June 2015 - Canadian Immigrant

JUNE 2015 I FREE

ARRIVE. SUCCEED. INSPIRE.

INDIAN POP STAR

FINDS A NEW VOICE IN CANADA

HOW NEWCOMER children EXPERIENCE IMMIGRATION

JUNE 15: CONNECT AT THE

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APPROVALS

UPFRONT

CONTENTS

10 | SUCCESS STORY

REGULARS

Singing a new tune

4 | OUR TAKE/YOUR TAKE

Once a pop star in India, Jasmine Bharucha has made a new life for herself as a realtor and children’s book author in Canada

6 | FUSION ›› PROFILE: Masseur to Pan-Am Games athletes ›› NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS ›› CANSPEAK: English sayings explained

19 | CAREER, EDUCATION & SETTLEMENT FAIR ›› Focus on this month’s Toronto fair on June 15

29 | BUSINESS

›› Beauty shop nirvana

32 | CULTURE

›› Community through poetry

34 | DRIVING

›› Summer wheels

37 | IMMIGRANT SETTLEMENT GUIDE 38 | BACK PAGE

13 | FAMILY

›› TOP TIPS: Advice from our Top 25 ›› HUMOUR BY HEMETERIO

Through children’s eyes

Newcomer kids experience immigration much differently than adults

35 |

16 | SUCCESS4U BOOTCAMP

›› HIGHER LEARNING: Surviving group work ›› CAREER COACH: Dress for success

Healthy connections

The final instalment of our practical print and online series for newcomers

Respond to Canada’s need for immigrants.

Become a Regulated Immigration Consultant Full-time | Part-time | Online Contact a program adviser at 604.899.0803 or email admissions@ashtoncollege.com.

604.899.0803 | 1.866.759.6006 www.ashtoncollege.com Ashton College

we build careers

June 2015

Canadian Immigrant

3

UPFRONT

our take Children are our future

VOLUME 12, ISSUE 6 JUNE 2015 Group Publishers Gautam Datt Sharma Sanjay Agnihotri Editor Margaret Jetelina mjetelina@metroland.com Senior Editor Baisakhi Roy broy@metroland.com Creative Director & Editorial Design Vanessa Dhanbeer Digital Media Developer Kamil Mytnik

If you grew up in India in the 1980s, you might remember this name from your youth: pop star Jasmine Bharucha. She became a popular songtress, touring around Asia, Africa and Europe, and even appearing on MTV. She left fame and fortune behind, however, when she fell in love with a Canadian and moved to Richmond, B.C. Here she has created a life for herself as a popular realtor, mom of two kids and now a children’s book author. Based on all the lessons she has learned throughout her life and immigration journey, she wants to teach kids about being mindful, positive and happy (see page 10).

Newcomer kids, in particular, face a lot of emotional turmoil. Our look at how children experience immigration (see page 13) is a good eye-opener for immigrant parents.

Our sixth “Success4U in Canada” Bootcamp installment follows (see page 16), and this one brings the series to an end with a focus on happy relationships and community connections. After all, success in Canada is not just about what job you have or how much money you make; it’s about ensuring you and your family are healthy and happy.

Margaret Jetelina Editor, Canadian Immigrant “LIKE” US ON

Advertising Sales Sr. Ad Manager (B.C. and Alberta) Alla Gordeeva alla@canadianimmigrant.ca Tel: 778 558 3397 Sr. Ad Manager (Toronto) Ricky (Kawaljit) Bajaj rbajaj@metroland.com Tel: 905 273 8170 National Sales Manager Varun Munjal vmunjal@metroland.com Tel: 905 273 8169 Sales Events & Marketing Coordinator Laura Jackman ljackman@metroland.com General Inquiries: info@canadianimmigrant.ca Circulation/Distribution Inquiries: ljackman@metroland.com ISSN 1910-4146

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FACEBOOK/CANIMMIGRANT.

your take A journey of words

My home country is Guyana and I immigrated to Canada in November of 2012. I came with my family; a husband and one son. Adjusting to Canada was smooth in some aspects, just quite challenging especially in terms of employment and job search. I hope that as time progress I will be able to attain the level of satisfaction that I desire. As I pass my time each day, I do reflect and pen a few lines about my thoughts and aspirations. This is reflected in the few lines below, which I believe describes the journey of many of us, but with the hope of a brighter, better future for ourselves and our families.

I just wanted to say that the content of your magazine does motivate and inspire me to reach for greater heights. I hope that my poem can be published in one of your magazines, as this will add much value and meaning to my life, and my accomplishments and in driving me for greater

successes.

A POEM: LIFE ANEW

I have packed and left the county of my birth, To come to Canada to find new worth.

I have had to start all over, and this I had to pursue, But this was not very easy, since everything was new.

But I sometimes sit and wonder, what does life really mean?

With so many people coming here to achieve their dreams.

Diversity is what I see in every corner that I turn; Trying to understand the differences only as I learn.

We look so different and speak many languages too, Always trying to fit ourselves in someone else’s shoe.

My new motto is “I respect you; you respect me,” And together we will enjoy each other’s company.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: 3145 Wolfedale Road Mississauga, Ontario, L5C 3A9 Printed on recycled paper.

Toronto Circulation 50,000 copies Vancouver Circulation 30,000 copies Calgary Circulation 3,000 copies Canadian Immigrant is published monthly and distributed free throughout Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto. Canadian Immigrant welcomes submissions, but is not responsible for unsolicited material. Canadian Immigrant is a publication of Metroland Media Group, a division of Toronto Star Newspapers Limited.

Entire contents property of Canadian Immigrant.

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June 2015

But a smile here and a smile there is enough to show we care; I guess that’s not too much for us to really have to share.

We are all in this together, searching to find success and happiness, But just knowing and understanding this will somehow ease the stress.

We often ask the question from which land did you come?

To meet here together, where we all have become one.

We all reflect and talk about “back facebook/canimmigrant

@canimmigrant

Immigration matters couldmatters be tricky Immigration could be tricky UPFRONT

Reach an Expertan Exper t Reach

home” so often, But we now have to look forward and build our own mountain.

Immigration matters could be tricky

I have heard the talk of stepping backwards to move forward; But I now understand its meaning and now look forward to my reward.

Reach an Expert

Be Job-Ready in 5-12 Months

Remember Rome was not built in a day and I am sure that you will all agree.

Success come from hard work and sacrifice, this in the only guarantee.

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Neera Agnihotri

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June 2015

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fusion news. people. events.

PROFILE

OSVALDO BOLANOS MEDINA ATHLETIC DREAMS

W

hen Osvaldo Bolanos Medina came to Canada from Cuba in 2008 with a master’s of physical education and kinesiology, he hoped to continue to work with athletes; he had taught science and physical education at his local high school in Cuba.

But instead he ended up working at a cookie factory. After three years, he had enough, and decided to go back to school to become a massage therapist, a

Osvaldo Bolanos Medina is using his massage therapy skills to help Pan-Am athletes.

field related to his educational background. He often works with athletes at the Honsberger Physiotherapy and Biomechanics Clinic in Markham, Ontario.

Now he is preparing to volunteer on the medical team for the Pan-Am Games, being held in

Toronto, July 10-26, and living the dream he thought he had left behind in Cuba.

Lots of people come to Canada with a lot of education from their home country, and they can get frustrated if they can’t just do what they were doing before.

It was expensive, but I knew I would be happier.

Yes. I think it will be the biggest event Canada will ever host. I wanted to meet a lot of different people from a lot of different backgrounds, and be able to share treatment knowledge with them.

The fact that I can work with athletes is an amazing benefit of the Pan-Am Games, that’s where my background is and where I am the most happy and comfortable.

Of course, I am looking forward to just experiencing the event, but I am most looking forward to the opportunity to use my skills, and be a part of a medical team where we can work together to treat the athlete the best way possible.

What advice would you have for immigrants considering further education in Canada?

Why is the medical team an important part of the Pan-Am Games?

Why do you like working with athletes?

What do you wish someone had told you when you first arrived in Canada?

What was your biggest challenge when coming to Canada?

Language was the first and most obvious challenge, but when you’re in a new country, everything is new and it can be scary starting a new career in a new country.

