Here! Magazine January 2017

ALSO: super newcomers • super employers • super program super résumés • super linkedin • super writers • super newco

SUPER

out side the box

JOBS 20 17!

FOR NEWCOMERS TO CANADA JAN/FEB 2017

IN THIS ISSUE Volume 3‚ Issue 3

VICTORIA

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WELCOMES

KINDY!

résumés & online profiles 21 Alana Rowe of Résumé Hut and Asmâa Methqal of Maestra Business Solutions help us put our best foot for ward on paper and online.

AOY

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NOFEL

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learn 22 Dougal McGhee of Completely Hammered opens up the world of carpentr y.

AND BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND:

WORKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

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Meaghan Smith of Trapper Jane lets us in on her sewing secrets!

rent 26 Alex Creighton of Devon Proper ties gives the inside scoop on those discouraging “waiting list being taken” signs on rental units.

money 27 New contributor Yan - Min Xu of Manulife Securities Investment Ser vices Inc. shares a real - life case study and tips for better financial security.

2016 in photos 28 Enjoy our im ages of reflec tion and celebration as we look for ward to a great year ahead!

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any of us came from somewhere else.

Some of us arrived 10 0 years ago; some of us 10 0 days ago.

Now we are here — working‚ living‚ and learning together. We may have arrived in different ways and may have come for different reasons; we may be going down different paths, but one thing is the same: here is home.

Immigrant

HERE! IS THERE: OUT AND ABOUT IN THE COMMUNITY

Welcome Centre

BUILDING CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

w w w.heremagazine.ca Publisher | Functionall Books Editor | Fiona Bramble

The Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) helps individuals and organizations to connect across cultures.

We provide information, support and tools to help immigrants and refugees reach their goals. By engaging people through networks, education and arts programming we create a welcoming community.

Copy Editors | Christy Sebelius‚ Kieran Wilson Contributing Writers | Kedsanee Broome‚ Nofel Sheleeg, Alana Rowe‚ Asmâa Methqal‚ Alex Creighton‚ Yan-Min Xu Design and Layout | Fiona Bramble Print and Production | Glenmore Printing

Immigrant Welcome Centre and Main Office:

Get Here! Magazine for your home or organization: subscribe@heremagazine.ca

930 Balmoral Road (At Quadra) Victoria BC, V8T 1A8 info@icavictoria.org Phone: 250-388-4728 Fax: 250-386-4395 Mon–Thurs: 8:30am–6:30pm Friday: 8:30am–4:30pm

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Here! Magazine 160 Eberts St.‚ Victoria‚ B.C. Canada V8S 3H7 info@heremagazine.ca 250-896-0986 /heremagazinecanada @heremagazineCA /heremagazine.ca All contents copyrighted. Written permission from the publisher is required to reproduce‚ quote‚ reprint‚ or copy any material from Here! Magazine. Ideas and opinions expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or advertisers. The publisher neither endorses nor assumes any liability for the contents of any advertisement in this publication.

Funded in part with the generous support of the Ministry of International Trade

Single copy price: $4.99 Yearly subscription price: $18.99 plus applicable taxes. Printed in Canada. ISSN: 2291-8582

Letter from the editor “I’m o n e of t h o s e p e o p le t h at wh e n I kn ow t h at s o m et h i n g i s g o i n g to m a ke m e s u cce s sfu l, I j u st ke e p fa i li n g at it u nti l I le a r n n ot to fa i l at it. M a ke t h at o n e of yo u r stre n gt h s. It’s li ke ri d i n g a b i ke. It’s li ke n et wo r ki n g. It’s li ke swi m m i n g. ” — Iman Agha y‚ from N et working T ip s for N ewcomer s in C anada

Building trust If I’m completely honest‚ I did not imagine for a moment that developing this issue on employment would be so emotional. I envisioned a very practical process that would culiminate in a resource for newcomers to connect directly with local employers.

Somehow I had forgotten that employment means so much more than a paycheque; it means identity‚ inclusion‚ pride‚ and hope. And the search for employment can be fraught with opposing emotions like frustration‚ isolation‚ fear‚ and hopelessness.

All and each of these emotions tempered every conversation I had with employers‚ facilitators‚ and newcomer job seekers.

In early December‚ I sat in the back row of a classroom at Real English Victoria‚ where Peter Miles‚ from the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce‚ had assembled a formidable group of employers and stakeholders to discuss a plan to help find Syrian newcomers work more quickly.

(There is a certain urgency for this group to find viable employment because‚ for many local families‚ their one year of federal government support ends this February.)

The employers in the room primarily represented what is known as the “trades”—industries such as construction‚ painting‚ driving‚ masonry‚ etc.

However‚ the language being used around the room wasn’t all steamfitting and forklifts. Instead‚ the employers talked about the “heartbreaking” stories they had heard from these newcomers.

They used words like “integrity” and “dignity”‚ “mentorship” and “support” to describe what they

had to offer. They were talking about employment but really‚ they were talking about our newest neighbours and how they could help connect them to their community in a meaningful‚ sustainable way.

However‚ there are other words and experiences that reveal the challenges newcomer job seekers face that may or may not be unique to Greater Victoria: “hidden job market”‚ “Canadian experience”‚ “it’s who you know”‚ and tellingly: “trust”. This one word was echoed many times. Trust is that vital ingredient that can take oh-so long to develop. There may be no quick way to earn and build trust‚ but what I have learned these past few weeks is that both employers and newcomer job seekers are willing to take that leap of faith. I can’t wait to see what they can do together.

Fiona Bramble, Editor Second-generation Irish-Scottish Canadian

PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS WITH US!

community@heremagazine.ca

FROM THE INBOX

When I was handed a copy of the new youth issue of H ere! Magazine, I had to smile when I saw the delightfu l cover. I love the charming picture drawn by Rayan A . which is so u plifting and heart-opening. Congratu lations to the talented you ng artist. Rayan, I wish you continued success and happiness in your new life in Canada. And please keep drawing!

— JAY N EFS KY

J u st had a look through, for the first time ever, H ere!

Magazine. Most impressive. Thanks for your work.

— G EO RG E CO LUSSI, U N ITED WAY VICTO RIA

OUR MU LTICU LTUR AL COMM UNIT Y Victoria has a vibrant and growing multicultural community! These organizations celebrate culture and diversity with annual events like the Dragon Parade‚ Flamenco Festival‚ Greekfest‚ Festival Mexicano‚ India Mela‚ Loy Kratong‚ AfriCa Fest‚ and the Highland Games and Celtic Festival. They also offer support and services to their members and newcomers‚ including language support‚ health and wellness activities‚ networking opportunities‚ and work-related skill development.

A SPECIAL WELCOME TO A NEW ADDITION TO OUR LIST: The Victoria Iranian-Persian Cultural Society | www.vicipcs.ca V ic to r i a an d Van cou ve r I s l an d G r e e k C o mmuni t y S o ci e t y

H un g ar i an S o ci e t y of V i c to r i a

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3 27 7 D o u g l a s S t. ‚ V i c t o r i a ‚ B .C .

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I n di a C an a d a Cul t ur al A s s o ci a t io n

V i c to r i a Filip in o - C an a di an A s s o ci a t io n

Fa c e b o o k : I n d i a C a n a d a C u l t u r a l A s s o c i a t i o n

Bayanihan Communit y Centre 170 9 B l a n s h a r d S t.‚ V i c t o r i a ‚ B .C .

Victoria Filipino-Canadian Caregivers Association B a y a n i h a n C o m m u n i t y C e n t r e

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T h ai K i d s Club

Fa c e b o o k : T h a i K i d s C l u b Victoria BC, Canada

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M e x i c an C an a di an C o mmuni t y A s s o ci a t io n of V i c to r i a We b: v i c t o r i a m e x i c a n c a n a d i a n .o r g

V I C TO R I A I M M I G R A N T & REFUGEE CENTRE SOCIET Y 9 3 0 B a l m o r a l R d .‚ V i c t o r i a ‚ B .C. 2 5 0 - 3 8 8 - 47 2 8

6 3 7 B ay S t ., 3 r d F l o o r, V i c t o r i a ‚ B .C. 2 5 0 - 3 61- 9 4 3 3

P l e a s e c o n t a c t u s a t co m m u n i t y @ h e re m a g a z in e.ca i f yo u n e e d to u p d a te yo u r o r g ani s a t i o n’s in fo r m a t i o n o r i f yo u w o u l d like t o h i g h li g h t yo u r o r g an i s a t i o n o r e ve n t in H e re ! M a g a z in e.

