Canadian Immigrant - January 2018

volume 15 issue 1 | 2018 c anadianimmigr ant.c a

arrive. succeed. inspire.

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Positivity, warmth and connection define CEO Alison Silgardo’s leadership

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CONTENTS

26

SETTLEMENT GUIDE

28

RBC TOP 25 CANADIAN IMMIGRANTs

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BACK PAGE

fusion

PROFILE: Joshua Alvarez: from survival to success CANADIANA: Your first poutine!

NEWS: Sponsor your parents, diversity awards …

QUOTABLE: York University’s Rhonda L. Lenton

Past RBC Top 25 winners share messages for the year ahead HUMOUR BY HEMETERIO CANSPEAK: English language expressions

success story

Alison Silgardo heads Vancouver’s oldest addictions treatment centre with positive leadership and connection

12 WELLNESS

Immigration can cause depression, anxiety, feelings of loss and worry; three immigrants share their experiences

15 WOMEN

At a time when women feel empowered to speak out against sexual harassment, immigrant women should feel comfortable to raise their voices, too

17 CAREERS AND EDUCATION

CAREER COACH: Hot jobs for 2018 JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES: Self-employment as a job alternative HIGHER LEARNING: Smart studies

23 SETTLEMENT

TIPS FOR SETTLING IN FASTER: Forward finances PARENTING: Get your kids talking 10 strategies to take the CELPIP Test

LIFE STRATEGIES: Saying no to drugs

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People. News. Information.

Volume 15, Issue 1

2018

profile

Group Publishers Gautam Datt Sharma Sanjay Agnihotri Editor Margaret Jetelina mjetelina@metroland.com

Joshua

Alvarez

Editorial Design Terry Lankstead, Anne Nawrocka Courtland Shakespeare Digital Media Developer Kamil Mytnik Sr. Ad Manager Ricky (Kawaljit) Bajaj rbajaj@metroland.com Tel: 905 273 8170 Sales, Events & Marketing Coordinator Laura Jackman ljackman@metroland.com General Inquiries: info@canadianimmigrant.ca Circulation/Distribution Inquiries: ljackman@metroland.com ISSN 1910-4146 Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher

Publications mail agreement number: 40065097 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: 3145 Wolfedale Road Mississauga, Ontario, L5C 3A9 Printed on recycled paper.

Toronto Circulation 30,000 copies Vancouver Circulation 15,000 copies Calgary/Edmonton Circulation 5,000 copies Canadian Immigrant is published four times a year in print. 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.

canadianimmigrant.ca Toronto 3145 Wolfedale Road, Mississauga Ontario, L5C 3A9 Tel: 905 273 8111, Fax: 905 277 9917

Survival to success

By Margaret Jetelina

I

t took five years from application to arrival in Canada for Venezuelan-born Joshua Alvarez.

He had experience as a corporate trainer and marketing consultant for the oil industry and Major League Baseball’s player development program in Latin America.

Ezequiel Carrera, of the Toronto Blue Jays, was one of his students.

But his first job after landing in Toronto was not quite so thrilling; he started by cleaning public toilets at the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC).

Why did you want to immigrate to Canada?

You can say I have always been a Canadian, but just did not know it.

I love the outdoors, the culture, the history, the languages, the peoples and the values. Multiculturalism is something that really fascinated me. It does not matter what your culture is or your background, whatever you bring to the table, it becomes like that exotic delicious dish that adds flavour to the party.

This is a great place for new beginnings, for reinventing yourself, that cool breeze when you start all over.

But, like many newcomers, your first step was getting a survival job …

Although I was willing to get any sort of job, I was not prepared for the fact that I would not even get

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left Joshua Alvarez credits his successful path to hard work, networking and a ready smile!

Photo by Youssef Abdelma

CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

a job interview in my field. I had to get rid of everything on my resumé that made me overqualified and applied for cleaning washrooms through the TBM Service Group, which services and maintains all the public washrooms at the TTC. This was an interesting challenge because I had never cleaned before.

I know that this is not a pleasant experience for newcomers, I get that, but I would show up to work with a smile and do my absolute best. For some, the survival job is just a means to get by until you find your “real job.” In my case, my survival job became an important door that lead to great opportunities.

How so?

I met Andy Byford, the former TTC CEO, which made a huge difference! It was him who called Val Ramanand, TBM’s CEO and recommended me. Thanks to that call, I moved up from janitor to site manager in one day. There are a few little moments that make a great impact in one’s life, this was definitely one of them and for that I will always be thankful.

Was it luck?

Meeting Andy was not by luck.

You may have heard that opportunity knocks once. But I would have to add: for opportunity to knock, you must have a door. Before installing a door, you must have a house, for you to have a house, you

must build it from the foundation up, brick by brick. Then opportunity will knock.

While working in my survival job, I upgraded my skills by studying film production at Toronto Film School and I decided to volunteer at Rogers TV. While volunteering, I became a cameraman, a switcher and a director. One day, Andy Byford was a guest. I was introduced to him, told him I cleaned for the TTC, and the rest is history.

Is your story a lesson about the value of networking?

Networking is not only about meeting people. Rather, it is about meeting the right people in a meaningful context. It has to be organic and it is not about getting a job. Andy Byford was impressed by the fact that I worked nights and volunteered at a community TV channel.

What are your goals for the future?

In addition to being a site manager with TBM, I am a producer and a host of a show I wrote and developed called Canada Pitch at Canada Star TV. In this show, we help newcomers present their artistic projects and get funding through crowdfunding campaigns.

I am very excited about this show!

What tips do you have for other newcomers?

Do not be disheartened if you are in a survival job, keep on providing for your family. Never underestimate the power of networking. Try to upgrade your skills. And always remember to enjoy the process with a smile.

Poutine, eh!

You’re now a Canadian … have you tried poutine yet? It’s not hard to find this famed French-Canadian dish, as it’s on the menu of many restaurants today. And there’s no better time than La Poutine Week from February 1-7, which started in Montreal, but restaurants in other Canadian cities have joined in the fun, too.

Depending on where you try

Canadiana your first poutine, you may be able to choose from some unique ingredient variations, but the traditional poutine, originating from the province of Quebec in the 1950s, consists only of French fries and cheese curds topped with brown gravy. Now known as a Canadian dish worldwide, the word “poutine” was added to the MerriamWebster English dictionary in 2014.

CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

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news 10 years of RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards

For the past decade, the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards have highlighted stories of immigrant success, philanthropy and inspiration. Nominations are now open for the 2018 awards, the historic 10th year of the program, supported by title sponsor RBC since 2009.

Is there an inspiring newcomer in your life? Go to canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25 to nominate them for this special honour until February 26, 2018, 11:59 p.m. EST. “These awards celebrate the significant contributions Canadian immigrants have made in communities across Canada,” says Ivy Chiu, senior director, newcomer strategy, RBC. “As we reflect on the amazing achievements we’ve seen over the past 10 years, we can look ahead and be proud of all that we have accomplished together, and all that we will in years to come.”

This will also be the fourth year that sponsor RBC selects one of the

winners for the RBC Entrepreneur Award and the second year for the Youth Award, which recognizes the achievements of young immigrants (between 15 and 30) who are making a difference in their adopted country through achievement and/or service.