Why did you decide to go back to school?

I think they should just go for it.

I understand how people can get frustrated, but Canada offered you an amazing opportunity, so it’s important to take it.

It’s amazing the feeling you can get when you’ve helped an athlete and they’re able to go back on the field and continue playing because of your help. I am very happy now that I get to do what I love.

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June 2015

And now you’re volunteering for the Pan-Am Games to help the athletes competing?

The athletes at the Pan-Am Games might come from countries that are not able to send a medical team. It’s great for Canada to be able to provide this help for them.

A lot of immigrants might be stuck in jobs they don’t want because they’re afraid to make a new start, and it’s important to not be afraid to do what you want to do. Change is good.

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FUSION

CANSPEAK English can be a confusing language, and not just because of all the slang and proverbs. Here are a few common word errors you may be wondering about.

Yukon >> The Yukon territory has outlined a new express entry stream for its provincial nominee program, which is employer driven like the federal express entry stream.

Manitoba >> The Province of Manitoba has reopened its skilled worker overseas stream. It is now based on an expression of interest approach, in order to process those with the skills needed in Manitoba’s labour market faster.

Ontario >> A coalition of multicultural community leaders came together to voice their concerns over Rogers Media’s dismantling of Omni TV. The Canadian Ethnocultural Council, Urban Alliance on Race Relations, Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants and Chinese Canadian National Council – Toronto Chapter held a press conference in May on the situation, calling it a “dark time” for multiculturalism in Canada.

Nova Scotia >> The Province of Nova Scotia has announced details of a new immigration stream under its provincial nominee program called Nova Scotia experience: express entry. It follows the introduction of the Nova Scotia demand: express entry stream in January. The programs aim to select and fast tracks newcomers who have experience working or studying in Nova Scotia.

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Every day vs. Everyday If you do something each day, like sleep or eat, you do it “every day.”

When something is ordinary or common, you can use the adjective “everyday.”

Accept vs. Except When you “accept” something, you agree to it, e.g., “I accept your proposal.”

Use the word “except” to point out when something is excluded, such as “I exercise every day except Friday.”

Beside vs. Besides When you are “beside” something, you are next to it.

Use “besides” to express “in addition to,” e.g., “I speak three languages besides English.”

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Who’s that Once a pop star in India, Jasmine Bharucha has made a new life for herself as a realtor and children’s book author in Canada spreading the message of mindfulness — and she still sings, too

BY JANET NICOL PHOTOS BY SANDRA MINARIK

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SUCCESS STORY

I

t’s not unusual for Richmond, B.C.based realtor Jasmine Bharucha to get recognized on the streets of Metro Vancouver, but not from her smiling Re/Max posters. If you’re a member of the South Asian community, you may remember her as one of India’s reigning pop stars; until she left singing stardom in 1992 to immigrate to Canada for love.

Today a wife, mother, realtor and author, Bharucha has successfully adapted to her new country, and is now using the lessons of her life journey to write a children’s book that teaches mindfulness.

Recalling her own youth in India, she says, “There had been an explosion of the West’s pop culture. [But] women entertainers were not looked upon highly. As a pop star, I stretched the opportunities for women in India. I toured all over Africa, Europe and Asia.”

Bharucha began singing on stage at the age of 16 and was eventually scouted by Warner Brothers in Mumbai. She appeared on MTV Asia in 1990, the first Indian performer to perform on the American-based show. A year later, Warner released her debut CD, Alien Desire, which included the hit single “Alone Now.” Bharucha was featured in Rolling Stone magazine, Time magazine and nominated at the Channel V Music Awards in Asia.

“I worked hard,” Bharucha says about that time in her life. “There were lots of highs — and lows. Being a pop star sets you up and what goes up, must come down. The downs are bad.”

Bharucha had also completed postsecondary studies in interior design and began apprenticing at Talati and Panthaky Architects, a well-known firm in Mumbai.

Her life took another turn after meeting her future husband while on holiday. He happened to live in Canada. They married and she immigrated to Vancouver.

Bharucha is philosophical about leaving fame and familiarity behind. “Everything is a wave,” she says. But she did face disappointment, as she scrambled to find work in a new country. “I didn’t have Canadian experience. My qualifications as a designer weren’t recognized here.”

Bharucha’s first job was at a shopping mall, working at minimum wage. Then she got retail work at the Vancouver airport, a job she enjoyed very much. “I met people from all over the world,” she says.

After taking more interior design courses at British Columbia Institute of Technology, Bharucha realized jobs in her field were scarce and only found limited work. “I switched to real estate just as the market in Vancouver exploded,” Bharucha says. “I worked hard. I was driven to succeed.”

It was also at this time that her first daughter was born. Bharucha later had a son, completing the family. Her children

were in school and her real estate career was flourishing when she began to reflect on her life and wondered what else she could offer.

Always curious about life’s big questions — such as “why is there poverty?” — from the time she was a child growing up in Mumbai, Bharucha began searching for answers through the study of religion and, later, psychology. Her own faith, Zarathustraism, is a religion with origins in ancient Iran. “It was the religion of Freddie Mercury,” (of British rock band Queen fame) she informs me. Bharucha grew up appreciating Indian religions as well, including Hinduism and Buddhism.

There were lots of highs — and lows. Being a pop star sets you up and what goes up, must come down.”

“I began to look at ways to combine the powerful spirituality of India with the West’s practice in psychology,” she says. The result is a children’s book entitled: Who Am I: An Interactive Guide to Self-Discovery for Kids and Parents. She offers simple yet powerful ideas aimed at enhancing young people’s mental and emotional wellbeing. She also suggests basic breathing and journalling exercises, which adults can benefit from, too.

“Your thoughts are important,” Bharucha says. “If you have a feeling of fear and not being good enough, you become separated.

When you go in for a job interview, for example, this will be perceived.”

Connection — to self and others — is a key concept Bharucha believes in. “Nothing is separated. We are all connected. We are all one,” she writes in her book and on the opposite page is a colourful illustration of children and animals encircling the globe.

“We get caught up in separation,” Bharucha June 2015

Canadian Immigrant

11

SUCCESS STORY

Jasmine Bharucha wants to spread a message of positivity and mindfulness.

says, adding that this can lead to depression and feeling like a victim, which welcomes more negativity, including bullying from others. “Depression can be addictive,” she observes.

“Happiness is the destination.”

So, if we are feeling rejected, Bharucha suggests we do some work on ourselves.

As she writes in her book: “It is a great opportunity to connect inside ourselves, and see where we reject ourselves … Journalling from the heart allows the trapped part (of our feelings) to show up.” A child can reflect on their feelings, such as anger, sadness or anxiety.

“If the wounded parts of us are not healed, we pass them on.”

Bharucha calls on parents and teachers to incorporate mindfulness activities into their daily routines. It is a practice supported by many spiritual and educational leaders who believe self-discovery and introspection can positively impact youth. Bharucha points to the Dalai Lama’s visit to Vancouver schools in 2014.

Bharucha also recommends newcomers to Canada get involved. Mothers can join a school’s parent-teacher group or visit a community centre. Learning the English language is essential, too, Bharucha believes. “Go to a spiritual place,” she suggests, “or volunteer your time.” She says the airport has “green coat” volunteers who help travellers find their way around the maze of terminals. “Take baby steps. Even if it’s two steps forward, and one step back.”

Bharucha’s book — the first in a series she plans to write on the topic of mindfulness — has received praise from educators, parents and the highly regarded Vancouver medical doctor and author, Gabor Mate. As quoted on the publisher’s website, Dr. Mate writes: “Who Am I? connects children with the universe while guiding them on the path most worth travelling for all of us, the mindful journey into ourselves.”

Bharucha has been speaking to school groups about her book. She also offers a mentorship program, training teens on the practice of mindfulness, who in turn share their knowledge with elementary school students.

Despite her newfound purpose, Bharucha also still finds time to sing and write songs, sometimes performing for local charities like Cops for Cancer. In fact, she has a new album coming out, with songs reflecting the philosophy found in her children’s book. “I want people to feel good,” Bharucha says, “and to connect.”

