The New to Canada Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kate Johnson
The New to Canada podcast is a place for internationals from around the world to share their honest, real-life experience of moving to Canada. The host, Kate Johnson, went backpacking solo around South-East Asia in 2016 and met a dashing Canadian... Cue an unexpected move across the world from a crowded English city to a new lake life in rural Ontario! After living and working long-term in 5 different countries, Kate is passionate about helping you adjust to your big move abroad by sharing the lessons she's learnt along the way and introducing you to others who are going through the exact same struggles that you are facing. You are not alone. Let's build a life in Canada that you love! Learn more: TheNewcomerCollective.com Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
If you’ve ever listened to the New to Canada podcast, you understand the value of hearing other newcomers’ stories and experiences. It’s the reason why I started this show.
Moving to a new country can get TOUGH… and just knowing that we aren’t alone in our struggles can be so healing.
Today's guest has spent her incredible journalism career shining a light on the stories of immigrants in Canada. In this episode, she opens up about some of the most inspiring people she’s had the privilege to meet, and the powerful lessons they've shared along the way.
Introducing: Baisakhi Roy. Editor of Canadian Immigrant.
Stories that you don’t want to miss:
- A senior veteran journalist from Mexico and the workplace discrimination she experienced.
- A young professional from Morocco who struggled to navigate the English language barrier when building her career.
- A 13-year-old wracked with trauma, escaping Liberian civil war, who now mentors youth via the Yo Bro Yo Girl Youth Initiative.
- A 3-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee who lost 3 daughters due to Israeli shells and has dedicated his life to working for global peace.
- And many more!
PLUS, Baisakhi tells us about her own experience moving to Canada from India in 2010 with a 4.5-year-old - and how precious mentorship and a supportive husband were key to her settlement.
Come say hi! I’ll be at the Canadian Immigrant Fair in Toronto, this Friday, June 27 at the MTCC - hosting a table and recording the podcast live. It’s totally FREE to attend, so grab your spot and join the fun!
Links & Resources:
- Register FREE to attend Canadian Immigrant Fair: Click here
- Connect with Baisakhi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/baisakhiroy/
- Follow Canadian Immigrant: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
What happens when you move to a new country… and it doesn’t work out?
You don’t find the happiness and success that you thought you would.
You painfully miss everyone and everything that you left behind and feel like you’ve made a huge mistake.
We’ve all gone through times of feeling this way, but it isn’t spoken about enough so you can end up feeling like a failure. Like you’re the only one struggling.
This episode’s guest is Chiara from England. She has recently blown up on social media since she started to vulnerably share her story. She moved to Vancouver just last year and has since realised that it wasn’t the right decision for her.
This podcast is filled with inspiring success stories from newcomers to Canada. People who have built amazing lives for themselves here. It’s truly an incredible country and there is so much opportunity.
However, I was excited to sit down with Chiara for a different take. One that so many people share and experience (as you can see from the comments on her videos.) Sometimes, a move abroad doesn’t bring you happiness and a return back home is the best choice for you.
Together, we discuss her story and what brought her to this decision. We chat about the danger of making a PLACE responsible for your happiness, and whether we think living outside of our comfort zones is even a positive thing. Chiara then shares whether she’s nervous about returning to her old life in London and some of her best advice for others who may be regretting their move.
Links & Resources:
- Follow Chiara on Instagram: @journeywithchiara__
- Follow Chiara on TikTok: @journeywithchiara
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
For this special episode, I’m LIVE on the ground at Toronto’s ‘Newcomer Day’ that took place on May 23. Armed with my portable microphone, I wore a t-shirt emblazoned with the words “TALK TO ME: Share your immigration story on the New to Canada podcast” and I was excited to connect with 11 internationals:
- Sophie from Ireland
- Johnny from Lebanon
- Samantha from Malaysia + Australia
- Joseph from Nigeria
- Olha from Ukraine
- Andrey from Israel
- Leah from Kenya
- Zahid from Pakistan
- Wafaa from France + Morocco
- Enrique from Venezuela
- Julia from Ukraine
In this episode, you can hear a few minutes from each guest as they share when they made the big move (ranging from 6 months to 20 years!), the struggles they faced, the wins they’re proud of, and their best piece of advice for other newcomers arriving in Canada today.
Links & Resources:
- (Sophie from Ireland) Irish in Toronto Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/123680717695499
- (Samantha from Malaysia/Australia) Joey Dolls: joeydolls.com
- (Joseph from Nigeria) Diversity Kitchen: diversitykitchen.ca
- (Zahid from Pakistan) Career Foundation: careerfoundation.com
- (Enrique Bravo from Venezuela): @enriquebravoart
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! TheNewcomerCollective.com/join
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Recently, I hosted a live online event, my ‘Moving to Canada’ party!
Not only was it SO much fun to meet and get to know you all in person, but it was also PACKED with so much value.
It seemed crazy not to publish it here on the show for you all to experience...
I’m joined by Career coach, Michelle Ashley, and together we tackle the TWO biggest areas of struggle that I see newcomers to Canada face, again and again:
- CAREER: Navigating the Canadian job market and rebuilding your success abroad.
- EMOTIONS: Finding your support network and feeling settled and ‘at home’.
If you listen to just ONE episode of this podcast, this is the one. I’m so excited to share all this advice with you.
Links & Resources:
- Join us inside the New to Canada Academy: Learn more - Save $50 with promo code PODCAST50 (valid for 14 days)
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Join Career Strategist, Michelle, for a free webinar: "Navigating the Job Market with Clarity and Strategy" - Together you'll cut through the job search noise, focus on gaining clarity about your ideal job, understand yourself better, and apply effective strategies to land that perfect role. Learn More
- Use free online AI tool to scan your resume and get actionable tips to improve it: Jobscan.co
Let’s dive deep into the darker side of moving abroad…
When you move to a new country, your mental health isn’t really your first priority.
You’ve got immigration paperwork to complete, accommodation to find, and job searching to do…
BUT expat mental health is a topic that, in my opinion, is NOT spoken about enough.
The biggest lesson I’ve learnt since starting this podcast is that the majority of us struggle - and the emotional rollercoaster can take us by surprise as we rebuild our lives in a new place.
Insecurity, loneliness, shame, regret…
These are just some of the emotions that many of us face.
SO for this episode, I’m joined by a very special guest - Gabriela Encina - A licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping over 400 people find happiness after their big move.
Together, we chat about where to even START when it comes to acknowledging and tackling your emotional struggles.
We discuss the most common challenges that Gabriela sees her clients face (guilt, self-sabotage, dependency...) and we finish off with some deep thoughts on homesickness & culture shock.
Links & Resources:
- Gabriela's Website: gabriela-encina.com
- Connect with Gabriela on LinkedIn: Click here
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
If you’ve ever worked in the United Kingdom (no matter what nationality you are), you have paid into the UK State Pension.
Once you move away, say to Canada, you might think that those payments are simply lost, or like me, you’re unsure what can even be done from overseas…
Good news is, I’m joined in this episode by Ian Andexser, a fellow Brit in Canada and chairman of the Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners (CABP).
He’s here to shed light on how you can “buy back” missing years of contributions since moving abroad and still receive a good payout when you reach pension age - Despite no longer living in the UK!
Ian also discusses the ongoing “frozen” pension issue, a problem that is costing pensioners in Canada hundreds of thousands of pounds, as well as the ways that CABP is lobbying the UK government for change.
You don’t want to miss:
- Ian’s story of hitch-hiking across Canada as a tourist in the 1970s and then falling in love with his Canadian wife of 46 years.
- His life today in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island.
- The basics: What is a UK State Pension, who qualifies for one and how do you get one.
- How to “buy back” missing years that you haven’t paid into the UK pension scheme since moving to Canada.
- Ian’s real-life example: How he retroactively paid $3,000 to now get $10,500 per year from the British government.
PLUS, the fight against non-indexation of pension payments based on a pensioner’s country of residence - and an optimistic look to the future.
Links & Resources:
- Join the Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners & learn how you can manage your pension: britishpensions.com/
- Check your State Pension age: https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-age
- Sign the Change.org petition here to support the fight against frozen pensions.
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
If you’re inspired by “money mindset” podcasts, this is the episode for you!
There comes a time in your immigration journey when you’ll start looking to the future and thinking about how to build your wealth in Canada long-term.
This episode’s guest, Tomisin Salam, is originally from Lagos, Nigeria, and moved to Canada in 2011 to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams.
Together, we chat about the art of taking educated risks and grabbing the endless opportunities that Canada has to offer.
Tomisin talks us through his journey from selling clothes out of the trunk of his car to now being the CEO of his own FinTech company, FiatMatch - (An initiative that helps immigrants navigate the financial challenges of living in a new country) - and how you can start to build additional revenue streams too.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about growing up in Lagos, Nigeria - The cultural, financial, entertainment capital of Africa.
- His journey to entrepreneurship in Canada: Starting with building a payroll accounting system in Nigeria and taking the idea to Canada in 2011.
- Knowing when to “change” your dreams and pivot your goals when better opportunities arise.
- Where to start when you have an idea for a business and the importance of connection and mentorship.
- The financial struggles that Tomisin sees newcomers face again and again and why “credit” offered to newcomers may not be the best thing.
- Untapped opportunities: How to make additional income in Canada, from investments to side hustles.
PLUS, the common scams and financial fraud that you should watch out for in Canada…
Links & Resources:
- Follow Tomisin on LinkedIn: Click here
- Learn more about FiatMatch - The international money transfer marketplace: fiatmatch.com
- Check out the Immigrant Library: immigrantlibrary.com
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
As new residents and citizens of Canada, it is so important for us to learn about and become allies for its Indigenous Peoples.
First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples have been living in what is now Canada for thousands of years, and they each have unique histories, languages, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs.
We newcomers are now lucky enough to call this beautiful country our home - but we must remind ourselves that we are living on their land.
In this episode, I’m joined by Danielle and Jamie-Leigh, who come to us from RAVEN Trust, a not-for-profit that raises legal defense funds to assist Indigenous Peoples.
They also have a fantastic online video course called Home on Native Land that you can take for FREE to start your learning.
In this episode, we discuss the history of colonization in Canada, including the definitions of Terra Nullius, the Doctrine of Discovery, and the Indian Act. We also speak about the common misconceptions about Indigenous peoples, as well as the ongoing conflict over broken treaties.
I ask Danielle and Jamie-Leigh whether Indigenous Peoples welcome immigrants and refugees to Canada, as well as what they think about the term “Canadian”.
They also share some of the ways that newcomers to Canada can contribute to ongoing reconciliation efforts.
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In Canada, September 30 is The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, or “Orange Shirt Day.” The day aims to raise awareness about the Indian Residential School System, where Indigenous children across Canada were ripped from their families, abused and thousands killed. It is also an opportunity to commit to the process of truth, justice, and reconciliation. You can learn more by clicking here.
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Links & Resources:
- Home on Native Land is a new, free online learning tool that is funny, honest, and accessible, providing a no-risk, comfortable way to understand Indigenous law, Canadian law, and their impact on the nation we call home. The series of 10 x 30-minute modules is the first public education initiative from RAVEN, an organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous rights.
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Imagine moving across the world and, on a whim, entering an online contest called Canada’s Luckiest Newcomer…
Now imagine getting the phone call that you’ve actually WON, out of thousands of entrants, and a bundle of life-changing prizes is on its way to you… including $20,000, free groceries for a year, 50,000 Air Miles, and more!
That’s what happened to this episode’s guest, Hannibal from the Philippines.
Tune in to this episode to hear all about Hannibal’s experience arriving in Canada as an international student during the pandemic, how it felt to win BIG, and what he’s been up to ever since.
