Canadian Immigrant April 2024

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS

Yes, there’s something in it for you! WAYS TO DEAL WITH LAYOFF ANXIETY

4 FUSION

PROFILE: Gu Zhenzhen says you are never too old to learn

NEWS: Cast your vote for the 2024 Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards, Post-secondary institutions have a ‘pivotal role’ in meeting the demand for AI skills, New program to empower women-owned enterprises

8 COVER STORY

Our eleventh annual Immigrant Women of Inspiration special shines the spotlight on four passionate storytellers – directors behind the camera who share authentic experiences and powerful perspectives through film.

15 CAREERS AND EDUCATION

CAREER COACH: Six ways to deal with layoff anxiety

HIGHER LEARNING: Rethinking international education in Canada

18 FEATURE

Calling all volunteers. Yes, there’s something in it for you! Volunteering can be a win-win for immigrants and for Canada.

21 SETTLEMENT

27 MONEY AND BUSINESS

MANAGING YOUR FINANCES: A roadmap for financial success

Essential Canadian tax terminology

30 BACK PAGE HUMOUR BY HEMETERIO

Starting your career

Thousands of financial services jobs are waiting for you.

Explore IFSE’s interactive career map –Career Pathways.

IMMIGRATION LAW: Capping temporary residents

PARENTING: Home safety tips for parents

24 LIVING

TIPS FOR SETTLING IN FASTER: Making the transition from Canadian winter to spring

WELLNESS: How to manage the stress of looking for a job

*IFSE

CBy Ramya Ramanathan

hinese-born Gu Zhenzhen moved to Toronto over three decades ago to study magazine journalism. She stayed home for a decade to look after her four children and went back to school when her youngest started kindergarten. She eventually received a bachelor’s degree in education and became a teacher at the Toronto District School Board. Gu has had a wide variety of jobs – from a flower seller to a babysitter, bookseller to a Mandarin teacher. She says these experiences provide her with rich material for her writing. She now works at the Toronto Public Library.

What brought you to Canada?

I was a huge fan of the Taiwanese author San Mao. I read all her books including Stories of the Sahara . In fact, it was her books that inspired me to explore the world. Her famous song ‘Olive Tree’ is my all time favourite: “Don’t ask me where I came from. My hometown is far away...” In 1990, I came to Canada to study journalism.

What were some challenges you faced??

First, I had to face the language barrier. For example, at one magazine journalism class, all I could understand was “detail, detail and detail” and “fact, fact and fact” (They turn out to be very important things in journalism). Second, I felt so homesick as a newcomer. At one point, I had already packed my suitcase and was ready to book a flight home. Then my cousin said to me, “Everyone has gone through a difficult time. But the longer you stay, the more you like here.” I am glad that I listened to his advice. He was right. It takes time and patience to adjust to a new life in Canada. To improve my English, I read a lot of books, fiction and non-fiction.

Can you share a memorable moment in Canada?

In 1992, three days after I sent my article to Toronto Star , the then Life section editor Linwood Barclay (now a New York Times best-selling author! ) called me and said, “I like your article. I am going to run it.” I was a bit confused about the second sentence. At that time, I didn’t know “run” meant “publish”. “The editor likes my article. That’s good news,” I thought.

I put down the phone, ran to the bathroom, looked at myself in the mirror and smiled broadly.

What keep you going when things are tough?

I think about my children. My mother had a sunny personality (I miss her every single day). She always found something positive, even in a tough situation. I want to be like my mother and try to find beauty and joy in everyday life. I would like to pass on the same attitude to my kids and be a role model for them.

What do you enjoy about Canada?

Canada is a country of immigrants. People come from all over the world. Here my friends can be American, British, French, Japanese, South Korean or Taiwanese! Plus, Canada is a beautiful country. Our family has been to so many charming places: Vancouver, Ottawa, Kingston, Algonquin Park, Niagara Falls, Manitoulin Island...we are able to create memories that we will cherish forever.

What is your advice for newcomers?

Make good friends. I had a longtime friend named Frank who was a retired professor. Whenever I wrote an article or a poem, I would send it to him and he would give his feedback and correct my grammar mistakes. I called him my personal editor. He passed away seven years ago, but the newspaper he subscribed for me still arrives at my home every weekend!

Dare to challenge yourself. In 2017, I submitted an article to The Globe and Mail . Four days later, it was published in this national newspaper, which was a pleasant surprise to me. If I hadn’t even tried, it would have never happened.

Keep learning. Learning is a lifelong journey. I received a master’s degree in creative and critical writing in my 60s!

Cast your vote for 2024 Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards

Now in its 16th year, this prestigious award has been recognizing and celebrating the stories of Canadian immigrants who have achieved great things while inspiring others and making an impact in their adopted country.

It’s time to vote for this year’s Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards! All Canadians are invited to discover the shortlist of 75 finalists from across Canada, read their profiles and vote for their top three favourites.

Presented by Western Union and sponsored by COSTI Immigrant Services and Windmill Microlending, the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards program has been the leader in highlighting inspiring immigrants in Canada, and, following an online voting and selection process, honouring 25 winners with the only national award celebrating immigrant success.

Over the last decade and a half, more than one thousand people have made the shortlist of Top 75 finalists, representing diverse professions, experiences and cultural backgrounds, from coast to coast. The Top 75 finalists are chosen from among hundreds of nominations by a judging panel composed of past winners.

After the voting phase, this year’s Top 25 will join an inspiring group of past winners who are examples of true nation builders — from entrepreneurs and artists, to academics and community volunteers, to philanthropists and visionaries. Their stories differ, but they all have one thing in common

Post-secondary institutions have a

— they have chosen Canada as their own and have contributed to making it a better place.

Two of our Top 25 winners will be honoured with the Entrepreneur Award and the Youth Award. No additional application is required to apply for these awards.

The public can now vote for up to three of their favourite finalists online at www.canadianimmigrant. ca/top25 until June 9, 2024.

The award winners will be announced online at canadianimmigrant.ca and in the August issue of Canadian Immigrant magazine.

‘pivotal role’ in meeting the demand for AI skills

As businesses increasingly embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, the demand for professionals with expertise in AI is surging, finds research from the Conference Board of Canada. The publication, Code to Career: Artificial Intelligence Skill Trends, looks at the demand for AI skills, current trends and brings focus to the role of post-secondary institutions (PSIs) in developing programs.

According to the research, the demand for AI skills in Canada has tripled from 2018 to 2023; in

addition, the earning potential of professionals with AI skills is relatively high – in 2023, the average hourly wage in 2023 was $43.20, 60 per cent higher than the average wage for other job postings in Canada. Three provinces – Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia – accounted for more than 90 per cent of Canada’s AI-related job postings in 2023.

The research highlights the that PSIs are well-positioned to proactively build robust and adaptable AI programs to equip graduates with necessary skills, and have a “pivotal role”

to play in meeting the rising demand.

Recommendations from the study include the need for PSIs to actively engage with industry stakeholders through initiatives such as joint projects, internships, and mentorship programs to ensure that program curriculum is relevant and aligned with industry needs. In addition, it is critical that PSIs equip graduates not only with technical knowledge but also with soft skills since AI opportunities are spread across multiple domains.

New program to empower women-owned enterprises

Women still face formidable challenges in the workplace, particularly in male-dominated fields like technology. And racialized women entrepreneurs face multiple hurdles.

Recent research from non-profit Information and Technology Council (ICTC) has found that many Black women entrepreneurs launching tech startups feel “not taken seriously” during crucial moments such as pitching or negotiating deals. Statistically, the odds are stacked against women, as 90–98 per cent of venture capital funds are awarded to men.

