Healthy Living – Canadian Horizons

Iman Bukhari – My Advice for New Immigrants: Insights from My Journey

admin — Fri, 31 May 2024 00:47:17 +0000

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.

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.

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.

(To read the rest of the article, go to www.risec-canada.org)

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.

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.

My Journey and Advice for Newcomers to Canada: Sherissa Celis

admin — Fri, 31 May 2024 00:47:17 +0000

A Journey of Service and Community Engagement

My name is Sherissa Celis, and I have the honor of serving as the Program Manager for Immigrant Senior Services and Legal Education Services at the Calvary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS).

This nonprofit organization, dedicated to helping immigrants, has been a pillar in the community for over 40 years.

My journey with CCIS began in 2004, and for nearly two decades, I have been deeply involved in various roles, shaping and supporting the lives of many newcomers.

Since 2006, I have overseen programs that are crucial for immigrant seniors and provide legal education services.

However, my involvement extends far beyond CCIS.

I actively participate in numerous community boards across Calgary, including the Calgary Police Service Asia Advisory Board, where I have served for 16 years and am currently co-chair as a civilian member.

Recently, I was appointed to the Premier’s Council on Multiculturalism, a role that allows me to collaborate with 28 other leaders from across Alberta.

Additionally, I am proud to be the charter president of the Calgary Connect Lions Club, which we established in January 2024.

Volunteering: A Stepping Stone for Newcomers

One of the most significant pieces of advice I can offer to newcomers is to embrace volunteering.

Volunteering is incredibly important, especially if you want to enter the workforce in Canada.

I understand the frustration of the “chicken and egg” scenario, where employers require experience, but opportunities to gain that experience are scarce.

Volunteering can be a bridge to overcome this challenge.

It is considered valuable work experience and can provide essential references.

Many of my former volunteers have successfully transitioned to paid employment, using me as a reference.

Setting Realistic Expectations

When you arrive in Canada, it is crucial to set realistic expectations. I always advise newcomers to be practical and grounded.

Canada is indeed a land of opportunity, but success here requires hard work and often starting from the bottom.

Be ready to take on survival jobs initially, but view them as temporary stepping stones. While working these jobs, continuously think about your long-term career goals and plan your path accordingly.

(To read the rest of the article, go to www.risec-canada.org)

The Role of Education and Networking

Education plays a vital role in achieving success in Canada. Without a solid educational foundation, it can be challenging to return to your previous career or start a new one.

If possible, take advantage of opportunities to further your education, even if it means balancing work and studies.

Networking is another critical aspect of building a successful career in Canada. It is not something that everyone practices, especially newcomers, but it is essential. Networking can open doors to opportunities that you might not find otherwise.

Attend workshops on resume writing and job search skills to familiarize yourself with the Canadian job market.

Strategic Planning for Career Advancement

While survival jobs may be necessary initially, they should be viewed as temporary. I always tell newcomers that survival jobs are good for one year. During this time, think about your long-term career and the steps you need to take to advance.

Do not become too comfortable in these positions, as it can be easy to get stuck. Always keep your goals in mind and work towards them.

Final Thoughts

My journey and involvement in various community roles have provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by newcomers to Canada.

By volunteering, setting realistic expectations, furthering your education, and actively networking, you can successfully transition to life in Canada and achieve your career aspirations.

Remember, the path may not be easy, but with perseverance and strategic planning, success is within reach.

Overcoming Challenges as an Immigrant: The Journey of Coach Harp Harpal Sandhu

admin — Fri, 31 May 2024 00:47:17 +0000

A Difficult Start

Born in India in 1972, Coach Harp faced significant health challenges from birth, coupled with the difficult living conditions of his home country.

At the age of three, he and his family immigrated to Canada in 1975, embarking on a journey marked by numerous obstacles and opportunities.

Struggling with Language and Culture

Upon arrival in Canada, Coach Harp encountered one of his most significant challenges: the language barrier.

With Punjabi as his primary language, adapting to an English-speaking school environment proved to be a daunting task.

