“My Graduation ceremony at SFU in June 2009”
My journey began in Canada in April 2005 when I landed as a student at Simon Fraser University. Now as I sit and reflect on it, it feels like it was many, many moons ago.
Like many of you, I came with my youthful dreams of learning with the best in the world and build a life for myself. While I was a student, there were many immigration reforms that were announced which included the off-campus work permit, the Canadian Experience Class, 3 year post graduate work permit, amongst many others. The permanent residency dream seemed quite achievable. All I needed was one year’s work experience at NOC B skill level and I could apply. Simple, right? Well, not so much. 2008 saw an enormous economic recession. I started to work in retail in 2009, and unfortunately it did not count as relevant experience as it was NOC C level job. I did not give up hope and finally, in May 2010, I was able to land a dream job in the field I wanted to pursue. A year later, I was able to apply under the Canadian Experience Class and formally landed in Canada in July 2012 as a Permanent Resident and eight years later, I became a Canadian Citizen. What took me so long, you ask? Well… let’s just say life got in the way (read got married, had a baby, etc. etc.)
I fell in love with this country and all its ethos. Not just the country is breathtakingly beautiful throughout its length and breadth, the “Canadian-ness” of people is beautiful too. Amongst many things, this country believes in honesty, freedom, equity, equality, fairness, inclusion, diversity, economic security, democracy, and safety for all.
There is no doubt in my mind that this country has a lot to offer. As you explore your options about visiting, working, studying, or moving to Canada, allow me to hold your hand and walk you through and with you on that journey. I will not be kidding you when I say, “been there, done that!”