To address these significant disparities in the Canadian social entrepreneurship ecosystem, supported by Women and Gender Equality Canada, ICTC has launched a new initiative towards closing the gender gap in Canada’s digital economy. The “Changing the Narrative – Unleashing the Full Potential of Women-Owned Enterprise” program will support social enterprises owned by women, especially from underrepresented groups including including official language minority communities, to elevate their economic security and prosperity.

Over its 29 months, the program will span five provinces — Ontario, New Brunswick, Manitoba, Quebec, and Alberta — and will engage with 500 women-owned businesses, collaborate with 36 subject-matter experts, up to 10 community organizations and entities focused on supporting Black women and minority groups, and work with 150 mentors.

The program has kicked off its first cohort in Ontario, leading up to a pitch event on June 12. Interested entrepreneurs can to womenintech@ ictc-ctic.ca or visit the ICTC website.

As data breaches and hackers dominate news headlines, it’s no surprise that the demand for cyber security professionals is higher than ever. In fact, the global cyber security workforce is short 3.4 million people

Chris Johnston, former CEO of cyber security firm Bulletproof, told the Financial Post, “Originally, only big budget firms with very sensitive data would hire us. Now 100-employee firms are buying our services.”

Johnston’s story mirrors the demand many other cybersecurity-related professionals and organizations face. Businesses are willing to invest more cyber security resources to avoid damaging their reputation or incurring financial losses.

Cyber security talent shortage in Canada

In today’s digital world, cyber security is an absolute necessity. The 2020 Cyberthreat Defense Report (CDR) highlighted the widespread prevalence of cyber threats affecting a significant majority of Canadian organizations, with 70% experiencing ransomware attacks.

The Globe and Mail reports Canada has 124,000 cyber security professionals but still needs 25,000 workers. Likewise, LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise lists security engineers as one of the most in-demand jobs in the country. And the demand for cyber security professionals will only continue to increase in the foreseeable future.

Due to the talent shortage, Canadian companies are offering competitive salaries and benefits packages to top talent. On average, cyber security specialists earn $42.16 per hour, while those on the higher end of the spectrum earn $98,011/year

Opportunities for newcomers

When Meenu arrived in Canada, she knew it would be challenging to continue her career in civil engineering. She worked as a customer service representative in a bank, but she wanted more than an entry-level position. The idea of pursuing a career in cyber security arose after encountering banking clients that were victims of online scams and fraud:

“A career transition in tech was on my mind for a long time. Cyber security is an evergrowing industry, and I wanted a career that could provide me with some kind of stability.”

However, as a newcomer in Canada, she needed more support. She explored her options and talked about financing options with a Learning Advisor at Lighthouse Labs.

“I didn’t have enough resources to start the boot camp immediately because I’m a newcomer to Canada. During my interview with a Lighthouse Labs Learning Advisor, I learned about the ICT Boost Initiative. When I discovered I was eligible for the funding, it encouraged me to take the leap of faith and jump into cyber security.”

During the program, Meenu learned technical skills like system and network security, threat intelligence, data protection and more — applying those skills in real-world simulations to test vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies while also developing soft skills by presenting findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Meenu’s advice to those considering a career change?

“I would say it is never too late. I’m 35 years old today and receiving my cyber security diploma, looking for a career change.”

At Lighthouse Labs, we understand that taking one of our programs is a huge investment. That’s why we provide a wide range of financing options to help reduce financial barriers so you can focus on your studies to get the tech training and digital skills you need to achieve your goals. In Meenu’s case, she financed her studies through the ICT Boost Initiative, funded in part by Government of Canada’s Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program (SWSP). The program aims to support individuals from equity-deserving communities seeking training to launch their careers in tech.

Similarly, some provinces have government-funded training initiatives aimed at cyber security professionals. The Manpower Alberta Program is a training program in collaboration with ReTrain Canada. This program aims to deliver free cyber security training to Immigrant Albertans pursuing careers in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, especially in cyber security.

Reshaping the hiring culture in cyber security

Meenu’s story also reflects a shared challenge that other immigrants face. Employers often favour applicants with ‘Canadian experience’—which newcomers and immigrants lack. Francois Guay, founder of the Canadian Cyber Security Network, told The Globe & Mail this needs to change: “The current hiring culture in Canada needs to change to one of developing and growing talent, instead of simply complaining there are not enough skilled workers or worse, waiting on the government or educational institutions to develop more graduates.”

This transformation aims to actively nurture and develop talent within the cyber security sector, offering newcomers that already have a background in cyber security a more accessible pathway to contribute their skills and expertise to Canada’s ever-evolving digital landscape. This change is not only essential to meet the increasing demand for cyber security professionals but also to foster a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Short-term, intensive training programs like Lighthouse Labs’ Bootcamps and Flex Programs are a good option to consider for those looking to learn new tech skills and acquire Canadian work experience at the same time.

Wondering what a cyber security bootcamp entails? Read more here: www.lighthouselabs.ca/en/blog/what-to-expect-cyber-security-bootcamp

TBEHIND THE SCENES

Our eleventh annual Immigrant Women of Inspiration special shines the spotlight on four passionate storytellers – directors behind the camera who share authentic experiences and powerful perspectives through film.

Every spring, in recognition of International Women’s Day, March 8, Canadian Immigrant spotlights women of inspiration in different fields. This year, we feature women filmmakers whose passion and dedication have brought real life stories to the screen, despite limited financial resources. These committed, creative

filmmakers have made storytelling a personal and professional quest, carving out a space for narratives that resonate deeply with diverse audiences.

Here are the journeys of Shasha Nakhai, Habibata Ouarme, Sanja Zivkovic and Yuqi Kang.

By Baisakhi Roy, Lisa Evans and Vivien Fellegi

here was nary a dry eye in the audience as the closing credits rolled for Scarborough, Shasha Nakhai and Rich Williamson’s debut narrative feature film, at its premiere at the 2021 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Based on the award-winning novel by Catherine Hernandez, depicting the lives of the predominantly immigrant neighbourhood of Scarborough located in the east end of Toronto, the film captivated the hearts of filmgoers and critics in equal measure.

It won the Shawn Mendes Foundation Changemaker Award at the festival, was first runner up for the People’s Choice award and received 11 Canadian Screen Award nominations. It also opened up doors for the Filipina-Iranian filmmaker and her film and television production company, Compy Films, she had co-founded with her partner Williamson.

“We got representation in Hollywood after the film got so much love and attention. So, we have managers now and we have an agent here in Canada. It really kind of launched things for us,” says the filmmaker.

The recognition felt especially satisfying considering the immense challenges the filmmakers faced. Made on a microbudget, stalled by the pandemic and at one point, all out

Shasha Nakhai | Multicultural lens

Photo by Kenya-Jade Pinto

of funds, there were genuine doubts about the film ever reaching completion.

“Every single person on the crew was filling multiple roles, we were overstretched and under-resourced and so honestly, it was a miracle that we were able to film,” she says. “We were really lucky that everybody who worked on the film, really cared about it, were willing to forgo their pay sometimes to make something that we knew mattered.” Scarborough was praised widely for being true to its setting and characters, which the filmmakers pulled off largely due to their experience in documentary filmmaking.

Born in the Philippines, growing up in Nigeria, Nakhai came to Canada when she was 15 to study documentary filmmaking through journalism at Toronto Metropolitan University.

“I wanted to be a reporter at the time. I thought it would be a cool job to go around the world highlighting meaningful stories,” says Nakhai. “In my final year of university, we had a documentary filmmaking class and I realized that I really liked longer form storytelling, because I felt like I had the chance to be more cinematic and make a deeper impact than say a 60-second news clip,” she says.

