Dear GDipICL graduates,
Congratulations on completing the Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law program, and reaching this significant milestone in your academic journey!
You have invested in your education and future growth, and demonstrated the power of perseverance and dedication.
As the next generation of immigration practitioners, policymakers, and leaders, you will play a vital role in enhancing Canada’s economic growth and social vibrancy, supporting our human rights and family reunification priorities, and ensuring shared access to prosperity.
You are joining the proud tradition of Queen’s graduates and alum who are the long-term stewards of the ideals of this institution, its principles, and its commitment to advancing public and community service.
Below you will find a message from our senior program administrators, congratulatory messages from faculty, staff, students, and more.
We encourage you to share this content with your friends and family as we celebrate YOU and give you the recognition and appreciation that you deserve.
Congratulations!
Message from Dean Colleen Flood
Message from Sharry Aiken, Academic Director
Message from Don Ames, Manager, Admissions and Recruitment
Message from Jan Edward, Manager, Academic Operations and Administration

Congratulations on this momentous achievement! Your journey to this point has been filled with challenges, but your unwavering dedication and hard work have brought you to this incredible milestone. As you stand here on the threshold of a new chapter, remember the immense potential within you.
This is not just a graduation; it's a launchpad for the positive impact you're destined to make in the immigration and citizenship sector. Your commitment to excellence and the pursuit of knowledge has set you apart, and I have no doubt that you will continue to shine.
As you transition to becoming a part of our GDipICL Alumni Family, envision the endless possibilities ahead. You're not just graduates; you're champions ready to shape the future. Your unique talents and perspectives will contribute to the betterment of the world around you.
I am genuinely excited to witness the transformative influence you will have on the lives of those you serve. So, go forth with confidence, embrace the challenges, and let your passion drive you towards making a lasting, positive difference. The world is ready for the incredible contributions only you can bring. Congratulations once again!
Jan Edward, Manager, Academic Operations and Administration
Messages from Faculty, Staff and Students

Many many congratulations to all my colleagues, you did it!! It was a great journey, not an easy one though. I am so happy for everyone for being preserved and dedicated. All the hurdles and hard work paid lead to this magnificent accomplishment.
Congratulations!!
GDipICL, Graduate

Congratulations to everyone graduating this November, and thank you to all who have helped and supported me throughout this past year.
Taking a year off from work to return to school was a huge decision for me and my family. I would not have been able to do this without the support of so many of you in this program. I feel fortunate to have made so many friends and acquaintances this past year, and am excited for what the future holds for each of us.
If you haven't already, please make sure to take some time to reflect on what you've accomplished this past year. Despite whatever hardships you may have faced, or challenges you had to overcome, here you are now - GDipICL Graduate!! Make sure to give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back.
Please feel free to reach out to me anytime! Looking forward to our paths crossing again in the not-too-distant future.
Corey Clamp, GDipICL Graduate

It feels like a dream... We all did it!! Congratulations to all of us for thriving through those sleepless days and nights, combing through case laws, and PDI, and keeping up with policy updates and course changes! It wasn’t easy, but we persevered and grew stronger with every challenge.
We’ve not only earned our Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law from Queen's University, but we’ve also proven our dedication and resilience. We all have won the race of determination, knowledge, and growth!
Here’s to our collective success and bright futures ahead!
Leena Ratti, Graduate

Congratulations to all my F24 cohort members who have completed the Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law (GdipICL) and graduated. It was quite a journey and not always easy. But we persevered and succeeded and should all be proud of our accomplishments. Thank you for your collaboration and assistance during this year-long endeavour, and best of luck to all as you pursue whatever path you choose going forward. A big thank you to our professors, instructors, assistants and student council members who looked out for our best interests.
All the best!
Patrick Martin, Graduate

One year full time studies meant back to school with one key difference. This required a lot of self discipline, avoiding distractions...there were so many! The grind of a vast amount of text book reading, add on to the complex world of LRW, IRB, engagements and online classes were the main ingredients of this roller coaster ride. Locked up indoors peering over books, recommended readings and the vast expanse of material on the IRCC website was like a an ocean of things to understand, assimilate and learn. Each day was purely - eat, drink and sleep about visas, immigration, eligibility or exceptions.
Nonetheless, we have proven our mettle through dedication. Many thanx to the entire team of Queens and my fellow students.
Heartiest Congratulations to all - I made so many new friends and am grateful to all who helped during my learning journey which will continue life long given the dynamism in this profession.
Wishing all a very bright future and success...God Speed to the finest in the Canadian Immigration Industry!
Kanwar Shahi, Graduate

