#Jobs At The Company The Fairmont Chateau Whistler | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

rebelminxy · 5 years ago

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Confessions on Christmas Night

Pairing: Jared Padalecki x Assistant!Reader

Rating: Teen

Warning: Fluff and so much more fluffing fluff

Trope: White Christmas

A/N: In this fic, Jared never married Gen and it takes place Christmas 2015. This is in no way to disrespect the Padalecki family and I only wish the best for them. And the images used here are not mine, they were found on Pinterest and Google. Credit to the creators but sadly I don’t know them to mention them.

A/N 2: This was written for the Christmas mini for @supernaturaltropecelebration. The moment I saw this trope, I remembered the song Jared sang on the Christmas album he and other SPN cast made a while back, obvi! So yeah give the song a listen and hey might as well listen to the entire album while you’re at it since it is the holidays.

My Masterlist

December 18th

(Y/N) bolted from the car, leaving Jared and Jensen behind as she made her way to her apartment. She couldn’t contain her excitement after the great news they received that afternoon. Jared watched as she rushed up the stairwell, too impatient to wait for the elevator. Jared followed right behind her, Jensen joining the rush up the stairs. Jared watched as she ran into her floor hall, catching up to see her struggling to open her apartment door, giggling like a child. When she finally opened her door, she ran inside screaming with joy. Jensen was laughing at her excitement as he followed Jared to her place. They entered and saw her run around grabbing things, Jensen whistling at the Christmas decoration she had placed all around.

“Wow, you even got light hanging from the ceiling,” Jensen noticed while he examined the colorful lights above.

“This is my first year actually celebrating Christmas so I went all out with the decor,” (Y/N) pointed out as she carried a black bag from her bathroom full of toiletries, pointing at the massive tree in her open living room.

Jensen whistled as Jared just smiled, watching (Y/N) run into her bedroom.

“You do realize we leave the day after tomorrow to the lodge,” Jared said with a chuckle.

“You do realize I have to go clothes shopping,” (Y/N) said, poking her head out her bedroom door. “I have NOTHING for the heavy snow and I need to pack the things I can wear for the next two weeks before I go out! Plus tomorrow is Saturday, weekends are hell in the mall and all over the city in Vancouver.”

“Don’t worry about going tomorrow,” Jensen stated as he looked at his phone. “Dee will be here with J.J. in an hour and she already said she wants to go shopping with you. She wants to make sure you have the perfect dress for the Christmas and New Year party.”

“YES!” (Y/N) exclaimed as she ran towards Jensen, hugging him. “Thank your adorable wife for me. Now you two,w shoo! I still have tons to pack and make sure I call my family to let them know I’m not coming home for the holidays. I am NOT missing out on my chance to play in the snow!”

December 20th

It was 6 am when Jared was startled awake by someone banging on his door. He climbed out of bed and wrapped himself in the warm fluffy robe (Y/N) had gotten him two months ago, stumbling towards his front door half awake. When he opened the door, he couldn’t help the smile that wrapped around his face. There stood (Y/N), dressed in a heavy green coat that had faux fur wrapped around the hood and a soft cream sweater dress, red and white striped leggings that reminded him of candy canes. She wore the black NorthFace boots he bought her yesterday when the five of them went last-minute shopping for winter clothing and the black pom beanie he got her a year ago. She stood at his door with two coffee cups in hand and a medium brown bag between her lips, looking up at him with shining eyes. He took the brown bag gently from her lips and moved to the side so she could enter his apartment.

“I know it’s a little early but,” she began.

“A little early? The bus won’t be here until 9am,” he chuckled in response.

“Still, we agreed last night at dinner that Dee and I would make sure you guys had everything packed and ready. I know how unorganized you and Jensen are, and you guys both remind me everyday how thankful you are that the higher-ups assigned me as your assistant. Now, where is your luggage so I can double-check? And yes, I got your breakfast sandwich in the bag with my sausage bagel so don’t you DARE eat my breakfast.”

Jared laughed at her last statement, pointing at his luggage sitting on his couch. He watched as she made her way over to it, unzipping it and going through his things. She turned to look at him, her mouth opening to say something but he stopped her.

“My suits are in their carrier hanging on the bathroom door and my shoes are laid out beside the couch. Got tired and decided to pack them in the morning.”

