In September 2023, I moved to British Columbia from Puerto Vallarta. I’ve encountered a myriad of challenges and joys, all of which have shaped my experience as a newcomer to this beautiful province. Here’s how I’ve gone about Embracing Change: From Puerto Vallarta to British Columbia.
New Beginnings
Our decision to relocate was driven by a desire to provide a safer environment for our children, coupled with the promise of new opportunities awaiting us in BC. I love the beautiful mountains and outdoor activities and the opportunity to meet wonderful new people and discover new things. Our kids are little, and I believe that toddlers and babies can adapt easily to change. They haven’t noticed any of our struggles, which makes me happy, and they are happy being here.
Discovering BC Libraries
Libraries are literally a haven. When I was new here, I didn’t have friends, family, a driver’s licence, or a work permit. My wife would go to work, and I had to take care of two very young and active children. Being able to take them to the Abbotsford libraries, regardless of the weather, to borrow books and to use the online library resources, made a difference in our lives. Looking back, I see that I took libraries for granted back home.
Building Connections that Matter
In the beginning it was difficult. Then I understood that I had to go out there and network. I found and met people through Facebook groups, playing sports, and recently through volunteering. The Library Champions Project opened my eyes about volunteering, now I am volunteering with two other organizations. This gives me an opportunity to meet people in a work environment, to put Canadian experience in my resume and find good local references for my work applications.
Joining the Library Champions Project
I have to admit that when I first heard of the Library Champions Project, I was a little cynical. My first thought was “Champion? Champion of what? Being a participant doesn’t make me a champion”. But now I understand.
I wish everyone could hear the stories of the people that are in the program. My story is simple, but there are many Champions here who overcame war, injustice, discrimination, that learned a new language, a new career. And that on top of the fact that they are working so hard to provide for their families, without any contacts and connections, sometimes without a stable job. Yet, they still are taking the time to join a non-paid project of newcomers helping newcomers so that other newcomers can have it easier than them.
This project gave me the chance to meet people that I could relate to, regardless of how different their cultures are to mine. We are all in very similar positions. It also gave me a forum to have meaningful conversations, as well as opportunity to learn and train skills that I can use to help other newcomers to Canada.
Finding a Career
I had a company that offers real estate sales and management in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, managing strata’s and renting and selling condos. I also taught a few college classes. In Canada, I must start all over from the beginning. I have decided to try other industries, such as working for organizations that help people; maybe doing administrative work for the health care industry, immigrant advocacy or other social programs. It is in these areas that I am volunteering now.
I wish I understood the job market more, it seems like it is changing and, even for Canadians, the current job situation is unprecedented. I would advise others to understand that the job market in BC is hidden and sending hundreds of job applications through Indeed or LinkedIn or other sites is not as useful as going out there and meeting people. Meeting and connecting with professionals is far more productive. You can make connections through non-profit organizations, churches, social media groups, sports, government agencies, etc.
Also be smart and aware. There are a lot of scams, through emails and text messages, for those who are applying for jobs.
Lessons Learned and Words of Wisdom
Certain things here take plenty of time. Had I known this, I would have started my immigration paperwork prior to coming here. I would have put my children on a waitlist for daycare well before we did.
There are many places where newcomers can find help, NewToBC, community centers, Fraser Valley Regional Libraries are some of those places. I would advise newcomers to check the events and amenities that the parks, recreation centers and libraries offer, it is free and if you have families, they will enjoy them.
Finally, take good care of yourself. Don’t stop going for walks, drinking plenty of water, eating healthy: things will get better, but first they can get harder, and you will need to take good care of your body and mind.
Embracing the Journey
Things aren’t always easy and not everyone is kind or helpful, but there are a lot of opportunities and amazing people in BC. If possible, be resilient and positive. I am under the impression that this wonderful country offers you the opportunity to have a better life, but in the short term, it’s a struggle. Luckily, I am blessed to have the love and loyalty of my wife and belief that this change will make my children’s future better, as we all embrace the values of – Embracing Change: From Puerto Vallarta to British Columbia!