Fiona Bramble sits down with Kindy at the Central Branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library to talk about Kindy’s deep connections to Canada, the rich Bajan culture, and her willingness to do whatever it takes to thrive on this beautiful island of the north.

Kindy, what is your educational/professional background? I studied Intercultural and International Communication at Royal Roads University. It teaches you the skills to communicate effectively across different cultures. It’s convenient that I don’t have to limit myself to a particular field because everything involves communication. I started grad school in 2014; it was intense, but when you truly enjoy what you study, it’s a very engaging process—I loved every moment of it.

Why did you decide to come to Canada? My mom’s family immigrated to Canada in the 70’s, so when I thought about going to graduate school, I decided, “Well, let me go to Canada.” When I applied to grad school, I found the school and the programme [that I was interested in], but I didn’t really focus on where it was.

When I got my paperwork, I said, “Mom, where is Victoria?”

Long story short, I found myself here eventually. And I couldn’t be happier here—I love living on Vancouver Island.

What was your first emotion upon arriving in Canada?

Well, I was nervous, because sometimes I’m such an introvert, and I thought I would be very, very lonely. But

welcome to the community!

Victoria welcomes

KINDY CARTER

HOMETOWN: St. Philip Parish, Barbados LANGUAGES: English, Bajan, Spanish ARRIVED IN CANADA: 2014 KINDY C ARTER , VIC TORIA , B.C ., NOVEMBER 2016. PHOTO CREDIT: FIONA BR AMBLE

people are so welcoming!

What has been your biggest challenge since arriving in Canada? My only issue living in Victoria is the lack of inclusivity in the job market. Wherever I go, I give it 100%, so I’ve been applying all over, wherever I see a vacancy. I understand it might take a bit longer but I’ve only been given one faceto-face interview. Sometimes it gets depressing, but I don’t want to give up—can’t imagine giving up. I do not believe in failure.

What do you miss most from home? I miss the food.

Adjusting to eating the food here wasn’t agreeing with my body at first. I miss the flavour of my own culture. The hot sauce! I get my mom to send

me some. And I miss Carnival.

Actually we call it “crop over” in Barbados. People come from all over the island to dance, to laugh, to drink.

What would I be surprised to learn about you? I love carrallying—I love fast cars! I like to go off-roading, just taking a truck and going up the trail.

What is your favourite thing to do in Victoria? I like to go downtown and people-watch.

What advice would you give to other newcomers? Don’t feel like you have to change who you are to fit in. Engage with everyone, and get involved in a community you can immerse yourself in. Just be yourself.

READ KINDY’S FULL INTERVIEW AT

w w w.h e re m a g az in e.ca

heremagazine.ca

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P H O T O C R E D I T: T R OY M O R E

ON OCTOBER 13‚ 2016‚ Thais received their nation’s worst news. The King of Thailand‚ King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away peacefully in Siriraj Hospital‚ where he spent several visits over the last year due to declining health.

zero crime during the first few weeks of the country’s great loss.

“Why do Thai people love their king so much?” is the question that struck many people around the world. I was born and raised under the reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej‚ or King Rama IX. Growing up in Thailand‚ I remember watching the news on TV every evening about the king’s work in remote areas. I have vivid memories of him with a map in one hand‚ a pencil in the other‚ and a camera around his neck. His work places were either in the forest‚ on the mountain‚ by the river‚ or in the rice fields. He was out in both the hot sun and stormy rain.

The news brought thousands of mourners to the Grand Palace Through seventy in Bangkok To me and all years of work‚ each day since Thai people, he he established October 14th to is not a king but more than four pay respects to thousand projects a father of the His Majesty’s to develop the body. There country. country‚ projects were miraculous that involved stories of Thais irrigation‚ education‚ public taking care of each other health‚ farming‚ and a during the mourning period. sufficiency economy. In Food‚ transportation‚ 2012‚ UNESCO adopted movable health clinics‚ and His Majesty’s Philosophy of washrooms were set up Sufficiency Economy (PSE), and provided for free by which highlights a balanced individuals and businesses to way of living. Three serve people who traveled principles of the PSE are from all over Thailand to the moderation‚ reasonableness‚ Grand Palace. There were and self-immunity. The also stories of Thais turning Oxford Business Group’s their grief into the power of 2016 report on Thailand says doing good things for their “the sufficiency economy passing king. One police concept puts sustainability at station in Bangkok reported its very core.”

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KING AND THAIS

AOY [oI] To me and all Thai people‚ he is not a king but a father of the country—a father who walked through village after village to listen to his children’s problems‚ studied them‚ and gave solutions.

He is a father because he put the Thai people's health and well-being before his own health. One of the doctors who took care of His Majesty’s health reported that a very common request from the king after he arrived at the hospital was to set up a computer and communications system in his room right away so that he could continue his work with his team remotely.

Yes, this man was a king, but his love and kindness to his people and country is what distinguishes him as a father.

Kedsanee (Aoy) Broome immigrated to Canada from Thailand in 2004 and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors‚ specializing in cultural diversity.

LE DRAGUE IN THIS COUNTRY‚ I am never a foreigner. Even the few times I was treated as one‚ I could not feel foreign. I moved here with the intention of never identifying as a Canadian‚ and now being Canadian is an identity that I will hold dearly wherever I go. The only time that I do out myself as a foreigner‚ and‚ luckily‚ am never outed as one‚ is when I hand the security guard at a nightclub my permanent resident card as a proof of my age.

NOFEL [nofɘl] It was my second time attending a drag show in the Canadian city that I adore‚ Québec. I paid my cover fee‚ and without anyone checking my ID—without outing myself as a foreigner—I entered the night club. I was half an

hour early‚ and while I was sitting alone drinking my nonalcoholic lemonade‚ the drag queen‚ Barbada‚ walked up to me and introduced herself in French. In the little French I knew‚ I managed to introduce myself back. (Apparently‚ I had a good accent‚ and therefore had not outed myself as a foreigner yet.)

sighs of surprise from the audience‚ I looked around; I heard and saw nothing. “So‚ you blow up every place you go to?” she said‚ drawing a grin on her face. As everyone fell silent‚ I laughed loudly; everyone else followed. “I am Muslim‚” I added‚ attempting to trigger another joke. “Oh! You are Muslim‚” she said in a tone of apathy‚ and went on to make sexual jokes and mock me for being an Anglophone from Victoria.

After finishing her first two performances‚ Barbada decided to chat with the audience—a large The one‚ in fact. conversation And what lasted for better way Barbada went on to several to do that make sexual jokes and minutes; it than to talk ended with to the young mock me for being Barbada man sitting an Anglophone from offering me a by himself Victoria. free alcoholic amidst the drink. I—being a stereotypical crowd. Barbada said my name Canadian—politely rejected on the microphone and asked it‚ stating that I do not drink me a question in French. alcoholic beverages. She Realizing that she would like asked if I was not drinking to have a somewhat long because Ramadan was to chat‚ I immediately said‚ “I start in three days. I replied speak little French.” “Oh! You that I never drink‚ and that I speak English?” she replied. was excited to fast Ramadan.

“Yes!” I said. She got off the Still‚ (unlike my anticipations) stage and approached my I did not hear a single sigh table asking‚ “Where are from anyone. The bartender you from?” “Victoria‚ British gave me a glass of water Columbia‚” I responded. after two young ladies invited “What is your descent?” she me to sit at their table. At asked‚ moving her hand the end of night‚ Barbada around her face. “I am from thanked me for attending Libya‚” I answered. She the show‚ referring to me as looked puzzled. “It is an the British Columbian Arab.

African country‚” I added.

Everyone clapped‚ smiling.