Congratulations to everyone! Our hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and we deserve every bit of success.
Wishing everyone continued growth and even greater accomplishments ahead. Keep shining and inspiring those around you!
Shanjeelin Dwivedi, Graduate
Congratulations to all of us!!! We all did it!
I am looking forward to meeting at the convocation next month.
All the best for the licensing exam.
Kudos to all future RCIC's!
Ashish Fitkariwala, Graduate
Many congratulations to all my colleagues who have successfully completed the diploma. It was a great journey, not the easy one though. I am so happy for everyone for being preserved and dedicated. Our hard work and dedication paid off.
Congratulations!
Amarpreet Kaur, Graduate
Congratulations to all of us on reaching this significant milestone! Our hard work and dedication have paid off, and today marks the start of new opportunities and challenges. This is not the end, but the beginning of an exciting journey ahead.
I’m confident our work will have a positive impact on Canadian immigration, and I look forward to seeing the difference we’ll make.
I wish you all continued success in your future careers.
Mayssaa Jbeili, Graduate
Kudos to all graduates!
It hasn't been an easy journey. We all have our fair share of ups and downs throughout this program. The key thing is: we have made it with our perseverance, our passion, the guidance from our instructors and the support from our peers.
As we embark on this exciting new chapter towards becoming a RCIC, we are presented with a unique opportunity to serve as a guiding light for those navigating the complexities of immigration laws and pathways. Our role is not merely a profession; it is a profound responsibility that allows us to make a significant and positive impact on the lives of individuals and families striving to realize their dreams in Canada.
The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but let us all remain steadfast in our commitment to our purpose. It is this very purpose that inspired us to pursue a career in immigration consulting. Let us hold onto that motivation as we face obstacles, and be the light in our profession and to those who are looking for help to settle in this country that they call home.
Anne Lui, Graduate
Congratulations to all GDipICL graduates! Each of us has grown, learned, and pushed boundaries to achieve this milestone. I am proud to have shared this journey with all of you. Here’s to our future successes—keep striving, keep inspiring!
Best wishes to everyone!
Japneet Singh, Graduate
Congratulations, fellow grads! This journey has been a great opportunity to get to know so many amazing people. I'm excited to see what the future holds for all of us as we step into new opportunities and challenges. Here's to success, new adventures, and endless possibilities ahead! And can not wait to meet you all in person at the Convocation :)
Kaytash Akbari, Graduate
Tracey Dowdeswell, Instructor
Oluwakemi Oduwole, Instructor
Arian Sultafa, Instructor
Rhonda Williams, Instructor
Anita Boscariol, Instructor
Congratulations on reaching this amazing milestone ! It was a great pleasure being one of your instructors, to see you engaging with and learning the course material. All of your hard work and dedication has led to this wonderful achievement in your lives. May you take what you have learned to carve out a future in the immigration field which is both rewarding and meaningful.
All the best !
Joanne Lau, Adjunct Instructor, ICL 850
Congratulations Soon-to-be RCICs! Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have paid off!
But remember! Your graduation from GDipICL should be a foundation for lifelong learning and growth. As RCICs, your positive impact on people’s lives will extend far beyond your initial action, and you never know how a simple act of kindness, from a professional like you, might change someone’s day, decision, or even life.
I wish each and every one of you great success in life and career. Keep up the remarkable work!
Hesam Hassan Nejad, Ph.D., RCIC, Adjunct Professor, GDipICL

Congratulations!!! you guys did it!!!
Wishing you all the best for the next steps you take in this journey...
Muhammad Wajahat Faizan, J.D. LL.M, Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public, RCIC, Adjunct Professor

It is impossible to complete a program like GDipICL without hard work and dedication. Congratulations to all of you on this accomplishment. To those who took my course, I sincerely thank you (and Queen's) for the opportunity to be part of your journey.
My favourite part about higher learning is the opportunity to think critically about matters, without having to be positional. As you start representing clients, this will change, as it is our duty to advocate for the best interests of our clients. This transition is going to be exciting, challenging and rewarding.
As you move into this next chapter, I urge you to move slowly, pay attention to detail, communicate with your clients and take time for yourselves. You are never alone - as the faculty at GDipICL will always be here for you if you require anything, so please do not hesitate to reach out to for support.
Best of luck everyone - and welcome to this amazing field of work.
Joshua Slayen, Instructor

Dear Graduates,
What an accomplishment! Congratulations one and all!
Today, you are basking the rewards of hard work and dedication to your studies. May you enjoy the moment, relish your success and see opportunities ahead for rewarding work in this field. I truly hope you will find a niche in the world of immigration that allows you to continue to expand on the foundation of knowledge and skills you have just begun here, while contributing to making the dreams of others come true.
Welcome to the next generation of immigration consultants and the world of professional practice. May you go forth and serve the public in ways we can all be proud of. Good luck and stay in touch!
Lynn Gaudet, Instructor