The filmmaker was on her way after that, volunteering at festivals like the popular Hot Docs, where some of the best documentary films from all over the world are screened. She was also lucky to work extensively at various production companies with filmmakers like Nisha Pahuja who was recently nominated for Best Documentary Feature at this year’s Academy awards.

Nakhai’s big break came in 2018 when her production, Frame 394, about a young man in Toronto who makes a startling discovery in a video about a high-profile police shooting, was shortlisted for the 2017 Academy Award for Best Documentary Short. It went on to win big at scores of documentary festivals worldwide, making it to the TIFF top 10 films of 2016.

Some of Nakhai and Williamson’s notable work includes Take Light, about Nigeria’s energy crisis, Paruparo about the migrant caregiver community in Canada and Thirty Eight Minutes about the events that unfolded after a false missile alert in Hawaii in 2018.

“The thing I love about the documentary format is the ability to meet people who I would never meet otherwise, and to meet them deeply, to get to know them very well over an extended period of time. I really enjoy that,” she says.

Thanks to her multicultural upbringing in Nigeria amongst expats from all over the world, Nakhai finds it easy to relate to people from different backgrounds and how they interact in different ways with each other. “I had friends who were American, Scottish, Indian, Lebanese and other countries so I think that it was a very fundamental part of my filmmaking practice,” she says.

Nakhai is interested in stories that span different countries. “Our next film is a Filipino migrant drama set on a cargo ship. Projects that have an ensemble cast and feature a variety of different perspectives really interest me,” she says.

– By Baisakhi Roy

Habibata

Gfor change

rowing up in the Ivory Coast, Habibata Ouarme’s childhood was marred by a cultural tradition that continues to haunt millions of girls and women worldwide. At the age of six, she underwent female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice that, while customary in many countries in Africa and the Middle East, left her deeply scarred, both physically and emotionally. Now, as an adult residing in Montreal, Ouarme has emerged as an advocate and filmmaker, determined to shed light on the longterm devastating effects of FGM and to empower survivors.

FGM involves cutting off a girl’s clitoris. According to the World Health Organization, more than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone this routine practice rooted in cultural beliefs about femininity and purity. In many African countries, a girl is not considered marriageable without it. “You want to get married, have children, you do what the culture is asking. If you don’t do it, you’re not part of the community,” says Ouarme.

This damaging practice often results in a lifetime of pain and other complications, especially around childbirth. It was the experience of giving birth that caused Ouarme to realize the harm. “The midwife told me it would be hard for me to give birth because I had FGM,” says Ouarme. Scar tissue may not stretch enough for the baby’s head, causing delivery to be even more painful than usual and making it more likely that a woman will require a caesarian or other interventions.

Motivated by her experience, Ouarme dove into research, unraveling the consequences of FGM. In 2006, Ouarme embarked on a mission to raise awareness about this practice, joining a group of like-minded women to educate communities in neighboring villages.

Ouarme | Advocating

Photo courtesy: NFB

“Culture is not an excuse to make you feel bad; it’s not supposed to give you pain,” she asserts. Despite the taboo surrounding sexuality, and the societal norms that perpetuate FGM, Ouarme believes in the power of survivors to speak out and advocate for change.

When she came to Canada in 2010, Ouarme continued her work on FGM, but she also had another more personal goal: she wanted to get back what was taken from her.

When she heard of a surgery that could reverse FGM, Ouarme visited several doctors, but struggled to find medical professionals in Canada who were familiar with the condition. “Some doctors didn’t even know what FGM is,” she says.

Ouarme says she was put in touch with Clitorate Canada who connected her with Dr. Marci Bowers in San Fransisco, a wellknown gynecologist and surgeon who specializes in genderaffirming surgeries and performs clitoris reconstruction surgery for women who have undergone FGM.

After her surgery, Ouarme became a vocal advocate, speaking at conferences and creating a platform for survivors of FGM to share their stories. “I wanted to share my story, give hope and create a safe space to talk about it,” she says. Although she had no experience as a filmmaker, Ouarme decided she wanted to make a documentary about FGM, to allow survivors to share their stories and to educate about this practice that is so commonplace in many parts of the world but is largely unknown in Canada.

She met a filmmaker online who presented her idea to a producer. A few months later the producer called her back and agreed to the project. The film began shooting in 2020 with Ouarme as the co-writer and co-director.

“They said it’s your story, we want you to tell it. You’re the guardian of this film, you know how these women feel,” she says.

Her documentary, Koromousso (Big Sister), premiered at the 2023 Human Rights Watch Film Festival in Toronto, resonating with audiences globally. It’s been selected in international festivals in the UK, New York and Morocco.

Through the film, Ouarme emphasizes the universal nature of FGM as a human rights issue, urging communities to break the silence and support survivors.

Ouarme is now working on her next project, 1001 Crowns for My Head, a film exploring African heritage and identity through hairstyles. The film has received financing through Telefilm Canada.

Through her advocacy and filmmaking, Ouarme continues to amplify the voices of FGM survivors, challenging societal norms and pave the way for a future where women are heard. Her message is clear: “When we fight for women’s rights, we do it for all women.” –

By Lisa Evans

Serbian-Canadian filmmaker Sanja Zivkovic felt like an outsider for years after she and her family landed in Vancouver after fleeing the war in Serbia. Her new classmates didn’t know how to pronounce her first name, and some even made fun of her.

It got so horrible that she wanted to return to her homeland. “I did not belong,” she says. “And I couldn’t wait to get out of here.”

It wasn’t until Zivkovic became a filmmaker that she realized her unease made her more sensitive to the plight of other solitary souls. “I can identify with characters…who are minorities,” she says.

Zivkovic would go on to make films that would depict immigrants and other foreigners, making these mostly unseen people visible.

Her career began when she took up acting in theatres as a young child. “It was a way of expressing myself,” she says. But as soon as she got her hands on a camera, she revelled in the feeling of control. “I was always in charge.” Zivkovic ordered her friends around, creating mini documentaries of their lives. Eventually she would solidify her skills at film school, earning a bachelor’s degree in film production at Simon Fraser University, followed by a master’s in film and TV directing at the Faculty of Dramatic Arts in Belgrade, Serbia.

Much of Zivkovic’s material is based on her own life, she says. She writes many of the films she directs. Though she’s often terrified to expose too much of herself, this willingness to be vulnerable is “the only way you can create anything that’s true,” she shares.

Many of Zivkovic’s films, including the short, Cleo, resonate with her own experience of alienation. In the movie, the middleclass young protagonist finds herself ill at ease when she wanders into a low-income immigrant neighbourhood in search of a cell phone deal. But she gets more than she bargained for when she makes an unexpected romantic connection with the phone salesman.

Zivkovic’s partially autobiographical feature film, Easy Land,

Sanja Zivkovic | Making the unseen visible

Photo by Chris Mutton

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shot in the dreary atmosphere of Toronto’s Victoria Park, also tackles the theme of estrangement suffered by a mother and daughter who have immigrated from Serbia. Like Zivkovic’s parents who both had to start from scratch when they came here, the mother, Jasna, is a trained architect working at a menial job. The daughter, Nina, reminiscent of Zivkovic, is a loner obsessed with returning to her homeland. It isn’t until Nina joins a group of improv actors that she escapes from her gritty reality and transcends her isolation.

Similar to Nina who communicates through theatre, the movie was an opportunity for its writer to articulate her own reality. “I could get my voice heard through my own work,” she says.

Zivkovic is currently at work on another film about an outsider. The movie, Cat’s Cry, is based on a true story about a retired factory worker fighting to gain custody of his granddaughter who is afflicted with a rare genetic condition. The main protagonist is living on the margins of society, fighting for the little girl whom everyone else has given up on. “I was very moved by this story,” she says.