Translating what I had just After kissing Barbada la bise‚ disclosed to the audience‚ she I exited the nightclub feeling was still perplexed. To clear elated. the confusion‚ “I am an Arab‚” I said smiling. Expecting some heremagazine.ca

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CANADIAN NE WCOMERS AND IMMIGR ANTS ARE WELL- KNOWN FOR THEIR ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT‚ BUT‚ LIKE THEIR CANADIAN BORN COUNTERPARTS‚ NE WCOMERS ARE ALSO E AGER TO SECURE ME ANINGFUL AND STABLE EMPLOYMENT‚ PREFER ABLY IN THEIR FIELD OF TR AINING. UNFORTUNATELY‚ IN B.C.‚ RECENT IMMIGR ANTS WITH A UNIVERSIT Y DEGREE HAVE AN UNEMPLOYMENT R ATE ALMOST 4 TIMES HIGHER THAN CANADIAN - BORN UNIVERSIT Y GR ADUATES.

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L ACK OF SO - CALLED “CANADIAN E XPERIENCE”‚ ACCENT OR NAME DISCRIMINATION‚ AND CREDENTIAL- RECOGNITION ARE SOME OF THE T YPICAL BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT NE WCOMERS FACE — DID YOU KNOW THAT ONLY 4% OF FOREIGN PHYSICIANS WHO IMMIGR ATE 2

TO CANADA ACTUALLY GET TO PR ACTICE MEDICINE HERE? IN THIS CATCH -22 WORLD‚ NE WCOMERS AND EMPLOYERS NEED TO BE CRE ATIVE TO HELP MEET E ACH OTHER’S NEEDS AND L ABOUR MARKET DEMAND. THE HERE! TE AM RE ACHED OUT TO SOME LOCAL EMPLOYERS AND FACILITATORS WHOSE ARMS ARE WIDE OPEN TO OUR NE WEST NEIGHBOURS AND‚ WHILE SOME OF THE JOBS MAY SEEM UNTR ADITIONAL‚ THE Y JUST MIGHT BE A GOOD MATCH FOR VICTORIA’S INTREPID NE WCOMERS MAKING A FRESH START— AND A STEP OUTSIDE THE BOX COULD ME AN A FOOT IN THE DOOR.

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S ta ti s ti c s C an a d a‚ Lab o u r F o rce S u r ve y (2014)

heremagazine.ca

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R ye r s o n U ni ve r s i t y‚ P u b li c H e al th E x p e r t‚ T im S l y

OUTSIDE-THE-BOX

WORKING

“

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RED IG IT: B STO CKP O O.C HOT

see page 15

TO C PHO

With over 30 departments and several positions within each department, there are many job opportunities within the Film Industry.

KATHLEEN GILBERT, FILM COMMISSIONER VANCOUVER ISLAND SOUTH FILM & MEDIA

heremagazine.ca

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working outside-the-box

driving [force]

L A BO U R M A R KE T O U T L OO K: shortage of 25,00 0 -33,0 0 0 truck drivers by 2 0 2 0 (Conference Board of Canada)

PHOTO CR

DID YOU K NOW ?

Women account for only 3% of Canada’s truck drivers, mechanics, technicians, and cargo workers. SOURCE: CANTRUCK.CA The Canadian Trucking Alliance created a Blue Ribbon Task Force to address a “long-term, chronic shortage of qualified drivers.” SOURCE: DRIVERSHORTAGE.CA

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EDIT: BIG

TO.COM STOCKPHO

SOME OCCUPATIONS IN THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY Local pick-up and delivery driver • Short-haul driver • Driver trainer • Driver supervisor • Forklift operator • Truck and transport mechanic • Dispatcher • Operations manager Warehouse manager • Shop supervisor/foreman • Rate clerk Tire technician • Shunt driver • Production manager • Freight claims specialist • Welder • Safety and loss specialist Transportation pricing analyst • Owner-operator • Dock worker Parts Technician • Licensing and permitting specialist • Autobody repairperson • Maintenance helper/service employee SOURCE: TRUCKINGCAREERS.CA

heremagazine.ca

working outside-the-box

NATHAN L’HEUREUX, HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER SUTCO TRANSPORTATION SPECIALISTS with advice for newcomers and how Sutco supports new drivers in British Columbia

TRAINING OPPORTUNITY YWCA Metro Vancouver 535 Hornby St. Vancouver B.C.

Q: Is the trucking industry/your company open to hiring newcomers to Canada? A: Absolutely, we have had great success with hiring drivers who are new to Canada. Many of our top drivers are new Canadians.

Q: What are some challenges or barriers to working for your industry/company you are aware of? A: Truck driving typically requires a long work day, and drivers are required to work through daily challenges such as road hazards, winter conditions, tight deadlines, and constantly evolving regulations. British Columbia also has some of the most challenging terrain in the world to drive on. Sutco trains all of our drivers on how to work with all of these challenges.

Q: In general, what characteristics does your organisation look for in a potential employee?

A: We are a family- oriented company that looks for drivers who show a strong sense of pride in their work, show a willingness to learn, and who demonstrate passion and knowledge of the equipment that they are running.

Q: Do you have some tips for finding the right training program? A: A fully accredited program with a good track record, and a school that focuses on mountain driving skills. A school that trains students to drive Super B’s would be key, as it is very useful to be able to drive Super B’s in Canada.

>>>

ACTION PLAN JOIN >>> Heavy Equipment Operator &

Driver Training INFORMATION SESSION 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, March 1, 2017 Vancouver Island University 900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo, B.C. 250-740-6227 or heo@viu.ca

PHOTO CREDIT: BIGSTOCKPHO

TO.COM

read >>> bcta’s entry-level truck drivers: the job hunt www.bctrucking.com/sites/default/files/bcta_entrylevel_ job_hunt_final.pdf

visit

YWCA CHANGING GEARS Free 23-week Truck Driver Training Program for Women. This Project Based Labor Marketing Training (PBLMT) program offers training to 12 eligible women to gain the skills necessary to obtain their Class 1 Driving Certificate.

PROGRAM DATES: Winter Training Program: 23 weeks January 16, 2017 to June 23, 2017 TRAINING INCLUDES: • Pre-employment training • Air-brake Certification • Class 1 Driver training and on-the-road practice • Job Search support and placement with local employers ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: Eligible participants are unemployed women: • Currently on EI or have been within the last 3 years OR: • Have established a benefit period and were paid maternity benefits within the past 5 years and are re-entering the labor force • Have a valid Class 5 BC driver’s license and a clean driver’s abstract • No outstanding fines and/or bridge tolls • English proficiency • A Canadian citizen or permanent resident • Ability to commit to 23 weeks of full time classroom and practical training Please contact your local WorkBC Employment Services Centre to register. To find a WorkBC Employment Service Centre near you, please visit workbc.ca. For further information contact the C h a n g i n g G e a r s o f f i c e a t : 6 0 4 - 8 9 5 - 5 813 .

>>> bcta’s job postings page

www.bctrucking.com/careers/job-postings

heremagazine.ca

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working outside-the-box

[make] believing

L A BO U R M A R KE T O U T L OO K:

Animato SOM E P R r • Audio ODUCTION /so Costume & POST-P and ward und recording e ngineer ro Foley art RODUCTIO • Broad ist • Grip be coordinator • N OCCU P A cast eng /g Dialogue Musician affer info ineer • C TIONS coach • rmation • Produc amera o Executive architect tion man Script su perator • • Lightin ager • P produce pervisor Cinemato g r ro • Set bui • Film dub designer Stageha lder/carp grammer • Prop nd • Stun ber • Film grapher ert y mast • Location mana enter/pa /tape ed t coordin in g e r • Re -re e ter • Set ator/stag cording m r • Make -up/hair itor de e person ixer • Scr artist • Wrang signer • Sound e ipt edito ler ditor/mix r er • Spe cial effect s technic ia SOURCE

: W W W.C

Film & Television Industry

ULTURALH RC

motion picture and video industries are the top fastest-growing industries on the Mainland and Southwest B.C. (British Columbia 2024 L a b o u r M a r k e t O u t l o o k)

n

.C A

Occupations in Demand across all BC regions 2014-2024

Producers, directors, choreographers and related Occupations: 1,790 Film and video camera operators: 340 Broadcast Technicians: 40 Audio and video recording technicians: 840 Other technical and co-ordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts: 830 Support occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, photography and the performing arts: 740 S O U R C E : p w p .v p l .c a /s i i c / i n d u s t r y - p r o f i l e s /f a s t e s t - g r o w i n g - i n d u s t r i e s - f i l m - t e l e v i s i o n

14

PHOTOS THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY, FILM LOCATION FOR “X-MEN 2, X-MEN UNITED”; OAK BAY AVENUE AT FOUL BAY, FILM LOCATION FOR “GRACEPOINT”; OAK BAY AVENUE AT MONTEREY, FILM LOCATION FOR “GRACEPOINT”. PHOTO OPPOSITE PAGE: KATHLEEN GILBERT. PHOTOS COURTESY OF VANCOUVER ISLAND SOUTH FILM AND MEDIA.

heremagazine.ca

working outside-the-box

cooking up [hospItality] D I D Y O U KN O W? Direct employment in the tourism sector provides almost 22,000 jobs in Greater Victoria.

