GPC Member Profile: Stef Saad and ACCES employment

We’re pleased to share a profile of ACCES Employment, a Toronto-based nonprofit that supports over 56,000 job seekers annually—primarily refugees and newcomers to Canada—through sector-specific programs, skills training, and employer connections.

Among its innovative initiatives is the Agricultural Technology in Vertical Farming program, which addresses critical skill gaps, fosters meaningful employment, and aims to drive systemic change despite ongoing funding challenges. ACCES leads the program and works closely with their academic partner, Humber College. While the college delivers much of the training, ACCES supports the participant with job search and resume preparation and connects graduates to employment opportunities.

Stef Saad, Vice-Chair of the ACCES Advisory Board, plays an active role in advancing the organization’s mission, particularly in its support for refugee populations—including Afghan, Ukrainian, and other communities—through mentorship, job fairs, and employment connections. Stef has also helped in establishing the Vertical Farming program and contributed to the development of its initial curriculum and played a major role in securing it's federal funding. Following the success of its first cohort, Stef is now supporting ACCES in renewing the program. Looking ahead, Stef is exploring a potential collaboration with Humber College and will personally deliver a leadership module September 2025, drawing on his experience working with the Cree First Nation of Waswanipi community in Northern Quebec to promote capacity building and food sovereignty under the ZHOU Family Office.

As ACCES looks to expand its impact, the organization is seeking partners to help empower and build capacity within underserved communities across the Greater Toronto Area.

To learn more or explore ways to support this work, please feel free to reach out to Stef Saad.