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FAMILY

Newcomer kids experience immigration much differently than adults

M

By Lisa Evans

oving to a new country can be an overwhelming experience for anyone, but it can be especially tough on children. While immigrant parents may be enthusiastic about the many new open doors Canada can provide for their offspring, this excitement can overshadow the mental and emotional toll immigration takes on children. In a nutshell, newcomer children often struggle with feelings of loneliness as they miss their friends and extended family back home, and may feel pressured to juggle traditional values and customs of parents with the Canadian practices of their peers.

Although it’s been frequently assumed that the needs of newcomer children can be met through programs and services directed toward their parents, researchers are recognizing that children may require more tailored supports.

How kids experience immigration

Judith Colbert, author of Welcoming Newcomer Children, says children experience immigration differently than their parents, especially if children aren’t involved in the discussion of immigrating to a new country. “If you’re a young child, you might not know your parents’ plans. You’re brought to a new environment possibly with little preparation,” she says. Indeed, children may feel powerless on a journey they didn’t even want to take.

While parents often struggle with feelings of isolation and anxiety after immigrating, children have their own set of emotional struggles.

When Colbert interviewed a group of grade schoolers about their experience in Canada, she expected to hear about how wonderful they felt having access to all that Canada provides, but the answers she received surprised her. “They were telling me how sad it was. They missed their grandparents. They missed their friends. It showed me that these children have feelings that are very deep and maybe don’t reach the surface all that often,” says Colbert.

Monica Valencia, a knowledge exchange officer at CERIS (Centre of Excellence for Research on Immigration and Settlement), wanted to study the emotional toll immigration takes on youth. She gave a group of 10 students (aged nine to 11), who had immigrated to Canada from Latin American countries within the last five years, crayons and paper and asked them to draw pictures illustrating what was most significant to them about their move to Canada. The pictures showed children’s emotional struggles as a result of their immigration. Sadness over separation from grandparents and extended family, anxiety over constant uprooting caused by moving several times within Canada, and frustration over learning a new language, were among the top challenges the children identified.

Valencia’s study titled Yo Cuento: Latin American Children Tell Their Stories echoes Colbert’s findings that immigrant children are often not given an outlet to express their emotions about their uprooting. Valencia was surprised to find that the biggest concern for the newcomer children she interviewed was missing their grandmothers.

“Some of them told me they used to cry at night thinking my grandmother is going to die and I’m not going to be able to see her again,” says Valencia. “One child said he liked his home country better than Canada because his extended family was there and here he was just with his nuclear family.”

While most of the literature and studies on newcomer children tend to focus on academic outcomes and language acquisition, Valencia’s study is one of few that examine how immigration is felt by children.

“We worry about them learning English and we want them to get good grades and get a good job, but there’s less emphasis on how they feel,” says Valencia. Ignoring the emotional toll immigration can take on children can have negative consequences on their emotional and mental health as these children age into adulthood.

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FAMILY Dealing with emotions

While many settlement agencies direct supports to parents alone, those that do have programs directed at children often focus on language acquisition and homework help, ignoring children’s emotional needs. “It’s easier to develop a program that will help you develop your language skills, but it’s harder to develop a program that will help you feel better,” says Valencia.

So dealing with emotional needs resulting from immigration falls on the shoulders of parents. This is problematic, Colbert says, since parents are often overwhelmed by their own immigration issues — including settlement, dealing with past trauma and getting a job in Canada — that they aren’t able to deal with children’s settlement issues as well. Colbert argues settlement programs can help newcomer children by changing the focus from human capital (skills such as language acquisition and language achievement) to social capital (learning how to build relationships, make networks, get along with others and make friends). Sports groups and hobby clubs that allow children to interact with the larger community and improve their social interactions can be particularly helpful for children.

What parents can do

Parents, of course, should still play an important role in addressing the settlement challenges of their children. Asking children how they feel, what they miss from their home country, and what issues they’re having adjusting to life in Canada is the best way to understand children’s emotional state, says Valencia, who immigrated from Colombia to the United States at the age of 11 before coming to Canada. “Being really aware of their emotional state informs parents because sometimes from the outside it looks like they’re doing OK — getting good grades and speaking the language — but you don’t know [how they might be struggling],” she says.

Explaining the changes that are taking place can also help children

overcome their fears and insecurities. In Valencia’s study, one young girl, who struggled with being separated from her grandmother after her family’s move to Canada, said she was reassured when her parents explained that she was going to see her grandmother again and when.

Encouraging children to keep in close contact with extended families through regular phone calls, Skype or social media can also help to fight feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Dealing with cultural confusion can also upset children’s transition to life in Canada. While at school, newcomer children are forced to live in the Canadian culture of their peers, when they go home they’re thrust back into the culture and language of their home country.

Colbert encourages parents to recognize that settlement is a balance between the old and new. “It’s important for parents to be open to new ways of doing things,” she says. Eating with chopsticks while at home, but sending a fork in the child’s lunchbox, is one simple example.

Supporting newcomer children

The number of immigrant children in Canada is steadily rising. In large metropolitan centres such as Toronto, Vancouver or Calgary, the percentage of immigrant children in Canadian schools can reach up to 25 per cent. Valencia says schools can do a lot to support newcomer children by encouraging them to work together. In her study, children reported they often helped each other by translating for other newcomer students or helping them understand the Canadian system.

These informal peer support groups can be encouraged in classrooms and formalized to encourage all newcomer children to act as mentors for each other.

Immigrant children will play a key role in Canada’s economic and social landscape in the coming years. To ensure a thriving generation of young Canadians, settlement services, parents and schools must all come together to recognize the unique emotional and settlement needs of newcomer children.

Michaëlle Jean 2009 Winner

Yasuko Tanaka 2010 Winner

Guilherme Dias 2011 Winner

Commodore Hans Jung 2012 Winner

Zahra Al-Harazi 2013 Winner

Gentil Misigaro 2014 Winner

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTES Participation in the seventh annual RBC Top 25 awards has been overwhelming and we received a record number of votes from across Canada.

Thank you for voting and making this awards program a huge success.

Winners will be announced on Tuesday, June 23, 2015 and also featured in the July special issue of Canadian Immigrant magazine.

Title sponsor:

Presented by:

Associate sponsor:

Media sponsors:

Be sure to visit Canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25 to see the winners and read their incredible stories.

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Healthy connections

Part 6 of our ‘Success4U in Canada Bootcamp’ on relationships and community is the final exercise in the holistic journey to success

By Margaret Jetelina

S

o far, our “Success4U in Canada” Bootcamp series has covered foundational basics, soft skills, career planning, education needs, and emotional and physical health. (See our first five bootcamp installments at canadianimmigrant. ca under “Community>Bootcamp.”)

The final steps in creating a full life in Canada are building strong relationships and community connections. After all, without people to share them with, any successes you achieve might feel rather hollow.

Part 6: Relationships and community

When asked why you came to Canada, you might answer “For my family,” but, when faced with so many challenges as an immigrant, it wouldn’t be surprising if your focus

on succeeding in Canada takes you away from them. You might start feeling disconnected from your kids and face conflict in your marriage as you overcome obstacles. And, without a supportive network of friends in Canada yet, you could begin to feel isolated, homesick and alone.

Let’s prevent this scenario by building up a strong support system for your life and career, in these three relationship categories: 1. Family 2. Friendships 3. Professional connections

1. Family

Family comes first for most people, which is why it takes top spot in this discussion. If you truly came to Canada to give your family a better

life, don’t forget that. More important than where you live or what you do, your family will be happiest if your bond stays strong throughout your journey.

With your spouse, that means ensuring open lines of communication, intimacy, respect and support during the stress of settling into Canada.

That’s what Dr. Faizal Sahukhan, a registered counsellor who has written an advice column for Canadian Immigrant called “Dear Faizal,” has advised our readers for years. “I notice many types of changes in marriages and couple relationships as a result of immigration,” he says.

“They should share the new things they experienced, the challenges they faced and how they overcame them. By each partner openly sharing their experiences with the other,

both partners grow as a couple. In this way, husband and wife remain committed to their relationship.”