Brand new this year is the Settlement Agency Award created to recognize the amazing work immigrant settlement agencies are doing to help newcomers integrate and succeed in Canada. Nominate a settlement agency doing amazing work at canadianimmigrant. ca/rbctop25. One agency will be selected to receive the Settlement Agency Award for 2018.

After nominations close, a distinguished panel of judges will review all nominees and present a shortlist of 75 finalists in March, along with finalists for the Settlement Agency Awards. After an online voting phase, the winners will be announced in June 2018.

Universities are places where ideas clash, critical thinking is born, and better paths forward are established. If commitment to free speech is fundamental to progress, so is civility. In fact, freedom of expression depends on respectful dialogue. On the internet, we often see what happens when civility is suspended … Debate typically ends in stalemate, not progressive change. Or look southward to see what happens when the very concept of free speech is weaponized to defend hatred and violence. Without institutions committed to inclusive and civil conversations, we could end up there, too.”

— Rhonda L. Lenton, president and vice-chancellor, York University

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

Diversity celebrated at the Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards

The 15th annual Fraser Valley Cultural Diversity Awards is returning to Abbotsford on March 2, 2018, at the Quality Hotel and Conference Centre. The event, presented by Abbotsford Community Services in partnership with Mission, and Chilliwack Community Services as well as the Langley New Directions English Language School, recognizes organizations and individuals that embrace the diversity in Abbotsford, Mission, Langley and Chilliwack. Concepts of cultural diversity include age, gender, abilities, sexual orientation, race,

ethnicity, religion and socio-economic background.

Awards will be presented in the following categories: Champion of Diversity; Effective Human Resources Strategies; Innovative Initiative; Inclusive Environment ; and Marketing.

Emceed by CTV Morning Live reporter Sonia Beeksma, the evening includes dinner and entertainment. Early bird tickets purchased on or before February 9 are $65 per person or $480 for a table of eight. Tickets may be purchased by contacting Patricia Driessen at 604-308-5673.

Potential sponsors can ‘express their interest’ to bring parents to Canada Want to sponsor your parents or grandparents to Canada? You have until noon on February 1, 2018, to fill out the online “Interest to Sponsor” form on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website (cic. gc.ca).

IRCC introduced a new process in 2017 for application intake for sponsoring parents and grandparents to make it fairer and more transparent for applicants. Now, potential sponsors must first notify IRCC that they are interested in sponsoring their parents and grandparents by submitting this “Interest to Sponsor” form. Using a random selection process, IRCC

will then invite potential sponsors to apply to sponsor their parents and grandparents.

To help ensure the efficiency of the system, it is important that only those who meet the sponsorship eligibility requirements submit one of these forms. There are several eligibility requirements for both the applicant and the person being sponsored. Most importantly, both parties must sign a sponsorship agreement that commits the applicant to provide financial support for their relative (and any other eligible relatives accompanying them) for a period of three to 20 years, depending on their age and relationship.

Look Up to a brighter future in your Canadian career | Ashton College

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success story

There’s something about Alison Silgardo heads Vancouver’s oldest addictions treatment centre with positive leadership and connection

By Margaret Jetelina

W

hen you think of a leader, the image of a commanding, charismatic — even flamboyant — person (often male) might cross your mind. Leadership is about more than showmanship, however. Looking at the example of Alison Silgardo, CEO of Pacifica Treatment Centre Society in Vancouver, B.C., you’ll understand that real leadership is about authenticity, positivity and connection.

Upon meeting Indian-born Silgardo at the addictions treatment centre just off Commercial Drive, I am struck at first by her warm, welcoming smile. She comes to greet me in the foyer and leads me to her modest office, chatting with staff members as we make our way down the narrow corridor. Cold from the rain outside, I accept the cup of coffee she offers, but am a little surprised when she steps away to make it herself. I hear clinking cups and spoons as I peruse her office — your typical setup of desk, computer, meeting table and green office plants. What stands out are the little plaques of inspirational messages sprinkled throughout, featuring messages like “Nothing Changes Unless You Do” and “A Mistake Repeated More than Once is a Decision.”

“The coffee might be a little strong,” Silgardo says, as she returns and places the steaming cup in front of me on the table.

I take a sip, and it is indeed strong, but still warm, sweet — much like Silgardo herself.

She sits across from me and we start chatting like old friends. I ask her one of the standard questions I ask most Canadian immigrants: “What challenges did you face as a newcomer after arriving in Canada?”

She thinks about this for a minute, and admits she didn’t really face many challenges, despite being a 25-year-old woman from

Photos by Tiffany Cooper Mumbai out on her own in Vancouver in 1988.

Within only 15 days of her arrival, she found a job with a small real estate firm as a dicta-typist. “I was supported by the owners and the team in a very real way, even showing me around town. They went above and beyond to help me settle into Vancouver,” she says.

The modest salary didn’t quite cut it though, and she worked as a waitress on the side to make ends meet. When a manager moved to big commercial real estate firm Colliers, she walked over there one afternoon and asked to meet with him. “He remembered me and liked my work ethic.” She got a job there and started working toward her property manager certification.

“I was still not comfortable with computers, so I would come in on weekends to practise. My boss was surprised when he found out,” she says, adding that the company gifted her a computer so she could practise from home. “I’ve been very fortunate and have worked with very supportive people.”

You could call this early success luck, but there’s something about Silgardo that inspires such good fortune. It’s her positivity and warmth, the diligent approach to her work, and the way she connects easily and earnestly with people. She will chip in wherever needed, not worrying about designations or titles. Here at Pacifica, you might find her grabbing the phone at reception, chatting with clients in the building’s courtyard or tackling a kitchen sink full of dishes. “It’s always about service; there’s no ego involved,” she says. “I work hard to establish connections, and my connection with people, in retrospect, has always been there.”

Silgardo’s initial career dream was to become a counsellor, so she majored in psychology at St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai. While her studies taught her about the psychology of people, she says she right Alison Silgardo outside the Pacifica Treatment Centre in Vancouver.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

No matter what comes your way, it’s about looking for the gifts in it.”

CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

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learned her positivity and perseverance from her father, an aeronautical engineer who went blind at 40. “He’s 87, blind and lives independently [since my mom passed]. He’s very inspiring,” she says. “He taught me that no matter what comes your way, it’s about looking for the gifts in it.”

After graduation, she followed her parents’ career advice and took a job in banking with HSBC. “I enjoyed my work, but when I saw a poster promoting ‘Super, Natural British Columbia’ in a hotel, I was motivated to save my rupees and apply for immigration at the age of 25 with $500 in my pocket and a one-way ticket on Air Canada,” she says.

Her parents were hesitant, but agreed to let her go, and Silgardo promised to return to India once a year to visit. On one of those visits, she met her future husband, Adrian. They continued their relationship long distance, and, in 1994, he proposed over the phone.

“I knew we had the right connection. And we’ve been married 24 years,” she says. “He’s my rock and pushed me to follow my dreams.”

He settled in Vancouver, but when he got a job offer in Switzerland, she went with him, leaving her growing career in property management to work as a risk manager with Citibank in Zurich. It was three years before the couple settled back in Vancouver in the early 2000s. “After we returned, I wanted to look for a position that was more meaningful to me. I chose to apply to a position with BC Housing and was pleasantly surprised to be offered a position a week later,” Silgardo says.

