admin

Monish Parwani Sales Team Member Calgary AlbertaFormer Business Development Manager(Immigrant: 2023) Country of Origin: India What I know Now Canada provides abundant opportunities for personal and professional development, making itan excellent place to turn your dreams into reality. Focus on your goals and build momentum as you achieve them while establishing a life in Canada. My Life Before Canada Before immigrating to Canada, I dedicated two months to thoroughly researching daily life in Canada. I focused on finding employment and accommodation, working for a top Canadian company, and eventually owning a house. My research revealed the need for more job opportunities and rental options due to high inflation. I also learned that many jobs are not widely advertised, underlining the importance of mentors and job search assistance programs. I booked an Airbnb for the initial days to ensure a safe and secure start. I visited potential rental places to avoid potential rental fraud once I arrived in Canada. Welcome To Canada, Eh! Upon arriving in Calgary, I encountered a harsh Canadian winter with heavy snow and temperatures as low as -15 degrees. Dealing with such extreme weather was quite a shock, but I quickly realized the need for winter gear. Managing all essential documents when settling into a new country can be overwhelming, and finding a place to live can be very stressful. The long job application process was frustrating, especially waiting several weeks for a final decision, which was longer than expected. However, I’m glad I could navigate the process with patience and perseverance, including finding a suitable place to live close to public transportation. The Future As newcomers to Canada, it’s essential to maintain a cautious optimism about the future. The first few months of settling in may pose challenges as you adjust to an entirely new environment. However, taking personal responsibility, being patient and persistent, and establishing a support system to encourage and motivate during these initial difficulties can pave the way to success. Newcomers might face unexpected challenges and setbacks. In these moments, finding hope through volunteering can be beneficial. Volunteering is highly valuable for newcomers as it has the potential to open up employment opportunities, help build a professional network, and provide opportunities to socialize and meet new people. Lastly, volunteering is a way for newcomers to establish a support system and find mentors to guide them in achieving specific goals.

By Abel Pagaling In this interview, we explore the journey of Semirah Dosunmu, a product manager in the financial sector, who has navigated her way through various challenges and opportunities since immigrating to Canada. Born and raised in Nigeria, Semirah’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community. Stay resilient in the face of setbacks. The journey of an immigrant is often fraught with challenges, but perseverance and a supportive community can make a significant difference. Background Semirah Dosunmu was born and raised in Nigeria. She later moved to the UK for education and work before returning to Nigeria for eight years. She then immigrated to Canada. In Nigeria, she worked as a product manager at one of the country’s top banks. Her decision to move to Canada was influenced by her desire to be closer to her family, who were spread across England and the US. The Decision to Immigrate The idea to move to Canada came from a conversation with a friend. Semirah recalls, “A friend of mine was moving to Canada and she suggested I should try it too.” Surprisingly, her immigration process was very smooth. “Every time I tell my story, people don’t believe it, because I don’t know if that’s, if that’s record time.” Initial Challenges Upon arriving in Canada, Semirah faced a rough start. Despite holding an MBA and having extensive experience, she struggled to find a job that matched her qualifications. “I found myself at some point applying for jobs in like Walmart, just to ensure that I had like income,” she said. The first six months were marked by frustration and a sense of disconnection from the community. Building a Community The initial lack of community was a significant challenge for Semirah. With only one friend as her initial support system, she found it difficult to connect with others and feel a sense of belonging. The loss of a relative shortly after her arrival further compounded her sense of isolation and mourning away from her family. “It was really hard to connect with other people… feeling a sense of belonging,” she reflected. Adapting to a New Life Despite these challenges, Semirah found solace in Calgary, a city that evoked a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of her university days in the UK. “I love Calgary. I’ve been to one or two other parts of Canada that I would not compare Calgary to. So I’m grateful for that,” she shared. The slower pace of life in Calgary, compared to cities like Toronto, allowed her to gradually build a stable life and career. Career Progression and Cultural Adjustments Adjusting to the Canadian workplace culture was a significant hurdle. Semirah experienced layoffs and the subtle, often indirect ways of handling workplace issues in Canada, which contrasted sharply with the more direct approach she was used to. “I was laid off, you know, without, you don’t really get a sense of what you’ve done wrong. And that was a huge culture shock for me,” she explained. Despite these setbacks, she remained determined to stay within her