“I wasn’t going to ask about that since I saw your suits and shoes,” she said with a smile. “I was about to ask where your medication was and if you made sure you packed enough socks.”

Jared’s eyes went wide as he thought back on his time packing, realizing he only put in three pairs of socks and that his medication was still in his cabinet. When he sighed heavily, (Y/N) giggled and walked over to him, patting him on the arm.

“Don’t worry, that’s why you got me, big boy.”

“I don’t know how they picked out the most perfect person to handle Jay and I.”

“Be thankful I agreed to it and not to go work with your buddy Stephen.”

“I will thank anyone I have to just so we can keep you,” Jared said with a slight blush.

“Don’t worry, as long as you two have a job with the CW, you are stuck with me. Now eat while I get your socks and medicine. You need to be dressed and ready by 8:30am and heading downstairs.”

“OHMAGAWD LOOK AT THE SNOW!!!”

Everyone laughed at (Y/N)’s reaction when she got off the bus once they arrived at the Fairmont Chateau in Whistler. Jared watched as she ran around the snow with Justice, West, and Maison. Misha and his family rode the bus with them, glad to keep the kids together so they could enjoy each other’s company. Mark Sheppard and his wife, Sarah, and Ruth Connell also joined them along for the ride. Everyone else from cast to the crew would be arriving in their own mode of transportation since the majority of them were coming with their immediate family, so thankfully the bus didn’t get packed.

“It’s like she has never seen snow before,” Ruthie noted.

“She grew up in the south like us, but mostly worked down there. So Vancouver has been the closest she has gotten to see snow,” Danneel replied. “It’s great to see her so happy, especially after losing her mother last year.”

“She has gotten along with you and these two guys hasn’t she?” Misha poked.

“Yeah, she’s like a sister now and is someone I can trust to take care of my man here and his baby brother.”

Everyone laughed, causing Jensen and Jared to turn red with embarrassment.

“Let’s head inside and get our rooms before everyone else gets here!” Jensen exclaimed, guiding everyone inside.

The studio had rented out the entire resort for the cast and crew for their DC shows and Supernatural, making sure everyone and their families had room. Stephen had already arrived, being the first one there with his wife, Cassandra and his daughter, Maverick. Jensen, Jared and Stephen made sure to get the suites, even getting one for (Y/N) and Stephen’s assistant to share. They all agreed to meet up down in the fireplace room once they were settled in their rooms. Jared was waiting for the elevator when (Y/N) came out of her room, still in her cream dress but switched her boots out for a pair of tan Uggs. She smiled at Jared and stood next to him.

“Bet you didn’t unpack,” she giggled, receiving a smile from Jared.

“No, will do it later. Wanted to check out the place first. Mind joining me on a stroll?”

“Sure, I wanted to find out if they had an indoor pool and promised Danneel I would find out if they have a babysitting service for the kids for when we are at the parties.”

“Didn’t you two call last night?” Jared asked as they climbed into the elevator that arrived. He noticed how close (Y/N) was standing next to him, her covered arm barely brushing his.

“We did, but Danneel wants me to see exactly who the babysitter will be and do some research on them. Just in case we have to call a service instead.”

“Smart move,” Jared agreed, watching the numbers lower as they went down.

“Yeah, plus you promised to go with me skiing so I want to see what classes are offered since the website says they do.”

“You are really dedicated to learning how to ski,” Jared chuckled.

“I am not leaving this place until my feet are on those sticks and flying down a hill of snow!”

“Don’t worry,” Jared laughed as he wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. “We will make sure you not only learn how to ski but make your first snow angel and snowman. Even get the kids in on a snowball fight”

They walked off the elevator once it reached the main lobby, laughing and enjoying each other’s company as they talked about everything they wanted to do. They admired the Christmas decor and got all the information they needed, But, instead of joining the rest of the group, they wandered off through the resort, just talking and laughing, lost in their own little world.

December 22nd

“Are you sure? This isn’t something to joke about Jay?”

“I’m serious, Dee pulled it out of her on their shopping trip yesterday,” Jensen whispered as he and Jared walked by a few crew members towards the doors that led to the outside patio. “She told Dee that she found you handsome and kind, but would never make a move to ask you out because she doesn’t think you would want to date someone like her.”