During her seven years with the social housing agency, she worked co-operatively with non-profit organizations that dealt with, for example, housing for women fleeing from abuse and people with addictions. The biggest root cause of homelessness is addiction, Silgardo explains. “I realized I wanted to take a more direct role with serving the community in the non-profit world, specifically in the area of addictions,” she says.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

Silgardo worked with Phoenix Society, a drug and alcohol recovery centre in Surrey, B.C., for four years before she took on her current role at Pacifica in 2015, making use of all her business, leadership and psychology skills acquired over her diverse career.

Pacifica is the oldest, co-ed, licensed addictions treatment centre in B.C., with a focus on lower-income clients. Having just celebrated 40 years this fall, Pacifica offers private rooms to clients for the duration of the 12-week rehab program. They focus on long-term recovery in a holistic way, with health, psychological and spiritual support, and activities like yoga, art therapy and writing workshops to support recovery. “We look at the cause of the addiction, not just the behaviour,” Silgardo says.

Whether it’s alcohol (the most common) or opioids (the second) or other drugs, addiction is not discriminatory and can affect everyone from youth to seniors, Canadian-born and immigrants. Silgardo’s goal is to bring treatment to as many people as possible, but not everyone will seek out help, she admits.

“In the South Asian community, for example, addiction is not discussed in the community. It’s usually addressed within the family only.

There’s a cultural sensitivity around seeking support,” she explains.

“My hope is to see Pacifica to be a real shelter or hub that helps clients with a continuum of care, transitioning from pre-care, to treatment, to providing support with education and work skills, and second-stage housing.”

Silgardo will certainly use all her leadership skills, positivity and passion to make this happen. She also shares her talents as an executive coach, teaching leadership skills to high-level CEOs. As a leader, Silgardo says, “I’ve always been very positive in my outlook and focused on what is important,” but she admits with a chuckle that she’s “better one-on-one and in small groups. I still need to work on large groups!”

Want information on addictions treatment? See pacificatreatment.ca.

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF RECOGNIZING IMMIGRANT ACHIEVERS

Do you know an inspiring immigrant who has made a positive impact in Canada?

Recognize and celebrate their achievements by nominating them for this coveted national award

by Feb 27, 2018.

2018 NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN

Visit canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25

Title sponsor:

Presented by:

Media sponsors:

wellness

Lifting the

FOG

The immigration journey can cause depression, anxiety, feelings of loss and worry; three immigrants share their experiences with Canadian Immigrant

By Baisakhi Roy and Margaret Jetelina

I

ndian-born Riya Bhargava (name changed for privacy) still remembers the overwhelming chill — literally and figuratively — she felt as she looked out the window of her apartment in Montreal when she first came to visit her husband. The couple had lived apart for almost a year and a half before reuniting in Canada — she was a successful television producer in Mumbai, and he, a software professional based in Quebec.

“I detest the cold. So for me to even think of moving to a place that looked so still and frozen was very anxiety-inducing,” says Bhargava, who already struggled with depression and anxiety in India. Medi-

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

cations and support from her friends and family had helped her get back on her feet in India and she was doing great for a while — until the topic of immigrating to Canada came up for discussion at the dinner table. “I had a flourishing career in Mumbai, leading a team of 60 to 70 people” she says. “I had no aspirations to move out of India, so giving it all up and moving to Canada where I would probably have to start from scratch, all the while leaving family behind was too much for me.”

Once in Canada, Bhargava fell back into that familiar fog of depression.

When immigrants move to a new country, there is a sense of loss — of their identities, family, friends, everything.”

— Farzana Doctor, social worker and author

Experiencing loss in the journey “When immigrants move to a new country, there is a sense of loss — of their identities, family, friends, everything. In their native country, they probably were experts in their field, they knew how the system worked, they had a strong network of family and friends, and now they don’t have any of that when they first come here,” says Farzana Doctor, a registered social worker and the author of three novels, her first, Stealing Nasreen, having focused on the lives of two new immigrants who experience loss and difficulties finding employment.

According to a 2012 study on immigrant mental wellbeing by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), about 29 per cent of immigrants reported having emotional problems and 16 per cent reported high levels of stress after immigrating, with women more likely to report experiencing emotional problems.

Doctor also acknowledges Bhargava’s reaction to Canadian weather. “We think it’s just the weather, but it’s a crucial factor. The darker your skin, the less sunlight you absorb and that means you are not getting your required levels of vitamin D. That can impact how you feel emotionally,” she says.

Bhargava moved permanently to Montreal this past August, and things are coming together. From finding employment in her area of expertise, to adopting a pet, to learning French, the newcomer is slowly embracing her new life in Canada. She also maintains a gratitude journal, a strategy recommended by her therapist. “I still cry when I think of my friends and family in India. I take a bunch of medication for my anxiety. But I’m in control,” she says. “I work out, eat healthy, socialize and though there are times I reminisce about my career in India, I really enjoy my work here.”

Role of success in mental health For Sajin and Sharda Patel (names changed for privacy), their immigration journey in 2002 began on the wrong note — with the loss of Sajin’s bags at the airport. Make it two wrong notes: Sajin, who landed in Canada ahead of his wife, was told that his name was missing from the immigration system. “He eventually sorted it all out,” says his wife, Sharda. “Some friends we knew came to the airport to pick him up and he stayed with them for a while in a small shared flat. My husband was a business owner in India, he never worked under anyone for a day in his entire life and now he was squeezed into a small space wondering what was going to happen next.”

Sajin sent long, despairing emails to his wife about the hopelessness he was feeling. From settling for a survival job, to taking public transport, it was a big shock. “He got a job in an automobile factory

above Farzana Doctor. in the GTA where he had to draw lines in the parking lot — that was his job! That’s when he had his first breakdown,” she says.

At one point, Sajin refused to look for employment anymore and decided that he would wait for his wife and children to join him before he did anything else.

His distressed reaction isn’t surprising. Immigrants with lower income are more likely to report a high level of stress, according to that same IRCC study on immigrant mental wellbeing.

And, according to a 2014 report by the Mental Health Commission of Canada, a new immigrant’s ability to make money and secure employment are at the forefront of mental health wellness. The report found that, overall, immigrants arrive in Canada with better mental and physical health than the Canadian-born population, but after seven years in the country, this “healthy immigrant effect” is lost. Evidence suggests that, in particular, immigrants from racialized groups and refugees are at risk for deteriorating health soon after arrival.

Despite her husband’s distress, Sharda was determined to explore the possibilities in Canada for a better life for her children, so she sent back emails with encouraging words to keep her husband’s spirits up. She also sought the help of friends and family, from as far as Dubai, to motivate him by speaking to him constantly over the phone and through emails.

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wellness

“A friend, who is one of our closest now, suggested that he move to a smaller place like Waterloo, where there might be more job opportunities for him. Ultimately he landed a job with another automobile company and things got better,” she says.

When the kids and she finally joined Sajin, they had their own set of challenges to overcome. “My daughter was bullied for taking Indian lunches to school, she was even beaten up!” she says. But the family rallied together to stand firm. Sajin worked overtime, while Sharda upgraded her skills. Within three years of moving to Canada, both their personal and professional lives were on track.

Today, the couple lives in a prominent neighbourhood in the GTA, and have flourishing careers — he with a major Canadian retailer and she with an immigration firm. The children are doing them proud, too. “We moved here for a better life for our children.