And, when you’re a strong couple, you can then be better parents to your children. As discussed in the article “Through children’s eyes” (see page 13), child immigrants face a unique emotional toll during the immigration journey, and parents often don’t support them effectively through the settlement process. It’s important for parents to not only listen to their children’s worries, but also be open-minded to the differing viewpoints their children bring home.

Cheryl Song, our resident “Parenting” columnist, stresses the importance of quality family time. “Having a good relationship between children and parents can play a crucial role in

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enhancing a positive, loving and respectful family atmosphere. That involves taking time to nurture your relationship with your children and spending quality time with each other.”

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While many of the people you meet aren’t necessarily best friend material, don’t ignore the importance of putting yourself out there and networking for professional reasons, too. You never know who lives in your neighbourhood or attends your yoga class — someone in your field of work who can become a mentor or maybe even someone in a position to hire!

Our “Job Search Strategies” columnist Silvia Di Blasio points out: “You have to network all the time! The way you behave and dress, the places you go and who you decide to talk to (and how you talk to them and about what) all count.

“Being new to the country, you never know who that person is who is in front of you in the bank line, so be kind, open and professional all the time.”

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If you’re lucky enough to have extended family members in Canada as well, you have an immediate support network and important feelings of connection. If not, building a new network of friends is an important way to feel connected to your new home — a sense of belonging to the larger community. Here are a few ways to start building those new relationships: • Connect with people from your country of origin; your similar culture and experiences are easy conversation starters and a friendship may blossom.

Or talking with other newcomers even if outside your ethnicity can easily create a connection.

• Talk to your neighbours. It’s a good idea to know who you live next to!

• Meet people at your kids’ school. Join the parent advisory council, volunteer for school hot lunches or just talk to other parents as you wait to pick up your children.

• Attend community programs and classes, from fitness to ESL to arts. You’ll meet people with similar interests as yours.

• You can also volunteer for a variety of community organizations and causes, where you will meet new people.

• If you’re religious, places of worship are often welcoming places to meet people of similar faith.

• In this day and age, we can’t ignore social media. The Meetup.com website is perhaps the best platform for meeting new people with similar interests.

Facebook also has lots of specialized interest groups, such as local mom’s groups, where you can talk to and meet others.

Meeting people is easy, but building strong relationships and a sense of community takes time. Don’t be shy to reach out and invite someone out for a coffee or walk!

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On the job hunt

8 proven tips on approaching careers fairs successfully

W

By Murali Murthy

hether you’re fresh out of college, a new immigrant or a seasoned pro in between jobs, a visit to a career fair is an integral part of your job search strategy. It will help you network with recruiters and potential employers, make positive first impressions, and learn about the companies that you may wish to work for.

At the same time, it’s important to know how to approach a fair — i.e., organizing your day, developing a strategy and working the plan diligently as soon as you arrive at the venue. The right approach can mean the difference between setting up a second interview and leaving empty-handed.

Here are eight proven career fair strategies to improve your odds in getting you closer to a job.

1. Do your homework beforehand. Look up participating companies and research those that interest you, so you can be well prepared to engage in conversation when you do visit their booths. With your prior research, you can even impress the company’s representatives with the initiative you took to research their mission, purpose and clients served.

2. Carry a portfolio with extra copies of your resumé. Bring multiple copies of your resumé to the fair as you may come across opportunities to leverage multiple interests or job objectives. These days, HR managers also stress the importance of a career portfolio — that includes copies of your resumé, a list of references and samples of your best work.

3. Dress sharp. Image and first impressions are critical. Think of the career fair as a mock job interview and dress accordingly. Professional,

business attire in neutral colours is safest. (See my column on page 36.)

4. Don’t forget the three Es — eye contact, enthusiasm and eagerness. Demonstrate your interest with a firm handshake, a warm smile and good conversation with the company representative.

5. Practise your elevator pitch. On the big day, you may only have two to three minutes to market yourself brilliantly. To make the most of your time, develop a one-minute elevator pitch that highlights who you are, what your goals are and what you have to offer. Before the fair, draft out your speech, practise and perfect it.

6. Network with everyone. Fairs are all about networking and building relationships. Of course, you want to network with the recruiters and hiring managers, but also remember to network with your fellow jobseekers. You can discuss job leads, sharing information about companies, contacts, their job hunt strategies and helpful hints.

7. Ensure no dead-ends in conversations. When wrapping up your conversations with each representative, show your interest and enthusiasm by asking about next steps; including submitting an online application, the recruiting process, future opportunities and a timeline.

8. Follow up with all key recruiters. It is important to take the time to follow-up with your job fair contacts and interviewers. A simple but effective way is to write a thank-you note within 24 hours and thank the recruiter for his or her time, remind them where you met, restate your interest and qualifications for the position, and state your interest in a second interview.

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Don’t miss the Toronto Career, Education & Settlement Fair The fifth annual Career, Education & Settlement Fair is back in Toronto, June 15, 2015, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Presented by Scotiabank in association with Centennial College, and with major sponsors British Council-IELTS, MEDISYS, IDPIELTS, York University and CPA Ontario, the day-long event will feature interactive activities, workshops and loads of information on succeeding in Canada.

Whether you’re looking for work or starting a business, Job Skills can guide you to success!

Here’s what you can expect at the fair: • A full tradeshow of exhibitors including immigrant service providers, educational institutes, recruitment agencies and employers.

• A resumé clinic where you can seek feedback (so don’t forget to bring your resumé to the fair!)

• A speed mentoring activity organized by ACCES Employment.

• An extensive speakers’ program with a variety of inspirational presentations on topics from careers to business to finances.

• Information on post-secondary institutes and programs from a variety of professions and fields.

• Information on settlement agencies in the Toronto-area where you can seek assistance on everything from learning English to family counselling.

• Opportunity to submit your resumé to employers hiring at the fair.

• Loads of networking opportunities!

Programs & Services include: Employment Ontario Employment Services Bridge to HR - A Bridge Training program for internationally-trained HR professionals Job Find Club - Helping Internationally Trained individual find a job!

Self-Employment Pathways for Newcomers Job Search Workshops & Employment Supports at Welcome Centre Immigrant Services in York Region

...and much more!

Services provided at no cost to eligible individuals

Locations throughout the GTA! Visit www.jobskills.org or call 1-866-592-6278 for more information

HARNESS YOUR INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE. ABOUT SCMAO CONSIDER A DYNAMIC CAREER IN STRATEGIC SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT. Did you know that supply chain management professionals oversee the critical flow of goods, services, finance and information? These in-demand professionals work with suppliers and vendors across town and around the world, generating opportunities for innovation and cost savings.

Today, progressive companies need Supply Chain Management Professionals more than ever to deliver a competitive edge.

SCMAO is the premier association for Ontario professionals in supply chain management. Along with our national and provincial partners, SCMAO delivers the most extensive range of leadership and skills development programs and educational offerings available, including the internationally recognized CSCMP designation—the highest achievement in the profession.

Enroll in any of our seminars and courses today and become job-ready in no time.

For more information, visit us online at scmao.ca and choose Education & Accreditation.

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THIS AD PREPARED BY: PUBLICATION: FILE NAME:

RYAN EDWARDS METROLAND | CANADIAN IMMIGRANT SCAMO_CANADIANIMMIGRANT

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Amazing career stories begin at Scotiabank.

Scotiabank is proud to present the Canadian Immigrant 2015 – Career, Education and Settlement Fair.

We have a strong sense of community, this is why we support and partner with with various organizations to include newcomers into the Canadian work force.

Explore our sponsored opportunities: • take sector specific pre-employment training at ACCES Employment • get career advice by Scotiabankers through TRIEC’s The Mentoring Partnership program • network and connect to meaningful employment through TRIEC’s Professional Immigrant Networks To learn more about Scotiabank and to start your amazing career visit: scotiabank.com/newcomers

Best Workplaces 2015 Canada ®

Registered trademark of the Bank of Nova Scotia.

Career, Education & Settlement Fair Speakers’ Program 2015 Pre-register for the speakers’ sessions to be held on June 15 at the Career, Education & Settlement Fair in Toronto at canadianimmigrant.ca/ careerfair/toronto/sessions.