It was hours after their ski trip up the mountain, everyone deciding to warm up with a hot chocolate. Dee and (Y/N) had gone outside with J.J because the young girl still wasn’t tired from a full day of snow fun while the guys drank their chocolate and Jensen revealing what he found out from his wife regarding (Y/N).

“What do you… She is beautiful Jay and you were the first one to call me out on my crush for her,” Jared whispered back with a tinge of annoyance in his tone once they were on the patio.

“Dude, it's not an image thing. We know how confident (Y/N) is about her body and Dee even said she was surprised how body confident the girl is. I mean, you do stare a ton when she is wearing those shorts in the summer,” Jensen wiggled his eyebrows at his last comment, causing Jared to blush.

“Ok, so what’s got her holding back?”

“Something about you might not wanting to date someone that works for you or possibly you just wanting to be friends since she’s worked for us since season 2 and never made a move.”

“Hey, I thought her calling us childish and always calling me her best friend meant I was in the friendzone.”

“Well, it seems like you two don’t know how to move on from this whole maybe or maybe not flirting circle, so Dee took matters into her own hands.”

“What are you talking about?” Jared asked with worry.

“Don’t panic, Dee didn’t tell her. She just went and asked if there were certain things that could be done tomorrow night. If you want details, then talk to Dee,” Jensen stated as he pointed forward.

Jared followed his guide and smiled widely. Dee was sitting on a bench along the patio watched (Y/N) play with J.J in the snow. There was a snowman near them, wearing a black tophat Dee had purchased on their shopping trip yesterday. Jared couldn’t help how warm his heartfelt as he watched (Y/N) play with J.J, making him wonder how great of a mother she would be. He quickly shook his head away from the image, knowing if he could even dream of having a kid with her, he first had to gain the nerve to ask her out.

“Alright, you stay here while I take Dee inside to see what she has planned because I have a few ideas of my own.”

December 24th

It was the night of the Christmas party and Jared honestly was extremely nervous. After he pulled Dee aside to talk about her plans, he commented on a few things he had in mind, specifically a bit after the party. Dee made it clear that her plans meant for him and (Y/N) to go off alone during the party and to hopefully end Christmas Eve with a declaration. Jared wore his black tie suit and vest, combing his hair back with a bit of gel to keep it in place. Once he felt his nerves under control, he walked out of his room to the elevator. As he went down to the main lobby, he couldn’t help but fidget with his suit, double and triple-checking he looked good in the mirror wall surrounding the interior of the elevator. He reached the main lobby and made his way towards the grand hall where the party was being held.

As he entered the grand hall, his eyes went wide with the decorations. The company had gone all out for this party. The entrance was welcomed with a white branched archway with white lights circling around the branches. The walls were covered from top to bottom with white lights, making the room bright enough without the need for the ceiling lights. The tables were covered with white tablecloths just like the chairs, and the centerpiece was of a clear glass vase with white branches coming out of it, little crystals hanging from the ends randomly. There were many tables but space for a dance floor was made in the middle of the grand hall, the DJ booth along the far wall on a stage with two white Christmas trees on each side. From the ceiling hung different styles of crystals and snowflake-shaped decor, the entire room giving the feel of a white Christmas. Soft Christmas themed music was playing from the speakers, loud enough to hear but not too loud to overtake conversations.

“Hey, Jare! Over here!”

Jared turned to notice Jensen standing by a table where Dee, Misha, Vicki, Stephen, and Cassie were sitting. There were three empty seats there, so Jared made his way towards them. He greeted everyone and took the seat next to Stephen.

“No buffet but they have a menu of different meals for tonight's dinner,” Stephen pointed out. “At least they asked us before this trip what we would prefer to make the choices easier.”

“Dude, I saw steak on the menu, I am getting that,” Jensen laughed out loud, causing everyone else to join him.

“Has anyone seen…” Jared began to ask.

“Oh, (Y/N)! Over here!” Vicki waved towards the entrance.

Jared turned to look and he felt his mouth drop wide open, quickly closing it before anyone could notice. (Y/N) was smiled at them and made her way towards them. Jared couldn’t help but admire her beauty. She wore a wine red sleeveless lace dress with a high low hem that shaped her body. She wore black open-toed heels and sheer stockings. Her hair curled and pinned up in a messy updo, a few strands falling loose around her face. Once she reached the table, Jared noticed the silver dangle gem drop earrings she wore, the pearl hairpiece circling the back of her head, and the three silver bracelets on her wrist. Her makeup was simple, black eyeliner with a soft touch of shiny eyeshadow, but her lips were red just like her dress. Jared could only think of one word as he watched her greet everyone: beautiful.