Zivkovic has garnered many accolades for her work. But what mattered most to the filmmaker were the premieres at Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), first for Cleo and then for Easy Land .

“Living in and making these two films in Toronto, I felt like TIFF was the perfect platform: an A-list festival yet local and accessible.”

But the feedback from audiences is better than any award, she says. Following screenings of Easy Land, “People kept on saying ‘This is my story,’” says Zivkovic, who has come to realize that she wasn’t as alone as she used to feel. These reactions reinforce her mission to continue making movies with meaning. “I now know why I love to make films so much,” she says. “And that’s because at the end they connect with people.” –

By Vivien Fellegi

For much of her life, Mongol Chinese-Canadian filmmaker Yuqi Kang, now based in Vancouver, would repress the unhappiness of her childhood. But her difficult relationships with relatives, her loneliness when her family moved from Inner Mongolia to Beijing, and the sudden death of her beloved grandmother all silently accumulated within her and erupted in a deep, dark depression when she hit adolescence. It wasn’t until Kang began making documentaries about others in extreme situations that she was able to make sense of her own life, she says.

Kang’s gift for filmmaking began with a talent for drawing. The otherwise restless child spent hours depicting different characters, endowing them with backgrounds happier than her own. “It gave me a lot of solace and peace,” she says. After coming to Canada to finish high school at age 16, Kang earned a bachelor’s degree in drawing at the Alberta University of Art and Design.

But art was ultimately unfulfilling for Kang. “It’s so much removed from everyday life.” Making documentaries would open doors to real lives in otherwise inaccessible worlds. “I was so hungry to…be inspired,” says Kang. At age 25 she attended the Social Documentary Film Program at New York’s School of Visual Arts.

Kang’s work has focused on crafting narratives that delve into the depths and complexities of human experiences through raw and emotive storytelling.

In 2017, Kang’s first full length documentary, A Little Wisdom, emerged from her fascination with the enlightenment of Buddhism. Set in a Nepalese monastery, the movie follows a five-year-old novice, Hopakuli, and his older brother, Cholent, as they navigate their lives in the absence of parents. Hopakuli is rebellious, and his behavior often frustrates his brother, who reluctantly steps into the vacuum of guidance.

While Kang had initially looked to Buddhism for answers to existential questions, she didn’t find any in the religion. Instead, Kang discovered “a little wisdom” in the power of her protagonist’s imagination, which conjured him into kings and heroes and helped him thrive amidst his challenges. The feisty Hopakuli reminded Kang of her own struggles and salvation through the gift of fantasy. “He’s finding coping and happiness,” she says. “I relate to him deeply.” The film won Best Canadian Feature at the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival.

Kang discovered a different kind of wisdom while making her best known film, 7 Beats per Minute, released in 2024. The documentary traced female free diving champion Jessea Lu’s recovery from an accident in 2018. While attempting a world record dive, Lu blacked out and was lifeless for eight minutes until her safety crew resuscitated her.

Ironically, this near-death experience proved to be Lu’s rebirth. While she was lying comatose, she was flooded by previously suppressed memories of childhood trauma, including her toxic relationship with her mother who felt burdened by her daughter. Lu spends the rest of the film coping with these

newfound revelations and learning to love herself.

The sea figures prominently in Lu’s healing journey. Our bodies adapt to deep dives by slowing down the heart rate to conserve oxygen. This adaptation, coupled with the utter silence of the underwater world, is deeply relaxing, says Kang. “Once you complete a dive it feels like you just did two hours of meditation.” Strengthened by these restorative periods, Lu reaches out to her mother and gains a measure of resolution.

The film’s cinematography, with its long underwater shots of tiny figures floating in a vast blue ocean, captures the mystical feeling of deep diving. “I wanted it to be as immersive as possible so you can really be introduced into this world.”

The film’s ending takes an unexpected turn. Triggered by the deep connection between director and subject, the boundaries between them dissolve. Lu’s bravery in confronting her demons triggers the previously “closed-off” Kang to acknowledge her painful and violent relationship with her own family. The risky move paid off for Kang. “Making this film helped me to much better understand a lot of things,” says Kang, “and to grow more comfortable in my own shoes.”

Today Kang is working on her first fictional feature about mother-daughter relationships, that’s inspired by Jessea but loosely based on her own background. This more flexible film format frees Kang from relying on external stimuli. Instead, the new, courageous Kang is tackling a new frontier: herself. “I’m ready to express what’s inside,” she says. – By Vivien Fellegi

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Yuqi Kang | Tackling new frontiers

Photo by Hei Ma

Rethinking international education in Canada

Importance of national conversations with stakeholder groups to find sustainable solutions

There are many reasons why international students from around the world pick Canada, including quality education, overall safety, respect for diversity, work options while studying and pathways to permanent residency.

Since the 1980s, Canadian provinces and territories have been welcoming international students in large numbers, especially in light of decreased public funding for post-secondary education. A decade ago, when the federal government released the International Education Strategy Plan, the target was to double the number of international students, from nearly 240,000.

According to data from the Canadian Bureau of International Education (CBIE), Canada has seen a 43 per cent increase in international students over the past five years and nearly 170 per cent over the last decade. At the end of 2022, there were over 800,000 international students in the country.

However, while the number of international students did increase over the years, resources were not always proportionately increased. In addition, the checks and balances in the system to ensure quality education and positive student experiences were not always adequate. While many colleges and universities as well as recruitment agencies engaged in best practices and delivered ideal student outcomes, many did not and this raised questions around ethics and compliance, with cases of fraud and student exploitation coming to light.

In recent times, the topic of international students in Canada has become highly divisive, with a lot of finger-pointing happening while trying to come to terms with serious issues facing Canadians: housing, affordability, and the overall cost of living. Worrisome sentiments –

where many Canadians no longer share a pro-immigration viewpoint –surfaced, with polls in 2023 showing that a significant percentage of Canadians were concerned with the numbers of immigrants coming to the country.

International students pay much higher fees than domestic students, often work in low-paying jobs that are difficult to fill with Canadian workers and are often being blamed for many of Canada’s problems including the housing crisis. while subsequently contributing more than $22 billion to the Canadian economy annually and supporting more than 200,000 jobs, according to government data. The issues are complex and unpacking them carefully will help us analyze the root causes better.

So, where are we right now?

We recognize the Canadian government’s resolve to make things right, starting with sweeping reforms announced in October last year to fight admissions fraud and strengthen the integrity of its international education industry, including additional requirements for Designated Learning Institutions

(DLIs) and an assessment of the popular Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program. On January 22, the government has also officially announced a two-year cap on the number of visas it will issue for international students. There are grave concerns about this, the implications and consequences for Canada as a study destination and our future as a country.

We are at a crossroads, and we must thoughtfully decide on the path forward.

Canada is known for its resilience and innovation. As a country, we have encountered many complex issues and continue to do so. And this is no different. Across the nation, we have thought leaders who are internationally renowned for their expertise in the education sector. There is also no short supply of committed stakeholders here, from exceptionally committed

student associations to strong advocacy groups like Universities Canada that act as bridge builders and service providers who support all aspects of the international student journey. Our international students themselves, while struggling, try their best to thrive academically, socially, and mentally to succeed and contribute to their second home in significant ways.

This juncture provides an excellent opportunity for all stakeholders who care deeply about education to come together, reframe the problems and challenges we face as a nation, and work together to find meaningful and sustainable solutions.

Only a national conversation on post-secondary education, international students, and immigration that tackles the tough questions often left unasked – can bring us the solutions we need.

Raghwa Gopal is the CEO of M Square Media (MSM), a global edtech company, the former CEO of Innovate BC and Advisor to BC-India Business Network. Sobhana

Jaya-Madhavan is Adjunct Faculty at the School of Public Policy and the President of BC-India Business Network. The views expressed in this editorial do not necessarily reflect the views of the organizations.

