The CK LIP Immigrant Advisory Group (IAG) is a volunteer group which acts as a resource for CK LIP Council and community organizations. The IAG provides input on what immigrants are experiencing in the community, shares ideas on creating a more welcoming and inclusive community, and helps drive community initiatives.
The
CK LIP IAG: 2023-2025 A Term in Review Infographic highlights the work and impact of the second term IAG members.
Immigrant Advisory Group Members
Mohsin Abbas (Co-Chair)
Country of Origin: Pakistan
I chose to live and work in Chatham-Kent because it reflects the kind of community I’ve spent my career uplifting—diverse, resilient, and deeply rooted in local storytelling. I applied for the Immigrant Advisory Group because it reflects the very mission I’ve pursued throughout my career: empowering newcomers through inclusive storytelling and community engagement. As an Emmy-nominated journalist and Pakistani-Canadian publisher, I’ve spent nearly 30 years amplifying underrepresented voices—from conflict zones abroad to small towns across Canada. Living and working in Chatham-Kent, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges immigrants face in building a new life. Joining IAG offers a meaningful opportunity to help shape policies that reflect the lived experiences of newcomers and ensure their voices are heard in our community.
Shailza Gandhi (Co-Chair)
Country of Origin: India
As a newcomer, I want to immerse myself in the community and learn more about the community I am living in. A lot of newcomers and immigrants are keen to know more about Canadian culture, as well as to allow people to explore the culture from their home countries. So, cultural exchange activities and engagement through the Immigrant Advisory Group can help people settle better within the Chatham-Kent community.
Lachman Balani
Country Origin: India
I would like the opportunity to welcome newcomers to Canada and help them integrate into the economic and social fabric of local community. IAG definitely is in a sweet spot to help newcomers to Chatham-Kent as that is their vision and mission. We should increase our cooperation with the chamber of commerce, the 3 levels of government, schools and certain children-centric activities to help newcomers assimilate. Activities like Taste of Chatham Kent are great in welcoming them. We should even partner with Engineering for Kids - a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) endeavour. I am sure as time goes on, with our constant, sincere efforts, we can keep on becoming more impactful.
Adana Frasier
Country of Origin: Trinidad & Tobago
Adana came to Canada in 2019 and has been passionate about helping others in Chatham-Kent who can benefit from both her experience as a newcomer as well as being a skilled lawyer.
“As a newcomer myself, and the fact that my firm specializes in immigration and refugee matters, it would be a privilege to play some part in growing the diversity and talent in Chatham-Kent. I believe it’s critical not to just attract newcomers to the region but give them the impetus to stay and grow in Chatham-Kent vs the GTA. Many people outside of Canada see the GTA as the place to be, but I know that Chatham-Kent offers much for those looking to start a new life in Canada.”
Jiny Varghese
Country Origin: India
I want to influence positive change for immigrants, help the community grow stronger, and also to develop personally and professionally. The Immigrant Advisory Group can help newcomers in Chatham-Kent by making sure their voices are heard, improving access to services like housing, jobs, and language support, and building stronger connections between immigrants and the wider community. It helps reduce barriers and creates a more welcoming, inclusive environment where newcomers can thrive.