Links & Resources:
- Enter Canada’s Luckiest Newcomer for a chance to win $20,000 and more: Click here
- Follow Hannibal on Instagram: @hann.bal
- Connect with Hannibal on Facebook: Hannibal Delos Reyes III
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Searching for some camping tips as you head out into Canada’s National Parks this summer? Look no further! This episode’s guest, Audrey Levesque, is a Canadian camping expert who has worked with Parks Canada for over 20 years.
Canada’s diverse NATURE is one of the main reasons that newcomers give for moving here and Parks Canada manages and protects many of the most special places it has to offer - 171 national historic sites, 47 national parks and 5 national marine conservation areas to be exact!
Join us as Audrey shares her experiences working in some of Canada’s most beautiful and interesting spots, as well as her best advice for making the most of your campsite.
You don’t want to miss:
- Living in Nova Scotia: What to expect from the summer season.
- An update on the ongoing wildfires burning across Canada.
- What is Parks Canada, why was it created and the important work that it does.
- The “Graveyard of the Atlantic”: Audrey’s favourite posting after working with Parks Canada for 20+ years.
- Front vs Back-country camping, as well as the various “glamping” options available.
- How to reserve your National Park campsite and the fees to expect.
- The endless list of activities you can take advantage of during your visit.
- Leave no trace: Tips for keeping the parks clean and avoiding unwelcome wildlife visitors(!)
- Camping safety and etiquette.
PLUS, all about the ‘Learn to Camp’ overnight program if you’d like your first camping experience to be with an expert.
Links & Resources:
- Parks Canada website: www.pc.gc.ca
- Reserve your National Park campsite: https://reservation.pc.gc.ca/
- FREE National Park admission for 1 full year with the Canoo app: https://canoo.ca/
- Visitor Safety: https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel/securite-safety
- ‘Learn to Camp’ Program: https://parks.canada.ca/serapprocher-connect/ltc-dlc
- Camping Checklists, Recipes, Printable Games, Tutorial Videos, and more: https://parks.canada.ca/voyage-travel/hebergement-accommodation/camping-101
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
I'm back on the mic and officially a MOTHER to 8-week-old Sienna Joy - and what a whirlwind it has been...
Tune in to this episode to hear exactly what went down (11 days overdue, multiple induction procedures, failed epidurals, doctor unavailable due to family emergency, the FULL birth story!)
As well as my postpartum experience so far including my struggles with guilt and loneliness due to starting a family abroad and my best advice for when you do the same.
Links & Resources:
- Blog Post: My Pregnancy in Canada - https://thenewcomercollective.com/pregnancy-in-canada/
- Freya: Virtual birth partner app: A hypnobirthing coach that times & tracks your contractions, plays soft music, prompts breathing techniques, and offers guided relaxation throughout labour – $4.19 in Google app store. Download here.
- Peanut app: Find other pregnant women to connect with in your area. Download here.
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Roberto was just 18 years old when he moved from Mexico to Canada to be an international student. 17 years later, he’s built a successful career and family life in Canada and he's here to share with us the ups and downs of his journey.
Today, Roberto gives back to the newcomer community through his work at the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. They run the Citizenship ceremonies that you’ll attend when you eventually get that all-important Canadian passport; as well as their incredible (FREE!) app Canoo - which grants Permanent Residents & Citizens free or discounted access passes to many of Canada’s best attractions, parks, and experiences.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about growing up in Durango, Mexico.
- Roberto’s “small” university experience: Attending the separate Glendon Campus of York University, and the benefits of gaining a Canadian education.
- Buying his first winter jacket and boots in Canada!
- A 17-year newcomer rollercoaster: Missing your family, building true friendships, and how long it really takes for Canada to feel like ‘home’.
- Canadian Citizenship: Do you feel any different once you have that special blue passport?!
- Roberto’s work at the Institute for Canadian Citizenship: What to expect at their Citizenship Ceremonies, as well as the various ways they challenge the barriers faced by immigrants and advocate for change.
- ‘Unlocking’ Canada with the FREE Canoo app: How Permanent Residents and new Citizens of Canada can take advantage of discounted travel, attractions, national parks, and more.
PLUS, find out what happens when a brand-new Mexican immigrant tries to “hail” a Toronto public bus like a taxi…
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about the FREE Canoo app + start exploring Canada: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
- Follow the Institute for Canadian Citizenship: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn
- Mexican food recommendations in Toronto: Sit-down meal: Milagro | Street food: Seven Lives Tacos in Kensington Market.
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved!thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
This episode’s guest is Ashley from Glasgow, Scotland, who moved to Burlington, Ontario in 2019.
Ashley’s son was born in Scotland - Shortly followed by the birth of her daughter here in Canada.
As she’s experienced both, Ashley is here to highlight the differences that she’s noticed when having a baby using the UK’s National Health Service vs. The Canadian Healthcare system.
Together, we chat about:
- UK vs. Canada: Weather, cost of living, retail stores, and beyond.
- What it’s like having a Scottish accent in Canada; including the struggle using drive-thru’s!
- The benefits of raising children in Canada despite losing your support system from back home.
- Pregnancy: What to expect throughout the medical experience in Canada (including choosing your hospital and caregiver, booking appointments, postpartum care, and beyond.)
Links & Resources:
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Newcomers often arrive in Canada full of confidence that they’ll soon find a job in their field and thrive in their new home… Unfortunately, it isn’t always that simple.
The Canadian job search can be notoriously challenging and many immigrants suddenly find themselves doubting their experience and skills. This episode’s guest, Brenda Ngure from Kenya, is here to remind us of everything that we CAN offer employers and how we should never lose sight of the value we bring from overseas.
Brenda was born in Nairobi, Kenya, and left to study in the United States where she lived for 18 years, before eventually moving to Toronto in 2016. She discusses with us the African immigrant experience, as well as her struggle with loneliness when she first arrived here.
Links & Resources:
- AD: Access mental health support based on language and cultural background at Psymood.com
- Listen to Brenda’s podcast “The Resilient Migrant”: Click here
- Brenda’s links: Website | Instagram | Facebook
- Good local Kenyan food: mytasteofafrica.com
- Job Search Resources: Read the blog
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Ever wondered what the workplace culture in Canada is like? Turns out that there can be a lot of unexpected differences to get your head around when you first start your career here.
From the amount of paid time off you are entitled to, to the famous American “hustle” culture, to how much time you spend socialising with your colleagues after work. In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsay McMahon, co-host of the immensely popular podcast All Ears English (which is downloaded a whopping 8 million times per month globally) to discuss…
Together, we compare what various business etiquettes you can expect here in the Great White North, and how they may differ from other countries like the USA, Japan, and the UK. We chat about team collaboration, decision-making, and how employees can expect to receive feedback - As well as share some valuable tips for making connections with your colleagues if English is your second language.
Links & Resources:
- Business English podcast: Listen now
- All Ears English podcast: Listen now
- Save $50 on the IELTS 3 Keys Online Course which 100% guarantees to increase your test score: bit.ly/newtocanadaielts
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Are you wondering what it’s like to live in small vs. big cities in Canada? Look no further than this episode’s guest, Mustafa from Pakistan. In this episode, he shares his experience of being an international student at Queen’s University and moving from crowded Karachi to the close-knit community of Kingston, Ontario. He also explains his career path as a fresh graduate in Canada and his experience living and working in Toronto.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about growing up in Karachi, Pakistan.
- Travelling the 10 Canadian provinces and which ones stood out the most (you might be surprised)
- Moving to London, UK - New York, USA - and then eventually Kingston, Ontario.
- His experience as an international student and the various pressures that they face in Canada.
- Entering the Canadian workforce at the same time as a global pandemic… Bonus job search tips!
- The pros and cons of living in the big cities vs. small towns in Canada: Tight-knit communities, cost of living, and food & event diversity.
Links & Resources:
- Support the Pakistani flooding: @paaniproject | @tayabaorg | @theexpatspak
- Facebook - Pakistan Canada Association of Kingston: @PCAofKingston
- Follow Mustafa on Instagram: @mustafa23ansari
- Download his free “Welcome to Toronto” guide: Click here
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Dreaming of moving to Vancouver Island? I don’t blame you! We have all seen the stunning ocean and mountain landscapes that British Colombia has to offer… This episode’s guest, Emme, is originally from Yorkshire in England and moved to Toronto in 2016. After spending several months in the bustling city, she decided to pack her bags and move solo to Vancouver Island in search of a more tranquil and scenic lifestyle. In this episode, we chat about what to expect from life on the island, the differences between British and Canadian driving, applying for the International Experience Canada (IEC) Work Permit, and much much more!
You don’t want to miss:
- Weather in Ontario vs. British Colombia
- Driving in Canada: How to get your license and what to expect on the roads.
- Camp counselling in the USA and falling in love with North America as a result.
- Our shared experience of applying for the International Experience Canada (IEC) Work Permit.
- Keeping in touch with long-distance loved ones.
- Emme’s story of moving to Vancouver Island… alone… during a pandemic…
- Toronto ON vs. Victoria BC and what to expect from life on Vancouver Island.
PLUS, What even is a “British” accent and the various nationalities we get mistaken for in Canada!
Links & Resources:
- ELSA: 7-Day Free Trial of English Coaching App: bit.ly/ELSAxTHENEWCOMERCOLLECTIVE
- ELSA: Link to get 85% off lifetime membership and 40% off 1-year membership: https://elsaspeak.com/inf/thenewcomercollective/
- Follow Emme on Instagram: @emmeoxford
- Check out Emme on YouTube: @emmeoxford
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! https://thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Join me as I share another of my passionate pep talks! This time, the topic is: Self-Sabotage. I'm sharing 5 behaviours and mindsets to avoid after moving abroad that could be setting back your progress and hindering your whole experience. You might not even know you're doing it... Let me know if you're guilty!
Links & Resources:
- WIRELESSWAVE Black Friday Deals on smartphones, data plans, and accessories: https://direc.to/i3Hr
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
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For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
In this episode, I am reunited with poll winners Elizabeth from Colombia (ep. 9), Harisha from India (ep. 5), and Mike from Brazil (ep. 17) for a fun end of Series 3 get together. Get ready to laugh along with us as we share 2 truths, 1 lie about our native countries, as well as dive deep into more personal aspects of moving abroad - Such as adjusting to a different workplace culture, growing up with immigrant parents, tipping expectations, and finding the right balance between friends from your native country vs. Canada.
You don’t want to miss:
- 2 facts, 1 lie about our native countries: Can you guess which one is the lie?! (England, Colombia, India and Brazil.)
- What surprised us about Canada / Canadian culture…
- What we would tell ourselves if we could go back in time to our 1st day as a newcomer...
- What 3 famous people, alive or dead, would we have join our team for the zombie apocalypse?
PLUS, an important update: Where you can meet Jason Momoa in Toronto…
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about the New to Canada Academy: thenewcomercollective.com/academy/
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips/
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Looking for some job search tips? Luckily, this episode’s guest knows all about how best to navigate the Canadian job market!
Hugo O’Doherty is originally from Ireland and he moved to Montreal in 2011. He is also a Product Manager at Moving2Canada: An invaluable resource for newcomers offering endless recruitment & immigration information. Together we chat about life in Montreal, the global Irish community, and how he and his wife had a baby during the pandemic! We also dive deep into resume tips, including how to adapt it for the Applicant Tracking System (ATS); as well as how to access the infamous “hidden job market” in Canada.
You don’t want to miss:
- Life growing up in Dún Laoghaire, Ireland.
- Hugo’s 7-year immigration pathway: IEC Work Permit to Québec Permanent Residency.
- Living in Montreal and the truth about its European stereotype.
- The importance of getting help from other newcomers, sharing relatable experiences, as well as tried & tested insider information.
- Resume advice: How to navigate the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and stand out from the pile of other job applications.
- Only 15% of jobs are actually posted on job boards… How to access the “hidden job market” in Canada.
PLUS, some bonus homesickness tips!