PHOTO CREDIT: BIGSTOCKPHO

TO.COM

•

Cooks and bakers are on the eligible “Top 16 InDemand Trades” list as determined by the CanadaBC Job Grant (CJG) and employers of these trades may be eligible to apply for training grants.

KATHLEEN GILBERT, FILM COMMISSIONER VANCOUVER ISLAND SOUTH FILM & MEDIA on the ins and outs of Film and how newcomers can get started in the industry.

Q: Where can I get training for positions in the industry?

A: Royal Roads University, Capilano College, Vancouver Film School, Simon Fraser University.

Q: What are some challenges or barriers to working for your organisation or industry you are aware of? A: Long hours (12to 15-hour days minimum), and many jobs include strenuous activity.

Q: Is a balance of skills, experience, and education considered when hiring a potential employee? A: Yes, skills and experience are considered. Because of tax incentives, being a resident of B.C. is important.

Q: Why might your organisation be a good fit for a newcomer to Canada? A: Generally, we are a very open and welcoming industry!

Q: How important is “Canadian experience” when starting in the film industry? A: Zero percent.

www.workbc.ca/Employer-Resources/Canada-BC-Job-Grant

TALKING WITH RANDY DELISLE HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER HARBOUR TOWERS HOTEL & SUITES ABOUT WHY THE HOTEL INDUSTRY CAN BE A GOOD FIT FOR MANY NEWCOMERS

Q: Where can I get training for positions in the industry? A: Camosun College.

Q: What languages are useful in the local hospitality industry? A: English, Mandarin, French, and German.

Q: Is a balance of skills, experience, and education considered when hiring a potential employee? A: Yes, motivation and a sense of responsibility is very important—experience not as much.

>>>

ACTION PLAN join >>> reel jobs Career Fair

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday, January 28, 2017 Pacific Fleet Club, 1587 Lyall St., Victoria, B.C updates and details at: facebook.com/VISFilmCommission

register

>>> Motion Picture Industry Orientation

Saturday/Sunday, May 13-14, 2017 Royal Roads University

https://secure.royalroads.ca/cscourses/motion-picture-industry-orientation-2-3-4

watch for

>>>

ongoing casting and crew calls

updates and details at: facebook.com/VISFilmCommission or filmvictoria.com

Q: What industry jobs are hard to fill right now? A: Room attendants. Cooks, in particular.

Q: Can a newcomer contact you for an information session to learn more?

A: Absolutely! Email me at: rdelisle@harbourtowers.com

>>>

ACTION PLAN join >>> hospitality job fair May 2017

updates and details at: gthiringsolutions.ca/en/victoriasaanich

visit >>> tourism & hospitality job search sites www.go2hr.ca and www.hcareers.ca

heremagazine.ca

15

working outside-the-box

[net] working

enterprising [women]

D I D Y O U KN O W?

JAKELINA LISTES, CO-FOUNDER HOUSE OF THE WORLD SOCIETY

Greater Victoria’s advanced technology sector has a total economic impact of $4 billion.

Greater Victoria’s tech sector directly employs 15,000 people.

S O U R C E : 2 014 G r e a t e r V i c t o r i a Te c h n o l o g y Sector Economic Impact Study

LABOUR MARKET OUTLOOK Computer programmers, interactive media developers, software engineers, software designers, and web developers and designers are occupations in the top 10 forecast to expand the fastest in the Vancouver Island/Coast region by 2025.

SOURCE: B.C. 2025 Labour Market Outlook

SOME VICTORIA-BASED JOB OPENINGS POSTED ON VIATECH.CA’S JOB BOARD Product support analyst • Digital marketing specialist • iOS Developer technical writer • game content designer • senior network analyst senior accountant • full stack web developer • software architect technical support • java developer quality assurance analyst • buyer

ACTION PLAN

>>>

celebrate >>> 2017 viatec new year kick off 5-9 p.m., Friday, January 20, 2017 Sugar Nightclub 858 Yates St., Victoria, B.C. register: www.viatec.ca/events/2017-viatec-kick-offplus-fuckup-night-vol4

register >>> Discover Tectoria 2017 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday, February 24, 2017 Crystal Garden 713 Douglas St, Victoria, BC no registration required. free event. details: www.viatec.ca/events/discover-tectoria-2017

visit >>> viatec job board www.viatec.ca/jobs

16

on how a social enterprise with a holistic approach might move the needle on lowemployment rates for immigrant women

Q: Why do you have a special interest in helping newcomer and immigrant women find meaningful, sustainable employment? A: I am an immigrant woman myself; I arrived in Canada 14 years ago and still struggle to find employment that matches my experience and credentials.

Q: What is House of the World? A: House of the World Society is a nonprofit/social enterprise dedicated to the empowerment of immigrant women of the Capital Regional District. Our vision is to help create a community where no woman becomes marginalized and unable to support her family.

Q: Why might your organisation be a good fit for a newcomer to Canada? A: Our organization has a holistic approach to addressing the needs and challenges of immigrant women. It is specifically for newcomer and immigrant women who are experiencing social isolation and slow integration, unemployment, underemploymment, or reliance on social assistance, and who may have a lack of proficiency in English, a lack of work experience, and few connections to the community.

Q: What social enterprises are currently active and recruiting participants? A: SEWLUTIONS: Offering access to employment and education in textiles, sewing and other relevant skills around design, arts, LABOUR craftsmanship and MARKET OUTLOOK: cultural traditions; There is currently a provinceand KULEA: wide shortage of homemakers Senior support and companions. Opportunities services.

ACTION PLAN join >>> sewlutions

>>>

for homemakers and companions will be strongest on Vancouver Island and in the Okanagan, Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley as many people move to these regions to retire.

BEGINNER DROP-IN 10 a.m. -2 p.m.

Every Friday Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS) 637 Bay St., Victoria B.C.

(www.workbc.ca/Jobs-Careers)

INTERMEDIATE DROP-IN 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Every Thursday St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church 680 Courtney St., Victoria, B.C. updates and details at: www.facebook.com/ HouseoftheWorld.Sewlutions

visit

>>> house of the world

www.houseoftheworldvictoria.com heremagazine.ca

HOU SE OF THE WORLD CO - F OUNDERS, SILVIA MANGUE AND JAKELINA LISTES. PHOTO CREDIT: SID EMMANUEL

P H OTO S B OT TO M O F PAG E , TO P: N A D I A TA P I A , S E W LU T I O N S PA RT I C I PA N T A N D VO LU N T E E R . P H OTO S U P P L I E D BY JA K E L I N A L I S T E S . B OT TO M : S I LV I A M A N G U E S P E A K I N G W I T H AT T E N D E E S AT B I L I N G UA L J O B FA I R , N OV E M B E R 2 016 , GT H I R I N G S O LU T I O N S . P H OTO C R E D I T: F I O N A B R A M B L E

working outside-the-box

crafting [agrifood]

WHAT IS AN AGRIFOOD PROCESSOR? Traditional agrifood processors or food artisans use traditional knowledge, skills and tools to transform or manufacture raw foods and ingredients into consumable products such as wine, tea, coffee, fruit and vegetables, confectionary, grain and beer. Many of the Traditional Craft Trades (TCT’s) that produce consumable products are agrifood processors.

