Six pieces of winning advice

Karla Briones

Entrepreneur and business strategist

“’Purpose’ is such a small word but carries a heavy meaning. Looking at everything I do through that lens has allowed me to guide how I live my life as a woman, an entrepreneur and a human being. Asking: Am I doing this with purpose? Am I moving with purpose? Am I eating with purpose? Am I living with purpose? If I’m not — then I course-correct. If I am, then I do more of that. Taking time to slow down to ask these questions can be transformative.”

City: Ottawa

Country of origin: Mexico

Rita Chahal

Executive director, Mood Disorders Association of Winnipeg

“The last few years have made us all realize how precious each moment is in our lives. If the pandemic has taught us anything it is to start having the candid conversations about our physical and, more importantly, our emotional wellbeing. While we all ‘pivoted’ during the pandemic I believe it's now time to ‘pirouette.’ Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it — our vulnerability is often our greatest strength, and there is no shame in that!”

City: Winnipeg

Country of origin: India

Diana Alli D’Souza

President, Access Empowerment Council

“Stay pragmatic and positive! I am 72 years young, and proudly can attest that I have never wasted a day brooding. Of course, we grieve over losses of jobs, relations, family, friends and even friendships. A vision and mission have always been my foundation base since I was a young girl. I have chosen humanitarianism, even in my work, as my compass, using a framework of serving the most vulnerable populations in Canada and beyond.”

City: Toronto

Country of origin: India

Raquel Fox

Chef

“A simple act of kindness goes a long way. Every award, accolade and career goals that I’ve achieve stemmed from the root of helping and supporting others. I’m a believer in: ‘Whatever you send into the universe comes back.’ My advice to newcomers is to ask yourself, ‘how can I contribute my skills or talent to Canada’s landscape?’ Begin within your community by contributing with an attitude of gratitude, networking and being prepared whenever opportunities come your way.”

City: Toronto

Country of origin: Bahamas

Dr. Sivakumar Gulasingam

Physician and assistant professor at University of Toronto

“As a newcomer, always remember that you are unique. Make use of every opportunity to integrate yourself into the Canadian culture; that will open up many doors personally and professionally. Self-confidence and perseverance are key to success. Don’t let others write your story. Trust yourself and continue to ‘better your best’ in your new home.”

City: Toronto

Country of origin: Sri Lanka

Ruairi Spillane

Managing director, Moving2Canada.com/Outpost Recruitment

“Embrace the fact that a global recession, or slowdown, is happening in 2023. Having worked through the global financial crisis in 2008 as a newcomer to Canada, I know firsthand how stressful navigating a new country in a volatile market can be. What I’ve learned is that when the employment market is more competitive, it’s a good time to focus on communicating your value to employers. Spending your energy on what you can control is key to making the most of your Canadian journey.”

City: Vancouver

Country of origin: Ireland

This story was originally published in Canadian Immigrant Magazine. A free national multimedia platform that helps newcomers through their journey in Canada, canadianimmigrant.ca provides the information, inspiration and connections they might need.