Links & Resources:
- Join the New to Canada Academy: Learn more
- Connect with Hugo: LinkedIn | Twitter
- Moving2Canada: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
- IEC Working Holiday Facebook Forum: Click here
- PR / Express Entry Facebook Forum: Click here
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! thenewcomercollective.com/canada-tips
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Congratulations! Canadian Citizenship is the final step in your immigration journey… That passport will feel SO good when you finally have it in your hands. If you think you’re ready to start your application, this episode’s guest, Canadian Immigration Lawyer, Larry Butkowsky from Butkowsky Immigration Law, is here to help.
*Disclaimer: This episode was recorded on August 5, 2022. Always check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
You don’t want to miss:
- An update on delayed application processing times at IRCC and what to do if your current status expires.
- The benefits of becoming a Canadian Citizen vs. remaining a Permanent Resident.
- A breakdown of the eligibility requirements and the fees involved.
- Which documents you can use to prove your language skills (you’ll be surprised!)
- Common mistakes to avoid.
- What to expect from the Canadian Citizenship test, interview, and ceremony.
Links & Resources:
- Register for my FREE ‘Moving to Canada’ party on August 23: thenewcomercollective.com/launch-party
- Book your FREE 15-min consultation call with Larry by email: larrybutkowsky@sympatico.ca (quoting “the New to Canada podcast”)
- Connect with Larry on LinkedIn: Larry Butkowsky
- Free Citizenship Test Study Guide: Click here
- Free travel journal to track your time outside of Canada: Click here
- New Canadians can explore Canada with the Canoo App: canoo.ca
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
In 2016, Mike decided to abandon his Law career in Brazil to start a new adventure in Toronto. Fast forward to today, he’s now living an entirely different and unexpected life! He is a successful entrepreneur, has built a cool online community of English learners over on his Instagram @itsteachermike, and is expecting his second child with the love of his life!
In this episode, he shares with us his honest (and often hilarious!) experiences with culture shock and how he has adapted from Brazilian to Canadian life.
We also chat about how long it REALLY takes to feel settled in a new country, the unrealistic pressures newcomers put on ourselves to quickly build the “perfect” life, and how to stay positive if you feel out of place.
Finally, Mike shares he and his wife’s experience of having a baby in Canada and what to expect from Canadian healthcare during the process.
Links & Resources:
- Follow Mike on Instagram: @itsteachermike
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Sometimes a story comes along that every person on earth should hear - The story of Tareq Hadhad and his family is one of them.
A once displaced Syrian refugee, Tareq is now a Canadian CEO and a public speaker who tours the country to inspire audiences, advocate for immigration, humanize refugees, and share his family’s incredible story of survival.
In this episode, he walks us through his family’s journey from a loving, peaceful life in their home city of Damascus, Syria, to losing everything overnight and fleeing for their lives.
After 3 years as refugees with little opportunity or hope, Tareq and his family were offered a second chance - to start again in a small town in Nova Scotia, Canada.
Listen to hear Tareq’s journey to becoming Canadian, the whirlwind of support and love he’s experienced from his new home, and how he and his father have built their successful chocolate company ‘Peace by Chocolate’ so that they can give back to those less fortunate than them.
Links & Resources:
- Connect with Tareq on LinkedIn: Tareq Hadhad
- Follow Tareq on Instagram: @tareqhadhad
- Make an impact by shopping ‘Peace by Chocolate’: peacebychocolate.ca
- Watch the ‘Peace by Chocolate’ Movie Trailer: Click Here
- Watch Justin Trudeau’s United Nations speech about the Hadhad family: Click Here
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Thinking of moving to Manitoba? When choosing which Canadian province to move to, it can be easy to focus on the most popular ones (e.g. British Colombia or Ontario...) Instead, I bring you this episode’s wonderful guest, Diane Bergman, who was born and raised in Winnipeg and is here to tell us all about life in Manitoba!
Diane is the founder of Prairie Relocation, a concierge-style relocation company that welcomes and helps set up newcomers in Manitoba. In this episode, she also breaks down all of the “life admin” of moving abroad, from what paperwork and job search prep you should be doing, to how to choose a bank account and apply for your social insurance number. Let’s get all of those overwhelming “to-do’s” checked off the list so you can start enjoying your adventure that much sooner!
Links & Resources:
- Check out Prairie Relocation’s Website: www.prairierelocation.com
- Follow Prairie Relocation on Facebook: @prairierelocation
- Connect with Diane on LinkedIn: Diane Bergmann
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Volunteering in Canada when you’re a newcomer has so many benefits, including meeting new people, building your resume and learning new social norms. This episode’s guest, Lina Sobhy, would not be where she is today in her career without it. She is originally from Egypt and moved to Montreal in 2013 to finally reunite with her husband after living apart from him for 4 years. We chat about making friends as an adult, how to find great volunteering opportunities in your area, as well as Lina’s experience wearing a hijab in Canada.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about Egypt: Breathtaking ancient history, modern cities, paradise beaches, and bustling markets.
- What to wear when visiting Egypt
- When your high school sweetheart moves to Canada: Getting married whilst navigating a long-distance relationship until finally joining him in Montreal in 2013.
- Lina’s experience as a non-French speaker in Montreal
- The difficulty of making new friends
- The benefits of volunteering as a newcomer: Building your network and language skills, testing out different careers, feeling comfortable in the new culture, and much more…
PLUS, wearing the hijab in Canada: Some valuable advice for visible minorities.
Links & Resources:
- Follow Lina on Instagram: @linasobhy87
- Email Lina: linasobhy87@gmail.com
- Lina’s recommended Egyptian must-visit: Han El-halili, Cairo
- Canadian volunteering websites: volunteer.ca | govolunteer.ca | getinvolved.ca | charityvillage.ca
- ELSA: 7-Day Free Trial of English Coaching App: bit.ly/ELSAxTHENEWCOMERCOLLECTIVE
- ELSA: Link to get 85% off lifetime membership and 40% off 1-year membership: https://elsaspeak.com/inf/thenewcomercollective/
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Ever wondered how maple syrup is actually made here in Canada? This episode is my very first LIVE on-site tour and interview recording! Come and join me as I speak with Yvonne Storm from the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA), as she walks us through their beautiful sugar bush at Purple Woods, Ontario. There, they have been producing maple syrup for 47 years. Yvonne explains how to choose which maple trees to harvest sap from, how to tap them correctly, and then takes us through the full step-by-step process in the evaporator room from sap to syrup.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about CLOCA, the important work that they do, the free events they host, and natural areas you can visit.
- Harvesting maple sap: The best time of year for harvest, which trees to choose, and where and how to tap them.
- The tour of the wood-fired evaporator room and the tools they use: Boiling the sap to evaporate the water until it is 66% sugar.
- The filtering and bottling process.
- How the season and cooking time dictate the colour and taste of syrup.
- The history of harvesting maple sap by the Indigenous people and the methods they used.
- The surprising health benefits of maple syrup.
PLUS, Yvonne’s experience and tips for making maple syrup at home!
Links & Resources:
- Register to attend the Maple Syrup event at Purple Woods, March 26-27 and April 2-3: Click here
- ELSA: 7-Day Free Trial of English Coaching App: bit.ly/ELSAxTHENEWCOMERCOLLECTIVE
- ELSA: Link to get 85% off lifetime membership and 40% off 1-year membership: https://elsaspeak.com/inf/thenewcomercollective/
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Please note:This interview was recorded on January 26, 2022 before the Russian invasion of Ukraine was announced to the world. This episode’s guest, Zara Bagramian, was born in Armenia but moved to Kyiv, Ukraine with her family when she was one year old. We discuss both countries at length.
Zara would like to take this opportunity to share an organization with us that she has been supporting since this interview was recorded. Toronto real estate agents Natalia Popovitch and Todor Yordanov dropped everything and, using their personal money and donations from friends, headed to Bulgaria to help Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war. You can hear more about their story via CBC Listen as well donate to their humanitarian efforts via their Instagram or Facebook.
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Episode summary:
If you have managed to combine your passions with your career, you are truly living the dream. This doesn’t come easy for a lot of us, including this week’s guest, Zara Bagramian. Zara was born in Armenia, grew up in Ukraine, and has now lived in Toronto for the past 8.5 years. In this episode, we chat about what to do when you find yourself unfulfilled by your career, stuck on autopilot, and feeling like something is missing. She shares with us the methods she used to discover her true purpose in life and redirect her career path to bring her more happiness. We also discuss homesickness and ways to overcome it, as well as the immigrant “blip” when trying to understand new cultural references.
You don’t want to miss:
- A Canadian wedding proposal picked up by the media: Her fiancé spelling out “MERRY ME” in the snow and quickly correcting it before she got home!
- All about life in Armenia and Ukraine.
- The kindness of Canadians.
- How long the ‘honeymoon’ phase typically lasts before homesickness can kick in…
- The immigrant “blip”: Feeling behind when not understanding cultural references.
- Some simple tools to help you combine your passions with your career.
- Ikigai: A Japanese concept for finding your sense of purpose and how you can shift your mindset to fill each area with multiple passions instead of striving for a “one fits all” career.
PLUS, find out what an Armenian really thinks about the Kardashians…
Links & Resources:
- Follow Zara on Instagram: @the.great.move
- Read more about Natalia & Todor’s humanitarian efforts at the Ukrainian border: CBC News | @uherelief | Facebook
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
If you’ve grown up religiously following your country’s chosen national sports, it can be a real culture shock when you move to a new country where those sports just aren’t as popular… Enter this episode’s guest, Jack Tanetta from Wales, United Kingdom. Jack was studying at Cardiff University when he met his Canadian now-fiancée and moved to her Ontario hometown Ontario in 2017. In this episode, we discuss Jack’s tactic of using sports as a tool to meet new people in Canada and feel more at home. We also chat about the power of social media for job searching, Canadian weather, and what to expect when driving on Canadian roads…
You don’t want to miss:
- The city of Cardiff, Wales and its unbeatable vibe created by Rugby and Football.
- The power of using sports to meet new people abroad (and which British sports you can find in Canada…)
- The pros and cons of both Canadian and Welsh weather.
- Harnessing social media to build your network and find employment.
- Teaching in Canada vs in the UK and the qualifications and visas involved.
- Driving in Canada: The differences between Canadian and British drivers and which rules of the road you should be most aware of.
PLUS, the Welsh language: How to pronounce the longest place name in Europe: “Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch”
Links & Resources:
- Connect with Jack on LinkedIn: Jack Tannetta
- Welsh Language YouTube Channel: Gwyneth Angharad
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Want to know what it’s like to move to a new country as a young child? Emilia was just 11 years old when her parents decided to move their family from Honduras to Canada. Host, Kate, moved from England to France when she was just 13 years old. Together, we discuss the things that our parents did to help us settle that we are now thankful for today, language barriers, the guilt of leaving loved ones behind, and more. Whether you’re a parent worrying about your own children adjusting to a move abroad or you’re just curious about seeing immigration through a child’s perspective, this episode is for you.
You don’t want to miss:
- Growing up in Honduras: Family, beaches, history, and chicken buses!
- 20 years in Canada: How Emilia’s family plans to celebrate this huge milestone.
- How to make the transition easier for your children: What our parents did back then that we really appreciate in hindsight.
- The generosity and kindness of Canadians: How a Canadian family took Emilia and her family in and welcomed them into their small Ontario town.
- Supporting our parents with language barriers: Our shared experience of being middle schoolers on the phone to banks and lawyers!
- The benefits of moving to a smaller town for quicker integration.
PLUS, the guilt of leaving loved ones behind: A refreshing and positive spin on long-distance relationships with your family.
Links & Resources:
- Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: @sisulegal
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
The New to Canada podcast is a place for internationals from around the world to share their honest, real-life experience of moving to Canada.