To all graduates of the GDiplCL program, congratulations! I am proud of the Class of 2024 and cannot wait to see all your accomplishments in the next chapter. All of your hard work and perseverance have led you to this proud moment in your lives. For those of you who attended my classes, please remember the Three Cs. The world of immigration is now at your fingertips, and I wish everyone the very best in your next adventure!
Fred Y-F Li, Adjunct Instructor

Amazing accomplishment! Be proud of achieving this milestone. It took much effort, dedication, and hours of study but you made it through. I'm honoured to have been part of your learning and I look forward to working with you as fellow colleagues.
Laurie Parris, Instructor

Our industry is constantly evolving. Consequently, you must be very flexible and energetic to stay on top of the never-ending changes in Canadian immigration and citizenship law. However, if you embrace your opportunities, you will find your new career to be the most rewarding experience.
Take on the world! Collect many memories. So, you will inspire your juniors with amazing stories when it is your turn to teach.
Adventures await you.
Katharina Kontaxis, Instructor

Congratulations GDipICL graduates! You have successfully completed a challenging and rigorous graduate level legal studies program. As you look back on your learning journey in this program you will certainly see how far you have come since those first few weeks in ICL810. You have survived and you have thrived! Take a moment to recognize the personal and professional sacrifices that you and your loved ones have made in order to reach this stage! Savour and relish this moment knowing that you are empowered with the skills, values and knowledge that you have gained in this program and will continue to develop throughout your professional career. Best wishes in all your endeavours, whatever path they may lead you towards!
Harini Sivalingam, ICL810 Instructor

Congratulations class of 2024!
You have accomplished so much throughout this program. Wishing you continued success and an exciting career ahead.
Mia Loebach-Readings, Instructor

I’m so glad that another cohort of GDipICL students successfully completed the program and will have an exciting different future! It’s an honor to be part of your academic journey and the teaching is also an invaluable learning experience for me. Thank you for your dedication to the program and your experiences sharing, questions, inspiration to me, and all I have learned from you. Warmest congratulations on your graduation! I wish you all the best in your future endeavors no matter be a RCIC, a Visa officer, a RISIA, an immigrant settlement worker or in seeking other related career! Whatever you do and wherever you go, I hope what you learned from the program can always support you, strengthen you, guide you, and inspire you!
Ivy Li, Instructor

Congratulations and best wishes on your new and very rewarding journey!
Razmeen Joya, Instructor

Wishing you all a wonderful career, as you embark in this exciting field. I know you will assist many individuals and families, seeking a better life and opportunities here in Canada. Remember that reputation is very important and to always do right by your clients; ask for help when necessary; and make your mark as competent and knowledgeable practitioners in this field. You all have the tools to be successful and I know you will make every one of us proud, having graduated from this excellent program. All the best!
Prathima Prashad, Instructor

Congratulations on your achievement!! Be proud of this accomplishment. I hope your knowledge and experiences provide you with great opportunities and much success. We will always be here to support you in your future endeavours.
Catharine Baier, Instructor

From me to you all, congratulations on graduating from the GDipICL. It was a pleasure instructing so many of you. I am grateful to you for sharing with me your dreams and aspirations.
You are entering into an exciting industry. Remember to respect the license, offer top notch professional representation while remembering you will change many lives for the better around the world.
Looking forward to seeing many of you at upcoming conventions and seminars.
Marty Baram, Instructor

Working with GDipICL students over these past terms has been a pleasure. The program support team takes pride in our efforts to support you through your GDipICL journey. We are genuinely invested in your successes as students and your broader achievements in life beyond the program. Working with intelligent, engaged, and committed students who move toward personal and community success makes our work behind the scenes worthwhile and enjoyable.
You did it!
Amanda Higgins-O’Donnell, Program Coordinator

Congratulations on reaching this academic milestone! Live, soar and thrive. You have endless possibilities ahead of you. Take a moment and give yourselves the credit that you deserve for this achievement. Wishing you success in all your endeavors. We are all proud of you.
Christina Asperilla, Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Dear GDipICL Graduates,
Warmest congratulations to each and every one of you on reaching this remarkable milestone in your academic journey. Your hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment have brought you to this moment, and it is a privilege to share in your joy as you embark on this new chapter in your lives.
As you graduate from the Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law (GDipICL) program, you are not just closing the door on your academic pursuits but opening a world of opportunities. The knowledge you have gained, the challenges you have overcome, and the connections you have forged during your time here will serve as a foundation for the adventures that lie ahead. Remember that learning is a lifelong journey, and your graduation from the GDipICL program is not the end but the beginning of a new and exciting phase.
Once again, my heartfelt congratulations to the GDipICL Class of 2024. You have not only demonstrated your academic prowess but also your ability to dream big and work diligently to realize those dreams. I have no doubt that you will continue to achieve remarkable things in your future endeavors.
Warm regards and best wishes,
Jolene McLean, Program Coordinator