My name is Iman Bukhari, and I was born in Pakistan. My family and I lived in Singapore for a while before immigrating to Canada when I was about 11 years old. My pronouns are she/her. I was fortunate to receive most of my education in Canada, attending junior high and high school here.
Embracing Volunteering
One piece of advice I always share with new immigrants is the transformative power of volunteering.
When I first arrived, I realized how important it was to get involved.
Volunteering became my gateway to networking, building skills, and integrating into the community.
I always tell new immigrants, “Volunteer as much as you can.”
This will open doors, allowing you to meet people and make valuable connections.
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If you have a specific career in mind, search for associations related to your field and offer your time there.
Volunteering helps build your professional portfolio, expands your network, and creates opportunities for future employment.
This was particularly crucial for me when I struggled to find a job that matched my qualifications and experience.
Navigating the Job Market
Finding my first job in Canada was a challenge, even though I completed my education here.
After graduating with a degree in communication studies, it took me an entire year to land a job in my field.
This struggle is not unique to immigrants; even local graduates face similar challenges due to the high demand for experience.
During my job search, I volunteered extensively.
This helped me build skills and connections, which eventually led to employment.
I want to emphasize that if you are an immigrant struggling to find a job, you are not alone.
Stay engaged and proactive by volunteering; it can make a significant difference.
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Building Community Connections
Connecting with local communities through platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp is vital.
Various ethnic communities have active groups that can provide support, information, and resources.
For example, communities like the Filipino, Indian, and Pakistani groups in Calgary offer immense support, from helping find accommodation to sharing job leads.
These groups can be invaluable, offering practical advice and emotional support during your transition.
Immigrant-serving organizations and government-led programs also provide essential services, including language classes and job readiness programs.
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Pre-Arrival Preparation
Preparing before arriving in Canada can significantly ease the transition.
If you can, engage in pre-arrival activities such as updating your resume, applying for jobs, and connecting with community groups online.
This proactive approach can help you hit the ground running when you arrive, reducing the time and stress associated with settling in a new country.
I understand that refugees face additional challenges, but there are specific resources and associations geared towards supporting refugees, and helping them integrate smoothly.
Leveraging Community Resources
Leveraging existing community resources is crucial.
Many volunteer-led groups and immigrant associations offer practical support, such as providing furniture or helping find accommodation.
These resources allow new immigrants to focus on job searching and integrating into Canadian society without the immediate pressure of securing all essentials independently.
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Creating a Better Canada
Inspired by the idea of making Canada a better place, I founded the Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation.
Our aim is to mitigate racism and improve race relations through education, technology, arts, and dialogue.
I believe in the potential for a better world and see Canada as a land of opportunity for immigrants, despite its challenges with racism and colonialism.
My journey and experiences have given me a deep understanding of the immigrant experience.
Volunteering, community connections, and preparation have been key elements in my success.
I hope my insights provide a roadmap for new immigrants to navigate the complexities of settling in a new country.
Resilience and hope are crucial, and by leveraging every opportunity, you can build a successful and fulfilling life in Canada.