SO U RC E : BC’S ARTI SAN S E C TOR, S U PPORTI NG GROW TH TH RO U GH E VI D E N C E (Investment Agriculture Foundation Research Project)

LABOUR MARKET OUTLOOK: According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, 6 out of 10 small Canadian business owners plan to retire within the next 10 years. The fact that 41% of farmers are currently age 55 and older points to a similar trend in the agrifood industry.

(SOURCE: HANDS ON EMPLOYER TOOLKIT—see sidebar)

SOME OCCUPATIONS IN THE AGRIFOOD INDUSTRY Baking • Brewing • Butter making • Charcuterie • Cheese making Chocolate making • Confectionary • Distilling • Wine making Essential oil production • Fruit oil production • Honey production Liquor making • Maple sugaring • Maple-based alcoholic beverages • Milling • Pastry making • Pome fruit growing Preserve making • Sausage making • Vinegar making SO U RC E : BC’S ARTI SAN S E C TOR, S U PPORTI N G GROW TH TH RO U GH E VI D E N C E (Investment Agriculture Foundation Research Project)

ACTION PLAN visit

>>>

>>>

aN S DE I N I TI ATIVE

Creating Renewal and Prosperity in British Columbia’s Small-Scale Agrifood Processing Industry through Knowledge Transfer, Applied Learning and Succession Planning How it works 1. Interns will sign up for a paid 20-week internship program in a business environment.

2. Interns will attend a minimum of 3 classroom & industry workshops. These workshops will include business development, marketing, food safety, and first aid certifications. They will be selected based on the individual’s current experience and certifications and the work environment.

3. Learning and production objectives will be set during the first week of employment based on the needs of the business and the current experience of the intern.

Eligibility

Interns: • You are looking for a new career and you are interested in small scale agrifood businesses • You are between 18 and 35 years of age at the beginning of the employment • You are ready to work Businesses: • You are located in B.C. • You are a small-scale agrifood processor (maximum 50 full time employees).

• You demonstrate interest in paying and mentoring a intern for a 20-week period.

• You are compliant with safety guidelines and able to provide appropriate safety equipment to employees, interns and volunteers.

F r o m t h e : H a n d s O n E m p l o y e r To o l k i t

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Lorraine Plourde lplourde@sdecb.com

agricultural job search sites

www.foodwork.ca/jobs www.agri-labourpool.com www.agcareers.com/british_columbia-jobs www.wwoof.ca (local Island farm, 10 Acres: www.wwoof.ca/user/63083)

heremagazine.ca

17

working outside-the-box

ALI BASIRI, MARKETING DIRECTOR, WORLD FINANCIAL GROUP CANADA on how developing your own financial literacy can lead to employment opportunities in the financial sector.

Q: What is the World Financial Group Canada (WFG)? A: World Financial Group is a platform that allows individuals from all different backgrounds to start their own financial agencies. A WFG associate can offer a wide range of products such as saving accounts, mutual funds, all types of insurances and protection plans, and different lending products from well-known companies. Here at the WFG Victoria office, we are focused on empowering families and individuals that are left behind by the traditional banking system by providing them the essential financial knowledge and how it works Canada.

Q: How did you first become interested in the World Financial Group platform? A: When I came to Canada almost three years ago, I reconnected with an old friend who worked with WFG. He started sharing some detailed, practical information about how the financial system works in Canada. The banking system here is very different than in Iran.

I got really passionate about gaining and sharing financial knowledge and realized that I could bring value to the people around me.

Q: Why might your organisation be a good fit for a newcomer to Canada? A: It is not only a opportunity to grow your Canadian financial literacy, it is also a way to practice speaking English and reach out to people outside of your own ethno-cultural community. Building a culturally diverse and multilingual team is one of our main goals, so we can reach people from all backgrounds. We are the fastest-growing team in Canada!

Q: What support and training do you offer newcomers? A: So much! We offer a great training program and weekly group sessions. You always have a mentor walking with you, side by side.

paying it [forward]

L A BO U R M A R KE T O U T L OO K:

154,900 job openings in Business, Finance and Administration Occupations are projected between now and 2025 (B.C. 2025 Labour Market Outlook)

A L I B A S I R I A N D, SAMIN HAGHIGHI, A L I’S L I F E P A R T N E R AND EXECUTIVE OPHOTO F F ICONTRIBUTED C E M A NBYAALIG EBASIRI. R.

18

heremagazine.ca

>>>

ACTION PLAN join >>> information event Saturday, January 28, 2017 Suite 301 - 1321 Blanshard St., Victoria, B.C.

RSVP: abasiri04bptc@wfgmail.ca 250-884-0474

Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS) is the sole provider of Skills Connect for Immigrants Program on southern Vancouver Island. Skills Connect provides assistance to newcomers with degrees, trades qualification, or professional designations by assisting them in locating the best training options, assisting with training costs and then job placement so that people can get back into their work fields quicker and with more success.

VIRCS is also currently looking into partnering with local industry and businesses in order to assist job placement and training via the Canada-BC Job Grants.

CONTACT KAMAL PANESAR, EMPLOYMENT MANAGER: kamal@vircs.bc.ca

ICA’s Employment Services have helped more than 350 newcomers in the past year. With support from the employment staff and the wide variety of employment programs, newcomers were able to overcome barriers to employment and successfully enter the labour market and their career fields. Through the Employment Program of BC (WorkBC) and subcontract with GT Hiring Solutions, in Saanich and Victoria; Beacon Community Services in Sidney and the Gulf Islands, and Worklink Employment Society in the Westshore, ICA provides one-onone employment services and group workshops to assist newcomers with job preparation and labour market information. Career mentoring has been a crucial part of employment programing at ICA for many years.

Career mentors provide professional newcomers with information about their occupation in Canada and assistance in navigating the re-credentialing process. Most importantly they offer the necessary network connections to assist with entering their profession in Canada.

2017 will be an exciting year with new employment programs and workshops at ICA. Stay tuned for updates on our website www.icavictoria.org or follow us on social media.

CONTACT DEB HAMBLIN, EMPLOYMENT SERVICES MANAGER: dhamblin@icavictoria.org

working outside-the-box

opening [doors]

ANNA SMITH, PRESIDENT/OWNER, BETTER CHOICE STAFFING on the unique challenges for newcomer job seekers in Victoria and how her team has helped newcomers and local employers find a mutual match.

T H E B E T T E R C H O I C E S TA F F I N G T E A M , A N N A S M I T H , C E N T R E . P H OTO C R E D I T: F I O N A B R A M B L E

FROM {TOP TIPS} ANNA

1

SIGN UP

3

COME IN

WITH ALL LOCAL EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES TO OPEN UP MORE OPPORTUNITIES. EACH AGENCY REPRESENTS DIFFERENT EMPLOYERS, SO DON’T JUST SIGN UP WITH ONE AGENCY.

TO SEE US AT BETTER CHOICE. MEETING YOU IN PERSON IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF US HELPING YOU FIND EMPLOYMENT. P.S. DON’T BE NERVOUS!

4

2 BE

FLEXIBLE. DON’T BE AFRAID TO TAKE AN ENTRYLEVEL JOB. IT GIVES YOU CANADIAN EXPERIENCE AND A FOOT IN THE DOOR.

REMEMBER

YOUR SKILLS ARE TRANSFERABLE. THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT JOBS THAT REQUIRE YOUR SKILL SET AND EXPERIENCE.

>>>

ACTION PLAN visit >>> better choice staffing 1124 Blanshard Street Victoria, B.C. betterchoicestaffing.com

CONTACT

>>> anna smith

250-590-5120

and see us or contact us via our website or email. We welcome walk-ins, but please also send us an electronic copy of your resume.