6 ways to deal with layoff anxiety

How to keep the fears from getting to you

Just when we thought that the pandemic had made an inglorious exit came news of other developments. In particular, the emergence of AI, ChatGPT and other factors that directly impact businesses today. As many organizations adjust to these tectonic shifts in the marketplace, they could be actively looking to reduce their headcount or plan to in the coming months.

What’s more, with recession concerns looming large, a large number of workers are scared about their jobs. Today ‘layoff anxiety’ is real. The apprehension about workplace layoffs is palpable among employees across many industries. A constant concern about losing one’s livelihood can not only discourage the best of employees but also significantly impact his or her well-being. Often, this leads to mental health issues, anxiety, stress and depression.

An article in the The Globe and Mail found that layoffs hit harder when

employees feel highly involved and personally invested in an organization, than in traditional workplaces, and this can cause low morale and productivity.

What’s more, an article in the Harvard Business Review found that remote employees were 32 per cent more likely to feel anxious in the wake of news about layoffs. And 67 per cent said this anxiety had an impact on their productivity.

Here are six ways to proactively confront your layoff anxiety and keep the fears from getting the better of you.

1 Monitor your self-talk

It’s important to be mindful of your mind chatter. Start by separating fiction from fact. The stories we tell ourselves may not always reflect reality, so it’s very important to monitor the inner dialogue that goes on.

The good news is that we can work through our emotions, ensure that we maintain balance and forge ahead. Let’s remember that changes in our job status may not always be in our control. Especially an economic downturn is a result of the evolving market conditions and so a job loss is not necessarily a comment on your skills or worthiness.

The last thing you want to do is to make a self-fulfilling prophecy of your predicament. More importantly, this is not the time to withdraw or retreat from your efforts. On the contrary, ramp up your work ethic and focus on the positive. This can help you stay grounded and more in control.

2 Be proactive, take action

If you are receiving some signals about an impending layoff, get to work immediately. Assess your situation and gather relevant information. This includes listing if you are handling high-value projects, if the work you do generates constant revenue and if you are being assigned to projects of higher importance within the organization. If not, talk to your peers or superiors to modify your workload. This is the time to invest in and nurture relationships and stay alert about any restructuring within the company.

Take every opportunity to take initiative, prioritize company goals and exercise self-control. These are the very skills employers look for.

3 Double up on expanding your network

Don’t procrastinate, the best way to conquer fear is through positive action. Start by re-engaging with your network. Reconnect with old colleagues and managers. Join an industry group or trade association.

Focus on supportive and healthy relationships. While going through anxiety can be challenging, you don’t have to do it alone. You have some time to reconnect with those who mean the most to you. You’ll feel calmer about possible change if you have supportive people in your corner. Staying socially connected also helps you keep a positive state of mind.

4 Be resilient

It is too easy and tempting to end up blaming yourself for everything. Remember, you may not be able to control external circumstances of any other person’s decision. But you can definitely control your mindset on your future. Always maintain a hopeful outlook, believe that you are strong enough to bounce back from any layoff and you will always be in control.

Reflect on how you’ve risen above similar adversities in the past. Think of the strengths that helped you to pull through and the new doors that opened after. This will help you grow through life’s challenges and strengthen your psychological well-being.

5 Leverage your transferable skills

Alleviate negative feelings by ramping up your professional networking. It’s understandable that layoff anxiety can cause sudden disruption in daily life, coupled with fears of financial uncertainties and unnecessary stress.

Research your industry to find out the in-demand technical skills. And volunteer to help with projects on other teams where you can add maximum value. You can divert your nervous energy and boost your self-esteem by staying proactive with your professional development.

Also, make sure that your social media account and profiles are

updated. Each day, set aside a few hours to make sure your resume, portfolio, and LinkedIn profile are up to date. This ensures that your Plan B is always in place if something unexpected were to happen to your career.

6 Plan for the future

What would happen if you were to be laid off tomorrow? It doesn’t hurt to be prepared for the future if something unforeseen were to happen. Prepare and plan your next steps in deal. This includes your preparation to deal with issues such as your finances, health care, and of course finding a new job.

The six simple steps above can help you deal with your layoff anxiety in your personal and professional life. Studies have shown that emotionally preparing yourself for worst-case layoff scenarios can help you manage your well-being and overcome your anxiety.

Now could be a great time to assess your career path. Take the first step by researching your field to find out the key skills employers look for and the skills that are relevant to your industry and the organization that you wish to work for. And in summary, remind yourself that layoff anxiety is just a temporary state of mind. You are stronger and bigger than any anxiety that life throws at you.

Murali Murthy is an acclaimed public speaker, life coach and best-selling author of The ACE Principle, The ACE Awakening, The ACE Abundance and You Are HIRED!. He is also chairperson of CAMP Networking Canada. Learn how he can help unlock your magic at ACEWorldFoundation.com

Volunteering can be a win-win for immigrants and for Canada

By Chitra K. Menon

Stepping into a new country can be daunting but volunteering can offer newcomers a unique pathway to integration, empowerment and a sense of belonging.

Ask Pakistani-born Masooma Raza. “I felt disconnected when I relocated to Canada a year ago. However, I discovered the opportunity to volunteer, which provided me with a means to connect,” says Raza, a communications specialist at Unity Health Toronto.

Raza credits volunteering as a vital tool in establishing her Canadian network. Volunteering, she says, provided her a platform to meet like-minded individuals and build social and professional connections.

“I became involved with Action Volunteers for Animals, where my responsibilities included caring for pets and educating individuals about animal shelter and foster policies. This experience helped me improve my social and communication abilities,” she explains. “Though I had adequate work experience from my home country, this volunteering position allowed me to further refine my professional skills and

served as a stepping stone in my career journey in Canada.”

Similar to Raza, several skilled newcomers encounter difficulties in resuming their careers

in Canada, despite possessing significant work experience. This often arises because a number of employers prioritize candidates with Canadian work experience.

Volunteering can not only help acquire this much sought after experience, but also help new arrivals cultivate essential soft skills, which are highly valued by employers, and help to bridge gaps in employment history during their job hunt.

Taking a step forward

Today, volunteering opportunities are plenty. Volunteerism in Canada is at an all-time low since the pandemic has disrupted volunteer participation and civic engagement. A number of nonprofits are expressing concerns about losing and recruiting new volunteers.

Meals on Wheels is one such program facing a shortage due to the unavailability of volunteer drivers. The program delivers food to every community in the country, especially to vulnerable seniors and people with disabilities, addressing isolation and hunger. According to the data disclosed by Volunteer Toronto, more above Masooma Raza

than 1,000 additional volunteer drivers are needed right now to meet demand.

Volunteer Canada, a charity working to grow connection, community and belonging through volunteerism, reveals that as many as 65 per cent of organizations in Canada are grappling with a volunteer deficit, and up to 35 percent of them are forced to curtail services due to this shortage.

The organization has observed a 20 per cent decline in interest in volunteerism in the last two years compared to pre-pandemic levels.

In late 2023, the Toronto Foundation also reported that between 2018 and 2022, the volunteer rate in Toronto itself fell from 37 per cent to 25 per cent. Considering the average volunteering levels, this equates to a loss of approximately 36 million volunteer hours or 20,000 full-time positions in the city.

Joanne McKiernan, executive director of Volunteer Toronto points out that while people, especially immigrants, volunteered in person and virtually to avoid facing isolation during the pandemic, various systemic factors contribute to the current shortage. And one of the main reasons is the social and economic turbulence happening in the country, which is creating multiple challenges for newcomers.