Welcoming Remarks

Islay McGlynn, Scotiabank senior vice president, employee experience, global human resources.

KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: Find Your Startup Success Speakers: Hussain H. Bandukwala and Shabbir Evershine

Thinking of entrepreneurship? Hussain H. Bandukwala and Shabbir Evershine, co-founders of LocaWoka, a neighbourhoodbased app that allows you to hire out your chores to local people around you, will share their journey starting a business in the competitive technology sector and offer up their tips on business success in any field.

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Immigration Medicals Searching for an Immigration Medical provider?

You have already faced many important decisions.

At Medisys, we’re here to make this one easy.

Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal Medisys has a team of certified immigration medical physicians who can conduct immigration medicals and any medical procedures required for your immigration category. Exams typically take only 30 to 90 minutes and we will provide you with clear answers to any questions you may have. With Medisys, you can expect a fully certified, comfortable and convenient immigration medical.

Expertise, care & support 1-800-361-3493 info@medisys.ca

Pursuing a Career – Why College?

Speaker: Ashley Evans

Centennial College assists internationally trained individuals, as well as all prospective students, in planning their post-secondary education, choosing the appropriate college and program, and navigating the application, admission and other processes. This session will provide information on Centennial College and why internationally trained individuals should pursue a college education to support their international education credentials.

Centennial College’s recruitment representative Ashley Evans is vastly knowledgeable in post-secondary education, pathways for internationally trained individuals, mature students and those looking to retrain and pursue a new career.

15 Proven LinkedIn Tips for Career Success Speaker: Murali Murthy

Did you know that your LinkedIn profile is one of the first things that recruiters see when they look you up on Google? What impression is your current profile conveying to potential recruiters and employers?

Now take control of your online professional identity. With a refurbished LinkedIn profile, you can: • enhance your credentials, skills, experience and career information • explore new opportunities and offer your job candidacy • connect effectively with industry experts • get recommendations to make your profile more trustful • follow hiring information for your interesting companies • grow your network of contacts Attend author, speaker and career coach Murali Murthy’s engaging session where he will share 15 step-by-step actions to take your LinkedIn presence from OK to extraordinary.

Winning Ways – The Formula for Your Job Search Success Speaker: Sujay Vardhmane

This is an inspirational workshop designed to help new Canadians achieve success. Sujay Vardhmane, senior manager, global employment strategies, at Scotiabank, is passionate about helping other immigrants integrate, especially in the employment front, using best job search strategies. He believes that only when a new Canadian’s full potential is utilized in employment that Canada truly benefits from their immigration. It is this belief that is at the heart of Winning Ways workshop.

Canadian Citizenship – Your Citizenship Speaker: Judge Nancy Siew

This presentation by a citizenship judge will help you understand the rights of Canadian citizenship and its historical evolution. Judge Nancy Siew will offer information on who can apply, practical tips on the application process and attaining citizenship, and the citizenship ceremony.

Learn More About the CPA Designation Speaker: Carmen Jacques

Join Carmen Jacques, CPA, CGA, student recruitment manager from the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario to learn more about the accounting profession in Ontario; how to become a chartered professional accountant (CPA); and the opportunity to build the career you want when you achieve an accounting designation.

Jacques is your link to the designation that will advance your knowledge, broaden your prospects and enhance your reputation — the CPA designation.

Financial Literacy for Newcomers Speaker: Chad Liu

Chad Liu, a senior financial adviser with Scotiabank, will be speaking on financial literacy for newcomers, from banking to building a credit history to an overview of the StartRight Program.

14-week labour market access program 8-week in-class training + 6-week work placement

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The Employer Services Network (ESN) is a single point of contact for employers to access expert HR resources across a network of 11 member organizations. Because the ESN is funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, there is no cost to you!

The Employer Services Network is a project of CASIP (Consortium of Agencies Serving Internationally-trained Persons).

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Contact us today to learn more:

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info@casip.ca • www.casip.ca

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Toronto fair SPONSORS AND EXHIBITORS (as of May 19) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Academy of Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences (AAPS) ACCES Employment Automotive Training Centres British Council IELTS Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine Canadian Securities Institute Career Connections Council of Agencies Serving Internationally Trained Persons Centennial College College Boreal CPA Ontario Elections Ontario TDSB – Enhanced Language Training EPIC Global Experience Ontario IDP-IELTS Investors Group Job Skills Maid Right of Oakville Medisys Micro Skills Niagara College TDSB – Newcomer Services Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI) Osgoode Professional Development-York University Primerica Canada Residence & Conference Centres Rudkins Small Business Solutions The Chang School – Ryerson University Scotiabank Supply Chain Management Association of Ontario (SCMAO) Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Services Toronto Police Service Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC) York University – Bridging Program for Internationally Educated Professionals • Media: Metro, Toronto Star, Radio Awaaz The Voice

Canadian Immigrant magazine will be hosting fairs in three other cities this year: » Halifax (Sept. 8, World Trade and Convention Centre) » Calgary (Oct. 15, Telus Convention Centre) » Vancouver (Nov. 16, Vancouver Public Library) Planning is currently underway for all four fairs.

We are seeking sponsors, exhibitors and speakers.

Alla Gordeeva Vancouver (Nov. 16) /Calgary (Oct. 15) alla@canadianimmigrant.ca / 778-558-3397 Ricky Bajaj Toronto (June 15)/Halifax (Sept. 8) rbjaj@metroland.com / 905-273-8170 See canadianimmigrant.ca/careerfair.

UNIQUE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY We are: One of the largest marketers of financial products in North America, looking for people who want to succeed.

We offer: An excellent educational system to teach you our business, a comprehensive support network and competitive products that are highly desirable to most consumers.

Candidate should: Desire the potential for an excellent income, be committed to working hard and possess a strong desire to success.

For more information, contact Eric Lai 416.725.8123

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PROFESSIONAL BRIDGING PROGRAMS FOR NEW CANADIANS

OSGOODE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT YORK UNIVERSITY Are you new to Canada and professionally skilled in Business, IT or HR? Our Internationally Educated Professionals Bridging Program can help you position yourself for a career that matches your credentials and experience.

OsgoodePD offers the broadest range of programs available in Canada for internationally-trained lawyers or law graduates. Whether you are looking to specialize with a professional graduate degree or start the process of qualifying to practise common law in Canada, there’s a learning option to suit your needs.

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Register for an info session webinar or visit our website for further details. www.osgoodepd.ca/intl admissions-opd@osgoode.yorku.ca 416 673 4670

Are you a Newcomer 5 Years or over in Canada? • Are you not satisfied with your present job? • Are you thinking of a career change?

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CONNECT WITH EMPLOYERS! NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES DON’T FORGET YOUR RESUMÉ & BUSINESS CARDS!

REGISTER ONLINE NOW: canadianimmigrant.ca/careerfair For inquiries call Ricky Bajaj: 416.856.6304 or rbajaj@metroland.com

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OITLD 2015

Osgoode’s Internationally Trained Lawyers Day Join us to celebrate international legal talent and the launch of OsgoodePD’s new Online NCA Exam Prep Bridging Program OsgoodePD Downtown Conference Centre 1 Dundas Street W., 26th Floor, Toronto

June 22, 2015

Workshop for Internationally Trained Lawyers 1:30 - 5:00pm Benefit from information sessions and panel discussions on a range of topics helpful for your legal career, including: • The NCA and Lawyer Licensing Process • Articling and The Law Practice Program • Career Opportunities for Internationally Trained Lawyers

Networking Reception 5:30 - 7:30pm Enjoy an evening of networking and exchanging ideas with Toronto’s diverse legal community.

LAUNCH & DEMONSTRATION

KEYNOTE ADDRESS - 6pm “Valuing International Legal Perspectives” The Hon. Justice Russell Juriansz Court of Appeal for Ontario

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BUSINESS

Deepa Bajaj with her staff at Nirvana Hair Salon and Spa.

Beauty shop

Deepa Bajaj raises eyebrows with an ancient Indian beauty technique

By Lisa Evans

D

eepa Bajaj has always loved to make women look beautiful.

The Indian-born esthetician is now raising eyebrows across the Greater Toronto Area with her ancient Indian beauty technique called threading.