The host, Kate Johnson, went backpacking solo around South-East Asia in 2016 and met a dashing Canadian... Cue an unexpected move across the world from a crowded English city to a new lake life in rural Ontario! After living and working long-term in 5 different countries, Kate is passionate about helping you adjust to your big move abroad by sharing the lessons she's learnt along the way and introducing you to others who are going through the exact same struggles that you are facing.
You are not alone. Let's build a life in Canada that you love!
Learn more: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
If English is your second language and you’ve recently moved to an English-speaking country, this is the episode for you! I’m joined by the wonderful Elizabeth who moved from Colombia to Canada in 2016. She chats with us about her experience with new and unexpected insecurities about herself and her accent when she first arrived. We also discuss what it’s like growing up in the coffee axis of Colombia, how to set the right expectations for your big move, and how to unapologetically embrace who. you. are.
You don’t want to miss:
- Growing up in the Coffee Axis of Colombia.
- The differences between Colombian and Canadian coffee drinking habits!
- Culture shock: Matching Colombian high energy with a slower-paced Canadian life.
- Big cities vs. Small rural towns in Canada…
- Some tips for starting your living abroad experience in a more positive light (e.g. no comparison, complaining or expectations!)
- How to deal with new and unexpected insecurities when English is your 2nd language.
- A simple reality check if you’re endlessly “chasing happiness”
PLUS, what a Colombian really thinks about Canadian New Years Eve “parties”…
Links & Resources:
- Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: @elizabethexpress_
- Follow Elizabeth’s English Accent account: @helloaccent
- Follow Toronto’s new comedy show DemOnes: @demones.official
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Immigrants. Are. Awesome. We are adventurous, adaptable, ambitious, community-driven, and naturally entrepreneurial. As the Harvard Business Review wrote in one of their articles, the immigrant mindset is one to STRIVE for in order to advance your career. This episode’s guest exhibits all of these qualities and more. In 2013, Alena met a stranger on a train in Moscow who introduced her to the idea of moving to Canada. Not long after that, she was packing her bags in search of a new challenge and has not looked back since. Together, we chat about Russia and its people, share some career and immigration tips for international students, and dish out a serious dose of that immigrant inspiration.
You don’t want to miss:
- Everything you need to know about Russia: From vodka and high heels to superstitions and architecture…
- Alena’s new start: Being introduced to Canada by a stranger on a Moscow train, following her gut, and making the big move in pursuit of a new challenge.
- 9 Years Later: How her “temporary adventure” turned into a successful Canadian marriage, family, and career.
- Some simple reminders to prepare for the cultural and emotional shocks of moving to a new country.
- Career and immigration tips for international students.
- The Immigrant Mindset: More than 40% of Fortune 500 companies are founded by immigrants or their children! A discussion about the various strengths exhibited by immigrants and why we should be inspired by each other.
PLUS, a Russian’s experience with the smiling and pleasantries of Western culture: Why simply adding “please” to an email doesn’t necessarily make your message “polite” in Canada…
Links & Resources:
- Read the Harvard Business Review article: “Adopt an Immigrant Mindset to Advance Your Career” - Click here
- Follow Alena on Instagram: @alenasharma.ca or Tiktok: @alenasharma.ca
- Connect with Alena on LinkedIn: Alena Khabibullina
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
What if “starting your career from scratch” after moving to Canada doesn’t have to be a bad thing? This episode’s guest has a truly inspiring knack for looking at every job as a learning opportunity and doing whatever it takes to succeed. Malek Aljabari moved to Canada in 2016 with his wife and then 1-year-old daughter, and with just $120 in his pocket, has progressed from a Domino’s and Uber employee, to a successful Engineering role, to now proud Entrepreneur. Malek reminds us all that we are so much more than our careers and that anything is possible when you have passion, confidence, and dedication.
You don’t want to miss:
- What it’s like growing up in Amman, Jordan.
- Malek’s 1st culture shock: Moving to Wisconsin, USA, at the age of 18 to study for a month.
- What is the best time of year to move to Canada?
- Language barriers and the struggle to accept your foreign accent.
- Malek’s career journey: From a Domino’s and Uber employee to a successful Engineer and now Entrepreneur.
- How to battle your ego when you have to settle for jobs you are overqualified for…
- Some simple tips on how to follow your passion with confidence and knowing you will be able to bounce back no matter what happens.
PLUS, why standing in a line/queue can be the ultimate culture shock for people from some parts of the world!
Links & Resources:
- ELSA (English Language Speech Assistant) - The fun and engaging app specially designed to help you improve your English pronunciation: elsaspeak.com
- Connect with Malek Aljabari on LinkedIn
- Follow Malek on Instagram: @realmalekjabari
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
IELTS stands for The International English Language Testing System and is a test that is required by many English universities and English-speaking countries around the world. This week’s guest is Jessica Beck, a previous IELTS examiner of 14 years, a successful podcast host, and English teacher who has taught in Spain, Cambodia, Taiwan, and the United States. In this episode, she runs through what to expect when taking IELTS and shares some valuable study tips and strategies for those of you who are aiming for that great test score.
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BONUS:
Jessica has hooked us up with a $50 discount on her IELTS online course “3 Keys” which includes study plans, templates, strategies, video lessons, practice tests, and more. Best of all? It has a 100% guarantee that it will increase your test score. So if you’re stressed about your IELTS, this investment is so worth it to ensure you do your absolute best when it comes to test day. To sign up, please head to bit.ly/newtocanadaielts (and by using this link, you will help support the New to Canada podcast as well!) Good luck!
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You don’t want to miss:
- What is IELTS? How do you pronounce it correctly? What are the benefits?
- The differences between the academic vs general versions of the IELTS test.
- Paper vs computer-delivered tests.
- A list of podcasts to listen to to prepare and practice.
- Strategy tips and tricks for each of the 4 modules: Speaking, writing, reading, and listening!
- The importance of timing when taking the test, what to do when you don’t know the answer, and some great mindset tactics to set you up for success.
PLUS, the top 2 mistakes that Jessica always sees students make during the IELTS test process…
Links & Resources:
- Save $50 on the IELTS 3 Keys Online Course which 100% guarantees to increase your test score: bit.ly/newtocanadaielts
- Listen to Ryoki’s episode on IELTS Energy and how he got a Speaking 9: Click here
- Podcasts: IELTS Energy | All Ears English
- Take the free IELTS quiz: What is your expected score?: https://go.bucketquizzes.com/sf/a35f8185
- IELTS Energy TV: https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSEnergyTV
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Mental wellness abroad is not a topic that is widely discussed… We see moving to a new country as one big adventure and often disregard the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. This episode’s guest, Harisha from India, discusses how she finds inner strength in times of struggle and stresses the importance of slowing down and checking in with ourselves during such a big life transition. She also shares her moving to Canada story: How her husband moved to Canada in 2012 and it wasn’t until 8 years later that she was able to finally join him here. We chat about India, food, yoga, and more!
You don’t want to miss:
- All about growing up in Hyderabad, India.
- Where to find the best Indian food and ingredients in/near Toronto…
- 8 years long distance: The story of Harisha finally joining her husband in Canada after nearly a decade apart.
- How a previous yoga teaching certification taken in India ended up being a life-changing tool as she adapted to Canadian life.
- The various ways that yoga can impact your transition to life abroad and how to use it to tap into your strength and inner potential.
- Prevention is better than the cure: The importance of slowing down and checking in with your mental wellness abroad.
PLUS, some simple tips for finding more joy in the “down” days and letting go of what you can’t control.
Links & Resources:
- Follow Harisha on Instagram: @harishapranyudhyoga
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
This episode’s guest is Chifuka from Zambia, Africa. Back in 2004, together with his parents and 4 brothers, 19-year-old Chifuka moved from the busy city of Kitwe to a small town in Saskatchewan. He tells us about his family’s experience of being the only immigrants in a white Canadian community. We also discuss how newcomers from countries that celebrate being humble and reserved can unexpectedly struggle in countries where confidence and assertiveness are rewarded. Chifuka offers fresh perspective and lessons learned from his 17 years living in Canada.
You don’t want to miss:
- Everything you need to know about life in Zambia, Africa.
- An intimate insight into the experience of an African family of 7 moving to rural Saskatchewan.
- Life transitions and culture shocks: From student to worker as an immigrant in Canada.
- The differences between the Zambian and Canadian workplaces and how different cultures can lead to immigrants being easily misunderstood.
PLUS, the delicate balance between preserving your roots and values whilst also trying to succeed and integrate into a new country.
Links & Resources:
- Buy Chifuka’s book on Amazon - Immigrants’ Journeys: Africans Making Canada Home: Click Here
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
It’s time to learn about life in Alberta! Whether you’re still unsure about where exactly to move in Canada or you’re just interested in learning more about the different provinces, this episode’s guest has all the insider info. Marisol moved from Costa Rica to Edmonton, Alberta, 11 years ago after meeting her Canadian now-husband. Together, we chat about luscious Costa Rica and then dive deep into what to expect when living in Alberta from the cost of living to mountain adventures.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about growing up in San Jose, Costa Rica.
- How Marisol met a Canadian unexpectedly and then moved to Canada to be with him just 6 months later.
- Tropical paradise to Edmonton, Alberta… Find out how she answers the question: What are you doing here?!
- The insider scoop on life in Alberta: Cost of living, real estate, jobs, vibe, and more.
- A comparison of city life: Calgary vs. Edmonton
PLUS, Mountain talk: Some passionate chat about National Park adventures and where to see your first bear and moose!
Links & Resources:
- Follow Marisol on Instagram: @_expatdiaries
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
When we move to a new country, we all have the same mission: To grow some meaningful connections with those around us in our new home… But what happens instead? We attend lots of events but end up talking about the weather or what we do and we leave with a list of new contacts but no real relationships. This episode’s guest is Jan Keck who moved from Germany to Toronto back in 2008. He shares some valuable tips for introducing yourself to strangers, and then how to nourish and grow both your new and existing connections so that you can finally find yourself surrounded by YOUR people.
You don’t want to miss:
- Growing up in Germany: All things Oktoberfest, beer, castles, and Christmas markets!
- How Jan scored a scholarship to study in Toronto and went from an active member of a thriving community to knowing just one person in his new city.
- After 6 years of struggling to build his network, how attending a personal development retreat by accident gave him 30 new friends in 48 hours and changed the way he looked at human connection.
- Small Talk Detox: Not a single person really “wants” to talk about the weather! How you can rephrase your questions to stimulate more meaningful conversations.
- Some valuable tips for overcoming the anxiety of introducing yourself to a stranger. Including “visual conversation starters” to look out for or to make yourself stand out.
- Next steps: How to maintain and grow both your new and existing relationships by going deeper and being more vulnerable.
PLUS, find out how long it takes to walk up the 1,776 steps of the CN Tower (Jan has done it 3 times!)
Links & Resources:
- Order Jan’s Connection Cards: Click Here
- Follow Jan on Instagram: @mrjankeck
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow me on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Join your host, Kate Johnson, as she shares another of her passionate pep talks! This time, the topic is: Careers in Canada. In this episode, Kate takes us on a journey from when she first started job hunting with no Canadian work experience back in 2017 to finally feeling happy and fulfilled in her career today. She shares the different ways that she thought "outside of the box" and got creative when she was faced with unexpected job search challenges - and how you should always remember your worth and the value that you can bring to an employer as an international newcomer.
Links & Resources:
- Download 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
In this episode, I am reunited with poll winners Itir from Turkey (ep. 12), Elisabet from Spain (ep. 14), and Carlotta from Italy (ep. 18) for a fun end of Series 2 get together. Get ready to laugh along with us as we share 2 truths, 1 lie about our native countries, as well as dive deep into more personal aspects of moving abroad - Such as mental health barriers, Canadian culture, and more.