field, strategically aligning her skills with available opportunities. The slower pace of life in Calgary, compared to cities like Toronto, allowed her to gradually build a stable life and career. Support Systems Semirah sought support from various agencies, with mixed results. While some agencies felt like they were trying to meet quotas rather than providing meaningful assistance, others, like CIWA (a women-focused organization), offered valuable resources. Through CIWA, Semirah participated in workshops that helped her understand Canadian workplace culture, which she found foundational for her career progression. “In terms of career as well, I didn’t get as much as I needed from them… but I did a workshop or a seminar with them for like a four-week workshop on workplace culture in Canada… those are one of the first few fundamental, foundational building blocks that have helped me to thrive,” she said. Finding Community and Stability Over time, Semirah successfully built a community of friends and former colleagues in Calgary. This network provided the support and sense of belonging she initially missed. “I’ve been able to build my community… and that, I think, amongst everything that is going on right now, is what is making it easy to kind of just have that community of friends,” she noted. Advice to new immigrants Reflecting on her journey, Semirah offers valuable advice to new immigrants: 1. Value of Community: “Do not underestimate the value of a community. I came with a mindset of, oh, I’ve lived abroad before, I should be fine. But I never thought about the importance of actually having a community around where I was before.” 2. Career Planning: “Have a solid career plan and a backup plan. Understand the job market and be prepared for the challenges of finding employment. Ensure your plans include a pathway for achieving your goals without significant detours.” 3. Adaptability: “Be prepared for cultural differences and the need to adapt. Participate in programs that help you understand the nuances of the Canadian workplace.” 4. Resilience: “Stay resilient in the face of setbacks. The journey of an immigrant is often fraught with challenges, but perseverance and a supportive community can make a significant difference.” Semirah Dosunmu’s journey from Nigeria to Canada is a testament to her resilience and determination. Despite the initial challenges, she has built a successful career and a supportive community in Calgary. Her story highlights the importance of community, adaptability, and strategic planning for new immigrants seeking to build a new life in Canada.

By Marietta Pangan What I know Now “Moving permanently to a different country means leaving your comfort zone. This decision will bring setbacks, challenges, and many emotions. To succeed, you must be resilient, patient, and accepting of the changes.” My Life Before Canada Our plans for the future took an unexpected turn when a family member suggested we apply for the Family Sponsorship program, a pathway to becoming Permanent Residents of Canada. This was a significant departure from our initial plans of pursuing higher education and career advancement in our home country. I left behind my role as a manager in the Corporate Banking Group at a top financial institution in the Philippines and my part-time teaching position at a prestigious college in Metro Manila to embark on a new chapter in Canada. The application process was challenging. Gathering numerous documents took significant time and effort. After a two-year wait to include our newborn, we arrived in Calgary, Alberta, in July 2012 with a toddler. Welcome To Canada, Eh! Upon our arrival in Calgary in the summer of 2012, our supportive relatives, the program’s major sponsors, welcomed us and generously offered their rent-free basement suite. This helped us save money for our future home. The first year involved a lot of adjustment to the Canadian way of life, including the culture, weather, driving, and job search. My husband, a former police officer, took the Alberta Guard training on our aunt’s advice. After passing the test, he quickly found a job in Downtown Calgary. During that time, I faced a significant challenge as I cared for my young son, who was still a toddler. To begin looking for part-time work, I enrolled him in a daycare. Fortunately, we benefitted from a childcare subsidy program for low-income residents, which was a great help to my husband and me, considering the high cost of daycare services. I also explored various jobs, such as office clerk or cashier for a supermarket chain. Finally, I received my first job offer as a part-time customer service representative (CSR) at one of the banks in Canada. The Future Living rent-free with our relatives for a year was a big help. It allowed us to save money and finally move out on our own. My husband worked part-time at a manufacturing plant and as a cleaner every weekend in addition to his full-time job. After 2 ½ years, we were able to buy our first house in July 2015. I worked as a CSR for a year until my employer offered me the chance to take courses and get licenses for my next role as a Financial Advisor. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunities I received during my 5 ½ years at my previous job. I joined Servus Credit Union in late 2017 as a financial advisor, progressed to an assistant branch manager, and now I am a branch manager. Throughout my journey at Servus, I have been fully supported, gained extensive knowledge, and maintained a balanced work-life to fulfill my duties and responsibilities in this role.