It’s been a struggle, but we made it,” she says triumphantly.

Worrying about the future For Egyptian-born Ubaid Badawi (name changed for privacy), his depression manifested itself in sleepless nights. “I was an engineer in Cairo, but amidst all the unrest there, I moved with my family to Canada maybe overnight. We lost everything,” he says.

“I had to drive a taxi to make ends meet, and my wife worked part time at a jewellery store,” he says. Nights were spent awake worrying about what the future held for him and his family. The sleep deprivation reached a point where Badawi collapsed at work. The few friends he had in his neighbourhood along with teachers from his children’s school got him help.

“My community came together. They offered to take turns to look after the kids for an hour after school every day of the week while I rested and my wife went to work. It took a couple of months, but we got better eventually,” he says.

Farzana Doctor recommends that setting realistic expectations is a crucial factor for any newcomer who is overcome with worry.

“Newcomers should ask themselves, ‘What must I accept and what must I change?’”

She also advises newcomers to be less reactive and focus on practising mindfulness. Activities like yoga, exercise, communing with nature, giving back to others and eating a healthy, vitamin-rich diet have also been documented to help improve moods. “Accept the difficult feelings. They flow more, reach out into our wise minds and find solutions,” she says.

Seeking mental health support Newcomers should also understand it’s OK to seek out more formal support, beyond friends and family. As a start, immigrant settlement agencies have counsellors to help you through your challenges as a new immigrant, often in your own language. There are also a variety of distress helplines you can call, such as Ontario’s Mental Health Helpline (1-866-531-2600) or B.C.’s Mental Health Support Line (310-6789) although services may be limited in language support.

If you have a family doctor, you can also start by talking to them about your options for treatment, including psychiatric care. (Family doctors and psychiatrists are the ones who can dispense any medications, such as anti-depressants.)

Beyond these free resources, there are different types of counsellors and psychologists who offer one-on-one counselling for a fee, some of which could be covered by extended health coverage plans.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

If it makes you more comfortable, seek out someone from your ethnicity who can speak your language. There are plenty of qualified professionals out there you can find through a Google search.

However, with stigma about mental health predominant among immigrant communities, newcomers are often less likely to take these steps to seek support. There are also multiple barriers to accessing the medical system that immigrants may face after arrival in Canada, according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, including unfamiliarity or discomfort with the system. Further, there are cultural differences in how mental illness is understood and conceptualized, which could prevent an immigrant from getting the support they need.

This is particularly true for immigrants of Chinese and South Asian heritage. A 2016 study of Chinese and South Asian mental health patients shows the very real impact of stigma and cultural barriers on accessing support.

“When compared to patients from other populations, Chinese and South Asian patients were on average much sicker by the time they got to hospital,” said Dr. Maria Chiu, lead author of the study, Ethnic Differences in Mental Health Severity.

“Cultural factors play a big role in these findings. While Asian people tend to have stronger family support, they are also faced with a higher level of stigma and it prevents people from seeking help early. Families may try to cope and keep the illness within the family until there is no choice but to go to hospital.”

It’s much better for everyone to seek support before things get to such a serious level.

With files from Toronto Star

Check your symptoms Not sure if you should seek out mental health support? Check your symptoms against this checklist from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. If any one of the following statements apply to you, you should consider seeking professional help.

Most of the time I feel restless and unable to sit still.

I drink or get high on drugs to deal with stress.

I feel tired all of the time, no matter how much I sleep.

I have missed days from school or work because of drinking or using drugs.

I find myself thinking a lot about death and suicide.

I am having problems concentrating, thinking, remembering or making decisions.

I know that I am using too many drugs or too much alcohol.

I feel worthless or guilty most of the time.

Most of my friends are people I drink or have drugs with.

I am anxious and worried about many things most of the time.

I am angry a lot of the time.

I depend on medication to get me through each day.

Women

At a time in history when women feel empowered to speak out against sexual harassment, immigrant women should feel comfortable to raise their voices, too

By Kaitlin Jingco CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

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Women

“

I get nervous. I get agitated … I almost feel uncomfortable.” This is the reaction Jamaican-born Canadian Trishauna Linton has when she learns that she will be working closely with a man.

It’s an unexpected response, considering her education in women’s studies and her career at the Windsor Women Working with Immigrant Women organization, where she leads training sessions that empower women new to Canada.

Looking at her past, though, her reaction to dealing with male colleagues becomes clearer.

“In two different workspaces that I’ve been in, I’ve experienced blatant harassment,” she says.

During the first incident, when she was just 20, she says, “I was smacked on the butt and that person thought that was fine to do …. Obviously, it really wasn’t.”

Not going into detail about her second encounter with workplace sexual harassment, the Ontario resident says the experience was “a little bit more extreme.”

Though some aftereffects still exist, Linton has moved past these traumatic occurrences. Unfortunately, her experiences are far from isolated events, as is evidenced by the powerful #metoo social media campaign that arose after the Harvey Weinstein sexual harassment scandal came to light.

But it’s not just Hollywood. In a recent study by Abacus Data, 56 per cent of Canadian participants said that sexual harassment exists in their workplace, with 12 per cent saying that it’s “really quite common.”

Speaking out Krittika Ghosh, senior co-ordinator, violence against women, at the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants (OCASI), says she is happy that the #metoo campaign is encouraging women to come forward, as speaking out can be one of the hardest obstacles for victims to overcome. However, as she works with immigrant women, she points out a key difference in the experiences of newcomers compared to the celebrities who helped start the #metoo movement.

“In Hollywood … many women who spoke up were in powerful positions themselves,” she says. So, while they may have more attention on them than other survivors, they also have more resources, especially compared to newcomer women, she says.

Reflecting on her workplace harassment incidents, Linton says that her immigrant status definitely influenced her experiences.

However, she says, “I already had my citizenship, and I was a little bit more aware of the laws and Canadian culture. But … thinking about the [newcomer] women that I work with, that is definitely a barrier.

Their status is definitely a reason why they don’t say anything.”

If sharing their uncomfortable memories and worrying they will not be believed weren’t troublesome enough, Linton says some new immigrants and refugees may hesitate to speak out because losing a job can negatively impact applications for permanent residency or citizenship.

A different level of vulnerability Therapist Hana Pinthus Rotchild says her newcomer clients experience a long list of factors that make them more vulnerable than others when speaking out about workplace sexual harassment. According to the Israeli-born therapist, immigrants often experience

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

language barriers, so expressing themselves, seeking support and finding a new job can be much more difficult.

Many live in situations where their family is struggling, and their income is needed for survival. Typically, they’ve also left their friends and family behind, so they don’t have their comfortable circles of support to turn to.

Some newcomer women also come from cultures where women are more likely to be shamed and blamed, and they aren’t aware that their rights differ in Canada.

“I feel sad for that level of vulnerability,” says Pinthus Rotchild, “but I’m also hopeful because I know that immigrants are very resilient. They have gone through a lot. They’re strong people. Many do find a way and create a different light for their families and themselves.”

In order to help immigrant women who have suffered harassment find a positive path, OCASI’s Ghosh says there’s lots we can all do.

