Akintunde arrived in Canada in the summer of 2024 with his wife and four children. For Akintunde, arriving in Canada was both exciting and challenging for his family. “As a newcomer, I encountered the typical hurdles of adapting to a new environment, understanding cultural differences, and navigating the job market.” A significant challenge he faced was transferring his experience and professional skills into the expectations of the Canadian workforce. Akintunde was determined to build strong foundations here and this ultimately led him to seek resources and programs that could support this important transition. One of these resources was GGP after a friend recommended us to Akintunde.

Akintunde credits GGP for playing a pivotal role in his and his family’s settlement journey. He highlights the employment readiness programs as particularly impactful, equipping him with job search strategies, résumé writing skills, and interviewing techniques that boosted his confidence and prepared him for the Canadian job market.

GGP’s settlement programs also provided vital support, helping his family adapt to life in Canada through guidance on healthcare, financial literacy, housing, recreation, and community engagement. “GGP offered a holistic framework for settling down,” he says.

After being in Canada for just two months, Akintunde began volunteering with GGP in our computer classes thanks to his proficiency with technology. “Volunteering with GGP was my way of giving back to an organization and community that have given so much to me and my family. It also presented an opportunity to use my skills to support newcomers like myself in their journey.” Akintunde notes the significance of digital literacy and how rewarding he finds being able to teach this skill and to empower others to navigate technology. Volunteering is also a way for Akintunde to deepen his connection with his community and learn from the experiences of others.

One of Akintunde’s favourite moments at GGP was when a client from one of his digital literacy classes reached out to him to let him know that the support and guidance that he provided helped them successfully create their first résumé in Microsoft Word. “Their excitement and gratitude were incredibly fulfilling and reminded me how even small contributions can make a big difference in someone’s life. Experiences like this inspire me to continue volunteering and giving back to the community.”

Akintunde’s advice for fellow newcomers is to take full advantage of the resources offered by settlement organizations like GGP. “Be proactive in seeking support, attending programs, and building a network. Embrace the learning process, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek help; it’s all part of the journey toward successfully settling and thriving in a new environment. Being a newcomer is a journey filled with learning and adaptation, but organizations like GGP make it manageable and rewarding. Their programs not only provide essential skills and resources but also foster a sense of belonging and community.”

Akintunde goes on to say that “supporting GGP means supporting countless families in building new lives and contributing to Canadian society. For my family and me, GGP has been more than a support system; it’s been a bridge to a brighter future.”