By: Todd HunterRISEC Sports – Nutrition Columnist A brief introduction of myself, my name is Todd Hunter. Aside from being an avid sports and health enthusiast,I have worked as a personal trainer and sports nutritionist. I have had the opportunity to work alongside some of Canada’s Olympic and collegiate athletes. In addition, I have worked with different companies in a sales representative role selling various vitamins and supplements. I have a passion for health and am always learning about what products are available to maintain the best possible health. Today, I want to highlight the importance of antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to fight free radicals in our bodies, which in turn can help reduce certain health conditions. The function of an antioxidant is to protect and defend our cells from damage, much like a linebacker in football. Antioxidants can be found in the foods we eat. It is important to have a whole-food diet that includes a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. A well-known antioxidant is Vitamin C. Vitamin C is found in many high-citrus fruits and vegetables. In addition to the antioxidant properties, Vitamin C can help with your body’s collagen (skin, muscle, bones) and repair or lower cortisol stress hormones. Some other examples of antioxidants are Vitamin E, Selenium, Zinc, and Glutathione. Aside from a diet high in antioxidants, there are other ways to ensure we don’t damage the cells in our bodies, and that is stress reduction.   Some helpful stress reduction tools can include exercise, meditation, prayer, deep breathing exercises, or listening to calming music. It is imperative to ensure you are getting enough sleep every night and are practicing healthy sleep habits. Going to bed at the same time every night, and limiting or reducing screen time, alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine prior to bed helps promote healthy sleep habits. So, if you are feeling stressed try getting more sleep, increase your exercise regime, and make healthier choices with a variety of whole foods. As always, my recommendation is to first and foremost, consult your physician if you are making changes to your current diet or exercise regime. Have a blessed day and all the best to you as you embark on a journey to a healthier you!

By: GBE – Global Bridge Education “Pursuing a college diploma in STEM fields in Canada offers newcomers a pathway to a successful and fulfilling career” Canada has long been recognized for its high-quality education system, robust economy, and welcoming attitude toward newcomers. Pursuing a college diploma in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields in Canada can be a transformative step for immigrants seeking to establish themselves in a new country. Before we dive further, if you’re thinking about getting a two-year diploma, contact our team at GBE – Global Bridge Education (www.globalbridge-edu.com) by sending an email to info@globalbridge-edu.com. Here’s why investing in a Canadian STEM education can open up a plethora of opportunities for newcomers. High Demand for STEM Professionals The global economy is increasingly driven by technology and innovation, and Canada is no exception. There is a growing demand for professionals in various STEM fields, including software development, data science, engineering, biotechnology, and environmental science. The Canadian government actively promotes STEM education to address skills shortages and drive economic growth, making it an ideal environment for students to launch their careers. Excellent Job Prospects and Earning Potential STEM graduates in Canada enjoy strong job prospects and competitive salaries. According to Statistics Canada, STEM graduates have higher employment rates and earning potential compared to their peers in non-STEM fields. With a growing emphasis on technology and innovation across various industries, the need for skilled STEM professionals continues to rise, offering newcomers lucrative and stable career opportunities. Diverse and Inclusive Environment Canada is celebrated for its multicultural society and inclusive policies. Newcomers pursuing a STEM education in Canada will find themselves in a diverse and supportive environment. This cultural richness enhances the educational experience, fosters global perspectives, and builds a network of connections that can be invaluable in both personal and professional development. Industry Partnerships and Co-op Programs Many Canadian institutions offer co-op programs and have strong partnerships with industry leaders. These programs provide students with hands-on experience and the chance to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Such practical experience is invaluable in building a strong resume and gaining a foothold in the job market upon graduation. Pursuing a college diploma in STEM fields in Canada offers newcomers a pathway to a successful and fulfilling career. With a world-class education system, strong job prospects, and a welcoming environment, Canada provides an ideal setting for students to thrive. By investing in a STEM education in Canada, newcomers can unlock a wealth of opportunities and lay the foundation for a prosperous future in their new home. GBE is a proud sponsor and partner of RISEC Community Foundation. To find out which programs would suit you or to talk to an education advisor about your career options, contact info@globalbridge-edu.com.