Ghosh says friends, acquaintances and bystanders need to believe the victim and remind them that it is not their fault. Then they need to be supportive, suggest options and help the survivor pursue the actions that she wants to take.

Raising awareness On a broader scale, the Indian-born Ghosh says education is key.

She emphasizes the need for better awareness, and more inclusive dialogue and literature about power, gender and status imbalances, as she says a “holistic” understanding of the issues will lead to better results.

“It’s starting this conversation, not just for women, but also for men,” she says. “It needs to be about moving away from the notion of a rape culture, to actually creating a consent culture and talking about what that means.”

She says educational materials, such as OCASI’s new graphic novel Telling Our Stories: Immigrant Women’s Resilience, which comes in a variety of different languages and includes many illustrations and relatable scenarios, can help make discussions more accessible.

In addition to what everyday people can do, Ghosh says government needs to get involved, to give victims better reporting mechanisms, to ensure legislation is better enforced, and to make Canada a safer place for immigrant women to live and work.

In February 2017, Ontario’s first female premier launched the province’s first Ministry of the Status of Women. Minister Indira Naidoo-Harris says Ghosh’s comments are all suggestions she would be happy to consider as the ministry moves ahead with its relatively new work.

The South African-born minister points out that, as an immigrant herself, she is “aware and sensitive” to the needs of newcomer workplace harassment victims, and to the needs of vulnerable women in general. She says her ministry has begun and will continue to work with women of all backgrounds to “ensure that they have a strong voice at the table.”

“All women deserve to live their lives free of the threat, fear or experience of violence,” says Minister Naidoo-Harris. “This is not a women’s issue. It’s an issue about building a strong society for everyone that is equal and fair.”

careers & education career coach

Hot jobs for 2018 The most in-demand careers and skillsets

New tech

It’s no surprise that tech skills will be in demand.

These occupations include computer programmers, software developers, computer systems analysts, web developer and more. In addition, new media literacy — understanding various media platforms and how to communicate effectively on them — are valuable skills that artificial intelligence won’t be likely to match any time soon.

R&D

W

elcome to a fresh new year — 2018 is well and truly upon us. There are many big changes expected in the world of work this year. The World Economic Forum’s report, The Future of Jobs, estimates that five million jobs will be affected by automation by 2020. The repercussions are already being felt in the manufacturing sector and the numbers will only keep growing.

In addition, the rise of the millennial workforce and a growing dependence on technology and artificial intelligence will be some of the factors driving change in Canadian workplaces.

So what do you need to work on to be in demand in 2018? Here are the top skill areas and some of the strongest job-growth categories to watch out for.

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careers & education Big data Big corporations and government agencies are all collecting massive amounts of information. This demand benefits people who can organize, manage and make sense of all this data. As a result, there will be a greater demand for data analysts across all industries.

Designers One of the top skills in demand will be for designing, specifically commercial and industrial products. The designers in demand will include those who design and develop products like appliances, automobiles, gadgets and other manufactured goods.

Fitness coaches and personal trainers

In-demand skills across industries

Several trends are driving the growth in demand for these specialists, the most obvious one being the aging baby boomer population, which will require increased physical care. The growth in competitive sports and fitness is creating demand for those skilled in training people.

Human resources Human resources and organizational development specialists will also be needed to help reskill workers especially with the technological and socio-economic changes this year. Companies will look to hire the right talent to train their existing employees with new skillsets.

Anyone with a computer science, math or engineering degree will find lots of opportunities in the job market today. Those degrees can apply to industries across the board — finance, e-commerce, IT and beyond.

Improve your skills in 2018 Whatever your profession, in 2018, brushing up your soft skills is more important than ever.

It’s going to take a long time for robots to get good at soft skills, like emotional intelligence and cross-cultural competency. Irrespective of your profession, a heightened awareness of communication skills, interpersonal skills and social media skills will be your true competitive edge, significantly increasing your chances of being hired.

Health care As people live longer, every aspect of the health care sector is poised for growth.

Health care occupations and industries that provide services and support to the aging population will certainly be in demand in the coming year and beyond.

Murali Murthy is an acclaimed public speaker, life coach and best-selling author of The ACE Principle, The ACE Awakening, The ACE Abundance and You Are HIRED! He is also chairperson of CAMP Networking Canada. Learn more at aceworldfoundation.com.

SUBWAY CONNECTS YORK UNIVERSITY

‘‘

The opening of the new subway

stations at York University will enhance access while expanding our connections to communities across the GTA. The new stops signal the start of an exciting new chapter, and we celebrate this historic moment together.

Rhonda L. Lenton President and Vice‑Chancellor

YORKU.CA

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

’’

careers & education j o b s e a r c h s t r at e g i e s

Debunking entrepreneurship myths

Self-employment as an alternative to a regular job Businesses in Canada don’t have big margins: It depends!

A

new year has started, time to re-assess where we are, take new decisions and start fresh! While looking for a job is usually the number one preoccupation for almost every immigrant, the new trends in the economy show that we may have to adjust our concepts of what “making a living” looks like.

Whether you are stuck in a job you don’t enjoy (or where you feel undervalued) or you have been looking for so long that you are starting to get impatient, I invite you to consider a third choice: become your own boss!

Going solo has its benefits and risks, but many don’t even consider this option because they think they don’t have what it takes.

Most people think becoming selfemployed or an entrepreneur is something people are born with and cannot be learned. Others think it is too risky or complicated, and yet thousands of new businesses are created every year!

Let’s debunk some myths:

institutions have business loans for startups and there are grants for certain types of business (such as social ventures, non-profits and cooperatives). You can also fund your business with funds from family, friends or even the community through crowdfunding!

Co-operatives are a great way for many small-business entrepreneurs to share space, equipment and tools, as well as support each other with skills and shared marketing. You need access, not ownership.

Entrepreneurs are born, not made: False!

The paperwork is overwhelming: True … and false!

Entrepreneurial skills (and even attitudes) can be learned.

There are many programs, both in person and online, that teach entrepreneurial skills, and some of them are free! Specialized business or career coaches may also support you through the process.

Starting a business requires a lot of money: It depends!

You can start a business with as little as $100, and if you offer your services as a consultant or freelancer, you may not need any funds to start. Many financial

So, where to start?

It is true that Canada is highly regulated and businesses are taxed, which means less profit. But businesses exist for other reasons, too, and more and more social entrepreneurships are the norm over just profit models. You can measure success by how much you contribute to your community, the problems or pains your business helps to alleviate, the connections you make with your customers, co-workers and suppliers, the relief of living your values and not those of an unknown employer, and the opportunity to leave something to your children and family.

My first suggestion is doing market research. Observe the community and see what is lacking or what is being incomplete, what frustrates or pains people — that is your business opportunity.

Yes, you’ll need to write a sound business plan, but there are coaches out there you can hire or exchange skills with to get this done. In upcoming articles on canadianimmigrant.ca I will be discussing the types of businesses you can choose from, the steps from idea conception to launching, business planning and much more.

Stay tuned!

Argentinian-born Silvia Di Blasio is a certified career counsellor and life coach with a passion for sustainability, food security and resilient communities. She works as a case manager helping immigrants to get back to their pre-landing occupations at the Career Paths Program at ISSofBC.

Being your own boss is enslaving and messy: It depends!