You don’t want to miss:
- 2 facts, 1 lie about our native countries: Can you guess which one is the lie?! (England, Italy, Turkey, and Spain)
- What has been our biggest mental health barrier since moving to Canada and what our advice is for anyone struggling in a similar way (Topics include: Homesickness, loneliness, fear of the unknown, and more)
- What surprised us about Canada / Canadian culture…
- Our thoughts on having an accent in Canada…
- What we would tell ourselves if we could go back in time to our 1st day as a newcomer...
- What 2 items would we bring with us to a deserted island?
PLUS, find out what a coffee-loving Italian *really * thinks of Tim Hortons...
Links & Resources:
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Montréal, Vancouver, or Toronto? If you’re stuck choosing between these 3 beautiful Canadian cities, we’ve got you covered! This episode’s guest is Sarah Mac from England and she has lived long-term in all 3 places since moving to Canada in 2008. She tells us the pros and cons of each - Including whether or not French language skills are vital for a life in Montréal. She also shares her journey from being burnt-out working in the Canadian film industry to becoming an inspiring coach for creative entrepreneurs - and how YOU can also make money doing something you truly love.
You don’t want to miss:
- Two English girls from Kent & Hertfordshire chatting about the London music scene and the dreaded British weather…
- What it’s like to have an English accent in Canada and the differences in vocabulary and turns of phrases!
- Sarah’s experience moving to Canada as part of a university exchange back in 2006, then returning 2 years later on a one-way plane ticket to Vancouver.
- Do I need to learn French to live in Montréal?
- Toronto vs. Vancouver vs. Montréal: What it’s really like to live long-term in each city!
PLUS, rejecting the “hustle” mindset and following the fun: How to monetize your creative passion project and create income streams from things you are actually passionate about...
Links & Resources:
- Follow Sarah on Instagram: @withsarahmac
- Join the Facebook Community: Big Creative Fun
- Download Sarah’s free Creative Money Meditation: Click Here
- Listen to the Creative Magic Club Podcast: Click Here
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Conquering fear. Stopping those ‘what ifs’ that are holding you back. Pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. If these are some of your goals, then this is the episode for you!
This week, I chat with Carlotta Crestanello from Italy whose story is a little different… She didn’t want to move to Canada at all! Her Dad forced her on a plane to Vancouver against her will back in 2013 and just 2 days later, Carlotta knew that she had found her true home. Together, we give you the ultimate pep talk for kicking fear to the curb, using it as fuel, and pushing through towards personal growth and success.
You don’t want to miss:
- The magic of Italy and growing up in the small town of Vicenza!
- How Carlotta’s dad forced her to spend a month in Canada and she boarded the plane crying… 2 days later, she knew that Vancouver had her heart.
- The beauty of having 2 homes: How Carlotta has never felt homesick and some tips to unconditionally embrace a new place.
- Being an enthusiastic Italian ‘hugger’ and adapting to how different cultures greet each other!
- Conquering Fear: Our ULTIMATE pep talk on how to get out of your own way, leave your comfort zone, and kick your fear to the curb.
PLUS, what happens when you bring an English & an Italian girl together for a podcast episode after the 2020 Euro cup final….
Links & Resources:
- Follow Carlotta on Instagram: @carlottacrestanello
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Buying Real Estate in Canada can feel like an impossibly large and daunting goal; especially as an international newcomer… This episode’s guest, Sidharth Iyer from India, bought a condo in Toronto just 18 months after his big move! He shares with us the 3 most important steps to take when thinking of buying property in Canada and spills his best tips and tricks for making the process as easy as possible along the way. He also shares some bonus advice for growing your LinkedIn profile as he boasts a 21,000+ following and has reaped the benefits for his career and network abroad.
You don’t want to miss:
- Growing up in Jamshedpur, India: Sid’s favourite Indian festival and his best advice for visitors to the country.
- Sid’s 1st immigration experience at just 10 years old when he moved to Singapore with his family.
- Travelling to Montreal on a work trip and instantly falling in love with Canada.
- Moving to Toronto in 2017 and his journey to self-discovery and professional growth.
- REAL ESTATE: Insider info from a first-time home buyer in Canada! The 3 important stages of buying your first property…
PLUS, LinkedIn: How Sid grew his following to 21,000+ and the benefits he has reaped as a result!
Links & Resources:
- Follow Sid on LinkedIn
- Email Sid: iyer.sidharth@gmail.com
- Real Estate Research: condos.ca | Boards & Associations (e.g. DRAR | TRREB | etc)
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
This week’s guest is Fares Khouri from Jordan. In 2007, Fares planned to go to Lebanon for university. However, when civil unrest erupted there, he decided to move to Canada instead! In this episode, Fares shares with us the creative ways that he successfully built up his Canadian work experience and how you can use fundraising to build your soft skills and employability. He also introduces us to his work at Access CCF and their Foreign Credential Recognition Loan Program. If you’re internationally trained, you may be eligible for a loan to help you achieve your career dreams in Canada.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about growing up in Jordan and attending an international school there.
- Fares’ story of having to pivot his university plans to Canada after civil unrest erupted in Lebanon.
- How to use university community and networking to combat homesickness.
- The pressure and mental stress of the Post-Graduate Work Permit: Some simple tips to successfully build Canadian experience on your path to PR.
- The incredible benefits of door-to-door fundraising and volunteering.
PLUS, the Foreign Credential Recognition Loan Program: How internationally trained newcomers could be eligible for a loan to help increase employability.
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about the Foreign Credential Recognition Loan Program: Click Here
- Reach out to Fares on: LinkedIn
- Follow Messi the French bulldog on Instagram! @messi.thefrenchie
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Owning your own business in Canada is a dream that a lot of newcomers share and this episode’s guest is no different. Assel Beglinova moved from Kazakhstan to Toronto in 2012. She shares her story of learning English with a host family and now, 9 years later, launching her own FinTech venture called ‘Minance’ that helps solo entrepreneurs manage their money. Assel shares her top tips to succeed as both an international student as well as a business owner in Canada and her motivational advice will get your entrepreneurial energy flowing! She reminds us to get out of our own way, be our biggest cheerleaders, and just do it.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about growing up in one of the safest countries in the world: Kazakhstan.
- Assel’s experience as an international student in Toronto, staying with a Canadian host family and learning English.
- Her top 3 tips for soon-to-be or newly arrived international students.
- The biggest lessons she’s learnt whilst building her business in Canada.
PLUS, what someone from Kazakhstan REALLY thinks about the fictional character ‘Borat’…!!
Links & Resources:
- Reach out to Assel on: LinkedIn
- Follow Assel’s Instagram: @b.linova
- Visit Assel’s company website: Minance.ca
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Finding a supportive community abroad can make the world of difference when you are struggling to adjust. Sometimes all you need to feel more settled and happy is to know that you are not alone. In this episode, I chat with Elisabet Camprubi who moved from Spain to Toronto in 2012. When she found herself struggling with loneliness, culture shock, and language barriers, Elisabet turned to yoga and quickly realised the life-changing benefits that it can bring to someone starting over abroad. She shares with us the importance of slowing down and listening to yourself, and introduces us to her newly launched community: Newcomers Thru Yoga.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about growing up in the Spanish countryside!
- Elisabet’s experience moving to Toronto in 2012 to learn English with a Canadian family.
- 7 years in Canada: Study Permit to Work Permit to Permanent Residency to Citizenship.
- The downside of Canada’s multiculturalism: The difficulty understanding all of the different accents!
- How Elisabet was able to find a job in her field in just 2 months.
- Some valuable advice if you are currently feeling lonely.
- The benefits of yoga after moving abroad: How Elisabet built a yoga routine to give herself time to pause, reflect, and make sense of her emotions and goals.
PLUS, all about Elisabet’s newly launched community for internationals in Canada: ‘Newcomers Thru Yoga’
Links & Resources:
- Thursday, July 1 at 1pm EST: Tune in for the Instagram live announcement to learn more about Elisabet’s community: @NewcomersThruYoga
- Join the Newcomers Thru Yoga facebook community: Click Here
- Visit the community’s website: www.ThruYoga.com
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Are you wondering HOW to immigrate to Canada? You asked, I listened! There are over 65 immigration pathways that are available to individuals seeking to immigrate to Canada. That leaves a lot of room for confusion and uncertainty when considering what the best option is for you. In this episode, I sit down with Josh Schachnow, a Toronto-based Immigration Lawyer and Founder of the Visto platform. He provides an easy-to-understand breakdown of each of the most popular immigration pathways to Canada: Study Permit, Work Permit, Permanent Residency, Business Pathways and PNPs.
You don’t want to miss:
- Study Permits and Spousal Open Work Permits.
- Reality Check: The difficulty of obtaining a Closed Work Permit and the industries that give you the best chance of success.
- What you need to know about the recent TR to PR program announcement as a result of the pandemic.
- Immigration scams in Canada: What to look out for.
- The difference between an Immigration lawyer and an Immigration Consultant.
- How to improve your Express Entry score for your Permanent Residency application.
- Business Pathways & Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs.)
PLUS, some simple tips on how to choose which immigration professional to work with, how to verify their reputation, and what traits you should look out for.
Links & Resources:
- Sign up to Visto’s FREE immigration platform and take the Visto Qualify quiz to see which pathways best suit your situation: bit.ly/vistoimmigration
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Legally immigrating to a new country doesn’t always go to plan. In this episode, Itir from Turkey shares her story of finally living her Canadian dream when she came to study in Toronto, only to face immigration challenges and be forced to return. Her determination to research Canadian immigration pathways and to keep nurturing her network from abroad is an inspiring reminder to never give up on your goals. We chat about life in Istanbul, how she found a job in Canada whilst overseas and she gives us the low-down on the Toronto dating scene!
You don’t want to miss:
- Istanbul: The hidden hipster lifestyle of a city that never sleeps!
- What it’s like to grow up in a transcontinental country: Waking up in Asia and commuting to Europe for work every day.
- Her experience moving to Toronto for postgraduate study and using couch surfing and live music events to meet new people.
- Itir’s Heartbreak: Having to leave Canada when her work permit expired and readjust to life back in Turkey.
- How she never gave up on her dream of returning to Canada: Her journey from immigration challenges to finally getting Permanent Residency.
- Some tips for finding a job in Canada whilst you’re living overseas.
- Living abroad in your 20s vs. in your 30s!
PLUS, what the dating scene in Toronto is REALLY like...
Links & Resources:
- Follow Itir on Instagram: @itird
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Finding a job in Canada is one of the biggest hurdles that newcomers face. With limited knowledge of the Canadian labour market, job application standards, workplace culture, and zero network, it really isn’t surprising. Luckily, there are various government-funded programs that are dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals. One of these programs is Canada InfoNet. In this episode, I chat with the program's manager, Sharvari Jois, who moved to Canada 10 years ago from Bangalore, India. She shares vital advice for both pre-arrival and post-arrival internationals who are finding the Canadian job search process challenging.
You don’t want to miss:
- Sharvari’s experience growing up in Bangalore, India, and how much she misses the monsoon season!
- 10 years in Canada: The advice she would give to herself if she could go back in time to when she was first struggling to find a job.
- Her best tips for adapting to Canada’s more specialized roles and job titles, not hearing back from employers, and knowing when to take a break from job hunting to avoid burnout.
- The power of volunteering: How to build on your international work experience and expand your network.
- The hidden job market and how to find it.
- Transferable skills: How to include them effectively in your resume so you can apply for jobs outside of your experience.
PLUS, all about the IRCC-funded Canada InfoNet Program and its incredible (free!) career services that you can take advantage of if you’re currently pre-arrival.