Q: Tell me about the employers you work with. A: We are fortunate to work with a lot of good companies and hiring Q: What is your cultural managers and we’ve become background, Anna? A: I was very close with them. I listen, born in Manila. I’ve lived truly listen to what they want. At in Florida, Chicago, San the same time, I know that there Francisco, New Zealand—I’ve might be something they are been all over. My husband and not seeing [with a candidate] I finally agreed on Victoria. and I have gone so far as to Q: Do you agree say, “Listen, that the idea try the person of “it’s who out, one or two you know” is days, to see if IT’S OUR RESPONSIBILIT Y AS a true barrier they are a good EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES THAT for newcomers fit. We’ll cover accessing the cost.” I’ve HAVE THE E AR OF SO MANY employment done that with EMPLOYERS TO USE THAT opportunities in certain contracts TO HELP OTHERS, TO BE AN Victoria?

ADVOC ATE. I THINK WE C AN BE because I know A: Absolutely. they are asking A BRIDGE BE T WEEN THE JOB When I first for specific S EEK ER A ND EM PLOY ER . moved out here skill sets that (from New York), a newcomer to I was told that if I didn’t have Canada might not have but that friends or family here, I was out most people can pick up in half of luck—that it is really about a day. That’s often all anyone who you know. I thought it was needs. The employer usually an exaggeration, but it was true. I says yes because they’ve got have never lived anywhere where nothing to lose! who you know matters so much.

Q: How do you find a match for Q: Does that experience make the employer and job seeker? you more inspired to help A: When a new contract comes newcomers find employment? in, we go through our list of A: Yes! We love working with everyone that we know that’s newcomers—really anyone looking for work and we provide who is having trouble finding all the information to the job work and has exhausted other seeker. There are agencies that avenues. They’ve gone on hold back information because job boards; they’re going to they don’t want the job seeker job fairs; they’re doing all the to apply directly with their right things but they’re just not client, but that doesn’t make hearing back. sense to me. How is a job seeker supposed to make an Q: How does a newcomer informed decison if they don’t start the search with you and have all the details? We give your team? Is there a cost? the job seeker the name of the A: There is no cost for the job company, the address, the rate seeker. We are contracted with of pay, everything! employers, not job seekers. The best place to start is to come in

“

heremagazine.ca

19

EMPLOYERS! DO YOU HAVE A COPY OF HIRING AND RETAINING SKILLED IMMIGRANTS: A CULTURAL COMPETENCE TOOLKIT ?

DOWNLOAD IT FOR FREE AT: www.hrma.ca/wp-content/ uploads/2012/08/itiguide.pdf

THE TOOLKIT EXPLORES SUCH THEMES AS: •INTERVIEWING •TESTING •REFERENCE CHECKING •PROVIDING FEEDBACK

AND HIGHLIGHTS ASSUMPTIONS THROUGH A CULTURALLY COMPETENT LENS WITH SCENARIOS LIKE: The candidate arrives 20 minutes early wearing a strong perfume, stands three feet away from you, looks you up and down, gives a prolonged hand-shake, maintains continuous eye contact, and chit-chats about family and politics. Have you made up your mind against this candidate already? Why? Can you maintain an open mind knowing cultural differences may be causing the behavior? Can you maintain an open mind knowing these cultural differences may not necessarily relate to job performance?

DOWNLOAD IT TODAY!

20

heremagazine.ca

Alana Rowe, BA, BMgt, CHRP Alana is an experienced recruiter and certified human resources professional. She is co-owner of Resume Hut, a one-stop shop for personalized career services located in Victoria, B.C.

1. CONTACT INFORMATION: List your name, phone number, email address and mailing address at the top of your résumé. If you have a LinkedIn profile, you can include the link to it too.

2. INTRODUCTORY PROFILE: This is a short section describing your qualifications, skills and notable work achievements.

3. EDUCATION: List any certificates, diplomas or degrees you have completed.

4. WORK EXPERIENCE: Canadian résumés are written in reverse chronological order.

Your most recent job is listed first and the oldest job is listed last. For each job, include the name of the organization, job title and dates of employment. Also write a short description of your job duties.

5. VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE: If you have Canadian volunteer experience, you should include it as it is valued by employers. For each volunteer position, list the name of the organization, your title, and the dates you volunteered, followed by a short description of the work you did.

WHAT NOT TO INCLUDE: Unless you are applying for a modeling or acting job, leave your photograph off of your résumé. Do not include personal information such as marital status, children, religion, or nationality.

The Canadian-style résumé tends to be short, concise and should fit within two pages. With this strict parameter, job seekers are forced to exclude extra information from their jam-packed résumé. The good news is that you can complement your résumé with a professional LinkedIn profile.

With 467 million members, LinkedIn has become an indispensable tool for job seekers and recruiters. Here are three ways to optimize your profile for Canadian employers: 1. FOCUS ON YOUR SKILLS: As a newcomer, you may be lacking Canadian experience, so choose to create a functional profile instead of chronological one. This strategy will help outline your industry experience and professional achievements, wherever they happened.

2. BE NOTICEABLE: Make it easier for employers by expressing in your Summary section why you are the right candidate for the job. Use the headline section to state who you are and what you want using industry keywords, so you can be easily found.

résumés & online profiles

t h i s sec t i o n : L A N G U A G E, L EA R N I N G, A N D L I V I N G

Your résumé is an essential tool for finding a job in Canada. It provides employers with a summary of your skills, education, and work history. Always include the following basic information in your résumé:

Asmâa Methqal, MA, MLIS Asmâa is an executive-level, bilingual professional with over 18 years of expertise delivering innovative online solutions. She is the founder of Maestra Business Solutions, a digital marketing consultancy company located in Victoria B.C.

3. BE RESOURCEFUL: Complete your profile, add a picture and reorder sections to easily showcase or downplay aspects of your professional background.

Your LinkedIn profile is a reflection of your qualifications and experience, but also you as a person. Don’t forget to shine your positive attitude and personality!

heremagazine.ca

21

learn 1

EVERY JOB HAS ITS “TOOLS OF THE TRADE”. A CARPENTER LITERALLY CARRIES TOOLS OF THE TRADE! SOME STANDARD TOOLS ARE ON THE TOOL BELT BELOW.

Write the number in the box next to the matching word that describes the tool:

L I A N D E TH HEA G IN HE T T HI N T O

a level a screwdriver an Allen key a box cutter a measuring tape a wrench

2

What is the function of each tool?

3

Which tool rhymes with “flyers”?

4

Tr u e o r fa l s e? a. An “Allen key” is also called a hex key. b. A “monkey wrench” is an adjustable wrench. c. A builder’s level is usually about 6 inches (12 cm) long. d. “Lefty-loosey, rightytighty” is one way for a layperson to remember how to use pliers. e. “Measure twice, cut once” means to prepare and plan carefully before taking action.

Scan QR Code for the answers

22

DOUGAL CALLS HIS BUSINESS “COMPLETELY HAMM ERED”!

THERE ARE MANY EXPRESSIONS IN ENGLISH THAT INCLUDE THE WORD HAMM ER. WHICH ONES DO YOU KNOW? heremagazine.ca

“

I like it when things all come together, like cooking a good meal. This is not common in the trade, as there are many variables beyond my control, such as materials supply, coordinating sub-trades, scheduling, etc., but when it all lines up and the product makes my clients happy, that is a really good feeling.

DOUGAL MCGHEE, Journeyman Carpenter and Owner, Completely Hammered .

IR S TA

IN

CARPENTRY

TT

ON

ON THE JOBSITE WITH DOUGAL INDISPENSABLE TOOL? My hands.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS? I had zero experienece before I started my first job.

A former ski coach gave me a break. I started as a general labourer and did a formal apprenticeship later.

DOUGAL’ S SOURCES OF CARPENT RY INSPIR AT ION

W H AT I S A L AY P E R S O N ? a person who is not a member of a given profession

Fi n e Ho m e b u i l d i n g Magazine

Bu i l d er s o f t h e Pa c i f i c

by Lloyd Kahn

COOL TOOL A LAYPERSON HAS NEVER HEARD OF? Stair buttons. They help you make repeated cuts on rafters and stairs.

ADVICE FOR NEWBIES?

Re a l w or l d i n t er a c t i o n with design s and cr e a t i o n s!