If you are organized, surround yourself by people with skills and good intentions, and set your boundaries from the start, being an entrepreneur may be the best way to regain control over your time, energy and finances. You’ll get to decide when, how much and how you work, and in what projects you involve yourself!

Yes, there is paperwork you need to consider. You need to write a business plan, check for permits, zoning and insurance. But you don’t have to do all of this on your own. There are many mentors and other small businesses and entrepreneurs out there eager to share their skills, expertise and time, even exchanging their services or products for services or products you offer. By being creative, you can build a small business “ecosystem” where you all support each other to succeed!

K-Bro Linen Systems Inc. is the Canadian leader in laundry and linen services to the healthcare and hospitality sectors with 9 facilities across Canada, meeting the needs of healthcare, hospitality and other commercial sectors. We welcome and encourage local residents or immigrants who are interested for full-time or part-time positions to apply at our plants in Burnaby. We will provide the necessary safety orientation and training in order for you to succeed. We offer stable, long term employment and opportunity future advancement.

Our Canada Way location (next to BCIT) is centrally located in Burnaby, with frequent and easy access by transit.

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CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

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careers & education H i gh e r L e a r n i n g

Smart studies

Strategies for post-secondary decisions

D

eciding on what school to go to and what program to take deserves your best decisionmaking skills. Like other important life decisions, research, soul searching and more research is not a bad way to proceed. Let’s look at a few scenarios.

You’re in, but are the studies right for you?

Let’s say that you have been admitted to a very competitive university program, but you are not sure if it is really what you want to do. Should you accept the offer or go into a more general program and give yourself more time to decide? Many factors may influence your decision such as finances, the wishes of family and advice from friends. You might consider accepting the offer and transferring out after a year to a more general program if you realize that the program is not right for you. It is often

easier to get out of a competitive program than to get in.

Getting into the program of your choice If you know what program you want but you’re worried about not being accepted, there are some strategies for getting into coveted programs. It may mean studying in another country, entering a field at a lower level or becoming a very active volunteer. For those unfamiliar with Canadian college and university programs, consulting with those in the field may make decisions easier.

Degree or vocational training first?

Here’s another scenario: you know what kind of work you want to do and that a specific college diploma is required to do it. Going to university is also part of your career plan because you feel that

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

opportunities in your field will be enhanced eventually with a degree. Should you go to college or university first?

If you get the college diploma first, you may be able to work in your field part time while you go to university. You may also decide that you want to take a break from education and work full time for a while before going to university.

If you get the university degree first, your academic/study skills may serve you well if you want to work at the college while doing your diploma (i.e., as a tutor or mentor for other students).

Other considerations may have to do with future directions in your field and the requirements of

positions. Will this diploma program become a degree program in the near future? Are there positions that would accept either a college diploma or a university degree as long as your education is related to the field? How much weight is placed on education versus experience? Are you aiming for a regulated profession that requires specific education (e.g., medicine, law, social work)?

Professional associations, people working in the field and information sessions from postsecondary schools are good sources of information. It also helps to look at job postings as they will state educational requirements for the job.

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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June 7

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AT THE FAIR:

Winnipeg

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Halifax

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Vancouver

November 12

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Mississauga

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Ricky Bajaj • Tel: 905-273-8170 • Cell: 416-856-6304 • Email: rbajaj@metroland.com 22 CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

:

S

SETTLEMENT

T i p s f o r S e tt l i n g i n F a s t e r

Forward financial planning

W

Setting yourself up for success in 2018 planning tools online that can help you stay on track for financial success. RBC’s NOMI Insights tool is available for mobile banking clients, and helps consumers manage day-to-day finances with timely tips and advice. While you’re busy living your life, NOMI Insights is keeping an eye on your finances, helping you keep track of spending and upcoming expenses, and providing notifications when funds are needed (such as when regular monthly payments are higher than usual).

No matter what your financial goals are for the year, planning ahead will help set you up for financial success for 2018 and beyond.

hether you are new to Canada or have been in the country for many years, having personal and financial goals will help set you up for success in the New Year. As you familiarize yourself with banking in Canada, creating short- and long-term goals can help you achieve financial milestones in the year ahead and beyond.

Here are three tips to help set you up for financial success in 2018.

1

Know your options

If you are new to Canada, you may be surprised to learn how many government-supported investment solutions are available for personal investors. One example is the tax-free savings account (TFSA).

The TFSA is one of the most popular financial planning options because of the tax-sheltered savings opportunities. A TFSA is a registered account that allows all of your investment income and capital gains to grow tax-free. It can be used to save for a variety of shortterm and long-term goals, such as saving for a car or a home.

For more information about TFSAs and to learn more about contribution limits, visit the Government of Canada website or speak with your financial advisor.

2

Understand your credit

An important part of your financial wellness is to understand your budget, goals, credit history and credit score. Your credit score is a number that reflects your ability and capacity to borrow money while repaying back to the lender accordingly. Your credit score is a key indicator that banks, credit card companies and other institutions use to determine whether you qualify for borrowing credit.

Credit scores are calculated using a mathematical formula called the total debt service ratio (TDSR), which is based on a number of factors including the total amount of credit products you have, your credit product limits, amount ow-

ing and the payment behaviour for each. Your credit score can range from 300 to 900 points — 900 being the most favourable score.

As you settle into Canada and begin to acquire a Canadian credit history, be sure to check your credit score regularly throughout the year. Tools such as RBC’s CreditView Dashboard allow online banking clients to view their credit score free of charge (with no impact on your score), and allow you to test scenarios such as adding a credit card or a bank loan, and how that could potentially impact your overall credit score.

3

Create a financial calendar

Staying on track for financial success is integral to achieving your short- and long-term goals.

Having a financial calendar for the year is a great way to anticipate your expenses and better manage your cash flow. One way to stay on track is by keeping records of dayto-day transactions, including bill payments, sales receipts and any upcoming financial obligations that would be coming out of your bank account. Having a financial calendar allows you to feel organized, and helps ensure your funds are properly allocated.

There are many great financial

Ivy Chiu is the senior director, cultural markets, at RBC. Once a newcomer herself, Chiu is interested in helping newcomers integrate to life in Canada. Are you new to Canada or know someone who is? Visit rbc.com/newcomers for more advice.

K-Bro is the largest owner and operator of laundry and linen processing facilities in Canada. K-Bro provides a comprehensive range of general linen and operating room linen processing, management and distribution services to healthcare institutions, hotels and other commercial accounts. K-Bro currently has nine processing facilities in eight major Canadian cities including Victoria, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Regina, Toronto, Montréal and Québec City, and two distribution centers in Saskatchewan.

Position:

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Basic responsibilities will range from sorting incoming laundry, operating an ironing/folding machine to packing linen for our customers, and loading carts.

All positions are located in a production plant environment and the work requires continual physical effort all day such as standing, bending, twisting, reaching, grasping, lifting, repetitive hand/wrist movement, pushing and pulling up to and including 850lbs.

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If you are interested in working for K-Bro, and have the necessary skills, please contact Human Resources by: Phone: 905-366-0486 Email: glaudadio@k-brolinen.com In person: complete an employment application at our front desk.

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CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

23

SETTLEMENT

parenting

Get your children talking

E

Struggling to get your kids to communicate?

Here are some tips to help them open up

ngaging in meaningful conversation with your children is a great way to connect and build stronger relationships. It can help you gain insight into your child’s inner world and get to know them in a more meaningful way.