Did you know that in Canada; 23.0%Percentage of immigrants(2021 Census of Population) 8,361,505Total number of immigrants(2021 Census of Population) 1,328,240Number of recent immigrants (2016 to 2021)(2021 Census of Population) 17.6%Percentage of second-generation population(2021 Census of Population) 3.7%Percentage of recent immigrants (2016 to 2021) among the total population(2021 Census of Population) 18.6% of recent immigrants from 2016 to 2021 came from India followed by the Philippines (11.4%) and China (8.9%)

Nheavel Gracilla Managing Director “An effective resume will draw recruiters’ and employers’ attention. Promote your greatest achievements and abilities. Most significantly, it helps you land a job by demonstrating your suitability for the role or project! “ The first step toward achieving our job aspirations is to submit our résumés. Are you one of the many newcomers who are unable to secure their desired job despite submitting numerous resumes? I cannot say you are not alone. I’ve met countless newcomers who, until recently, had no employment and were wondering why they had not received a call from employers they had applied to. Some have been in Calgary for nearly seven months and are still looking for work. It was really nerve-wracking! Some have been in Calgary for nearly seven months and are still looking for work. It was really nerve-wracking! Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are intended to make the hiring process easier for recruiters and HR professionals. Most job searchers are not familiar of the filtering software’s goal and complexity, as well as how it affects their chances of being matched. Regardless of your qualifications, a poorly formatted resume that doesn’t use the appropriate keywords and phrases will cause it to have a poor ATS match. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make your resume stand out when applying through an applicant tracking system: 1. Make sure your CV includes relevant keywords from the job posting. For example, if you’re applying for a position as a customer support representative, consider the abilities and qualities they require. Include them on your CV. 2. Use Word or PDF format and avoid visualizations such as graphics, icons, charts, embedded photos, or tables that the ATS will not recognize. Use more particular headers, such as work experience, education, skills, and so on. 3. Before applying for a job, read and carefully follow all posting instructions. Even though the job was advertised on job platforms such as Indeed and LinkedIn, some businesses required applicants to send their resumes via their company email address. In certain cases, they will provide specific instructions, such as what to include in the subject line and the format they prefer. It is crucial to know what an applicant wishes to highlight on their resume to ensure that it catches the eye of the recruiter. An applicant should know what kind of resume format to use. For example, if the job posting emphasizes technical skills, the applicant should make sure to highlight relevant experience in that area. Additionally, tailoring the resume to the job description can significantly increase the likelihood of catching the hiring manager’s attention. However, if you have gaps in your employment history and do not have volunteer experience to fill them, it is best to use a functional resume approach. Make your resume more focused on your skills than your professional experience. The majority of hiring managers prefer a reverse chronological resume since it is easier to read and understand. It focuses on the applicant’s areas of competence, talents, and job experience rather than their degree and credentials. This helps hiring managers quickly assess the candidate’s qualifications and suitability for the position. Additionally, highlighting specific achievements and results in each job position can further demonstrate your value as a potential employee. Applicants must go over their resume numerous times before submitting it, as employers may detect inaccuracies, which may result in a rejection of the application. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, inappropriate punctuation, and formatting issues. It is key to highlight and include accomplishment statements that demonstrate anything you have done successfully or achieved with your previous employer. Include how you add value to the firm and how you obtained the results. Outline the action you’re taking and the outcome. Lastly, eliminate the amount of information on your resume that is irrelevant to the position you are applying for, as well as the number of pages; two pages is ideal. Cambria, Century, Garamond, and Tahoma are recommended because Times New Roman is overused, according to experts. Newcomers are encouraged to attend workshops to learn more about resume writing. Good luck and everything will fall into place according to God’s timing. Nheavel Gracilla is the Managing Editor of Canadian Horizons Magazine.NFNG Co-facilitator of Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association

