Vaughan resident one of RBC's 25 top immigrants

Conversation with teacher changed Bernardo Riveros' life

Yorkregion.com
July 16, 2018
Simone Joseph

Despite a university degree and six years of experience in advertising and marketing in Colombia, Bernardo Riveros’ credentials were not recognized in Canada.

He first came to Canada to study English in 1996, went home and returned as a skilled immigrant two years later.

“It was really hard to find a job in my field,” Riveros says.

But life did get better for him and he ended up starting a private school with two partners.

The Vaughan resident has been recognized as one of the winners of the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards.

Presented by Canadian Immigrant Magazine and sponsored by Royal Bank, the awards highlight Canadian immigrants who have achieved great things while giving back to their communities.

“Every year, I am amazed by the number of talented people nominated for this award,” said Sanjay Agnihotri, director of events and digital for Metroland Media Group and publisher of Canadian Immigrant Magazine.

When Riveros was studying English, he had a conversation with his teacher that would change the course of his life. They discussed a business idea--starting a private school.

He co-founded the International Language Academy of Canada with two partners and a $300,000 loan. The academy offers English training.

The RBC Awards were June 19.