This language hurdle made fitting in and making friends particularly difficult, leaving him feeling isolated and frequently bullied.

“As an immigrant, one of the biggest challenges I faced was the language barrier,” he recalls. “I struggled a lot with fitting in and finding friends.”

His parents, also new immigrants, faced their own difficulties in adapting to the Canadian lifestyle.

Shopping at Zeller’s, a budget-friendly store, meant that Harp wore off-brand clothes, unlike his peers who sported designer labels.

This difference made him an easy target for teasing and exacerbated his sense of alienation.

“I wore Zeller’s brand clothes and Wrangler jeans because that’s what my parents could afford,” he explains. “I didn’t know any better, but it made me stand out in a negative way.”

Teachers, recognizing his struggle with English, would inform his parents, but they, too, were navigating this unfamiliar territory and often couldn’t provide the necessary support.

Television unexpectedly became his primary tool for learning English.

“I learned how to speak English by watching TV and repeating what the commercials were saying,” he shares. “this was my way of picking up the language.”

Finding Solace in Canadian Football

Throughout his school years, Harp’s struggle to fit in persisted. However, his life began to change when he discovered Canadian football in high school.

Before finding football, he had tried joining various clubs, including the games club, multicultural club, and drama, but none resonated with him.

Football, however, provided a sense of belonging and a constructive outlet for his frustrations.

“When I was 12 years old, I started playing community football, and later, high school football,” Harp reflects. “I found a group of kids who didn’t think I was weird. Football gave me a sense of belonging.”

The camaraderie and teamwork inherent in football taught him valuable lessons about cooperation and perseverance.

“I found who I was when I first put on my shoulder pads and met my first football coach,” he says. “We were running together as a team, learning plays, and supporting each other.”

Giving Back: Kids Play Foundation

Today, Coach Harp is heavily involved with the Kids Play Foundation, a registered nonprofit organization dedicated to providing sports as an outlet for youth to avoid gangs, drugs, and violence.

Founded by a Vancouver police officer in 2015, the foundation expanded to Calgary in 2019, starting with just two people. The organization’s mission is to offer a safe and constructive environment for kids, similar to what football provided Harp during his formative years.

“Kids Play Foundation started in Vancouver by a police officer and expanded to Calgary in 2019,” Harp explains. “Our goal is to use sports to keep kids busy and away from negative influences.”

(To see the rest of article, go to www.risec-canada/magazine)

Insights on Immigrant Success in Canada

Drawing from his experiences, Coach Harp emphasizes the importance of immigrants stepping out of their comfort zones.

Adapting to a new country is inherently challenging, and it’s easy to feel out of place. However, growth is limited without engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and pushing beyond familiar circles.

“If you don’t put yourself out there, you’re not going to grow,” he states.

He encourages immigrants to build friendships with others who may look different and share different experiences. This broadens one’s perspective and creates a supportive community. Additionally, continuous self-improvement through education, such as taking ESL classes or upgrading professional skills, is crucial, even if it means starting from scratch.

“Too many people say, ‘In India, I was a doctor, or in India, I was a lawyer,’ but when you come to Canada, you need to adapt and sometimes start over,” he explains.

Many immigrants face the frustration of not being able to practice their professions as they did in their home countries. Harp emphasizes viewing these challenges as part of the transition rather than failures. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow.

“Failure leads you to your goal. If you’re afraid to fail, then you’re afraid to grow,” he advises.

Embracing Failure as a Path to Success

In both business and personal development, Coach Harp views failure as a stepping stone to success.

Fear of failure hinders growth, but embracing it can lead to significant achievements. He advises immigrants to remember why they came to this country and to remain resilient. Freedom and success require effort, adaptation, and a willingness to learn from every experience.

“Ask yourself, why did you come to this country? If you want freedom, it’s not going to be handed to you. You have to earn it,” he says. “Adapt, grow, make friends, and seek help from people who understand your journey.”

Through sharing his journey, Coach Harp hopes to inspire others to see challenges as opportunities and to find strength in community and personal growth. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of finding one’s place in a new world.