Rahila Ansari is the Senior Manager of an employment program for newcomers and refugees at the Immigrant Services Society of BC (one of the largest humanitarian organizations in Western Canada supporting newcomers and refugees to settle in BC). With over 16 years of experience in employment programs, Rahila has progressed from Case Manager to senior leadership roles while consistently advocating for her clients.
After immigrating to Canada in 2006, following a successful career as Vice President of a bank, Rahila faced the challenge of rebuilding her professional life. She embraced every opportunity with gratitude and resilience, believing that when the goal is big, opportunities will follow. Over the years, she has managed diverse employment programs, including program for temporary foreign workers, youth in school district, and entrepreneurship programs such as Spark and Ignite. Today, she leads Solid Start 360, an employment program designed to empower newcomers find employment in 4 regions: Vancouver, Ridge Meadows, New Westminster and Tri-cities.
Rahila attributes her success to strong allyship with coworkers, leaders, and community partners. She firmly believes that creating meaningful impact is never a solo effort,it requires collaboration and shared vision. Her family’s support has been a cornerstone of her journey. Coming from a culture where women are often seen primarily as homemakers, Rahila is grateful for a husband who has consistently supported her career aspirations and leadership growth.
Beyond her professional role, Rahila is deeply committed to giving back to the community. She serves as Lead Women Volunteer at the Guildford Islamic and Cultural Center, which supports nearly 10,000 Muslims in North Surrey. The center provides place of worship, social events, activities and religious education. to community living in the area.. Rahila has played an active role in fundraising campaigns for the center’s expansion, helping the organization move closer to its goal of securing eight and a half million over four years.
As a woman of colour, Rahila once believed that wearing a hijab would limit her opportunities to move into management and felt content remaining a Case Manager. She deeply values how ISSofBC supported her journey into leadership, empowering her to become a manager while honoring her identity.
Through mentorship and role modeling, Rahila inspires newcomer women to pursue sustainable employment and economic independence. She remains grounded by her faith, family values and nature.