(Y/N) looked at Jared and he saw the tint of red spread along her cheeks. Instead of removing his eyes from her, he got up and pulled out the chair next to her, greeting her with a smile. She muttered a thank you to him and sat down, her eyes peeking at him but quickly looking away since he never removed his gaze.

“Ahem, Jare, isn’t (Y/N) beautiful tonight? I mean she always looks beautiful but we never really get to see her dress up since she always spent the holidays with her family.”

“Yeah, Dee, she looks beautiful,” Jared admired.

“Thanks, Jared, it’s not much,” (Y/N) sighed.

Everyone looked at each other as they watched the two love birds interact but quickly moved back to their original conversation, beginning their orders as a waitress walked over to them to take their orders.

“You know, I would never lie to you,” Jared whispered to (Y/N) as he leaned in a bit closer once they placed their order.

“Oh I know, I’m just not used to being called beautiful, especially from a handsome man like you.”

“Then I should start saying it more so you don’t forget,” Jared flirted, winking at her and chuckling as she looked down at her hands, her face turning redder by the second.

The evening went perfectly. Dinner was delicious and everyone was happy from the wine and champagne being poured all around. Many others came to greet their table and sparked up conversations. But Jared’s main focus was (Y/N). He would flirt with her every now and then, telling her repeatedly how beautiful she was. They spoke of personal things they never really got to know throughout the years working together. Jared learned more about her in one night than he ever did in the past nine years. The more they talked, the more he fell in love with her.

After the tables were cleared of their empty plates, the DJ announced that the dancefloor was open and the music got louder. The first song that played was ‘The Christmas Song’ by Nat King Cole. Jensen, Misha and Stephen grabbed their partner’s hand and guided them to the dancefloor, wide smiles and laughter as they made their way to slow dance together. Jared stayed seated next to (Y/N), watching her from the corner of his eye as she swayed slightly in her chair.

“Will you come dance with me?” he asked abruptly.

“Really?” (Y/N) asked with a shocked look on her face.

“Yeah, let’s go,” Jared pushed with a smile as he grabbed her hand in his and pulled her from her chair, guiding her to the dancefloor.

Jared pulled her close, wrapping an arm around her waist as she placed a hand on his shoulder. He gripped her other hand in his and smiled down at her. Even in heels, the top of her head barely reached his chin. He began to dance, swaying along with the music and guiding her. He felt so happy to have her in his arms that it felt like the entire time they slow danced, they were the only ones in the room. Jared felt as she leaned closer to him, her face flushed red at her daring move. Jared edged her on as he tightened his grip on her waist, letting her know he was ok with their close contact. Before the song ended though, Dee made motions to Jared, pointing outside. He looked out the window and knew that his time for the plans to go into motion was right at that moment.

“(Y/N) would you mind joining me outside? I kinda have a surprise for you.”

(Y/N) looked up at him and nodded her head. He kept her hand in his and guided her towards the front entrance of the lodge.

“Wait, don’t we need our jackets to go outside?” she asked curiously.

“Trust me, we won’t need them. But do you mind if I cover your eyes before we go outside? It is a surprise.”

She nodded her head again, closing her eyes as Jared stood behind her, carefully placing his hands on her eyes. He began to shuffle towards the exit, guiding her with his voice. Once they were outside, he felt the cold air wrap around them, so he moved quickly to stand beside her, hands no longer covering her eyes.

“Ok, open them.”

Jared watched as her eyes opened and then grew wide in surprise. She covered her mouth as she looked up at him, a smile beginning to breakthrough. In front of them stood a horse-drawn sleigh decorated with holly and bells. But what made the moment perfect was that it was snowing, soft white pieces of ice falling slowly down from the sky. Jared grabbed her hand and guided her to the sleigh, helping her up into the big warm heated blankets that surrounded the inside of the sleigh. Jared joined her, sitting right beside her as he helped wrap her up. He pulled the big heavy blanket from the other side over them, finally wrapped in warmth.