“Newcomers and immigrants are trying to fit into society’s social and economic fabric. They have many economic concerns, including obtaining standard shelter and earning better income to cope with inflation. These challenges are real and significant, impacting the country’s volunteerism landscape,” says McKiernan.

Many newcomers share the sentiment that finding the right opportunities and making space in their lives for volunteering is challenging, especially when they’re still acclimating to their new living conditions.

“I would like to explore the volunteer opportunities here, but the geography is quite challenging for me,” says Hariprasad Vijayan, a business management student at Georgian College, located in Barrie, Ontario. “As an international student from India, I can’t access my own vehicle. Moreover, the heavy traffic, my studies, and part-time job hours further complicate things.”

Vijayan says that many of his friends are facing similar challenges. “Right now, everyone is deeply concerned about their survival, whether it’s meeting financial obligations such as paying fees or repaying the education loans. I aspire to volunteer in the future, particularly if opportunities arise within proximity to my apartment or college.” He says he may opt for virtual volunteering as an alternative, if it does not impede his professional and academic commitments.

Meeting the demand

Volunteer Toronto identifies 17 per cent of its program participants as newcomers, thus constituting a significant portion of the actively involved participants. These newcomers, diverse in their traditions, personal connections and range of professional experiences, encounter an array of challenges upon their arrival in Canada. Diving into volunteer work becomes a cherished experience for immigrants to navigate unfamiliar territories.

Joanne McKiernan explains that newcomers should apply the three-step formula of RRR here.

“In essence, this implies reflecting, researching, and reaching out. As per the formula, individuals should reflect on their personal and professional skills to determine their goals and interests. This allows immigrants to identify areas where they can make meaningful contributions. Next, immigrants should research volunteer opportunities on diverse platforms across

the country. By exploring multiple avenues, individuals can identify initiatives that align with their interests and cater to their needs. Finally, it is crucial to reach out to these organizations as often as possible,” she says.

McKiernan also suggests that newcomers take advantage of virtual volunteering opportunities. In a society where individuals often navigate busy schedules filled with professional and personal commitments, the flexibility afforded by virtual volunteering transcends geographical constraints, providing accessibility to Canadians across diverse regions, including those in remote communities. This way, newcomers can make a tangible difference in the community while fostering personal growth and forging meaningful connections.

Subha Pradeep, a social worker at the University Health Network, highlights that volunteering offers huge benefits to immigrant communities in terms of mental health.

“I often recommend volunteering to the new individuals who approach me. As a newcomer in a foreign land, it is very easy to feel isolated and depressed. When you volunteer, you are getting involved and giving back to society simultaneously,” she says.

Recognizing the country’s volunteer shortage and the emotional uncertainties immigrants face while relocating, Pradeep offers a bit of advice.

“It is imperative to refurbish these volunteering programs to align with the evolving demands of society and accommodate newcomers,” says Pradeep. “These initiatives should help immigrants gain a broader understanding of what volunteering in Canada looks like and offer them a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities available.”

above Joanne McKiernan

above Subha Pradeep

above Hariprasad Vijayan

FIRST GENERATION

A CANADIAN IMMIGRANT PODCAST

Inspiration, information, helpful tools, tips and resources – find all this and more in our Canadian Immigrant podcast series First Generation. Find all our episodes at :canadianimmigrant.ca/podcast

Listen now on Spotify, Appple. and wherever you listen to your podcasts

Scan to start listening

Substantial change to Canadian immigration law Capping temporary residents

On March 21, 2024, Marc Miller, Canada’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, alongside Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, held a press conference to announce what may be considered one of the most substantial changes to Canadian immigration law in years.

Canada is set to implement a limit on the temporary residents.

Canada’s immigration department has for the past several decades set limits on the number of new permanent residents admitted each year. Its detailed plans are publicly available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. In 2024, for example, Canada plans on welcoming 485,000 new permanent residents. Of these, 281,135 will come through economic immigration programs, 114,000 will be through family sponsorships, 76,115 will be refugees or protected persons, and 13,750 will be visa compassionate consideration streams and other public policies.

Unlike the fixed limits for new permanent residents, Canada has historically not imposed a specific cap on the temporary residents – such as students, temporary workers, or visitors – that are admitted each year. Instead, the demand from non-governmental entities like businesses and educational institutions has largely determined the number of temporary residents accepted. While IRCC may reject applications for reasons related to eligibility or admissibility, it does not turn down, nor does it stop processing applications, because of any predetermined quotas.

Until now.

The composition of temporary residents

In recent years, the population of temporary residents in Canada has seen a significant rise. As of now, there are 2.5 million temporary residents, making up 6.2 per cent of Canada’s total population in 2023. The government aims to lower this figure to 5 per cent.

In his speech, Marc Miller stated that the number of temporary residents in Canada consists of: 42 per cent international students; 9 per cent spouses of students; 26 per cent post-graduate work permit holders; 9 per cent foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Workers Program whose employers first obtained a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to employ them; 10 per cent reciprocal youth exchange programs such as the Working Holiday Program; 26 per cent through special humanitarian programs for Ukrainians, Iranians, Turks and others; 17 per cent for inter company transfers, trade agreements and other

niche work permit programs; 12 per cent spouses of skilled workers; and 5 per cent asylum seekers.

Where will the cuts come from?

In their speeches, neither Mr. Miller nor Mr. Boissonnault specified which programs would be reduced.

However, on January 22, 2024, Minister Miller declared that Canada would be reducing the number of approved study permits by 35 per cent starting from this year. Additionally, he stated that only spouses or common-law partners of international students enrolled in master’s or graduate-level programs would now be eligible for the open spousal work permit. This change is already in place. Such adjustments are expected to significantly lower the number of temporary residents in Canada, as well as the future count of post-graduate work permit holders, student spouses, and eventually, the spouses of workers. Exactly how this will reduce the number of temporary residents in Canada, and which categories, depends in part on the provinces who are responsible for allocating international student spots to their respective post-secondary institutions.

As well, Minister Boissonnault announced that effective May 1, 2024, the following changes will be implemented in the LMIA program:

• New LMIAs will be valid for six months, a decrease from 12 months;

• Most employers under the low wage stream, with an exception for the construction and health care sectors, will have a reduction from 30 to 20 per cent of their total workforce that can be employed through LMIAs;

• Employers will need to explore every option before applying for an LMIA — including

recruiting asylum seekers with valid work permits here in Canada.

Another major factor in decreasing numbers will likely be the end of the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel program. As of February 27, 2024, this initiative has allowed 248,726 Ukrainian nationals to enter Canada, with a large portion of them receiving work permits. The conclusion of this program is expected to notably lower the influx of new temporary residents to Canada.

It is not clear from what programs additional cuts will be made. Part of what makes predicting this difficult is because there has been a dramatic shift in the government’s narrative, moving from one of “structural labour shortage” and “grow the economy through population growth” to a narrative of “too many people”. For example, IRCC recently reduced eligibility requirements for the Francophone program. Are they now going to reverse those changes whose benefits they just touted?

More permanent residents

Finally, while most commentators are focusing on what may be cut, it is interesting to note that Minister Miller presented the goal for temporary residents as being based on a percentage reduction rather than an absolute number. While the government did not state how they would plan this, if the goal is to reduce the percentage of foreign workers in Canada, then it may not be necessary to reduce the numerator, but rather increase the denominator. In other words, one way to lower the percentage of foreign workers in the country would be to increase the number of permanent residents, including by transitioning existing temporary residents.

Steven Meurrens is an immigration lawyer with Larlee Rosenberg in Vancouver. Contact him at 604-681-9887, by email at steven.meurrens@larlee.com, or visit his blog at smeurrens.com.

It’s Time To Vote!

