As an immigrant, I know firsthand that moving to a new country is more than a physical relocation—it’s a complete life shift. It comes with hope and excitement, but also real challenges. Being a newcomer is about more than starting over—it’s about transforming. It’s a journey of rediscovery, not just of a new place, but of yourself. 

My name is Shahrooz. I am from Tehran, Iran. Back home, I worked in a well-known manufacturer—a major player in its industry section. But within me, there was a quiet desire to step out of that comfort zone and experience something entirely new. 

I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture, explore a new language, and live in an environment that challenged and inspired me. Canada, known for its diversity, inclusivity, strong economy, and high quality of life, stood out as the ideal destination. I didn’t just want to immigrate—I wanted to grow. I chose Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in particular, because of its balance between opportunity and quality of life. It’s a potential city in a growing province with a sustainable economy and friendly communities. I was also drawn to the peaceful atmosphere, which felt like the right environment to start fresh and build something meaningful. It offered both personal space and professional potential—a combination that felt right for me. 

Settling in Saskatoon came with its own set of challenges. Finding a suitable home was the first significant hurdle. Adjusting to the weather was the next. While I’ve always preferred cold over heat, experiencing -50°C for the first time was unlike anything I had experienced. Finding a job was another story. Everything—from the job search process to workplace expectations—was different. It was also an opportunity to learn, adapt, and evolve. 

To succeed here, I started by getting my credentials assessed so they could be recognized in the Canadian Education system. I recommend other immigrants connect with organizations like WES, which assess international credentials and provide Canadian equivalency reports. Next, I wrote my résumé from scratch in a format suited for Canadian employers. I also updated my LinkedIn, researched the job market, and defined clear goals for myself. I knew I wanted to work in a professional, service-based, team-oriented environment. Along the way, I identified areas for improvement and enrolled in related workshops to strengthen my skill set. 

In this period of transition, Global Gathering Place (GGP) became a cornerstone of support. One of the things I particularly appreciated about GGP was the structure they provided. The events were well-organized, with schedules released at the start of each month, allowing clients to plan their time effectively. The individuals at GGP are incredibly nice, supportive, and passionate about helping clients. Their workshops were practical and empowering, covering topics like how to write a Canadian-style résumé, optimize LinkedIn, and present ourselves confidently in interviews. Their employment readiness workshops gave me a deeper understanding of Canadian workplace culture, labour laws, and employers’ expectations—things you don’t always learn from a textbook or website. 

They also offer classes on Canadian history and culture. It was more than facts and dates—it was about seeing how the country grew into the welcoming and diverse society it is today. Weekly events like “Coffee and Conversation” created a space where I could meet other newcomers, exchange stories, and build friendships. Volunteers who implement the “Coffee and Conversation” workshops as language mentors are especially dedicated, creating a welcoming environment where newcomers can polish their language skills. 

Today, I’m proud to work at MNP, one of Canada’s leading national accounting, tax, and business consulting firms. In this position, I support professionals who serve clients and professionals. I’m part of a collaborative, fast-paced team where I continue learning every day. The role demands critical thinking, attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a proactive mindset. It’s dynamic, rewarding, and a constant learning experience. 

I also volunteer as a literacy coach, where I support community members in developing essential skills, improving their computer skills, and language abilities, and adapting to new surroundings. This role is especially fulfilling, as it allows me to be part of someone else’s journey toward success. 

My main goal now is to continue growing in my current role. I believe growth is a process, and I’m committed to showing up every day with a sense of commitment and ending each day with a sense of accomplishment. 

If I could give one piece of advice to other newcomers, it would be this: don’t get discouraged. Finding a job—and a new life—in a new country is a full-time job on its own. It takes time, patience, and mental resilience. Rejections and silence will happen, but they don’t define your journey. Stay committed, stay positive, and keep showing up. With the right support, mindset, and willingness to grow, what feels unfamiliar today can become the foundation for a fulfilling future. One great way to build experience, boost confidence, and understand the work culture here is through volunteering. Whether it’s helping at community centers, non-profits, or local programs, volunteer work not only gives you practical experience—it also expands your network and helps you adapt to the Canadian workplace environment. 

To those who support newcomers—whether through mentorship, resources, or simply offering a listening ear—you play an invaluable role. Your encouragement, understanding, and kindness help make the transition smoother and less isolating. Immigrants bring unique experiences and perspectives that can enrich communities, so the more we can help each other, the stronger and more vibrant our society becomes. Together, we create a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone has the chance to thrive.