Jared told the driver they were ready and the sleigh was put into motion, the bells jingling as they rode off into the snowy night. The driver guided the horse into the forest, where the lodging had placed dozens upon dozens of different light decorations along the road, giving a light show for anyone that went through. Jared and (Y/N) watched in silence as they rode through, Jared looking over at her constantly to make sure she was okay. The look of joy in her bright eyes, the white snow decorating her hair and lashes, gave him comfort as she looked at their surroundings. Everything was going perfect.

After about 20 minutes into the ride, Jared felt her touch his hand under the blankets. He looked over at her and noticed she was looking up at him.

“I appreciate this surprise, Jared. It’s touching to know you remember how I said two years ago, I always wanted to ride a horse-drawn sleigh as it snowed, just like they do in the Christmas Hallmark movies. Thank you for this moment, I will treasure it forever.”

“This isn’t the end of the surprise, I have more for us when we get back.”

Jared saw her shiver a bit as she smiled at him. Without a word, he moved closer to her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. He pulled her into him, her head against his shoulder.

“Keep close, even with these blankets, it’s still a bit chilly,” he whispered in her ear.

She smiled and cuddled into him, making Jared’s heart skip a beat. They enjoyed the rest of the ride in silence, watching the man-made lights disappear behind them to enjoy the starry sky above the trees as the gentle ringing of the bells echoing into the darkness. They stayed close like that the entire ride, her hand eventually joining his free one on his lap. He held her hand in a gentle grip, his fingers sometimes caressing her palm before intertwining their fingers together.

Once they got back to the lodge, Jared helped her out the sleigh and they both thanked the driver before running back into the lodge, laughing like children. Jared then guided her towards the fireplace room with the wide windows. Thankfully, Dee handled everything for that room so everything would be ready when they got back. The fireplace was decorated with white fluffy stockings hanging from it, the fire already lit. A loveseat was pushed close to the fire and a small glass table stood between the seat and fireplace. On the table sat a metal teapot, a glass mason jar filled with powdered chocolate and another with mini marshmallows, a small bowl of sugar and two teacups with tiny spoons beside them. The entire room was dark except in that corner, so the falling snow outside could be seen clearly from the giant glass windows that covered the entire west wall. Blankets covered the seat and two pairs of fluffy boots waited on the side.

Jared pulled her with him towards the quiet corner, handing her a pair of boots to put on. Once their feet were warm, they sat on the sofa, wrapping themselves in the blankets, giggling like children as they settled in.

“Hot chocolate, miss?” Jared asked.

“Why I would love that, sir,” (Y/N) teased back.

Jared chuckled as he poured out the hot water from the teapot, preparing the hot chocolate. Once the cups were ready, he gave her one and added three marshmallows and a bit of sugar, just like he had seen her prepare it before. They enjoyed the warm drink and watched the flames dance in the fireplace. Once they were done with their drinks. Jared placed the cups back on the table and from his side of the couch, he pulled out a guitar.

“Is it ok with you that I sing a song? Fits right in with the weather outside and the entire lodge decoration.”

“Sure, I would love to,” (Y/N) murmured as she turned her body towards him.

Jared strummed the guitar, playing ‘White Christmas’. He then started to sing the lyrics, looking between her and the guitar, watching her admire him as he sang softly, his voice deep and sweet. Once he was done, he put the guitar to the side and smiled at her, receiving applause.

“You sang that song with Jason last year didn’t you? I have to admit, I had that song on repeat most of the holiday.”

“Thanks, it was my first time singing. Jensen and Jason are more of the musical talent.”

“Jared, your voice is beautiful.”

Jared smiled at her, looking at the grandfather clock behind her as he noticed he only had about 10 minutes until it was midnight. He got up from the sofa and headed to the fireplace, fooling with the bottom of one of the stockings.

“Is everything ok Jared?” she asked him, his back to her.

Jared took in a deep breath, trying to control his nerves. But he knew, it was now or never. And he didn’t want to mess up this chance he had.

“Everything will be ok once I ask you something.”

“I’m all ears, Jared.”

“You know, it's been about nine years since you started working for us,” he began, turning to face her. “And like we always say, we are grateful to have you in our lives, making things easier for us. Jensen loves how well you and Dee get along and honestly, you have become such an important piece of our little family.”

“I feel the same way, Jared,” she replied with a tilt of her head.