Filipinos have been in Canada since the late 19th century, and migration from thePhilippines has increased. Upon coming to Canada, Filipinos brought their values, morals, attitudes, and habits, which are a testament to their greatness and have been passed down from their ancestors. The Filipino community embodies a wealth of admirable qualities to Canada, serving as a beacon of inspiration. Here are some unique positive traits and values Filipinos are known for, which bring a sense of pride. Marietta Pangan Content Advisor World Class Hospitality The Philippines is known for its deeply ingrained value system of hospitality characterized by sincerity, warmth, and friendliness. Filipinos warmly receive and embrace guests in their homes, creating heartwarming memories for visitors. The country’s hospitable population makes it a sought-after tourist spot, drawing in visitors for its natural beauty and the friendliness of its people. Bayanihan Spirit Filipinos are known for their strong sense of community, often called the “Bayanihan spirit.” They are always willing to help their neighbors and support each other, demonstrating their selflessness. This deep sense of communal responsibility is a testament to their selflessness and community spirit, inspiring others to do the same. Resilience The Filipino people have shown remarkable resilience and perseverance despite numerous challenges. They remain determined to rebuild and thrive, demonstrating an incredible spirit in overcoming adversity. Strong Family Ties The Filipino people are renowned for their selfless nature and strong family values. Many parents work abroad to provide a better future for their children. They are prepared to face any challenges that come their way. Family is a source of strength and solace for Filipinos. Deep Spiritual Faith Spirituality is a fundamental part of Filipino culture. The Filipino people draw strength from their religious beliefs and highly value their faith. This deep-rooted belief is integrated into their daily lives. Filipinos’ profound reverence towards their elders is a testament to their spiritual beliefs. Gratefulness Filipinos are recognized for their deep gratitude towards those who have helped them. This solid appreciation goes to those who generously supported the country during times of crisis, such as the aftermath of Haiyan and other natural disasters. Cheerfulness and Sense of Humour The Philippines is known as the “country of smiles.” Filipinos consistently wear smiles and exude cheerfulness wherever they go, spreading laughter and joy. Their natural ability to maintain a happy atmosphere makes them adept at bringing fun into the workplace without compromising productivity. Adaptability Adaptability is a critical trait in the Filipino value of “pakikibagay,” which involves effectively conforming to and adapting to different situations. “Pakikibagay” extends to making the most of challenging scenarios, taking appropriate actions, and resolving challenges. Respectful and Courteous In Filipino culture, there is a strong emphasis on honoring and respecting older people. The traditional gesture known as “mano po,” where younger individuals take the hands of their elders as a sign of reverence, is used. Using “po” and “opo” is also a practice to show respect. Filipinos also show respect by bowing to their elders, emphasizing hierarchical relationships and deference to authority. Industrious and Strong Work Ethics Filipinos are known for their strong work ethic and determination to provide for their families. Many individuals take on multiple jobs for modest pay to make ends meet. Filipinos also showcase their resourcefulness by establishing small, home-based businesses that offer a variety of goods, including food, to their local church and communities. Generous and Helpful The Filipino people are known for their remarkable generosity. They share with their community despite scarcity, prepare various dishes to ensure everyone is well-fed, and readily help their needy neighbors in times of hardship, showing their commitment to supporting one another. Resourcefulness and Creativity The Filipino people are known for their resourcefulness and creativity, excelling in art, music, science, technology, and business. Despite economic challenges, they continue to produce remarkable ideas and are adept at repurposing waste materials to create innovative products. Discretion and Dignity Filipino values include propriety, dignity, and honour. Many Filipinos value “delicadeza” (doing the right thing even when no one is watching). They carefully weigh their decisions, mindful of the potential impact on their sense of dignity and honour.