TO BE HAMMERED HAMMER SOMETHING HOME HAMMER SOMETHING OUT HAMMER AWAY AT SOMETHING TO BE UNDER THE HAMMER TO TAKE A HAMMERING

BU

Take care, with yourself and with your work. Carpentry is dangerous work and it is not safe to rush or cut corners. In terms of the product, carpentry requires a high degree of attention to detail and precision—people rely heavily on the work you do, literally.

10,260 JOB OPENINGS PREDICTED IN CARPENTRY FROM 2015 -2025 (www.workbc.ca/Jobs-Careers)

WORKING IN VICTORIA? Victoria is a city with a seemingly unending market for renovations!

READ DOUGAL’S FULL INTERVIEW AT w w w. h e r e m a g a z i n e .c a heremagazine.ca

23

learn

MEAGHAN'S FAVOURITE TOOLS o f th e tra d e

1

Write the number in the box next to the matching word that describes these common sewing items. a fabric swatch a measuring tape a thimble pattern markings a pin cushion a dress form a spool of thread a tracing wheel a stitch ripper

2

These tools are also important for sewing.

Draw them somewhere on this page! ruler ro tar y c u t te r tail o r’s ch alk

3

Meaghan Smith says there are five tools she can’t do without in her sewing workroom.

What do you think they are?

S can Q R C o de for A n swer s

c i rc l e

Who are you calling a sewer?!

24

Tasia at sewaholic.net doesn’t like the term “sewer”, so she asked her followers what they prefer to be called. Some home sewers said they prefer the term “sewist” because it is gender-nuetral and “modern”! heremagazine.ca

SE W I N G C an yo u t hink o f 5 n o u n s t h a t are u s e d w i t h “ s e w in g ” to cre a te a co ll o ca tio n? Wri te t h e m in t h e c irc l e s ab ove.

F o r e xa m p l e : s e w i n g c i r c l e.

Scan QR Code to the left for Answers

SEWING AND PATTERNS 101 centre front

ne

ck

lin

e

hemli

grainline

ne

arm

ho

le

shoulder seam

centre fold

eam side s

“

When people ask me what I do, I say I make clothes, but my job title is designer entrepreneur.

I’m the pattern maker, designer, grader, sewer, cutter, sales rep— basically I do everything.

I think it’s important that we don’t lose these skill sets and I consider myself part of a local movement towards sustainability which includes local food producers and other makers. One-hundredmile closet, anyone?

Meaghan Smith‚ Designer Entrepreneur at Trapper Jane

TRICKS

trapperjane.bigcartel.com

of the trade PAT TERN TIP S F OR THE HOME SE WER 1. T RIM T HE S E A M A LLOWA N CES B EF O RE YO U S TA RT C U T T IN G YO U R FA B RI C . M o s t s t o r e - b o u g h t p a t t e r n s u s e a s t a n d a r d 5/8 i n c h s e a m a l l o w a n c e . To m a ke i t e a s i e r t o g e t a s t r a i g h t e r s e a m‚ t r i m t h e s e a m a l l o w a n c e t o 1/4 i n c h f o r w a i s t b a n d s a n d c o l l a r s — a n y t h i n g w i t h c u r v e s o r c o r n e r s‚ 1/2 i n c h f o r p a n t l e g s‚ a n d 3/8 i n c h f o r all other seams.

2 . U S E PAT T ERN W EI GH T S IN S T E A D O F PIN S .

Pins d i s t o r t y o u r f a b r i c a n d a f t e r c u t t i n g‚ y o u’l l f i n d t h a t y o u h a v e m o r e f a b r i c t h a n p a t t e r n . I n s t e a d o f p i n s‚ u s e b o o k s‚ f l a t r o c k s‚ o r a n y t h i n g t h a t i s h e a v y e n o u g h t o h o l d t h e pattern in place.

3. T R ACE A RO U ND T HE PAT T ERN B EF O RE YO U TA K E I T O FF. U s e t a i l o r’s c h a l k o r a w a x p e n c i l t o

front sleeve notch

right side

back sleeve notch

wrong side

trace

around the pattern.

4 . C U T T HE LINES AWAY.

A f t e r y o u h a v e t ra c e d y o u r p a t te r n o u t a n d a re re a d y t o c u t t h e fa b r i c , b e s u re t o c u t a w a y t h e lin e s b y c u t t i n g y o u r fa b r i c a l o n g t h e i n s i d e o f t h e t ra c e d lin e. T h i s w i l l p re v e n t e x c e s s v o l u m e f ro m b e i n g a d d e d to y o u r g a r m e n t u n n e c e s s a r i l y.

5. I F YO U F I N D A PAT T E RN T H AT YO U WA N T TO U S E AGA I N‚ T R AC E T H AT PAT T E RN O N TO C A RD S TO C K . Tra c e o u t t h e c o r re c t s i ze a n d a d d t h e c o r re c t p a t te r n m a r k s . H o l e p u n c h i t a n d s t o re i t o n a hanger in the closet.

Me aghan says that these tip s “will set y o u u p t o m a ke a d e c e n t g a r m e n t b e c a u s e c u t t i n g m a ke s a l l t h e d i f f e r e n c e i n t h e w o r l d . ” Wa n t t o k n o w m o r e? S c a n t h e Q R c o d e a n d l i s t e n t o M e a g h a n’s f u l l i n t e r v i e w T i p s f o r t h e H o m e S e w e r o n 2 9 e r r a d i o.c o m .

In M ea ghan's Workroom

b u s t p o i n t‚ waistline‚ or hipline

notch

n ot ch e s & cir cl e s fo r m a t chin g pat tern pieces

rotar y cu t ter v s. scis sor s?

ROTA RY C U T T E R . old machine v s. new machine?

O LD M AC H I N E S D O T H E T RI C K . indisp ensable to ol?

BAS I C M ATH S KI LL S . favourite p at tern?

W H AT E V E R I ' M WO R KI N G O N AT T H E M O M E N T.

M e a g h a n re c o m m e n d s v i s i t i n g : w w w.f a s h i o n - i n c u b a t o r.c o m f o r t i p s a n d re s o u rc e s f r o m c l o t h i n g i n d u s t r y p ro fe s s i o n a l s , i n c l u d i n g m a n u fa c t u re r s , s a l e s re p s , b u y e r s , fa c t o r s , s e w i n g c o n t ra c t o r s , s u p p l i e r s , p a t t e r n m a k e r s and designers. heremagazine.ca

25

rent

Alex Creighton has over 30 years’ experience in property management with Devon Properties and her family-run property management company.

Waiting List Being Taken You see them all over town: “ WAITING LIST B E ING TAKE N” signs on rental buildings. In this market of few vacancies, is it wor th putting your name on the list?

My advice would be, yes, it is wor th putting your name down, but with a few considerations.

The vacancy rate in Victoria dropped to 0.5% in December 2016. In 2015, it was considered among the lowest in Canada at 0.6%.

SOURCE: CHMC RENTAL MARKET REPORT VICTORIA

way there is a better chance something may become available for you. Make a note of who you spoke to and the building name and address so if you put your name on multiple lists and you get a call, you will know which one is contac ting you.

Many availabilities are never adver tised, par ticularly in a tight rental market like ours. The more work you can do to broaden your oppor tunities, the better for your rental search.

First, don’t just put your name down and wait, hoping to get a call. It is impor tant to check back with the landlord. The most appropriate time to do this would be in the last t wo or three days of the month. Notices to vacate J U S T B E C AU S E YO U A RE O N are usually received in A WA I T IN G LI S T D O ES N OT those few days and would ME A N YO U A RE T HE FIRS T O N be effec tive at the end of T HE LI S T. T HE L A ND LO RD S T ILL H A S T HE RI GH T TO S H OW T HE the following month.

“

There is no obligation to take a unit if you get a call one has become available. You still have the right to view it and decide if it is the right one for you to apply for.

Remember though: if you get S U I T E TO M U LT IPLE PE O PLE. In addition, make sure a call, make sure you view you ask questions such it as soon as possible. Just as: “is the building pet friendly?; or “is it because you are on a waiting list does non - smoking or is smoking permitted?”, if not mean you are the “ first on the list ”. these subjec ts are impor tant to you. There The landlord still has the right to show the is no point in going on the waiting list if suite to multiple people, take more than you have a pet and the building does not one application for tenanc y, and make a allow them. decision bet ween those applications.