However, with differences in personalities, age and culture, on top of busy schedules, it can be challenging to get our children to open up and talk.

The good news is, there are many strategies that parents can use to get children to communicate more openly, including: • Make a point to connect with your children every day. Be available when they want to talk, and let them know that you are always available when

they need to talk to you.

• Give your full attention and be genuinely interested in what your child has to share with you.

• Create a ritual and safe space that is conducive to meaningful conversations. It can be while going for a walk, in a car, after school, bed time or dinner time.

• Ask open-ended, ageappropriate, relatable questions. Keep questions specific, light and thoughtprovoking. Try to vary the

questions, and avoid questions that only elicit “yes” or “no” responses.

• Give children time to answer each question before jumping to additional thoughts or questions.

• Encourage children to elaborate when possible using phrases such as: “Tell me more”, “Can you elaborate?” or “Can you tell me why?”

• Let children take the lead in a conversation. Avoid pressuring children to share more than what they are comfortable with sharing.

• Refrain from judging, jumping to conclusions or giving advice.

Keep your tone neutral, and practise active listening and paraphrasing.

• Model the art of conversation with other family members.

Sometimes it helps to get children to open up if parents or other significant adults start sharing first.

• Most importantly, know that open communication is a process that takes time and patience. The more you practise, the easier it will become.

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

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24

· LLM in Tax Law

CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

SETTLEMENT

Acing the CELPIP Test

10 strategies for success on the English proficiency test required for PR and citizenship applications

I

f you’re applying to become a permanent resident or citizen of Canada, taking the CELPIP Test is an important step toward your goal. The CELPIP Test is the only Canadian test designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to assess functional language proficiency in English.

If you’re applying for permanent residency, you’ll need to take the CELPIP-General Test, which assesses functional listening, reading, writing and speaking skills.

For citizenship applications, you can take the CELPIP-General LS Test, which assesses functional listening and speaking proficiency.

Here are 10 strategies for use before and during the test to improve your chances of success.

1. Practise using a computer

The CELPIP Test is fully computer delivered, so ensure that you are comfortable with a mouse and keyboard. Practising with CELPIP’s free online sample test and free online practice test can help you familiarize yourself with this format.

2. Remember that CELPIP is a test of general English proficiency

CELPIP assesses your ability to use English in everyday situations. It’s not a test of business English or academic English. One of the best ways to prepare is to just get out and use English as much as possible in your daily life.

3. Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures

Try to show the range of your vocabulary in your writing and speaking. Avoid using the same words over again. You don’t need to memorize the dictionary — just use words that would be natural in daily life. Remember to use varied grammatical structures and construct sentences that differ in length and complexity.

4. Manage your time during

the test

The CELPIP Test is fully computer delivered, and you will see a timer on each screen, telling you how much time you’ve got left for that section. Keeping an eye on these timers can help you gauge how to pace yourself.

5. Check your work

If you have any time left over while completing the Reading, Listening or Writing components of the test, read over your answers and make sure that you have attempted to answer all questions as well as you can. In particular, try to spend a few minutes reviewing your writing, ensuring that you have no typos.

6. Speak clearly and at a natural pace

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During the Speaking portion of the test, speak clearly into the miY

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crophone, which should be close to your lips but not touching them.

It’s natural to speak quickly when you’re nervous — try to slow down and speak at a normal pace.

7. Don’t worry about your accent

The test raters are trained to disregard accents. Unless your accent prevents you from being understood, don’t focus on it. Instead, concentrate on using good grammar, accurate and varied vocabulary, and providing complete answers.

sponses. It’s also a good idea to take notes during the Listening Test.

9. Focus on what you know

You may come across some difficult words in a Reading or Listening passage. Don’t get stuck worrying about words you don’t understand. Focus on general meaning and the parts of the passage that you do understand.

10. Use a variety of reading strategies

You don’t have to read every single word in a passage to successfully answer questions on the Reading . Take notes While taking the CELPIP Test, Test; instead, use reading strategies you will be provided with notepa- such as skimming and scanning. per and a pen. You may use these to These may help you with some take notes during any point in the of the simpler questions, leaving test, though you may find it espe- more time to spend with the more CDI_Generic_3.7917x 4.8125.pdf 1 2017-11-24 questions. 2:31 PM cially useful to outline some ideas difficult for your Speaking or Writing re- Learn more at celpip.ca.

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Immigrant Settlement Guide For getting your listing included, please call Ricky Bajaj at 416-856-6304 or Johnny Zhang at 416-803-3931

2018

Agency

General Services and Specialty Programs

Languages

Brampton Multicultural Centre (BMC)

Not for profit, registered charity providing multilingual and culturally appropriate programs and services for free to help clients enhance their community engagement and social capital while integrating into the Canadian society. Programs: Programs and services include Settlement support , employment readiness workshops, enhancing immigrant community connections through schools and libraries, advocacy and solution-focused counselling, interpretation and translation, volunteer and placement opportunities, mental health support services, seniors and women abuse and engagement services. A unique portfolio of youth programming is also available such as: Youth leadership development, life skills coaching, client-centred counselling, paid internships at various workplaces, gang prevention workshops, one-on-one intervention meetings based on individualized work plans.

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

• English • Arabic • Farsi • French • Gujarati • Hindi • Punjabi • Spanish • Tamil • Urdu • Tagalog (Filipino)

TCET provides Language, Employment, & Settlement programs that empower people in fulfilling their potential. Our LINC Home Study program provides Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) via distance education. The self-paced curriculum is offered either online or by correspondence. The program includes a weekly lesson via phone or VOIP with a certified instructor.

Email: help@linchomestudy.ca www.linchomestudy.ca

• English • Some services available in French and other languages

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

Centre for Education & Training (TCET) Head Office: 90 Burnhamthorpe Road W, Suite 210, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C3

Locations across the Greater Toronto Area and virtual services across Ontario & Canada Phone: 905-949-0049, Toll free at 1-800-668-1179, Email: Info@tcet.com, www.tcet.com Centre for Education & Training Language Assessment Centre York-Simcoe-Durham 420 Highway 7 East Suite 204 B Richmond Hill ON L4B 3K2 Toll free: 1-855-330-8655 Job Skills Employment & Business Programs & Supports Locations in Markham, Brampton, Keswick and Newmarket Phone: 1-866-592-6278 Multinational Small & Medium Business Community Center (Msmbcc) 211 Consumers Road, Suite 300, North York, M2J 4G8 Phone: 647-343-8288 Phoenix Academy of the Arts For English program: 351 Ferrier Street, unit1, Markham, ON L3P 2B2 Tel:416-299-6658 Welcome Centre Immigrant Services 7 Locations in York & Durham Regions 1-877-761-1155

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Completing a language assessment is the first step to accessing English language classes in your • English community. Language Assessment Centres provide no cost English language assessments and referrals to classes for eligible immigrants seeking language training.

Language Assessments services are available on a scheduled and pre-booked basis. If you live in York region, Simcoe County and Durham Region please call 1-855-330-8655 to schedule an appointment.