“But, personally...gosh, this is a bit harder to say….” Jared stuttered.

(Y/N) got up and walked over to him, taking his hands in hers as she looked up at him. The comfort she gave him calmed him down and he spoke up.

“These past years, you’ve become my best friend, my confidant and someone I can wholeheartedly trust. You have been beside me during the good times and the bad, especially the bad.”

Jared pulled her closer to him, gripping her hands tightly.

“You mean so much to me, so much that I want to become more than friends. (Y/N), you always ask me every year what is the best gift I’ve received during the holidays and honestly, it's always been your company and your beautiful smile. I can see what a kind soul you are and especially tonight, I was able to see how madly in love I am with you. You are the best thing in my life and I hope you will say yes to my question because not having you in my life would be horrible.”

“What is your question, Jared?” she asked softly, her lashes fluttering against her cheeks.

“Will you give me the chance to show you how much I love you and be my girlfriend?”

Before he could say another word, (Y/N) let go of his hands and grabbed his shirt, pulling him down towards her and placing a chaste kiss on his lips. Jared felt his insides burst like fireworks at the feel of her lips. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her as close as humanly possible, deepening the kiss. He felt such joy knowing she felt the same way, With just one kiss, she sealed the deal. He never wanted to end the kiss, to continue to taste her, but they eventually had to part for air. He looked down at her, her eyes shining brightly with the flames, hooded as her lashes grazed the top of her cheeks. Her hands were flat on his chest, a wide smile on her face.

He removed an arm from her, turning slightly to reach behind him in a stocking. He pulled out a small grey box with a white bow on top. Keeping her close, he handed it to her, leaning in close to whisper in her ear to open it. And when she did, her eyes grew wide in shock as a small gasp escaped her lips.

“Jared, you didn’t have to,” she sighed as she looked inside the box.

“I wanted to,” he reassured as he placed soft kisses along her face. “When I saw it yesterday, I knew it was perfect for you.”

Inside the box was a small silver necklace with a pendant. The pendant was shaped like a snowflake and it had diamonds encrusted into it. It shone so brightly by the fire when she pulled it out the box, admiring its beauty. Jared let her go and took it from her hands, turning her so he could put it around her neck. Once it was clasped on, she turned around to face him.

“It’s beautiful,” she gushed, her eyes watery with tears.

“I hope those are tears of joy,” he teased as he wiped away a tear that broke free.

“Of course it is, you giant teddy bear!” she exclaimed, hitting him on his chest.

Jared laughed as he pulled her in for another kiss, feeling her smile before she gave in willingly. He guided her back to the sofa and as he sat down, they broke apart so she could sit next to him, He pulled her into his body, cuddling as they enjoyed each other's closeness with kisses and hugs. Jared finally felt complete with her finally as his.

“I should thank Dee for helping out,” she chuckled as she pecked his nose.

“Wait, did she…” he stuttered.

“No, but figured she was working on something after so many prying questions. But I am glad she and Jensen moved us along because I don’t know how much longer I would have held back with this crush.”

Jared burst out laughing at her comment, enjoying the sound of her giggles as he pulled her into a hug.

“Yeah, will thank her tomorrow for sure.”

“I love you, Jared,” (Y/N) whispered in his ear before sliding her lips against his softly.

“I love you too, (Y/N),” he whispered back before he pulled her into a deep kiss. “Merry Christmas.”

#supernatural #supernatural fanfiction #supernatural fic #Supernatural RPF #rpf fanfic #Jared Padalecki #Jared x You #jared x reader #jared padalecki x reader #jared padalecki x you #christmas fanfic #spntropechallenge #christmasmini

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newstfionline · 6 years ago

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In global refugee flow, Canada finds a surprising solution to a labor shortage

By Sara Miller Llana, CS Monitor, November 16, 2018

TORONTO--Nagham Abu Issa was working as an executive assistant in a cement factory in Damascus when the civil war started in Syria. Her family fled to Lebanon. But with no job prospects there, her siblings left on the risky passage to Europe. Ms. Abu Issa, the eldest daughter, stayed behind with her mother.

She is a refugee. She is also a valuable employee. She has a degree from Damascus University in English literature and has studied human resources. As she worked her way up in her job, she had big dreams--to become a chief operating officer or even start her own company one day.