You should also (without harassing the person!) check in regularly so your interest is clear and current. Of ten when a landlord star ts calling through their waiting list, a number of people have dropped off for one reason or another.

If your name is familiar to them and they know you are seriously interested, you may have a better chance of securing a unit.

26

It is also wor th choosing a few buildings you are interested in living in and putting your name on all of their waiting lists. That heremagazine.ca

Visit w w w.heremagazine.ca for links to rental resources and to view or download previous Rent Here ar ticles: Looking for a Place to Rent‚ Viewing Rental Units‚ Applying for a Rental Unit‚ Moving into Your New Home, When You Need Repairs, Top 3 Problems for Landlords and Tenants, and My ths about Tenant and Landlord Relations.

BANK NOTE-ABLE

The Downside of Cookie-Cutter Advice Peter Wong* was a chef and his wife, Mar y*, a hairdresser, before immigrating to Canada.

A language barrier prevented them from finding employment, but they found work in a local grocer y store.

They didn’t know much about Canadian finances, but knew they needed to save for their future. They opened accounts and credit cards with their bank, and with some assistance from relatives, later managed a down payment on a four- bedroom home.

The bank advised them to save for retirement, so the Wongs each contributed to individual Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), and the RRSP money was put into savings accounts. Feeling their finances were limited, the Wongs did not open a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) for their young son. The Wongs’ savings weren’t working as hard as they were, so they came to us for a second opinion. We identified a few opportunities:

• A f te r r ev iew in g t h e Wo n g s’ ri s k to l e r an ce, fin an c ial g o al s, an d l o n g te rm s a v in g s ex p e c t a t io n s, we d e t e rm in e d t h ey we r e m o d e r a te - ri s k inve s to r s .

M u t u al f u n d s inve s t m e n t s co u l d b e a b e t te r s t r a te g y t h an t h e ir ove rl y co n s e r va t i ve R R S P b ank a cco u n t s .

• S t ar t an R E S P a cco u n t fo r t h e ir s o n to g ain 2 0 4 0 % f r e e m a tc h e s t hr o u g h g ove rn m e n t gr an t s .

• U s e Ta x- F r e e S a v in g s A cco u n t s ( T F SA s) to d a y to e n s u r e t h ey p a y l e s s t a x o n t h e ir in co m e in r e t ir e m e n t an d o b t ain m a x im u m g ove rn m e n t benefits.

VIOLA DESMOND

NEW $10 BILL FOR 2018!

THE BANK OF CANADA IS DESIGNING A NEW $10 BANK NOTE FEATURING CANADIAN CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST, VIOLA DESMOND.

• M ake s u r e t h ey u n d e r s t an d t h eir wo rk benefits.

VIOLA DESMOND WAS A SUCCESSFUL NOVA SCOTIAN BUSINESS WOMAN OF AFRICAN DESCENT WHO CHALLENGED SEGREGATION POLICIES IN 1946. “HER CASE WAS AN INSPIRATION FOR CHANGE AND PART OF A WIDER SET OF EFFORTS TOWARD RACIAL EQUALITY ACROSS THE COUNTRY.” (Bank of Canada)

V i sit w w w. E xce p t io n al we al t h .ca to le arn m ore ab o u t C ana dian fin ance s .

THE BANK OF CANADA WILL ALSO ISSUE A NEW $5 BANK NOTE IN THE NEAR FUTURE.

• Re n t o u t t h eir b a s e m e n t s u i te to h e lp r e p a y t h e m o r t g a g e an d r e l a t i ve s .

• Re co m m e n d t h ey h a ve Can a dian W ill s an d Powe r o f A t to rn ey d o c u m e n t s in p l a ce.

* T h e c l i e n t s’ n a m e s h a v e b e e n c h a n g e d t o protect their privacy I N C O L L A B O R AT I O N W I T H : Barb Finnerty Investment Funds Advisor E xceptional Wealth Management Canada Manulife Securities Investment Ser vices Inc. Manulife Securities and the block design are registered ser vice marks and trade marks of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and are used by it and its affiliates including Manulife Securities Investment Ser vices Inc. Manulife Securities Investment Ser vices Inc. is a Member MFDA IPC Inc.

WHO IS ON THE CURRENT $5 AND $10 BILLS? AND WHICH TWO FORMER PRIME MINISTERS WILL DISAPPEAR FROM NEW CANADIAN BANK NOTES? (answers below)

$5: Sir Wilfrid Laurier, $10: Sir John A. MacDonald; William Lyon Mackenzie King and Sir Robert Borden. bankofcanada.ca

money

Ya n - M i n Xu, A s s o c i a t e E xc e p t i o n a l We a l t h M a n a g e m e n t C a n a d a , Manulife Securities Investment Ser vices Inc.

heremagazine.ca

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HERE! WAS THERE!

TOP: #UNITYINDIVERSITY EVENT HOSTED

BY THE “YAP!” GIRLS OF THE ISLAMIC COMMUNITY, QUADRA VILLAGE COMMUNITY CENTRE, OCTOBER 2016.

BOTTOM LEFT: PERFORMERS AT THE WORLD PARTNERSHIP WALK, UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA, MAY 2016. BOTTOM RIGHT: HERE! MAGAZINE FOCUS GROUP, NELLIE MCCLUNG LIBRARY, OCTOBER 2 016

28

heremagazine.ca

2OI6 IN PHOTOS

H E R E ! B OA R D M E M B E R S , B E R E N I C E GA R C I A A N D JAKELINA LISTES.

THE HERE! TEAM THANKS OUR SPONSORS, COMMUNIT Y PARTNERS, BOARD MEMBERS, VOLUNTEERS & AMAZING #Y YJ NEWCOMERS FOR A REWARDING YEAR OF CONNECTING AND COMMUNIT Y BUILDING. LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU IN 2017!

TOP: “TWEETING THE WORLD #YYJ” AT CAR FREE DAY, HERE! MAGAZINE TENT, DOUGLAS ST., JUNE 2016. BOTTOM: WORLD REFUGEE DAY EVENTS, GREATER VICTORIA PUBLIC LIBRARY AND VICTORIA CITY HALL, JUNE 2016.

SHARMARKE DUBOW SPEAKS AT CITY HALL. SYRIAN VIOLINIST, SARI ALESH, PLAYS IN THE COURTYARD AT GVPL, CENTRAL BRANCH.

heremagazine.ca

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OUR FOCUS GETS MORE FOCUS

Did you know that Here!

Magazine is a not-for-profit society? That means that we have great volunteers and a very hard-working Board of Directors. It also means we are accountable to our community and we look forward to our annual focus group, our many community outreach events, and our website and email feedback to help guide our editorial direction, initiate cross-cultural dialogue, and bring our diverse community closer together! Our October focus group was superfocused (!), and attendees put forward many worthwhile ideas including adding a classified section, different community information,

(like how to find good hiking trails around Victoria—thank you to our partners at Westshore Parks and Recreation for the contribution to the right!) and more multicultural

content to these pages, so

WATCH THIS SPACE IN 2017!

JOIN US

Come out and meet the Here!

Team in the community: FRIDAY, JANUARY 13, 2016 @GVPL, CENTRAL BRANCH LINKEDIN WORKSHOP & photoMOB. 1-4 P.M. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4 , 2016 @GVPL, CENTRAL BRANCH COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE WORKSHOP. 3-5 P.M. SATURDAY, MARCH 4, 2016 @VICTOR BRODEUR SCHOOL WELCOME DAY CELEBRATION FOR IMMIGRANTS AND REFUGEES. 11-4 P.M.

CONNECT WITH US

We love to connect with you on social media to share information that’s important to newcomers and to build cross-cultural awareness!

(Although for some reason‚ our Instagram page seems to be full of flower pictures...)

New to Canada?

We can help.

VISIT US

We want to hear your stories and get your feedback! Visit our website to contribute to polls and questionnaires‚ improve your language skills‚ learn about Canadian culture‚ meet other newcomers in the community‚ and read our digital editions and special web-only features.

WWW.HEREMAGAZINE.C A

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