She rebuilt her life in Kingston—now this newcomer lawyer is winning a top award

Refugee-turned-lawyer honoured for helping others navigate Canada’s immigration system.

A Kingston lawyer who once arrived in Canada as a newcomer herself is being recognized for turning her experience into a career that supports others.

Ningjing (Natalie) Zhang, founder of BridgePoint Law Professional Corporation, has received the Inspirational Entrepreneur Award at the fourth annual Kingston Newcomer Entrepreneur Awards.

Zhang says it’s been a privilege to be recognized.

The awards, presented by Kingston Economic Development Corporation and the Kingston Immigration Partnership, celebrate newcomer entrepreneurs in three categories, including Community Builder of the Year and Start-up of the Year.

Zhang’s recognition highlights both her personal journey and professional impact. Originally from Shanghai, she arrived in Kingston in 2016 and later completed graduate studies and a law degree at Queen’s University before starting her firm. She explains more.

Zhang also reflects on navigating the legal system when she first came to Canada.

Today, she practises business immigration and refugee law, helping clients navigate complex legal systems. She is also the only lawyer in the Kingston area accepting Legal Aid Ontario certificates for refugee cases, improving access to justice for vulnerable newcomers.

She says her work is driven by lived experience and a commitment to ensuring others are not left to navigate the system alone.

Organizers say winners are selected based on innovation, community impact and entrepreneurial journey.

Story by Alyssa Brush