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about Canada InfoNet’s free pre-arrival program: canadainfonet.org
- List of Canada’s top 100 SMEs: Click here
- Next Stop: YMCA’s Pre-Arrival Settlement Services: nextstopcanada.ca
- IRCC’s list of approved pre-arrival programs: Click here
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
The term 'languishing' was shared in a recent New York Times article to describe the joylessness or aimlessness that many of us are feeling during this unprecedented pandemic. In this episode, host Kate Johnson talks about the importance of looking after your mental health during these continuous lockdowns - especially as an international living so far away from familiarity and loved ones. She runs through some common thought patterns that you may be struggling with and shares some simple mindset shifts to feel more positive in the days ahead.
What is Canadian culture? In order to fit into your workplace and make new friends, it’s important to understand what values, beliefs & behaviours make Canadians tick! In this episode, I’m joined by Ryan Lu from China. With dozens of his family already living around the globe, Ryan always knew that he too would leave China to experience other cultures. During his 23 years, he has already lived in the USA, Denmark, England, Korea, and most recently, Toronto, Canada after his company agreed to transfer him here. In this episode, we chat about his experience growing up in the most populated country in the world and we share some simple ways to connect with Canadians socially & professionally.
You don’t want to miss:
- All you need to know about growing up in fast-paced urban China: Lots of queues and extracurricular activities!
- Why you shouldn’t pay attention to online reviews when looking for authentic food in China…
- Ryan’s experience going to high school in Pennsylvania, USA, watching ‘Friends’ to learn English, and struggling to understand American inside jokes.
- The cultural differences he has noticed when living in Denmark, England, Korea, and now Canada.
- Moving to Toronto in the middle of a pandemic: Ryan’s first impressions of the city and our take on whether or not Canadians are actually as friendly as their stereotype tells us!
- Canadian culture: Some simple tips for how to connect with Canadians via sports, in the workplace, what jokes to avoid and how to embrace their multiculturalism.
PLUS, Reverse culture shock: Ryan’s experience not quite fitting into Chinese culture anymore after living so long in North America.
Links & Resources:
- Follow Ryan on Instagram: @ryryryanlu
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Do you need to take your CELPIP or CAEL English test? These tests are officially designated for Canadian permanent residence applications by IRCC; as well as required for study in Canada and many professional designations.
In this special expert episode, we sit down with Alison Chan from Paragon Testing Enterprises.
She tells us everything we need to know about these English language tests and shares some of her best test preparation and test-taking tips!
You don’t want to miss:
- The biggest challenges that people face when trying to learn English.
- The reasons behind English language proficiency testing in Canada.
- Definitions of the CELPIP & CAEL tests and what they are needed for.
- Where you can take your test and what to expect when you get to a test centre.
- More information regarding the $5,000 scholarship for CAEL students.
- The best study tips and tools to get your desired score.
- Advice for acclimatising better to Canadian culture.
PLUS, examples of what you could be asked for each of the test’s components: Writing, Speaking, Listening and Reading.
Links & Resources:
- Contact Paragon Testing Enterprises by email: info@celpip.ca
- Register for free CELPIP webinars & workshops HERE
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Managing your personal finances abroad is one of those huge and often daunting tasks. Newcomers often watch their savings dwindle as they struggle to find a job. They battle with higher living costs than they’re used to and have to build a Canadian credit score from scratch. This episode’s guest is Jodi from Montego Bay, Jamaica: A self-confessed personal finance geek and the founder of the empowering financial blog, Abundance of Jo.
Jodi shares her story of moving from Jamaica to Vancouver in 2015 to pursue her MBA and tells us her best tips and tricks to get financially ahead as a Canadian newcomer so that we can all live an abundant life.
You don’t want to miss:
- All you need to know about growing up in Montego Bay, Jamaica: Reggae festivals, beaches, waterfalls and spicy food!
- Vancouver vs. Toronto and the go-to Jamaican restaurants to check out in each city.
- Jodi’s experience as an international student in Canada, adjusting to the West-coast rainy season(!) and appreciating the community that has supported her along the way.
- The programs for newcomers that you should be asking about when opening a bank account, applying for a credit card, buying a new car, and more.
- Some simple tips for building your Canadian credit score and how to order your free credit report.
- Top money-saving tips to help you adjust to higher Canadian living costs and how to effectively budget when you first arrive.
PLUS, which budget-friendly apps you should be downloading right now!!
Links & Resources:
- Add ‘Honey’ for free to your internet browser to automatically apply promo codes to your online shopping cart: bit.ly/joinhoneycanada
- Visit Jodi’s Blog and download her free “Know Your Money” guide: AbundanceofJo.com
- Tangerine’s No-Fee Cash-Back Credit Card: Learn More
- Comparison Sites: Jessica Moorhouse | Money After Graduation
- Requesting your credit report: Borrowell.com
- Download the Flipp app to access store flyers and coupons: Flipp.com
- Compare rental prices vs. area: Padmapper
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
For many, the scariest part of moving abroad is not knowing anyone and having to find new people to hang out with... This episode’s guest is Tim Butler who moved from New Zealand to Vancouver in June 2019 to get himself out of a rut, challenge himself and experience the great Canadian outdoors. Tim shares how he has quickly built a solid social circle through hostels, sports and clubs - and how you can too. And how the power of the expat community can really help you along the way.
You don’t want to miss:
- Tim’s experience growing up in a rural town near Wellington, New Zealand.
- Addressing those Kiwi stereotypes (e.g. all blacks, lord of the rings, bungee jumping and sheep sheep sheep…)
- How Tim spent his 1st winter in Canada training for an ultra marathon and running 30+km through snow!
- West vs East coast weather in Canada.
- Building your social circle: How to use hostels, sports and clubs to meet new people.
- The power of the expat community and ‘giving back’: Losing his job due to the pandemic and how his connections came through to help get him a new career opportunity within hours.
PLUS, how dangerous the word ‘deck’ can be for a Kiwi abroad…
Links & Resources:
- Follow Tim on Instagram: @TimButlerNZ
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Being an optimistic expat is a lot harder than it looks. Culture shock and homesickness can be really difficult to shake, especially during those first few years of living abroad.
This episode’s guest is the wonderfully positive Eleni who describes herself as a Zimbabwean Greek Cypriot - and soon to be Canadian! She moved to Toronto in 2017 with her husband and then 11-year-old daughter and spent a long time feeling isolated. She shares her best advice for how to embrace the journey, cope with winter temperatures, and help your family to adjust to the big move. We also learn about her adventurous life growing up in Zimbabwe, then living in Greece, London, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. Her addictive sunshine and positive outlook will give you the boost you need!
You don’t want to miss:
- Growing up in Harare, Zimbabwe with Greek & Cypriot parents.
- “I don’t know where I’m heading but I cannot wait to get there”: Eleni’s itchy-feet adventures living in Greece, London, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia.
- Moving to Canada with an 11 year old daughter and how she helped her from feeling unsettled to finally loving life in Canadian middle school.
- Overcoming culture shock: How she found it difficult to make friends without the “coffee moms” at the school gates.
- Insider insights into family life in Toronto: Which neighbourhoods to choose and her favourite parts of the city.
- Some simple tips to ensure your children keep in touch with their roots.
PLUS, what it’s like to experience Halloween for the 1st time and how to decorate your house for each Canadian holiday!
Links & Resources:
- Follow Eleni’s photography accounts in Instagram: Canada | Zimbabwe | Greece
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
When did you last push yourself outside of your comfort zone? This episode’s guest, Oscar Cecena, has done so time and time again! Since moving to Toronto 8 years ago from Mexico City, he has since built a successful career in FinTech, launched the Immigrants of Toronto podcast, set up newcomer coaching services and published his creative writing in a foreign language. What a busy bee. In this episode, we discuss the different ways that pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone (in even the smallest ways) can make all the difference when starting over in a new country. We chat about life in Mexico City, how he adjusted to the higher cost of living in Canada, which experts to trust, and more!
You don’t want to miss:
- What it’s like to grow up in the most populated city in North America: Mexico City
- How Oscar pivoted from hitting rock bottom with his company’s bankruptcy to starting over in Toronto with his wife (even when they were told they were “too old” to immigrate!)
- 8 years in Toronto: Adjusting to expensive grocery & rent prices!
- How to decide whether to live downtown or commute in from the suburbs…
- The simple question you can ask yourself when wondering which experts you can trust in Canada.
- Comfort Zone: The art of podcasting and creative writing in a foreign language.
- Some small examples of how to get out of your comfort zone and make the most out of your experience!
PLUS, find out which Guinness World Records Mexico City has under its belt… Hint: “It’s close to midnight…”
Links & Resources:
- Listen to the Immigrants of Toronto podcast: immigrantsoftoronto.com
- LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
- The most impactful episode: Ep 19 - Escaping an abusive husband
- Recommended area of Mexico City to explore: Coyoacán
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
This week’s guest is the perfect example of throwing caution to the wind and yelling ‘Why Not?!’ when faced with life-changing opportunities. If you need some serious career inspiration, this is the episode for you. Originally from the Philippines, Belle has over 15 years of experience working with the most innovative tech brands such as Spotify, Netflix, Airbnb, Uber and TikTok.
We chat about her impressive career, her advice for chasing your dream job, her new ‘Why Not?’ podcast, family life in Canada and more.
You don’t want to miss:
- Belle’s experience growing up in the suburbs of Manila, Philippines, and dealing with the sudden death of her father at a young age.
- Her 1st big ‘Why Not?’ moment: Moving from the Philippines to Thailand on a whim after being offered a job position from a friend!
- Her INCREDIBLE career from Radio DJ to working in Public Relations in Singapore for Spotify, Netflix, TikTok, and more.
- Her best advice for how to spot these ‘cool’ emerging companies and opportunities.
- Her teenage daughter’s experience enrolling in Grade 10 in a Canadian high school during a pandemic and her best recommendations for family activities in downtown Toronto.
PLUS, don’t miss out on amazing career opportunities: Why you SHOULD apply for jobs even if you are under qualified!
Links & Resources:
- Listen to the Why Not? Podcast: whynotthepodcast.buzzsprout.com
- Follow Belle on LinkedIn here.
- Podcast Socials: Facebook - Instagram - LinkedIn
- Podcast Email: hello@whynotpodcast.com
- Register for recreation programs in Toronto here.
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
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And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Third Culture Kids are individuals who grew up in different culture(s) to their parents - and, as a result, develop a connection to not just one but to ALL of these cultures.
In this episode, I chat with Carolina Santos Read, a self-confessed Third Culture Kid. She is a UK-born Latina who grew up in Spain and the USA. Now, she is a singer, actress, dancer and voice-over artist who recently moved to Toronto in early 2020... Just in time for the global pandemic. We chat about the various countries and cultures that have a piece of her heart, our shared experience planning weddings during a pandemic, and the importance of taking care of your mental health when moving to a new country.
You don’t want to miss:
- The inside scoop from the life of a busy actress, singer, dancer, voice-over artist…
- Carolina’s favourite thing about each of her cultures: Brazil. England. Spain. USA.
- The truth about how being a third culture kid can lead to confusion around identity.
- What it’s like to have a traditional Moroccan wedding and be able to speak 6 languages with your husband!
- Moving to Toronto and struggling with the lack of community: The importance of talking to a professional about the challenges you face as a newcomer.
- Our experiences with exercising at home post-pandemic and the benefits it can bring.
PLUS, the most important question: Which team Carolina and her family support during the World Cup….
Links & Resources:
- Visit Carolina’s website: carolinasantosread.com
- Check out Carolina’s IMDB profile and YouTube channel.
- Follow Carolina on Instagram: @carolinasantosread
- Recommended podcast: You’re Welcome with Hilary Rushford
- Yoga meet-up group (Toronto): Newcomers Thru Yoga
- Class Pass (gym memberships across various locations): classpass.com
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Do you still need to file your 2020 income tax return? Do not fear, our expert is here! In this episode, I sit down with Paul Murphy, a Senior Communications Advisor at the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to discuss important tax tips that newcomers to Canada should know. Paul breaks down the process of filing your annual income tax return. He shares some definitions of various available benefits, credits and deductions that you can claim as well as which frauds and scams to look out for.