We received hundreds of nominations from truly inspiring newcomers coast to coast, all who have made a positive impact since their arrival in Canada.

Now its your turn to help us chose this year’s Top 25 Canadian Immigrant award winners!

Cast your vote for up to 3 finalists at: CanadianImmigrant.ca/top25

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Home safety tips for parents

With a little care, many incidents can be prevented

As families settle in Canada, it is very important that parents take the time to learn about safety and preventive measures to keep children safe in their new home. Canadian home safety standards, rules and regulations are probably different than those in their home country. Below are some safety tips to keep in mind.

• Compile a list of emergency contact numbers, including family emergency contacts, emergency medical services, non-emergency police numbers, family doctor, local urgent care and local city emergency services.

• Prepare and customize first aid and emergency kits that meet the family’s needs, such as the age, number of family members and medical needs. Make sure to include an extra phone power bank/charger and cash in small bills.

• Check your residence’s hot water tank temperature to prevent burns and scalding. Ensure there are safety measures in place to avoid burns from the stove top burner, oven or fireplace. Find out where your home water shutoff valve and gas shutoff valve are located and learn how to turn them off in case of an emergency.

• Spend some time on your city and province websites for useful tips and information on how to prepare for emergencies. Some even have information in your home language, as well as emergency preparedness courses.

• Extra steps are required for those with young children to prevent choking, suffocation, electrocution and falls. Make sure to remove choking hazards and childproof your home with outlet plug covers and safety locks for doorknobs and cabinets.

• Store medication out of reach from children. Make sure to put the medication safety locks on after use. Similarly, keep any household cleaning supplies and chemicals in the household away to prevent them from accessing the products.

• Keep objects that can cause harm such as sharp tools like knives, scissors, and other utensils, in addition to matches, lighters and firearms out of your children’s reach

• Keep your family safe from intruders by reinforcing your doors and windows, home alarms and motion lights. If possible, upgrade the door locks and deadbolts, and other home security options to keep your family safe.

• Prevent drowning accidents by putting in a secure fence around the backyard pool. Always supervise children while in the pool or bathtub.

• Ensure that regular home maintenance and inspections are done, including servicing heating and cooling systems, checking for water leaks.

• Install and regularly check the smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector and fire extinguisher.

While disaster can strike without warning, many accidents and injuries are preventable. Taking these few simple steps can keep your family safe

in different emergencies. It is your responsibility as parents to learn and teach children about safety rules and equip them with life saving skills.

Cheryl Song, an immigrant from Malaysia, has more than 20 years’ experience of working in early learning and family programs. Contact her at cheryl@learnwithsong.com or visit her website at learnwithsong.com.

weather Tips for transitioning from Canadian winter to spring

Great ready to enjoy the warm

All across the country, spring means warmer weather and an excuse to put away the parka and mittens, but it also takes a few weeks of temperature up and downs before the warm weather settles in for good. The transition from winter to spring is not always a smooth one as conditions can range from some snow to warm, sunny days. Don’t be caught off guard; make sure to have both your winter and spring gear on hand.

Making the seasonal switch

Here are some general items you’ll want change when going from winter to spring.

• If you equipped your vehicle with snow tires, be prepared to take them off and store them for next year. Driving in snow tires all year round will wear them out faster, which you’ll want to avoid.

• Take out your lawn mower and clean up dead grass and surface debris on your property, helping along a healthy lawn in the coming months.

• Prepare a spring-cleaning list for a fresh

start and recruit your family to help out in a weekend cleaning spree.

• Begin pulling out lighter clothes in your wardrobe that you can wear during the warmer days — but don’t put away your winter clothes just yet, as temperatures can still be quite cold.

• With the days getting longer, start getting outside more, enjoying your favourite outdoor activities to help you shake off the winter dullness.

Prepare your spring wardrobe

It’s difficult to pick out your wardrobe when it seems like the weather just doesn’t want to cooperate. It’s too cold to head out in just a T-shirt and flip-flops, but too warm to wear a sweater indoors. What are you supposed to do?

Here are some helpful tips.

• For starters, wear lighter scarves. This option will keep your neck warm, but not to the point where you’re feeling hot.

• You can also layer your spring clothing, so it’s

easy enough to take off a layer according to the change in temperature throughout the day. Wear a vest over a blouse or a light jacket on top of a dress shirt for a professional look.

• To transition easily between the two seasons, wear wool blends instead of wool or cotton or linen instead of silk. These materials are more breathable and lighter.

• One thing to remember is that you’ll need to dress appropriately for specific occasions. What’s the dress code at your work or do you have any special events coming up? Dress smart, but also in a manner that’s suitable to the weather. Lighter knits and dress pants are comfortable for both men and women, and knee-length skirts with tights are a good option for women.

• Keep your umbrella close at hand and consider purchasing a good raincoat that’s also lined, so you stay warm and dry. Knee-high rain boots are also a good idea, as the transition between snow, slush and rain can be quite messy.

Most importantly, enjoy the sunshine and warmer days!

How to manage the stress of looking for a job

Reframing your thoughts can help you make smarter choices

There can be little doubt that moving halfway across the world, landing in a strange place and starting a whole new life can be quite stressful.

Indeed, learning the norms and values of a new culture, not to mention a new language and unlearning old ways of thought, can also be daunting. Some come from regions that are less than stable and carry with them the anxiety of those experiences.

On top of that there’s this little matter of finding a job and that can be triggering and stressful as well. Fortunately, there are resources that can help alleviate or at least help you manage the inevitable stress that comes with the settlement process. One of these is a form of psychotherapy called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

CBT helps you to identify and reframe negative beliefs into a more positive viewpoint that can improve management of anxiety, depression and other mental health obstacles. It’s based on the concept that your thoughts, feelings and actions are all intertwined, one element affecting the other parts. By modifying your thoughts and reframing them into more realistic positive and manageable thoughts you can improve quality of life.

When job search has been prolonged or appears to be going nowhere, CBT can help to see problems through a different lens and assist you to make smarter choices, while breaking these down into smaller chunks that improve coping strategies.

According to Statistics Canada, the recent pandemic resulted in Canada losing 3.5 million jobs when it was at its peak in 2021. More than 225 million jobs were lost globally. Many of these jobs were in the service sector, which tends to be low paying at the best of times. Fortunately, Canada’s economy rebounded fairly quickly, but the loss of those jobs had an undeniable impact on workers’ collective mental health.

Harness the power of CBT techniques

There are numerous CBT techniques that can be applied to help you combat stress associated with job loss and search. One of these is a thought record that helps you challenge cognitive distortions that you may have.

Mindfulness is another technique employed, often in tandem with CBT. Mindfulness can be defined as “the basic human ability to be fully

present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.”

This may sound simplistic but think of how often our minds wander when we’re engaged in tasks. Mindfulness helps us reduce stress, gain insight and awareness by observing our own mind and increasing our attention to others’ well-being. Practicing mindfulness involves breathing methods and other practices to relax the body and mind. Learn more at mindful.org.

Cognitive restructuring is yet another technique that therapists frequently employ. This technique is used to identify unhelpful thinking patterns and changing them to become more effective. This can include seeing things more clearly or navigating a problem more skillfully.

Job search is a continuum that moves from goal setting to job maintenance. Along the way there are multiple stops, including the interview which can be nerve wracking in itself, including deciding how much information to share, what to leave out and how best to market yourself. The CBT techniques mentioned above can help you see a situation more clearly and assist you with establishing SMART goals that can

Carter

potentially lead to more favourable outcomes in your job search.

Another example where CBT can come in handy is with disclosure. Perhaps you are living with a disability and your thinking may be along the lines of, “if I tell this to an employer they will never hire me.” This is an example of something called “disordered thinking” that can be challenged and reframed into something more positive based on evidence you allow yourself to see more clearly alone or with the guidance of a therapist.

