08.2012 - 05.2013
Bilingual Credit Collection Consultant
Rogers Communications Inc
08.2010 - 06.2012
Procurement and Logistics Specialist- Remote
Cedarmed Nigeria
06.2008 - 07.2012
No Degree - Risk Management
University of Toronto
Diploma - Immigration Consultant
Herzing College
Diploma - Electromechanical Engineering
George Brown College
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