From International Student to Regional Economic Development Leader: Abdul-Latif Alhassan’s Journey
For Abdul Latif Alhassan, the journey from international student to regional economic development professional was shaped by a simple but powerful idea: opportunity can create a pathway to belonging and contribution. What began with an education in Newfoundland and Labrador grew into a career, entrepreneurial ventures, and a commitment to supporting communities across the province. Today, Abdul Latif serves as the Regional Economic Development Facilitator (Western) with Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador (MNL), working with 81 municipalities across Western Newfoundland and Labrador, the West Coast, the Great Northern Peninsula, and Labrador through the Regional Prosperity Partnership Program.
From Student to Professional
Abdul-Latif’s transition from student life to professional employment was relatively seamless. Unlike many graduates who face uncertainty after completing their studies, he had already secured his professional role before finishing his program. Rather than navigating a lengthy job search, he transitioned directly into a new position.
“I honestly didn’t face any challenges transitioning from a student to professional work because I had been fortunate to have my professional role secured before completing my program and rather switched jobs,” he explains. His career has since evolved into a full-time regional economic development role, where he works closely with municipalities and communities to identify opportunities and support regional prosperity. At the same time, he continues to pursue his entrepreneurial interests, allowing him to apply his skills in both professional and business settings.
The Power of Mentorship, Networking and Opportunity
Among his experiences with the Study and Stay NL Program, two opportunities stand out most strongly for Abdul-Latif: the SEED Competition and mentorship. For him, SEED funding was more than financial support—it gave him confidence that his entrepreneurial ideas had a place in Newfoundland and Labrador and that he could make a meaningful contribution through entrepreneurship. “It very much influenced my entrepreneurial journey because through the SEED funding, I was able to continue my existing start-up company and started a new one with my wife,” he reflects. Through mentorship, he also connected with professionals across the province who generously shared their knowledge, experience, and time, providing valuable insights into the professional and entrepreneurial landscape. These connections, combined with the support of SEED funding, helped Abdul-Latif continue developing an existing start-up and launch a new venture with his wife. At the same time, his transition into regional economic development gave him an opportunity to apply what he had learned through his education and the Study and Stay NL Program. “With the new regional economic development role, I couldn’t think of a better place to apply all the knowledge and expertise I acquired in school and through the Study and Stay program,” he says. Today, his work with municipalities allows him to contribute to economic development across a large and diverse region of Newfoundland and Labrador, demonstrating how mentorship, networking, and entrepreneurial opportunities can help international graduates turn their knowledge and ambitions into meaningful professional and community impact.
A Strong Recommendation for International Students and IENL
Looking back on his experience, Abdul-Latif strongly encourages international students who hope to remain in Newfoundland and Labrador after graduation to participate in the Study and Stay NL Program. “As an International student, I think the best decision you can make is to participate in the Study and Stay NL Program if you intend to stay in the province after graduating. There is so much to learn and acquire.” For Abdul-Latif, the program provided opportunities that extended beyond academic learning. Through funding, mentorship, and professional connections, he gained experiences that helped him develop his career and entrepreneurial ambitions while strengthening his connection to the province.
However, his experience has also shaped his perspective on how the program can become more accessible to students outside the St. John’s area. He believes greater regional presence could help ensure that international students across Newfoundland and Labrador feel equally connected to the opportunities available through Study and Stay. “IENL should make more efforts to bring the Study and Stay Program closer to the doorsteps of students on the West Coast,” he says, suggesting that a Western Coordinator based in a community such as Corner Brook could provide more in-person programming and engagement for students in the region.
In Conclusion
Abdul Latif’s journey shows how the right opportunities and connections can turn an international student’s aspirations into meaningful impact. Through Study and Stay NL, he gained the confidence, mentorship, and support to grow as an entrepreneur and build a career contributing to communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.