By: Nheavel Gracilla Nhea’s story is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of a mother dedicated to both her family and her personal growth. Born in Parañaque and spending most of her life in Las Piñas City, Philippines, her journey has been marked by numerous milestones that reflect her determination and adaptability. Embracing motherhood at a young age, She made the conscious decision to focus on raising her children before entering the workforce. At 26, she began her professional journey, stepping into the dynamic world of Business Process Outsourcing. Through her roles in various BPO companies, she discovered latent talents and honed a wide array of skills, showcasing her ability to adapt and thrive in challenging environments. A Journey of Resilience, Growth, and Empowerment When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, bringing widespread unemployment, her resilience shone through once again. She seized the opportunity to work from home as a Virtual Assistant for a Real Estate Investment firm. Her dedication and hard work quickly paid off, leading to promotions first to Lead Manager and then to Operations Manager in a span of 3 years. In early 2023, Nhea and her husband decided to embark on a new chapter by moving to Canada, with Calgary as their chosen destination. Coming to Canada The transition to Canadian life was initially overwhelming, with new processes and cultural adjustments to navigate. However, with the support of friends and various organizations, the Gracilla family settled in smoothly, embracing their new community with open arms. Her swift adaptation to Canadian life was facilitated by organizations dedicated to helping newcomers integrate and succeed. These organizations played a crucial role in her understanding of Canadian culture, community, and career opportunities. Passionate about making a positive impact, she is committed to using her skills and experiences to contribute to the growth and success of those around her. A natural connector and lifelong learner, she thrives on meeting new people and gaining insights from diverse perspectives. Her dedication to personal and professional development is driven by a desire to better serve others and make a meaningful impact in the world.Her alignment with the mission, vision, and values of RISEC Community Foundation is a reflection of her commitment to helping others. RISEC, dedicated to supporting newcomers in Calgary, offers invaluable resources and a welcoming community to help individuals thrive. She encourages everyone to volunteer and get involved with RISEC, where… Showcasing your talents can lead to unexpected personal growth and fulfillment. By joining RISEC Community Foundation, you can be part of an inspiring journey, and contribute to a community that uplifts and empowers newcomers. Together, we can create a positive impact and help each other succeed to our Canadian Journey.

By Jacob Pagaling Boxing, a sport that’s led many to pain and many to shame, a sport that has tested the will of many, and a sport that has shown the sheer magnitude of the determination that people have to be victorious. The sport of boxing has profoundly transformed my life, shaping me into the person I am today. My journey in combat sports began at an early age, and although I always had a passion for boxing, I initially struggled to push myself during training. As a child, I grappled with being overweight and lacked self-confidence, feeling unsure of my abilities both inside and outside the ring. At thirteen, I made a pivotal decision to train hard and actively compete in boxing. This marked the beginning of a significant transformation. As I dedicated myself to rigorous training, my skills improved, my weight dropped, and my fitness levels soared. With each training session, I grew stronger and more disciplined, both physically and mentally. My commitment paid off as I began to win fight after fight. My confidence soared with each victory, and I soon found myself triumphing in major provincial tournaments. These successes fueled my determination, and I started traveling across North America, facing off against other high-level fighters. The experience of competing on such a wide stage was invaluable, pushing me to elevate my skills and strategies. By consistently competing and excelling, I began to establish myself as one of the top fighters in my age group in Canada. My hard work culminated in representing Alberta at the 2024 Canadian Youth National Tournament, where I proudly won a bronze medal. This achievement was a testament to my dedication and the profound changes boxing had instilled in me. Now, at sixteen, I find myself competing against and defeating high-level adult fighters. Boxing has not only transformed my physical health but also instilled in me a deep sense of confidence, self-worth, and purpose. The sport has taught me the value of discipline, perseverance, and hard work, lessons that extend far beyond the ring. Boxing changed me from an uncertain, overweight kid into a confident, accomplished athlete, ready to face any challenge life throws my way. My end goal as a boxer is to solidify myself in the history books as one of the best to ever step foot in the squared circle and become a hall-of-famer. Jacob Pagaling lives in Calgary, Alberta.He trains at the famous Calgary Boxing Club.He is currently ranked number 2 in Canada as an amateur boxer in the welterweight division.Jacob has represented Alberta at national events. He has also represented Canada at international tournaments. To contact Jacob, email at jpagaling@risec-canada.org