Monish Parwani
Sales Team Member Calgary Alberta
Former Business Development Manager
(Immigrant: 2023) Country of Origin: India
What I know Now
Canada provides abundant opportunities for personal and professional development, making it
an 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.