The owner of the beauty chain Nirvana Hair Salon and Spa clearly recalls when she realized she wanted to make a career in the beauty industry. As a teenager, Bajaj visited salons in Punjab, India, where she was born and raised, with her mom. “All the time, there was a lineup outside,” she says. The women inside were getting their eyebrows threaded — a shaping technique commonly used in India.

“In a matter of minutes and with what looked like hands and arms and a spool of thread dancing to some peculiar rhythm, each woman

would get up with amazing looking eyebrows,” she notes. It was these experiences in Indian salons that led Bajaj to enroll in the prestigious VLCC Academy of Health and Beauty Management in New Delhi.

When Bajaj arrived in Canada in 2004, she was once again drawn toward the beauty industry, but was surprised to find that the technique of eyebrow threading was nowhere to be found in Canadian salons. The only eyebrow shaping service was waxing. “In India, everyone does hair threading. They don’t know that somebody can do waxing on eyebrows,” she says.

She found a job in a local salon, pursued her hairstyling licence and later went to Humber College to study makeup artistry and esthetics while working part time. With the encouragement of her customers,

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who were enamored with her eyebrow threading technique, Bajaj opened her first salon in Woodbridge, Ontario, in 2008.

Bajaj is now considered a leader in the GTA in the art of brow shaping through threading.

In threading, a thin thread is twisted and then rolled over areas of unwanted hair, removing the hair at the follicle (the root of the hair). Threading has a number of advantages over popular Western Bajaj showing her salon skills. methods of eyebrow hair removal such as tweezing and waxing; unlike tweezing, where single hairs are pulled one at a time, threading allows several

hairs to be removed at the same time. Threading also provides more precise shaping and definition and is gentler on the skin than waxing. “Waxing rips off your skin and sometimes gives you a bruise or leaves marks,” says Bajaj. Over time, waxing also causes skin to lose its elasticity and can make eyes appear droopy. “With the thread, because we’re just pulling your hair, it doesn’t harm your skin.”

Bajaj also offers waxing in her studio, although she says threading is her best-selling service. In fact, Bajaj’s threading services are highly sought after; her Woodbridge salon attracts clients from all over Vaughan, Richmond Hill and even as far as Brantford and Barrie.

She has even begun to teach the technique to other estheticians at her own Nirvana Academy, offering a four-part course in facial and eyebrow threading.

Her success has allowed Bajaj to expand her business. She opened a second Nirvana Salon and Spa location in Etobicoke in 2010 and now has plans to expand to Brampton and Kleinberg in the coming years.

In addition to eyebrow shaping, her salons cater to a range of beauty needs including hairstyling, haircuts, colour, manicures, pedicures, spa services including massage treatments, Ayurveda (a traditional Indian massage technique that rids the skin, joints and muscles of toxins), facials, make-up applications and wedding preparation including bridal makeup, dupatta (a scarf worn by South Asian women to formal events), veil and jewelry settings.

Bajaj credits her salon expansion success with providing quality service and allowing her passion for making women look beautiful lead her career. “I love seeing women getting services and after they look amazing, they feel more confident, more proud from the inside.

They feel special. That makes me feel good that I can give them that happiness and see that satisfaction on their face,” says Bajaj.

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CULTURE

Power of poetry

Iranian-born poet Bänoo Zan creates community through literature

By Jeannine M. Pitas

I

ranian-born poet Bänoo Zan never imagined that she would immigrate to Canada. After several decades as a university-level English teacher and literary critic in her native city of Babol, Iran, Zan’s decision to move was sparked by her sister, who herself applied to come to Canada. “It turned out that my sister’s application was rejected, and mine was accepted. I had always loved Iran — in fact, I’d say I still love my country more than anything else on this earth — and so it was hard to imagine leaving,” Zan says. But, when the time came, a combination of political and personal factors led the 40-year-old poet to pack her bags and begin a new life.

“For me, the best window into any culture is its literature,” says Zan, who made a point of reading 13 books by Margaret Atwood before boarding the plane to Canada in 2010. “When I came, my first thought was, ‘Wow, this place looks familiar.’ I believe that poets and artists represent a culture better than anything else can.”

Despite this sense of

familiarity, however, the transition from Iran to Canada was not easy. She had English fluency and a solid resumé, but Zan was jobless for two-and-a-half years. While working on her ESL teacher certification and volunteering for Toronto public schools in order to obtain the requisite “Canadian experience,” Zan quickly turned to Toronto’s literary scene as a means of coping with discouragement and isolation. “It was very hard to make friends here, and people who come from Muslim cultures sometimes face different challenges and negative attitudes that make it hard for them to get directly involved in the mainstream culture,” she says.

“The poetry scene helped me to make connections and indeed preserved my sanity.”

Meanwhile, she also found solace in her own writing. “I wrote my first poem when I was 10 about a lost pet — my father bought us some chickens that died. Now I still mostly write about things I’ve lost or can’t have, things that aren’t the way they should be. The migration

The migration experience, though hard for me, has definitely been good for my poetry.”

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Poetry helped Bänoo Zan in her immigration journey.

experience, though hard for me, has definitely been good for my poetry,” she says with a slight chuckle.

Zan is proud to come from a culture known for its rich literary tradition. From Rumi to Omar Khayyam to Hafez of Shiraz, the Persian language abounds with mystical writers whose work inspires millions around the world. While Zan recognizes herself as an heir to this tradition, she is also eager to develop her own original voice.

This self-fashioning is evident in her name, which she chose as her artistic alias after moving to Toronto. “‘Bänoo’ in Farsi is a title of respect meaning ‘Madam’ or Lady’; ‘Zan’ simply means ‘woman.’ I chose this name when I was writing a series of love poems and felt that I was writing in a voice other than my own, the wiser, more mature voice of my muse,” she says.

In terms of other writers’ voices, Zan found diversity within the literary community lacking. “People tend to stay in their own circles,” she says. Determined to change this, in late 2012 she founded her own poetry salon, Shab-e She’r, or Poetry Night in Farsi. Held in various Toronto venues on the last Tuesday of each month, this event includes two featured performers and an extensive open mic for emerging writers and musicians.

“My dream for Shab-e She’r is to include as many different cultures and literary styles as possible,” she says. “As a new immigrant, I felt that something had to be done to make the literary scene more inclusive and varied. At the same time, I feel very lucky to have landed in Toronto — I have been in the best communities I could hope for, and I’ve met some great people.”

Bänoo Zan’s commitment to her craft has paid off for her personally as well. Her first English-language poetry collection, Songs of Exile, will be published by Guernica Editions in 2016. “I chose this title because I believe that often the voices of first-generation immigrants go unheard, particularly if they are not English speakers,” she says. “People in the mainstream culture hear very little about how an immigrant feels. My poetry is not very autobiographical, but I find that the experience of starting from zero has sharpened my sympathy for others. I hope to give my readers some sense of how an immigrant might feel.”

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DRIVING Sponsored by:

Summer safe driving Tips to keep you protected on the roads this summer

By Ronald D’Souza

S

ummer is around the corner, and while snow and icy road conditions have melted away, there are safety considerations to know about summer driving, too.

Bright sunshine and warmer temperatures bring excitement, which can often lead people into a sense of false security, leading them to speed, drive more aggressively and maneuver unsafely. Transport Canada reports that more fatalities and critical injuries occur on Canadian roads during the summer than any other season.

Here are some ways to keep you and your passengers safe this summer, whether on your daily commute or on a road trip vacation!

winter driving, which may require an A/C system overhaul (i.e., a new A/C compressor).

Keep your car cool

Check your vehicle’s cooling system. Make sure your coolant is changed every two years or 48,000 kilometres. Some newer vehicles have “long-life” or “lifetime” coolant, which is fine, too — just keep an eye on your vehicle’s temperature gauge.

Coolant, like motor oil, is crucial to the health of an engine. Make sure your cooling system is up to the task of cooling your engine, as this is the main cause of highway breakdowns. Coolant is usually bright red or green.

See your dealership’s service department before a road trip if you see traces of brown or rust in the coolant, to ensure the vehicle is safe to drive. Similarly, check your radiator for cracks and dents from road debris that may have damaged it. Your radiator plays a crucial role in cooling your engine.