Email: ysla@tcet.com www.tcet.com/assessments Facebook: www.facebook.com/Language.Assessment.Centre.YSD/# Twitter: twitter.com/LAC_YSD Find out how to: get the skills you need to find work, including: work experience, resume help, interview techniques, entrepreneurial options and more. We offer: Job Search Workshops Program, Job Find Club for Internationally Trained Individuals, Bridge to HR, Practice Firm, Self-Employment Pathways for Newcomer and Employment Ontario Employment Services.

Email: info@jobskills.org www.jobskills.org

• English Interpreters are available

Help small and medium business from starting business with business plans for success: business registration; business planning; corporate problem solving; corporate culture tutoring; legal, politics and social requirements service and fund assistant application from government. Specialty program: business guide in Canada and Asia countries;enterprise assistant program; free tax services for new comers and seniors; Seniors program for social networking and conversational Café and special events to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation.

Email: info@sbsccanada.org www.sbsccanada.org

• English • Chinese

Non-profit providing cultural and inter-cultural services & hosting community engagement programs and activities; dance classes, Unique ESL Program (Learn English 6 months); Community engagement & mentoring programs. Volunteer ESL tutors needed.

Additional info: 3 locations across GTA. Email: phoenixacademyschool@gmail.com www.phoenixacademyofthearts.com

• English • Chinese

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: resume/cover letter preparation, interview readiness and information about accreditation, workplace practices, Canadian employer expectations. Other services available.

Languages of service: English, interpreters are available Email: info@welcomecentre.ca www.welcomecentre.ca

• English Interpreters are available

CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

settlement L i f e S t r a t e gi e s

Saying no to drugs Immigrant youth may be at higher risk for drug abuse

M

y children were small when we landed in Canada, but I remember we were made scared of drug abuse and were told that it is a “big danger” in Canada. This made me anxious and I worked hard to educate my children about drugs and addiction as they became older.

Studies, in fact, show that new immigrant youth are more at risk of drug abuse than Canadian-born kids. Here’s what I have learned about the risk factors and protective factors related to drugs and youth in Canada.

Drug risk factors There isn’t one simple factor that leads someone to use and abuse drugs. It can be a combination of factors, especially for youth.

•Genetics. It is not always a matter of discipline or weak willpower that leads to drug abuse. If one has family members who are abusing or have abused drugs, there may be a genetic factor that could increase someone’s chances, too.

•Lack of parental supervision.

When families arrive in a new country, parents become so overwhelmed with their own concerns like finding a job and getting housing that they sometimes don’t see their children are also struggling to adjust in new environment and culture. This lack of parental supervision or awareness heightens a youth’s risk for drug abuse.

•Peer pressure. Children need at-

tention and time from their loved ones. If they are neglected at home, they seek the company of peers. In order to fit in the peer group, they may also start experimenting with drugs.

•Dual diagnosis. Drug addiction is

common in those who have other mental health conditions like depression or anxiety. Drug abusers often think that taking drugs will

relieve them of their worrisome thoughts and increase the dose of drugs. In reality, drug abuse increases the severity of mental health conditions.

•Age. Studies show that the young-

er you are, the more likely you are to develop an addiction. In adolescence, most people lack assertive skills and not knowing how to say “no” sees them conform to the behaviour of peers. Drug use at this age can make drug abuse more likely in later years.

•Parental modelling. If a parent abuses drugs, their children will also be more likely to abuse drugs.

Drug abusers not only present a bad role model to their children, they often neglect them or engage in physical or verbal abuse, thus making them more prone to drug addiction.

issues that can lead to drug abuse such as aggression, lack of tolerance and poor concentration.

•Academic competence. Academic competence also reduces the level of risk factors and reinforces children’s learning about harmful effects of drugs. Academic competence includes study habits, academic support, communication between parents, teachers and student, peer relationships, self-efficacy and assertiveness.

•Assertive skills. In order to get away from the influence of peers, a child needs to practise assertive skills. Children must be taught how to say “no” to peers and yet continue with connections to peers and the community.

•Individual factors. If the child has high self-esteem, is able to regulate his or her emotions, and has good coping and problem-solving skills, he or she is unlikely to abuse drugs in stressful situations.

Pakistan-born Dilnawaz Qamar is a family support counsellor at Muslim Community Services in Ontario. She can be reached at dilnawazasghar@gmail.com.

Protective factors While there are varied risk factors for drug abuse, there are also many things that can be done to prevent it, especially when it comes to parents guiding their children.

•Positive parenting. If there is a strong and healthy relationship between parents and children, children are less likely to abuse drugs. If positive parenting techniques like consistent discipline, praise for appropriate behaviour, and clear expectations for behaviour and values are conveyed to children, they feel more secure and connected to their family, making them less vulnerable to drug abuse.

Want a career in financial services?

•Value system. If positive values are

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instilled by parents, schools and community leaders, it can reduce the level of risk factors. For example, parents talking to children about drug abuse and its consequences can help prevent problems before they start. Similarly, teachers and community leaders can address the

Get the education you need to succeed in one of Canada’s leading industries.

ifse.ca/CareerSuccess • 1.888.865.2437

*IFSE Institute (IFSE) is a distance education institute wholly owned by the Investment Funds Institute of Canada (IFIC).

CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

27

Motivation

Winning advice RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrants from 2017 share their top inspirational tip to take on 2018!

Agnes P. Miranda

Co-founder, WFG Canada, and Filipino community trailblazer

Photo by Sajid Motala

Dr. Muhammad Morshed

Life is all about choices!

Find a vehicle that will help you pursue your dreams!

2018 should be a year of change, bold decisions and taking action! Be aggressive, relentless, focused, intense, disciplined and passionate. Let us be grateful that Canada has given us the chance to better our future!�

Program head, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control Public Health Laboratory, and clinical microbiologist Canada has a lot of opportunities for immigrants; take advantage of them. Get an appropriate training or education if needed and become part of the greater community.

And, if you face rejection, be resilient and try again.�

28

CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

Gabriela Covaci

Employment counsellor, Mohawk College

Take a step back and be grateful.

Reflect on all the meaningful connections you’ve made and look at ways to further nurture those in the coming year.”

Abdullah Kafashe

Youth educator and filmmaker I encourage you to learn about the Indigenous people of this country.

They have made the biggest sacrifice that we and so many are benefiting from. Find a way to connect with them. Canada has given us so much, so let us stay humble and always remember to give back.”

Ishita Aggarwal

Research analyst at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and the inaugural RBC Top 25 Youth Award Winner It is easy to get carried away setting goals in the New Year. Try not to set too many goals at once. Instead, pick a handful of challenging yet attainable goals that will keep you inspired and engaged all year long.”

Photo by Sajid Motala

Florfina Marcelino Manitoba MLA

Wishing all new Canadians blessings of peace, prosperity and good health in 2018. In the New Year, continue with your engagement in worthy activities in your community. Helping out in schools, neighbourhoods and churches brings out the best in you and in your community.

It brings deep meaning, fulfillment and new dimension to life. And you’ll be contributing to diversity that makes Canada a better place for everybody!”

CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

29

BACK PAGE

canspeak...

Words, expressions and sayings Ball is in your court Not just for tennis players, this saying means it’s up to you to make the next step or decision.

Downtime Need a break? Take some “downtime” to relax and recoup your energy.

Your guess is as good as mine If you don’t know the answer to a question, you might use this expression to show that you could only guess at a possible answer.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 15 Issue 1 | 2018

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