Access available resources

There are multiple resources available such as Canadian Mental Health Association’s BounceBack program that offers support to both youth and adults. Other free resources include CBT-based apps such as those offered by Mind Beacon and Anxiety Canada’s Mind Shift app.

While CBT has proven itself to be an effective, accessible, evidence-based and practical shortterm solution, it’s not a cure-all. It is however, one technique with a solid track record of success that just may prove to be helpful with some of the hiccups along the way and many barriers you may be experiencing in life, including landing that elusive job.

New to Canada?

Explore your options.

Seneca Polytechnic can help you achieve your goals, your way. We o er a variety of learning options for newcomers including:

• full-time and part-time studies

• upgrading programs

• bridging programs

• occupation-specific language training

• ESL programs

• pathways and more

Book a one-on-one advising appointment to discover your options today.

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How to improve your money mindset A roadmap for financial success

Money is that one topic that brings up feelings of anxiety and stress for most people. Money habits, and our mindset around them, play a crucial role in our financial wellbeing. Whether we realize it or not, our approach to money often shapes our financial success. From how we manage our expenses to how we view our financial goals, every decision we make has an impact on our financial future.

What does money mindset even mean?

Simply put, your money mindset refers to your beliefs, attitudes and behaviors towards money. It encompasses how you think and feel about money, as well as how you approach financial decisions and circumstances. A positive money mindset involves having empowering beliefs about money, viewing financial challenges as opportunities for growth, and developing healthy attitudes towards wealth and abundance.

Conversely, a negative mindset involves beliefs like “I’m not good with money,” “money is the root of evil,” and makes you believe you’ll never achieve financial success.

What forms our money mindset?

The short answer, everything. The long answer, our beliefs around money are shaped by a variety of factors outlined below.

• Family: The way you were raised, and how you experienced the adults around you with their money have impacted your own beliefs around money. Was money something you talked about? Did your parents fight and argue about money? Did you live in a constant state of lack when it comes to money?

• Culture: What we get told to believe based on our culture will influence our beliefs about wealth, success and financial

behavior. Different cultures have different attitudes towards not only the concept of saving, spending and investing but also whose responsibility it is to deal with finances. “The woman’s role is to tend to the family; the man takes care of the finances” is a great example of a gender-based belief you may have been raised with. Or “money is the root of evil” is another belief that may have been shared. And they’re so ingrained in our beliefs we often don’t even realize we believe them, until they are questioned.

• Education and personal experiences: Our level of education, as well as our personal experiences with money, can inform our beliefs about finances. Positive or negative experiences with money management, investing, debt or financial success can influence our attitudes towards money.

• Peer influence: The beliefs and behaviors of our peers, friends and social circles can impact our own money mindset. Peer pressure, comparison with others’ financial situations, and

social norms around spending and saving can influence our financial decisions.

How do we improve our money mindset?

Many do not even realize they have any negative beliefs. So where do you start?

Self-reflection is the first step in changing our money mindset. Take time to reflect on your current beliefs and attitudes towards money. Identify any negative or limiting beliefs you may have and work on reframing them into more positive and empowering perspectives. Challenge your beliefs by seeking evidence to the contrary and replacing them with positive affirmations that support your goals.

Once you’ve identified them, the next step is to decide what you want to change about those beliefs. Educate yourself to increase your financial literacy by reading books, attending workshops or taking courses on personal finance.

The more you understand money management, investing and wealthbuilding strategies, the more confident and empowered you will feel about your financial decisions.

Be more mindful. It is very easy to fall back into mindset traps. Stay present and mindful of your financial decisions and behaviours. As you feel those beliefs creeping in, check yourself and change that inner dialogue. Keep working on your goals because having specific goals to work towards can give you direction and motivation to stay committed to improving your financial mindset.

Money habits and mindset may seem like abstract concepts, but they have a concrete impact on your financial well-being. By nurturing healthy money habits, setting clear goals and fostering a positive money mindset, you can take control of your financial future. Remember, it’s the small changes you make today that can lead to big financial wins tomorrow.

Shalini Dharna is a CPA and Investment/Insurance Advisor at Dharna CPA Professional Corporation.

Essential Canadian tax terminology

Brush up on your lingo!

Only 14 per cent of Canadians are very confident in their understanding of taxrelated terminology finds a poll conducted by TurboTax Canada. According to the survey findings, 27 per cent of Canadians have never heard the term NETFILE.

This lack of clarity can lead to confusion and increased stress during filing season. More so for those who are new to Canada or with English as a secondary language.

Here is a list some of the key Canadian terms compiled by TurboTax Canada to help navigate the complexities of the tax season.

Balance Owing: The remainder when your payable amounts are higher than your credits and deductions. It means that you need to pay an additional amount of tax and can happen if your taxes weren’t properly deducted or accounted for throughout the year.

Carry Forward: When you have certain credits available during filing, but you don’t use them, you might be able to keep these credits and have them available on your account to claim in a later year. Tuition tax credits are a good example of this.

CRA: The Canada Revenue Agency, which is responsible for collecting taxes and providing different credits and benefits to Canadian citizens. They receive your tax claims, calculate your return, and send you a Notice of Assessment.

Credits: These are dollar-for-dollar reductions on the income tax you owe and are usually offered by the government to encourage Canadians to make financial decisions that benefit the economy or environment. Credits usually have requirements that you need to meet before they can be claimed.

Deductions: Similar to credits, deductions are amounts that add to your expenses throughout the year that can be used to reduce the amount of tax you have to pay. Some examples include childcare expenses and donations.

Dependent: A dependent is quite literally dependent on you for support at any point during the tax year. This term most often applies to children but may also refer to seniors or individuals with specific circumstances that make them dependent on you and your income.

NETFILE: A digital tax filing service that

allows you to file and send your tax return directly to the CRA. NETFILE certified software like TurboTax can give you immediate confirmation that the CRA has received your return, and you get your refund much faster as well.

Notice of Assessment: A document that is sent to you by the CRA to confirm the details of your return after it’s been assessed and contains the details of the refund you’ll be getting.

Refund: When you have more credits and deduction amounts than what you need to pay, you’ll receive a refund. This is essentially the opposite of a balance owing, as it usually happens when you’ve paid more tax throughout the year than what you owe.

Self-employment: Self-employed individuals don’t work for a company or organization directly, and usually earn income through trades, services, or a business These individuals will have different tax considerations and claims amounts to consider.

Social Insurance Number (SIN): The ninedigit number that identifies you to the CRA and is needed to be able to work in Canada. It’s also necessary if you want to receive benefits and services from the government.

Tax bracket: The different levels of income that determine how much taxes you owe. These

come in preset levels, and your income will fall into one of the brackets to outline how much taxes you owe.

Tax slip: This refers to any kind of form or a slip you receive related to your taxes. For instance, the T4 Form outlines your income and earnings. A T4A slip identifies amounts paid during the calendar year for income from many different sources including self-employed commissions and RESP educational assistance payments. A T5 tax slip identifies any interest income you’ve earned on non-registered investments.

Tax return: The general term used to refer to the set of forms and documentation you provide for filing your taxes every year. It’s usually extensive and covers all forms of income, earnings, deductions and credits that are used by the CRA to assess whether you’ll have a balance owing or a refund.

Tax year: The dates from the 1st of January to the 31st of December which you’ll use for tax purposes. You will usually file your taxes for the year prior, though in some situations you might be able to file for years that are even further back.

For individual filers, the income tax deadline is April 30, 2024. For self-employed individuals, the income tax deadline is June 17, 2024, however, if you owe taxes, you are still required to submit payment to the CRA by April 30, 2024.

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