Join us on this enlightening journey as we uncover the strategies and insights employed by various immigration law practitioners in making their firms the success stories they are today. In our inaugural edition, we had the privilege to interview Ms. Elizabeth Ying Long, a founding partner at Long Mangalji LLP.
BEFORE WE BEGIN, Elizabeth please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I arrived in Canada at the age of five as a dependent accompanying my father, who was initially a student. What was supposed to be a temporary stay for a few months turned into a lifelong journey, but it was far from easy.
In the late 80s, the first skilled worker program was introduced. My father, after completing his PhD, was able to secure a job as a university professor and thus we were eligible to apply. Our history, marked by a “black” bourgeois background, had led us to feel like outsiders in our home country. Recognizing the lack of prospects in China, my parents desperately wanted to stay in Canada, a country we called home. I remember them kneeling by the bed and fervently praying for us to be allowed to stay in Canada.
However, like I said, it wasn’t easy. I vividly recall my mother recounting the challenging interview with the immigration officer who asked, "Why should we let you stay?" Despite my father's job at the university and the recent completion of his PhD thesis, it wasn't deemed a sufficient reason. It was our immigration lawyer who argued that my father's specific profile aligned with the type of immigrants Canada was seeking. He posed a crucial question during the process: If not us, then who should be welcomed into Canada?
It was through his advocacy that we were able to secure permanent residency. This experience significantly shaped our lives and I believe also my career today. Immigration has become a part of my DNA.
After high school, I worked at a nonprofit organization focusing on immigration and refugees. It was there that I realized that I was interested in advocacy and human rights in the immigration system. I then decided I wanted to go to law school. I went to UofT and naturally found myself on Bay Street doing corporate law. However, after working there for a while, I knew it wasn’t for me. I had some immigration law experience on my resume which was picked by an Immigration lawyer, and I was offered a position at a corporate law firm.
I gained valuable experience there, but I yearned for more. As the first lawyer in my family, I always envisioned practicing in court and eventually decided to venture out on my own. Fortunately, I had the guidance of an excellent mentor, Amina Sherazee, who also transitioned to solo practice. Our shared experiences were invaluable. Additionally, I found my partner at the firm, Aadil Mangalji, who had a background in immigration litigation, and together we formed a unique partnership. While I focused on the economic stream, he specialized in refugee law and litigation. This diversity allows us to cater to a broad spectrum of clients, offering solutions for immigrants, refugees, applications, and litigation needs. Many clients appreciate our comprehensive approach, often remarking that they hadn't considered certain options before seeking our advice.
Beyond mere profit, we are driven by our advocacy for the immigration system as a whole. This extends to my involvement in politics, where I ran for Member of Parliament with the NDP to advocate for immigration policies and raise awareness of government actions. I also engage in policy work, pro bono seminars, and community outreach to inform the public about the impact of immigration laws on families and communities. This commitment stems from my personal experiences and roots, driving me to utilize my platform and expertise for the betterment of my community. It's not just a profession for me; like I said, it’s a part of my DNA.
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