Toronto-area immigration consultant recognized as grassroots hero in her
community

TORONTO, Nov. 8 /CNW/ - The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC) today shined its member spotlight on Lisa Ramkissoon in recognition of her exceptional work as a volunteer advocate for the rights of women, children and refugees.

"Lisa is known for providing excellent service in her work as an immigration consultants," said CSIC CEO John Ryan. "But Lisa's true calling is in the community where she's always ready to speak up for those who can't speak for themselves."

Lisa arrived in Canada from Trinidad and Tobago in 1994 and soon started to work in her family's immigration firm. Then in 2007 changes in her own life prompted Lisa to reach out to her community by building grassroots support for a women's shelter in York Region.

Soon after, Lisa branched out beyond her community to advocate on behalf of refugees across Canada, successfully building an advocacy network and obtaining key changes to Bill C-11.

Lisa has also given back to the immigration consulting community by acting as Secretary for the Ontario Chapter of the Canadian Migration Institute. Despite the demanding nature of her community work, Lisa continues to operate a successful immigration practice, with offices in Etobicoke and Scarborough.

"Immigration consulting is a very busy career path, but somehow Lisa found the time to leave a lasting impact and an admirable legacy in her community," said Ryan. "She represents the very best of our profession."

CSIC's member spotlight was created to highlight prominent members of the immigration consulting community, focusing on their achievement and contributions to the immigration consulting profession. The recipient of the member spotlight is nominated by CSIC members.

NOTE TO JOURNALISTS: Photo of Lisa Ramkissoon available upon request

The Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants is the professional regulatory body for Certified Canadian Immigration Consultants. Established in 2004 it currently has nearly 1,800 members. CSIC's mandate is to protect consumers of immigration consulting services. Consequently, it is responsible for ensuring the education, competency testing and the discipline of its members. CSIC also requires its members to carry errors and omissions insurance and to contribute to a compensation fund. The best way to find a CCIC is via CSIC's toll free referral line, 1-877-311-7926.

For further information:

Nancy Tibbo, 416-572-2800, Toll free: 1-866-308-CSIC (2252), [email protected], http://www.csic-scci.ca