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: 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: 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.
Adana Frasier
Country: 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: 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.
2025-28 IAG Term
Recruitment for the 2025-2028 IAG term is now open! Applications are being accepted for all those interested on
Let's Talk Chatham-Kent, and will be open until midnight on Friday, June 27th, 2025.
Eligibility:
- Resident of Chatham-Kent
- Immigrant or newcomer (born outside of Canada and moved to Canada)
- 18 years of age or older
Commitment:
- Members serve a three-year term
- Meet four times per year
If you have any specific questions about the CK LIP Immigrant Advisory Group, please contact CK LIP Staff at:
cklip@chatham-kent.ca.