Check your tires

Make sure all of your tires are fully inflated in accordance with the specifications in your owner’s manual or the sticker on the edge of the driver side door. This is important, as tires that are inflated too high can cause a blow-out or loss of control. Tire pressure that is too low can also cause excess tire wear and increase fuel consumption.

Also, don’t forget to keep a spare tire, jack and wrench in your vehicle. If your car has locking wheel nuts, keep the adapter readily available. Flat tires can be

Keep yourself cool

If your vehicle is equipped with an air conditioning system, try it out! With the vehicle running, turn on your A/C and cold air should greet you from your car’s air ducts. If not, listen for a distinct clicking noise every time you turn the A/C system off and on. If warm air is all you get, you may only need a simple A/C system “recharge.” If your vehicle is older, or has been neglected, relay switches or wiring may be corroded from salt buildup from

8 TIPS NEWCOMERS NEED TO KNOW

inconvenient, and even unsafe — especially on a congested highway. Having roadside assistance can add peace of mind for those who are unsure or feel unsafe changing a tire on their own.

Buckle up

With local and provincial highway police patrolling the roads this summer, it’s important to remember to fasten your seatbelt before you set off in your vehicle.

If your seatbelt is jammed, or you see an airbag/SRS light on your dashboard, get it looked at immediately. These faults may prevent your vehicle’s airbags from deploying in a collision. Also, be sure that all child carseats are properly installed.

Drive defensively

Being calm behind the wheel will help you stay safe this summer. Be sure to obey all speed limits, signs and signals.

If you’re purchasing a new vehicle this summer, look at models with driver assistance technology, such as forward collision alert, side blind zone alert, lane change alert (available with selected Buick vehicles) as well as standard safety features, such as anti-lock braking system and stability control. These technologies have been proven to aid in keeping drivers safer on the road.

Of course, it is important to remember that the driver is still in control of the vehicle, so it is your responsibility to be cautious and alert while on the road.

1. Stay hydrated and keep cool while behind the wheel by putting your windows down or running the A/C. This will help you stay calm and alert in the summer heat.

5. Put your phone on silent while driving to avoid the temptation to text and drive. Since drivers can be easily distracted by their phones, most Canadian provinces have laws against texting and driving.

2. Ensure you have your driver’s licence, vehicle ownership papers and proof of insurance before you drive off on that road trip. Not having these can result in heavy fines.

6. Only use hands-free calling when making calls while on the road.

It’s illegal to hold your phone while driving. Set your music playlist ahead of time, too!

3. Be courteous and share the road. Be mindful of your surroundings. No sightseeing while driving!

7. Do not become a victim of road rage. Be calm and composed when behind the wheel.

4. If you are at a summer party and will be consuming alcohol, make it a point to not drink and drive. It is best to prepare ahead of time, either have a designated driver, or take a taxi or public transport home.

8. Keep your kids safe! If you are unsure of how to properly install a child carseat in your vehicle, visit your local fire station or community car seat clinic for peace of mind.

Disclaimer: The content is produced and owned by Canadian Immigrant magazine. All content provided here is for informational purposes only.

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June 2015

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| HIGHER LEARNING |

Team work

M

Avoid student group work pitfalls with these 8 tips

any post-secondary teachers include group work assignments in their courses, which are part of the course evaluation and final mark. Unlike the grades given for your individual work, the grade your group earns is not entirely under your control. Your grade in the group assignment depends now on other people as well.

What will you get?

When working in groups, it is very possible that you’ll get a team of highly motivated, hard-working students. You may do a good job together, resulting in a high grade.

Then again, you may get a group of weaker or disinterested students, struggle to work together and get a poor result. Difficulties don’t plague all groups, but, when they do, they are a significant source of student complaints, stress and frustration.

How to manage a group

To manage any group, especially a difficult one, here are eight suggestions to help you get through it without too much damage to your grades or your emotions.

1. Identify someone who can take charge. Having someone assume leadership responsibilities helps the group get organized and ensures that the work is being done. Choose the leader for their ability to get along with others and act responsibly. Consider taking on this role if you feel you can.

2. Have a clear division of work and roles. Break down the assignment into various tasks, assign the work and establish due dates.

3. Consider people’s strengths.

Group work offers the opportunity to organize the work in a way that helps all the members succeed. Someone else can do the work that may be hard for you by bringing a different skillset.

4. Ask for frequent and accurate communication from members. Report on your progress and expect the same from the others. If there are problems, they can be addressed before the work is due. You can avoid a lot of issues by clearly expressing needs and expectations to group members early on.

5. Avoid groupthink. Sometimes group members choose to leave their personal opinions and ideas aside in order to keep harmony in the group. This may not be wise when your ideas could result in higher quality work. If you feel that is happening in your group, try and speak up and encourage critical thinking. As long as you are respectful and don’t try to dominate, the group may consider your suggestions even if they contradict what has been said. Once an alternative opinion is planted, it may take root later if not right away.

6. You may need to show compassion and forgiveness, and lower your standards. Students have personal problems that can interfere with getting work done on time. For some it may be a chronic issue, for others an unusual circumstance.

Try to accept this graciously; there isn’t too much you can do about it anyway. You may have to accept less than stellar work from members. You never know when the weak link might be you, so have compassion and expect some as well.

7. Try to resolve group difficulties yourself. While there is some urge to seek help from teachers when the group is not functioning well, part of the assignment may involve learning to resolve group difficulties, and teachers generally don’t want to be too involved.

Seek assistance only if necessary and only after you have

exhausted all other possibilities. If you decide to go to the teacher, it is a good idea to show that you have attempted to resolve the difficulties on your own first. For instance, you may copy your teacher on an email to the member who is not pulling their weight or not responding to the rest of the group.

8. Get what you can from the experience, even if it is negative. Despite your best efforts, you may not get the result you want; nonetheless, there are advantages to group work.

You may learn to resolve conflict, and improve your communication and negotiation skills. These are often cited as necessary skills for employees as well as managers, and may shape your answers to future interview questions. In addition, the experience of planning, working and sometimes agonizing together can be one that brings classmates closer together. Your team mates are part of your new network; they may help you find a job, and may one day become your colleagues.

Geneviève Beaupré and Susan Qadeer have extensive experience working in university and college settings, providing career, academic and personal counselling to international and immigrant students.

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Canadian Immigrant

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| C AREER COACH |

Suit it up!

Win the perception battle in the first five seconds with a power outfit

P

erception is reality.” “A picture is worth a thousand words.” “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

These age-old quotes have never been so true, especially when it comes to dressing up for a job interview.

What you wear to your next job interview might be more important than you think. Because your appearance is the first thing people notice about you — and first impressions are usually formed within the first five seconds.

Recruiters also need to visualize you in the position they are trying to fill. So let’s make it

easier for them. Here are a few guidelines to help you dress appropriately, feel comfortable and help your true personality shine through.

Invest in power outfits

Before you decide what to wear to a job interview, check out the accepted norms in the Canadian marketplace and the culture of the company you are interviewing with. Depending on the industry you are targetting, invest in a few outfits that are suitable, professional and comfortable.

Your appearance will not only demonstrate that you’re taking the job offer seriously and that

you would fit in nicely with the company culture, it can also communicate that you have respect for the interviewer.

But there are no absolute rules regarding dress. Your selection will vary based on your occupation, location and preference.

The primary aim is to look the part, and dress in a manner that is consistent with your industry.

For example : • Neat, clean work clothes are ideal for production or warehouse positions.

• Business clothes are recommended for sales and office positions.

• A conservative suit would be preferred for professional and managerial positions.

Good, clean fit

Whatever clothes you choose, ensure they fit well, are wrinklefree and clean. It may help to tailor your work wardrobe to fit better. But, more important, make sure your clothes are clean and neatly ironed. You’ll feel better if your clothing fits properly and looks crisp — and you’ll appear more confident.

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36 canadianimmigrant.ca

June 2015

Focus on the extras

Accessories and grooming are important, too, but, whether you’re a male or female, it is better to exercise a little caution and err on the conservative side when it comes to the extras that round out your look. For example: • Don’t neglect your feet. You may have a beautiful, welltailored outfit on — now make sure your shoes are professional and comfortable.

