When Nil Özçelik Razavi, PhD, first moved from Turkey to Canada in 2007 to complete her doctoral research in Translation Studies, she never imagined she would one day be working in international trade. Yet her journey from academia to becoming a Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) shows just how powerful career reinvention can be.
A new professional path
After earning her PhD and teaching for several years, Nil realized that opportunities in academia were limited. “I worked in the field of language instruction for a few years while thinking I might need a career conversion at some point,” she explains.
That career shift came when she was hired as a Trade Expert at the Commercial Office of the Turkish Embassy in Ottawa. Drawing on her research background and analytical skills, she quickly adapted to the demands of international trade. What began as a new opportunity soon grew into a meaningful career helping businesses from Turkey and Canada connect.
Representing her country abroad
For Nil, one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is engaging directly with trade delegations and Canadian businesses. “My favourite moments are the ones shared with our incoming trade delegations and presentations delivered in different business settings in Canada,” she says. These events, she adds, are not just about exchanging information. They are about building valuable connections that can shape future trade relationships.
Collaboration is another part of the role she values deeply.
“I sincerely take immense pride in being part of our Commercial Service, working in a diplomatic setting and serving as a bridge to enhance trade relations between the two countries.”
For her, success in international trade is always the result of teamwork.
Shifting careers required not only new skills but also perseverance. Nil has learned firsthand how vital resilience is in both personal and professional growth. “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop,” she says, quoting Confucius. That philosophy has guided her through challenges and continues to motivate her as she grows in her trade career.
Building confidence with FITTskills
To strengthen her expertise, Nil turned to FITTskills training. She describes the courses as both practical and confidence-building.
“The courses covered a wide range of topics in the field of international trade and offered the core knowledge to enhance my skills as a professional. You feel well-equipped after completing the coursework. It is a good feeling.”
Her favourite course was International Market Entry Strategies, which gave her tools to conduct competitive market research and identify opportunities. She also points to Feasibility of International Trade as particularly useful, since it broadened her ability to analyze sectors at a macro level and anticipate trends. Together, these courses provided her with the analytical frameworks she now uses daily to support businesses in exploring new markets.
Taking the next step with the CITP designation
With her growing expertise and practical experience, Nil decided to formalize her skills with the CITP designation. “The reason I chose to apply for the CITP designation is because this is the highest level of professional accreditation for international business and trade professionals,” she explains.
When she received the designation, it was more than just a line on her résumé. “It is great to be a part of the CITP community, and it means a lot to me, so much so that I proudly hung up my framed CITP designation on my office wall.”
The impact of holding the CITP designation
Earning her CITP has enhanced Nil’s career in multiple ways. It provided validation of her skills and gave her a new perspective on leadership in international trade.
“The designation contributes to my career by officially recognizing my experience and by helping me stay current with new developments and trends.”
Nil also highlights how the CITP has influenced her leadership approach: “In international trade, leadership means creating a culture where every team member feels empowered to think critically, act proactively, and adapt to changes. This mindset is essential for transforming challenges into opportunities and ensuring sustained, trust-based relationships.”
A continuous journey of growth and adaptation
Now that she has been a CITP for over a year, Nil sees the designation as a launchpad for continued growth. She is committed to applying what she has learned to strengthen trade relations between Turkey and Canada and to help businesses navigate the complexities of global markets.
For professionals considering a career in trade—or a career change—she offers one piece of advice:
“Career reinvention is a continuous journey of growth and adaptation.”
Nil’s own journey proves just that. From academic researcher to trade expert, and now a CITP recognized for her expertise, she has shown how resilience, continuous learning, and the right credentials can open new doors and new horizons in international trade.
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