Empowering Newcomers for a Brighter Future
When I arrived in Canada, I was just 14 years old, filled with new hopes and dreams. However, like countless other newcomers, my parents and I faced a multitude of challenges that tested our resilience. Beyond the obvious language barrier, we struggled to assimilate into the tapestry of Canadian culture. My own personal journey was marked by stumbling blocks in a new school, no friends, while my parents endured the heartache of searching for meaningful employment in their respective fields.
Fast forward to 2016. Softchoice 's employee volunteering program presented me with an extraordinary opportunity—to become a mentor in a day-long speed mentoring session for fellow newcomers. This event, in collaboration with the Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC) , aimed to combat the persistent problem of underemployment among immigrants—a challenge that has plagued far too many.
To this day, newcomers to Canada continue to grapple with alarmingly high unemployment rates and depressingly low wages, compared to their counterparts in their chosen professions. It is an unfortunate truth that highly skilled individuals from every corner of the globe arrive in Toronto, only to find themselves trapped in menial, low-skilled jobs—a disheartening fate for such exceptional talents.
As an immigrant myself, I felt a profound sense of duty and gratitude for the remarkable opportunity to lend a helping hand through TRIEC. It became my mission to guide these individuals toward fulfilling careers, where their true potential could flourish. And so, with immense pride, I can say that I had the privilege of assisting ten incredibly unique and remarkable individuals on their awe-inspiring journey toward professional success. It has been an absolute honor to support them, even in the smallest of ways, as they found their footing and ignited their careers.
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In expressing my heartfelt appreciation, I must extend my gratitude not only to Softchoice for introducing me to TRIEC but also to TRIEC itself for introducing me to such extraordinary individuals. These encounters, though brief, have left an indelible mark on my soul. I am humbled by their unwavering determination and inspired by their unwavering commitment to overcoming every obstacle. To all those tenacious souls who poured their hearts into realizing their dreams in Canada, I thank you.
To those who yearn to make a difference, I implore you to embrace this opportunity and join the ranks of mentors. By doing so, you will not only transform the lives of these incredible individuals, but you may also discover a profound sense of happiness and fulfillment within yourself.
To employers who may harbor doubts and hesitations, I beseech you to cast aside your apprehensions and embrace the untapped wellspring of talent that lies within newcomers. These extraordinary individuals arrive on Canadian shores, not only with a wealth of skills and qualifications but also with a boundless reservoir of fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Their unique experiences and diverse backgrounds infuse workplaces with a richness and vitality that cannot be replicated. By welcoming newcomers into your organizations, you open doors to a world of untapped potential and unlock a symphony of creativity and ingenuity. Embrace the transformative power of diversity, for it is through the fusion of cultures and ideas that we ignite a tapestry of growth and success. By extending your hand to newcomers, you not only cultivate a more inclusive workforce but also cultivate a future teeming with endless possibilities.
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1ySo well-deserved, Martin! I'm forever grateful for having you as my mentor during my early days in Canada.
SOCIAL CONNECTION BUILDER | i love having 1:1 conversations that help build a world where there is civil discourse and community
1yMartin, Congrats on your TRIEC award! Really appreciate learning your story and your work with newcomers. Terrific article!