• Go easy on the perfume or aftershave. You don’t want

•

• •

•

• •

your scent to be the first thing that enters the room. You also never know if your interviewer is allergic or the company has a no-scent policy.

Don’t wear too much jewellery, and make sure what you do wear isn’t too large, distracting or flashy.

Needless to say, don’t wear anything that is too revealing.

Avoid articles of clothing with loud, busy prints. It’s best to wear solid colours that flatter your skin tone.

Pay close attention to grooming. Watch out for non-verbal cues like bad breath, the tattoos on your arms and rings at inappropriate places. Make sure your hair is neat and fingernails are clean. You want to look elegant from head to toe.

Women: avoid heavy eye shadow and bright coloured lipstick or nail polish.

Men: sport a nice, clean haircut, shave properly and keep facial hair to a minimum.

Make a statement

In summary, let your clothes make a power statement without saying a word. Make no mistake — most employers form a first impression during the first seven seconds of a meeting, and the picture you create will greatly influence your chances of being hired. People hire those who they believe will “fit” into their organization. Your skills, experience, and qualifications will get you to the interview table. Your attitude and appearance will express motivation and professionalism. Now let your clothing and grooming create the image that will help you nail the job offer.

Indian-born Murali Murthy is owner of Vantage Copy, as well as a speaker, coach and best-selling author of The ACE Books — The ACE Principle and The ACE Awakening.

He is also chairperson of CAMP Networking Canada. See poweroface.com. facebook/canimmigrant

@canimmigrant

Immigrant

Settlement

Guide 2015

To list your agency in the “Immigrant Settlement Guide,” please contact: ONTARIO LISTINGS Ricky Bajaj: 905-273-8170 or John Zhang: 416-803-3931

WESTERN CANADA LISTINGS

Alla Gordeeva: 778-558-3397 or alla@canadianimmigrant.ca

Are you a newcomer to Canada? You no doubt have many questions. Immigrating can be a challenging process, with many unknowns, but the good news is that there are many resources available to help you. Seeking help at an immigrant settlement agency is going to be your most important first step in Canada. And many services are free, from English as a second language programs to settlement counselling to career help, including mentorship and retraining opportunities. The services are all aimed to help you overcome the challenges you’re facing and succeed in Canada.

Here are just some of the agencies ready to serve you in the Greater Toronto Area:

Agency

General Services and Specialty Programs

Languages

Brampton Multicultural Centre (BMC)

Not for profit, registered charity providing multilingual, culturally sensitive free programs & services to help clients enhance their community engagement while integrating into Canadian society. Programs: Initial settlement support, resumés & employment readiness workshops, advocacy with solution-focused counselling, interpretation & translation, services for youth and youth at risk, volunteer opportunities, seniors program and mental health support services in multiple languages. Reference to instructor-led LINC classes with child-minding & transportation subsidies, violence against women program and community engagement programs.

Email: services@bmccentre.org www.bmccentre.org

• • • • •

English Punjabi Gujarati French Spanish

• • • • •

Hindi Tamil Urdu Arabic Farsi

Settlement Services, Family Counselling, Senior Services and Volunteer Opportunities. Specialty Programs: English Language Training & Citizenship Classes, Job Search Workshops, Adult Day & Seniors Wellness program, Services for Women, Children and Youth, Supportive Mental Health Services Email: info@indiarainbow.org www.indiarainbow.org

• • • •

English Punjabi Gujarati French

• • • •

Hindi Tamil Urdu Arabic

Find out how to: get the skills you need to find work quickly! — Job Search Workshops Program! perfect your resumé, practise interview skills and more — Job Find Club for Internationally Trained Individuals job search effectively — with Employment Ontario Employment Services. Access Bridge to HR — a bridging program for internationally educated HR professionals Email: info@jobskills.org www.jobskills.org

• English

Settlement Services, LINC Classes (level 1-6) with child minding, Counseling, Job search, Citizenship & Immigration, Groups for Youth, Seniors & Women and Volunteering. Specialty Programs: Bridge Training Program for International Mental Health Professionals, Community Engagement Program, Community Mental health Program and Anger management.

Additional locations at Scarborough and Toronto.

Email: northyork@mnlct.org www.mnlct.org

• • • • •

English Spanish Mandarin Bengali Turkish

New to Canada? Looking for a job in your field? Need career and training options? We can help Get free advice on how to use your skills and find a meaningful career in Canada. Contact us today to speak with one of our experts. We’re a national organization and serve all of Ontario.

Contact: Elena Rakitskaya or Jim Lamarche Email: acp@nacc.ca www.nacc.ca/acp

• • • • •

English French Russian Farsi Spanish

Settlement Services: assist immigrants to integrate and become established and contributing members of Canadian society. English Language Classes are instructor-led, and supported by a computer lab. Job-specific, advanced-level Enhanced Language Training available. Supports to assist in developing the skills needed to find work: resumé/cover letter preparation, interview readiness and information about accreditation, workplace practices, Canadian employer expectations. Other services available.

Email: info@welcomecentre.ca www.welcomecentre.ca

• English

197 County Court Blvd.

Suite 303 Brampton ON L6W 4P6 Phone: 905-790-8482 Fax: 905-874-6100

India Rainbow Community Services of Peel 3038 Hurontario Street, Suite 206 & Unit 1, Mississauga, ON L5B 3B9 Phone: 905-275-2369 Job Skills Employment & Business Programs & Supports Locations in York, Peel and North Toronto Phone: 1-866-592-6278 Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto 2737 Keele Street North York ON M3M 2E9 Phone: 647-776-2057 National Association of Career Colleges 44 Byward Market, Suite 270 Ottawa, K1N 7A2 Phone: 1-866-981-6863 Welcome Centre Immigrant Services 7 Locations in York and Durham Regions Phone: 1-877-761-1155

June 2015

Canadian Immigrant

37

BACKPAGE

Newcomer tips from our RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrants of 2014!

R H

“

Always have the firm belief from your heart that you can make it, and with God’s help all things are possible.

”

S C

“

This is the land of opportunity.

Engage yourself in hard work for own success while helping fellow citizens without expecting anything in return for the success of the community.

”

OUR TOP 25 CANADIAN IMMIGRANTS OF 2015 WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN THE JULY 2015 ISSUE OF THE MAGAZINE AND ONLINE AT CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA/RBCTOP25 IN LATE JUNE.

People Helping People

SKILLS CONNECT FOR IMMIGRANTS Your career in Canada starts here.

New to Canada? Looking for work in your field? Let us help.

Lower Mainland 604 438 3045 or 604 588 7772 Fraser Valley 604 866 1645 or 604 866 0257 skillsconnect@douglascollege.ca

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This project is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

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1/23/2015 4:10:25 PM

CanIm

“I know how hard it is to establish your finances in a new country.” —Scotiabank advisor ®

Our advisors can help open the door to your new start in Canada.

The Scotiabank StartRight Program , specially designed for newcomers, helps you settle quickly in Canada. Let one of our advisors show you how. ®

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Visit scotiabank.com/startright or call 1-866-800-5159. ® Registered trademarks of The Bank of Nova Scotia.

1. The Scotiabank StartRight Program, created for Canadian Landed Immigrants from 0–3 years in Canada, International Students and Foreign Workers.

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2015-05-21 1:04 PM

Offer applies to eligible new immigrants living in Canada with a valid Permanent Resident card with an arrival date of 2013, 2014 or 2015 or Temporary Foreign Workers with a valid temporary work permit. $1,000 credit is a manufacturer-to-consumer (tax inclusive) available on eligible Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles (excluding Colorado 2SA, Camaro Z28, Malibu LS, Canyon 2SA, Corvette and Escalade). Offer valid Feb. 9, 2015 to Jan. 4, 2016. As part of the transaction, dealer may request documentation to verify eligibility. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives. Certain limitations apply. Void where prohibited. GMCL reserves the right to amend or terminate this offer for any reason, in whole or in part, at any time without prior notice. See dealer for full details. and conditions appl