“My communication skills are my strongest asset, both internally and externally,” she says in an interview over Skype.

Now she hopes to take that savvy to Canada, not through resettlement but to fill the country’s labor gaps. She has interviewed with Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB), an international NGO that has started pilots in Canada and Australia to match a small number of refugees based in Lebanon and Jordan with employment opportunities abroad.

The experiment so far is tiny, but it’s aiming high: to forge a new pathway for refugees to be recognized for what they can bring to a country, not for the state of the countries they were forced to leave. In so doing, TBB hopes to shift attitudes about refugees among Western nations and their immigration systems, some of which are under assault by the rise of populism and nativism.

Bruce Cohen, co-founder of TBB and former chief counsel and staff director for the US Senate Judiciary Committee, says that when they began at the height of the refugee crisis in Europe in 2014 and 2015, he was often told there were no talented refugees left. So his group created a searchable database for displaced jobseekers in Lebanon and Jordan that today holds more than 11,000 resumes. “Everyone from engineers to nurses, and also the skilled trades, carpenters, welders, plumbers, butchers, chefs, you name it, it probably is represented in the refugee community,” he says. “It is really getting rid of this image of refugees as unskilled, poor, pitiful.”

Their effort comes amid a much larger conversation about adapting the global refugee system, built after World War II, to the realities of long-term conflict. In 2017, 68.5 million people were forced to leave their homes, with 25.4 million becoming refugees outside their home countries. The vast majority are in countries that border conflict, such as Jordan, Lebanon, or Turkey. The global system currently envisions that refugees will voluntarily return when conflict ends, integrate where they first land, or be resettled elsewhere, an option limited to the most vulnerable.

TBB is not alone in grappling with how to put refugees to work. In the United States, the Tent Partnership for Refugees works with businesses to facilitate refugee hires, both in countries to which they first flee and where they are ultimately resettled.

Tent Partnership’s leaders argue that it is not just the right thing to do, it makes both strategic and business sense. A report released by Tent and the Fiscal Policy Institute in May, for example, showed higher retention rates and resilience among the refugee workforce in the US market. “Our key principle is that businesses can and should be doing more to support refugees,” says Gideon Maltz, the executive director of Tent Partnership for Refugees, who supports the TBB model as an additional option.

In Canada jobs are plentiful. The government recently announced it will take in 350,000 immigrants in 2021, or 40,000 more than it expects to admit this year. Canadian employers have also expressed interest in hiring refugees.

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler in British Columbia is just one example. The hotel offered jobs and housing to 12 refugees overseas who are now in the process of entering Canada as privately sponsored refugees. Four have already arrived. “The limitation is not on the jobs,” says Laurie Cooper, a private sponsor who helped facilitate the arrangement. She says she wishes the process were faster.

That is where TBB is attempting to make a difference, though their work is slow too, as they attempt to create a new pathway. In Canada, TBB has so far only secured 7 formal offers. The program works with federal and provincial governments on visas and connects employers to refugee talent. It helps businesses overcome legal barriers refugees face that traditional economic migrants would not, such as a lack of passports or access to education records.

Susan Fratzke, policy analyst at the Migration Policy Institute, says TBB could scale up in Canada or Australia because of their robust economic migration systems. And other countries may look to economic migration for refugees as a model. “If you look at conversations about resettlement or asylum in Europe, there is a lot of concern about how people will be integrated, how they will find jobs,” Ms. Fratzke says. “If you are providing a pathway for people coming with an offer of work, that addresses some of those issues.”

Abu Issa says that one of her brothers, now a refugee in Sweden, applied for family reunification, but the claim was rejected. So she and her mother are still in Lebanon, more than five years after they first arrived, where work has been precarious and sexual harassment a constant concern. She has been in contact with international organizations that offer refugees the chance to study. “But I’m not a student. I’m a graduate,” she says. “My dream is to move with a job, to prove myself because of my work.”

Heather Segal, founder of Segal Immigration Law in Toronto, is working pro-bono with TBB because she says too many skilled refugees stagnate while nations like Canada face labor shortages. “Why are we obviating a group of educated, skilled people because their country fell apart?” she says. “There is a gap here that needs to be addressed…. We need creative solutions for the refugee system in the 21st century.”

#Canada #refugees and job skills #Talent Beyond Boundaries

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