In May’s edition I was featured in Canadian Immigrant, and since I have received overwhelming support and inquiries from how to look for a job to how to stay motivated in career/life/networking, etc. in Canada.

The story in the national magazine profiled me growing up as an immigrant, orphan child in a small sawmill town in the interior of B.C. with considerable hardships. As well the type of work I do right now which is Cultural Sensitivity/Diversity training in the corporate world. And assisting new professional immigrants to settle into the workplace.

What I have learned from many inquiries is that it is still difficult for many new immigrants from all walks of life not only to settle but also to be accepted. Here is a short excerpt from a new immigrant.

“… Being motivated to write to you having read an article describing you in Canadian Immigrant. I find many things common with you. To name a few, an Indian, a Punjabi, a Sikh, a Jatt. The differences being-you migrated as a child but I have migrated in 61. Believe me even today I face same challenges. Nieces and nephews avoid you calling FOB.
This all is despite I have seen life having retired from the Indian Army as a Brigadier, but somehow I am a nobody here. Your own brothers though helping make jokes about you. Your own son feels that we are somehow inferior. In time I wonder why human beings treat other men inferior just because he or she is born in third world countries.…..” (Name not disclosed due privacy issue)

Apparently many others have expressed similar difficulties.

Here are my recommendations to any new immigrant. It is utmost important that you integrate into the mainstream society. One way might be is to join an International Toastmaster. These are hundreds of clubs around the country.

This will not only improve your English but also you will learn how to express yourself in front of a large audience. It is a safe environment where you will feel comfortable and will not be judged.

In addition, attend functions that you are unfamiliar with such as the Chinese New Year, St Patrick’s Parade, etc. And continue to upgrade your education skills with the changing job market.

Every day speak to three Canadians who come from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds.

Here is another point which many immigrants try to seek, acceptance from family, friends and colleagues. This will only happen when you fully accept yourself as to who you are and where you are going in life.

Every day you must become uncomfortable to become comfortable in your new country and only then things will begin to improve in your life. And they will!!!