Sharmila Perera

Sharmila has more than 23 years of dedication to helping businesses, supporting workers, and creating opportunities that positively impact lives across Canada.

Throughout her career, Sharmila has focused on addressing one of the most significant challenges facing Canadian businesses: finding and retaining reliable employees. Through her work in international recruitment, workforce planning, immigration support, and employer compliance, she has helped organizations navigate labour shortages and build stronger, more sustainable workforces.

However, the impact of her work extends far beyond business operations. Behind every successful recruitment and workforce solution are people seeking opportunities, families working toward a better future, and employers striving to keep their businesses operating and serving their communities. By connecting employers with international talent and helping businesses develop long-term staffing solutions, Sharmila contributes to creating opportunities that can transform lives.

Her expertise spans multiple industries, including hospitality, healthcare, transportation, and other essential service sectors. Her commitment to responsible, compliant, and strategic hiring reflects an understanding that sustainable business success depends on people, opportunity, and long-term relationships.

I am nominating Sharmila because her work demonstrates how professional leadership can create a meaningful ripple effect throughout the community. By helping businesses overcome workforce challenges and supporting pathways to employment, she contributes to stronger organizations, greater economic participation, and more resilient communities.

With more than two decades of experience, Sharmila exemplifies the spirit of the Community Engagement & Leadership Award. Her dedication to connecting people with opportunity and helping businesses build for the future makes her a deserving nominee for recognition at the Ignite a Life 2026 Business Excellence Awards Gala.

23+ Years of Professional Experience: More than two decades of supporting Canadian employers with workforce challenges, recruitment strategies, and staffing solutions.

Founder and Business Leader: Leads Ann Arbour Consultants Inc., providing strategic global hiring and workforce support to Canadian businesses.

International Recruitment and Workforce Development: Helps employers explore international recruitment opportunities and develop sustainable staffing strategies.

Support Across Essential Industries: Works with employers in sectors such as hospitality, healthcare, transportation, and service industries, where reliable staffing is critical.

Employer Guidance and Compliance: Supports businesses with Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) programs, the Francophone Mobility Program, work permits, and employer compliance guidance.

Creating Opportunities Through Employment: Helps connect employers with talent and supports workforce strategies that can benefit businesses, workers, and families.

Contributing to Stronger Communities: Through her work, helps businesses address labour shortages, maintain operations, and build more stable workforces for the future.