(ad) Get 10% off CRA-approved TurboTax online tax filing software at bit.ly/turbotaxcanada
You don’t want to miss:
- What is CRA and what do they do?
- An explanation of Canada's income tax system (e.g. Statement of Earnings, T4 Slips, Pay Deductions, Self-assessment principle)
- When do you become a resident of Canada for income tax purposes?
- When do you and your partner become common-law for income tax purposes?
- Which benefits & credits could you apply for? Plus, definitions of the Canada child benefit, GST/HST credit, and Climate Action Incentive.
- Filing your tax return: Which income tax package to use, how to file your tax return by Internet, and when to send the CRA your tax return.
- Which deductions could you claim?
- How to avoid falling prey to frauds and scams.
PLUS, have you been working from home due to the pandemic? Learn how you can claim up to $400 for home office expenses!
Links & Resources:
- (ad) Get 10% off CRA-approved TurboTax online tax filing software at bit.ly/turbotaxcanada
- CRA’s main newcomers to Canada page: HERE
- CRA’s webpage on residency status determination: HERE
- Form RC151, GST/HST Credit Application for Individuals Who Become Residents of Canada: HERE
- Canada Child Benefit application: HERE and HERE
- Full list of certified software for filing electronically: HERE
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Happy New Year and thank you to everyone who voted for their favourite guest from Series 1! In this episode, host Kate reunites with poll winners Ashleigh from Australia (ep. 4), Karla from Mexico (ep. 5), and Adobea from Ghana (ep. 8) for a fun end of Series 1 get together. Get ready to laugh along with us as we share 2 truths, 1 lie about our native countries, who we’d invite to our perfect dinner party, and of course, further lessons and advice for other newcomers to Canada.
You don’t want to miss:
- 2 facts and 1 lie about our native countries: Can you guess which one is the lie?! (England, Australia, Ghana, and Mexico)
- If we could go back in time to when we FIRST arrived in Canada, what would we tell ourselves?
- What is our #1 favourite thing about Canada?
- What is the biggest myth that we want to debunk about Canada?
- Which 3 people living or dead would we invite to our dinner party?
PLUS, an important discussion about Australian turtles that breathe out of their butts and English lawbreakers who handle salmon suspiciously… Listen to hear more!
Links & Resources:
- Download 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - See you soon for Series 2!
For many, 2020 has been a year for major career reevaluation. We spend a significant chunk of our lives working and we are now increasingly striving for that perfect marriage between what we love doing, what the world needs, and what can be monetized. Enter this episode’s guest: Nada Buhendi, a career coach originally from Bahrain who moved to Ontario 19 years ago. She shares her story of growing up in a dysfunctional family and how she broke the cycle to pursue education abroad as a free woman. We chat about how career passion cannot be ‘found’ but instead ‘developed’, and Nada inspires us to confront childhood trauma and build a solid career path to fulfilment.
You don’t want to miss:
- Nada’s experiences with culture shock and depression when arriving in Kingston, ON as an international student.
- Her empowering tips to understand your strengths, confront your habits that may be holding you back, and find the right career path for you.
- The importance of environment: How to adjust your surroundings to be more in line with your intrinsic needs.
PLUS, how finding the right mentor can be the key to discovering the roadmap to career success.
Links & Resources:
- Connect with Nada on LinkedIn: Nada Buhendi
- Download 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
The COVID-19 global pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to people around the world. The ways in which it has affected individuals and families are countless; but one way is leaving Canada’s international newcomers isolated, unsupported, and in a state of complete unknown. This episode’s guest, Raquel Dias, arrived in Toronto one month before the pandemic announcement. With her Embassy telling her to flee back to Portugal before borders shut, she decided to stay and has since found a job and settled here against all odds. We discuss how the pandemic has been both her biggest struggle and biggest win; and she offers us a refreshing, much-needed, optimistic outlook for the days ahead.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about Portimão, Portugal, dealing with all those pale British tourists(!), and the differences between the Spanish and Portuguese people.
- The logistics of a multicultural relationship: How Raquel (Portuguese) speaks Spanish with her Italian boyfriend!
- Her experience leaving +20°c in Portugal and arriving 24 hours later to -20°c in Toronto.
- Some top tips for applying for jobs and making new friends virtually during a global pandemic.
- A huge dose of much-needed positivity and an optimistic outlook for 2021.
PLUS, a surprise poetry reading! Raquel shares her touching Portuguese poem about homesickness and its conflicting messages.
Links & Resources:
- Check out Raquel’s website: RaquelPDias.com
- Follow Raquel on Instagram: @raqueeeeeldias
- Download 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Raquel’s poem “v de volition”:
há uma voz perdida na multidão
uma voz que resgata a saudade e sussurra
vem
ou seria
vai
?
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
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It’s the most wonderful time of the year - But spending this family-oriented holiday season abroad away from our loved ones and familiar surroundings can be really challenging. In this shorter episode, podcast host, Kate @thehomewanderers, shares 5 mistakes to avoid over the next few weeks that may increase your homesickness and sabotage the joy of the season! Listen to this easy-to-digest episode to hear her experience of homesickness over the holidays and the steps you can take to lessen the struggle.
Links & Resources:
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Food has the power to unite people, cross language barriers and bond us between cultures. This episode’s guest, Kaori Hisada, moved from Japan to Canada 13 years ago. She shares her unique journey from reggae dancer who had never picked up a knife, to becoming a successful sous-chef in downtown Toronto. We cover Kaori’s best recommendations for Japanese cuisine, Toronto’s culinary hotspots and what you can do if you’re an aspiring chef. She also discusses her struggle to learn English and how she forced herself to take a job in an English-speaking restaurant to overcome it. Her story is one of perseverance and the ultimate career pivot.
You don’t want to miss:
- Reality check: All about Sapporo’s winter season and how, in comparison, it really isn’t that cold in Canada!
- The best Japanese dishes to try on Hokkaido island and what you SHOULD be ordering at your local sushi restaurant.
- Some words of encouragement and simple advice to learn English faster.
- The best street food and festivals to check out in Toronto.
- All about Kaori’s famous Octopus balls or “Takoyaki”!
PLUS, some inspiration for aspiring chefs! How Kaori learnt her trade from others in the business and by watching YouTube.
Links & Resources:
- Follow Kaori on Instagram: @kaorifromtakoyaki6ix
- Unfortunately, the vegetarian restaurant recommended by Kaori in this episode, run by a Japanese immigrant, has since closed.
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
After working as nurses in Lebanon during the 1st wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, Diala Sharab and her husband were given the opportunity to bypass travel restrictions and immigrate to Canada as skilled refugees. Since then, they have been adjusting to life as newlyweds and making a difference in vulnerable people’s lives in Canada as much-needed home care professionals. In this episode, Diala sheds light on the refugee crisis in Lebanon and what it means for the people who are directly affected. She then shares an honest account of the ups and downs since moving here and her unwavering gratitude for Toronto’s multiculturalism and the organisations that made her move possible.
You don’t want to miss:
- Starting from scratch: Diala’s experience arriving in Canada as a refugee and beginning her new job as a personal support worker.
- All about the 2 organisations that have changed Diala’s life: Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB) and VHA Home Healthcare.
- The experience of Diala’s great-grandparents who fled conflict in Palestine to seek refuge in Lebanon.
- The importance of changing the narrative around the word “refugee” and showing compassion towards the individual humans behind each photo and media story.
PLUS, possibly the best love story ever?! How Diala and her husband, Yehya, both applied to the same refugee pilot program before they met, and ultimately got identical job offers a day before their engagement.
Links & Resources:
- Follow @ChooseLove on Instagram & help spread compassion for refugees.
- Read about Diala & Yehya in Global News.
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Wondering how to tell your kids that the family is moving abroad? Worried about how you can prepare them or how they will settle into their new school? You asked, we listened! In this episode, we cover this topic from all angles with Terence Chee from Malaysia. He shares his experience as a parent moving his family of 4 to Canada from Kuala Lumpur. Then, podcast host, Kate shares the child’s point of view after moving from England to France when she was 12 years old.
You don’t want to miss:
- All about Kuala Lumpur and the gel that holds it together: The food!
- Moving a family of 4 to Toronto and their 1st impressions of the city.
- What factors to consider when choosing a new neighbourhood for your family.
- How early to tell your kids about an upcoming move and how best to include them in the process.
- The simple ways to lessen your kid’s culture shock.
- The most essential appointment to make upon your arrival to learn about the Canadian schooling system.
- What to look out for: The struggles that your children may have and how siblings can help one another.
- The differences between Malaysian education and Canadian education!
PLUS, watching your kids be influenced by Canadian culture and how to keep them in touch with their roots.
Links & Resources:
- Connect with Terence on LinkedIn.
- Find your local Welcome Centre: welcomecentre.ca
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Moving abroad is the perfect chance to reflect on who you want to be and to refine your personal branding. Being able to clearly communicate what you do and what opportunities you’re looking for is key when starting over in Canada. This week’s guest is Nina Bader, founder of Creative Kommunikation, who is originally from Switzerland and has lived in Vancouver since 2016. In just ONE month, Nina graduated, moved to Canada with only 2 suitcases, started her first job and moved in with her boyfriend… She doesn’t mess around! In this episode, she inspires us to shake up our personal branding, confidently stand out from the crowd, and grab new opportunities with both hands.
You don’t want to miss:
- Swiss countryside vs. City life in Zürich!
- How the Swiss people put the rest of us to shame with their language skills.
- Long-distance relationship tips: How Nina & her now fiancé spent 1.5 years apart.
- How to be proactive in your job or internship search and find opportunities that many people don’t know about.
- Nina’s struggles with homesickness and saying goodbye to new friends who only stay in Canada short-term.
- Personal branding: What it is and why it’s important.
- Some simple prompts to start figuring out who you are and what you want to be known for in your new life abroad.
- Elevator pitch: How to confidently “boast” about your skills and the closing questions that you should include every time.
PLUS, the best places to taste REAL Swiss cheese & chocolate…
Links & Resources:
- Creative Kommunikation: creativekommunikation.wordpress.com
- Follow Nina on Instagram: @whataboutnina
- Nina’s recommended chocolate: Läderach!
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
A positive mindset and a productive plan of action can make or break your move abroad. This week’s guest is Progressholic podcast host, Devesh Tilokani. He is an international student who moved solo from Dubai to London ON, 3 years ago when he was only 18 years old. In this episode, Devesh shares his passion for personal growth and the different tactics he uses to bounce back when feeling low, in a rut or demotivated. We chat about his experience growing up in Dubai, bust some popular myths about UAE and bond over our love of podcast hosting.
You don’t want to miss:
- Why growing up in Dubai allowed Devesh to move to Canada without any culture shock.
- Dubai myth-busting: Asking the awkward questions about popular UAE stereotypes.
- Sick family members overseas: How Devesh coped when he received the news about his Dad’s heart attack and was unable to rush home.
- Mindset: The simple ways to ‘snap out’ of those energy lulls and start building consistent positive habits.
- The best meditation tip for when your mind won’t shut off!!
- Productivity: Batching and the 80/20 Rule! How to make the most of your time abroad and boost your efficiency.
PLUS, how Devesh got the infamous nickname “the Oil Prince” at Canadian parties…
Links & Resources:
- Connect with Devesh on LinkedIn
- Learn more about Devesh’s podcast: progressholic.com
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Networking is often plugged as the “must-do” activity in order to achieve success as a newcomer in Canada (no pressure, right?) But what if the idea of networking sends you into a cold-sweaty panic? This week’s guest, Mahlena-Rae Johnson, is a speaker, writer, and comedian who recently moved to Ontario from Los Angeles. She teaches ambitious introverts how to build solid communities and how to pivot to virtual networking now that our lives have moved online. We talk about her life growing up in Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, her adult life in L.A., and her journey to Canada in search of a better quality of life as a Black-American woman.
