Yao SONKA
French Teacher /researcher/volunteer/public servant
Surrey,BC
Summary
- Cross-Cultural Communication and Intercultural Competence
- Settlement Services and Newcomer Integration Strategies
- Trauma-Informed Practice with Refugees and Vulnerable Populations
- Community Resources Navigation and Case Management
- Employment Readiness and Labour Market Integration for Newcomers
- Language Acquisition and Integration (ESL/FSL Pedagogy)
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Public Services
- Conflict Resolution and Client Support Techniques
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Teacher
Francophone School Authority
BC
09.2023 - 12.2025
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Implemented differentiated instruction to meet diverse student needs.
- Facilitated collaborative learning activities to enhance student interaction.
- Assessed student progress through regular evaluations and feedback sessions.
Immigration Services Officer
Offi
Strasbourg
09.2011 - 06.2012
- Conducted comprehensive assessments of immigration applications to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Evaluated documentation and evidence submitted by applicants to verify authenticity and eligibility.
- Coordinated with various government agencies to facilitate timely processing of immigration cases.
- Provided guidance to applicants regarding immigration procedures and requirements, enhancing user experience.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Professional Development Program
Simon Fraser Universty
BC(Burnaby)12-2028
Didactics of French To Foreigners
University of Strasbourg
France06-2012
Skills
- Classroom management
- Relationship building
- Critical thinking
- Lesson planning
- Behavior management
- Public speaking
- Social-emotional learning training
- Community involvement
Accomplishments
- ESL Literacy - Increased ESL students' reading levels by integrating online word games and altering lesson plans for students needing extra guidance🔹 Improved newcomer integration outcomes
Successfully supported diverse newcomers with settlement planning, referrals, and community navigation, helping clients access housing, language training, and employment resources faster.🔹 Delivered high-impact client support and case management
Managed complex caseloads while maintaining accurate documentation and confidentiality standards, ensuring compliance with Canadian immigration policies and service guidelines.🔹 Strengthened cross-cultural communication
Used multilingual and intercultural skills to build trust with clients from different backgrounds, reducing misunderstandings and increasing participation in integration programs.🔹 Collaborated with community partners and government programs
Worked closely with schools, social services, and employment agencies to create coordinated support plans that improved client outcomes and service efficiency.
Languages
English
Full Professional
French
Full Professional
Dutch
Elementary
Twi
Professional Working
Certification
- Teaching experience with immigrants
- French + English (BIG asset in BC)
- Master’s-level education
- PDP training (professional practice)
Interests
- Gardening
- Cooking
- Participating in cultural exchange programs and homestays
- Dancing
- Surfing
- Adventure Travel
Timeline
Teacher
Francophone School Authority
09.2023 - 12.2025
Immigration Services Officer
Offi
09.2011 - 06.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Professional Development Program
Simon Fraser Universty
Didactics of French To Foreigners
University of Strasbourg