You don’t want to miss:
- Mahlena’s life growing up in the U.S. Virgin Islands and dealing with hurricane seasons.
- What food an American misses most that you can’t get in Canada...
- The effects that Canadian weather and diet can have on newcomers’ bodies!
- Networking in your pyjamas: Simple networking tips for introverts.
- How to leverage the recent shift towards a more virtual world and where to find “your people” online.
- The different ways to use each online platform depending on your networking goals and how to set them up so that more people can find you.
- Tips for in-person networking events: How to prepare before the event so that you set yourself up for maximum success.
PLUS, the biggest mistake that people make at in-person networking events that will waste your time and lead to you missing out on important opportunities.
Links & Resources:
- Mahlena's website: bit.ly/mahlenaspeaks
- Mahlena on Instagram: @mahlenasguidetolife
- Mahlena on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mahlena/
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Backpacking couple, Ollie & Shonagh from Kilkenny, Ireland, share their experiences travelling together through 31 countries and how they ended up living long-term in Vancouver. Their honest account of the ups and downs is delivered alongside hilarious stories and lessons learnt along the way. They share a warning to not always believe the “idyllic” picture of living abroad that many people share but also stress the importance of embracing your journey. We discuss relationships and how to best support one another when navigating huge life changes and they advise those looking to move to Canada on what to research beforehand to lessen the stress.
You don’t want to miss:
- All you need to know about growing up in rural Ireland.
- Stories from their backpacking trip across 31 countries and counting... Including surviving a typhoon!
- An honest review of moving to Vancouver and the struggles faced when looking for work and making new friends.
- Preparing for your move: How to keep your expectations in check when talking to other people about the living abroad experience and the most useful things to research.
- Canadian friendship culture: The differences they have noticed between the depth of personal connections here and in Ireland.
- The benefits of moving abroad as a couple, the importance of communication and how to support one another through the ups and downs.
PLUS, what NOT to do when sleeping in your car in Canada (hint: don’t freeze to death and bring bear spray!)
Links & Resources:
- Follow Ollie & Shonagh on Instagram: @backpackingcraic
- Check out their website: backpackingcraic.com
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow the podcast on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Express Entry is the most common pathway chosen by skilled internationals in the quest for Canadian Permanent Residency. In this episode, Veronica Wilson from Roots Immigration Law breaks down the application process step-by-step and shares some frequent mistakes she sees that we should avoid. Veronica is an inspirational lawyer who has dedicated her time to changing the narrative around immigration and helping talented refugees to fill labour shortages in Canada. Quote ‘New to Canada podcast’ for a free introductory immigration assessment at Roots!
You don’t want to miss:
- Veronica’s story of teaching English in South Korea and supporting refugees around the world.
- The simple breakdown of the Canadian PR Express Entry application process.
- The infamous difficulties getting through to IRCC and some shortcuts to get your questions answered.
- Where to find out about Express Entry pool draws and the profile scores required.
- What to do when you don’t have a document that’s being requested and your submission deadline is looming…
- What other evidence IRCC will accept in place of work experience references.
- What you can do if you’re self-employed or don’t have “traditional” work experience.
- Police Certificates & Photo requirements.
- Bridging Open Work Permits: What criteria you need to meet to be eligible to extend your stay.
PLUS, the big mistake our host, Kate, made when submitting her work experience references!!!
Links & Resources:
- Veronica’s email: veronica@rootsimmlaw.com
- Roots Immigration Law website: rootsimmlaw.com
- Roots Immigration Law LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/rootsimmlaw
- Create your Express Entry Profile: Click here
- Canadian Work Experience - Employee vs Self-Employed: Click here
- Show an employer that your SIN is valid during Implied Status: Click here
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Have you been told that you “lack Canadian work experience” after applying for a job? This episode’s guest, Adobea Foli, moved from Ghana, Africa to Vancouver 5 years ago. She explains what employers actually mean when they give this rejection reason and what newcomers can do to boost their credibility and improve their hiring chances in Canada. We also chat about her life growing up in Ghana, her jet-set childhood visiting family around the world and her first impressions of Vancouver as a nature-avoiding city girl.
You don’t want to miss:
- Learn about Adobea’s life growing up in Ghana, Africa.
- Where to go to experience Ghanaian culture in Vancouver.
- What employers really mean when they say you "lack Canadian work experience”...
- The simple ways to boost your credibility and correctly present your international experience to a Canadian employer on your resume.
- Where to go to find volunteering opportunities and make connections.
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about StartGrowPivot: startgrowpivot.com
- Adobea’s Instagram: @startgrowpivot
- Find volunteering opportunities: volunteer.ca
- Download 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Canada’s beautiful nature and multi-cultural inclusivity OR the American dream? This episode’s guest, Surya Dhulipala, has lived, studied and worked in both countries. Originally from Mumbai, India, Surya earned his PhD in Texas before moving to Canada to pursue a career in Environmental Science. We talk about his experiences as an immigrant in both Canada and the US and he shares some important advice on climate change and what we can do in our day-to-day lives to help.
You don’t want to miss:
- All you need to know about Mumbai, India.
- What an Indian really thinks about Westernised “butter chicken”...
- Day to day life as an international student in Pittsburgh, Austin & San Francisco.
- The differences between life as an immigrant in the USA vs. Canada.
- The questions you should ask yourself when deciding which country to move to.
PLUS, the simple changes you can make in your daily life to help combat climate change: Straight from a PhD qualified Environmental Scientist.
Links & Resources:
- Find Surya on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/suryadhulipala/
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Packing up and shipping your belongings overseas... Where to even begin? This episode’s guest, Andrea van Niekerk, shares her experience sending a 40ft container from South Africa to Canada and runs through her best tips for saving money and making the process as quick and painless as possible. We also chat about making new friends as an adult and the challenges parents face when helping your children adjust to the move. Andrea is an expat blogger & YouTuber whose passion for her country and helping newcomers is astounding. Enjoy!
You don’t want to miss:
- All you need to know about Cape Town, South Africa, its many languages and Andrea’s top wine recommendations(!)
- Real talk: How to tackle making friends as an adult and the guilt you feel when you hang out with people from your own country.
- Packing tips: What things to bring with you and what can be re-bought in Canada.
- The biggest packing mistake parents make that can affect your child’s transition.
- The simple time-saving tips to make unpacking quick and easy on the other side.
PLUS, what to expect when transporting your pets across the world!
Links & Resources:
- Andrea’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/c/andreavanniekerk
- Andrea’s Instagram: @andreathesagirl
- Andrea’s blog & yoga classes: justmyscene.com
- Recommended South African Wine: Nederburg & Almenkerk!!
- Transporting your pets abroad: globalpaws.co.za
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
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Starting a business in Canada is a goal that many immigrants strive towards. Sometimes, you just need someone to remind you that it IS achievable. Enter this episode’s guest: Karla Briones. Karla is a serial immigrant entrepreneur who helps other newcomers launch and grow successful businesses of their own. In this episode, we learn where her passion came from as she shares her family’s immigration story. Leaving instability and drug cartel violence behind, Karla and her family drove for 5 days in a U-Haul from Mexico to Canada. Their resulting journey of relentless setbacks and unbreakable ambition will leave you in awe.
You don’t want to miss:
- The story of her father’s unwavering determination to recertify as a veterinarian in Canada and open his own hospital.
- The first thing Karla says to an aspiring entrepreneur.
- How to tackle Imposter Syndrome (or what Karla calls: the itty bitty sh*y committee!)
- Where to go to find your “tribe” of fellow risk-takers.
- The simple way to build trust with your customers and boost sales.
PLUS, what a Mexican truly thinks about Canadian “salsa”….
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about Karla’s newly launched Immigrants Developing Entrepreneurs Academy (IDEA): karlabriones.com/idea
- Connect with Karla on Instagram: @karlabriones
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Culture Shock is the disorientating feeling that you don’t quite “fit in” with the customs, attitudes, daily life or communication in your new home. In this episode, Ashleigh Baker, an Australian expat living in Vancouver, shares her personal experience with culture shock in her career; and runs through the different ways that it could be manifesting itself for you. We then chat about reverse culture shock: When you go back to your native country and suddenly feel like a foreigner! Yet another crazy symptom of moving abroad.
You don’t want to miss:
- All you need to know about life in Sydney, Australia!
- Some simple examples of how culture shock can show up in your life and how to turn it into a positive.
- The best mindset change to implement if you experience reverse culture shock when visiting your home country.
PLUS, Toronto vs. Vancouver: Hear the comparison from someone who has lived and worked in both cities and her best advice for how you can decide where in Canada to live!
Links & Resources:
- Connect with Ashleigh on Instagram: @ashleighkatebaker
- Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Learning English by moving to an English-speaking country? That’s what this episode’s guest did! Astrid Moulin is a French Blogger (@fringinto) & Digital Marketing Expert. In this episode, she shares her story of arriving in Toronto without any English language skills and how she threw herself into the challenge. Now, 6 years later and fluent in 3 languages, she’s giving back to other newcomers like her and offering advice on how you can adjust, integrate and build a life that you love.
You don’t want to miss:
- All you need to know about life and culture in France.
- The best (and fun) way to get to know the accent and vocabulary of your new home.
- How to build your confidence to speak up, own it and embrace your mistakes.
- Why saying the word ‘focus’ with a French accent could get you in trouble...
PLUS, Astrid shares her best tips for building a personal brand online and using social media to grow your network and attract opportunities.
Links & Resources:
- Visit Astrid’s blog: FringinTO.com
- Connect with Astrid on Instagram: @fringinto
- Download our 50 FREE tips from newcomers to Canada - What they wish they knew before they moved: bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Building a career in Canada can feel like a huge challenge due to your lack of connections as well as resume & interview expectations. In this episode, I sit down with David Mendoza, Director of Orbit5, who has 10 years of experience helping internationals discover their career path and transition successfully into Canadian life.
David shares his inspiring journey from Colombia, to the UK, and eventually to Canada, in search of career fulfillment and happiness - and how you can find it too!
You don’t want to miss:
- All you need to know about life and culture in Colombia.
- The simple FREE method to grow your network in Canada and open career doors.
- How to ignore what society tells you and figure out what career will make YOU happy.
- The Do’s and Don’ts for your resume in Canada.
- The best practices for virtual interviews & how to adapt to the digital recruitment world.
Links & Resources:
- Connect with David Mendoza on LinkedIn.
- Join David’s community & take advantage of his free weekly webinars: bit.ly/WebinarsOrbit5
- Download our 50 FREE tips from newcomers to Canada - What they wish they knew before they moved: bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Follow us on Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!
Homesickness sucks - and it’s more common than you think! In this episode, get to know your host, Kate Johnson (@TheHomeWanderers), as she shares her best tips for feeling better when you miss your loved ones and the country you left behind. She also shares the adventure-packed story behind her move to Canada from England. (Hint: It involves a paradise island in Thailand and a tanned Canadian backpacker…)
You don’t want to miss:
- The simple mindset changes you can start making today to ease your homesickness.
- The biggest mistake that people make when going back to visit their native home.
- How to recognise the behaviours that could be sabotaging your experience abroad.
PLUS, how to make more CANADIAN friends! Our stand-in Canadian host shares the secret places where they all hang out...
Links & Resources:
- Download our 50 FREE tips from newcomers to Canada - What they wish they knew before they moved: bit.ly/freetipscanada
- Discover local networking events, clubs & groups near you: Meetup.com
- Follow us on Instagram: @thenewcomercollective
- For more about us and what we do, check out our website: TheNewcomerCollective.com
Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss out on any of our inspiring interviews and valuable ‘life in Canada’ lessons.
And, if you enjoyed this episode, please let us know by leaving a review - Until next week!