Canadian Immigrant November Issue 2020

Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020 c anadianimmigr ant.c a

ARRIVE. SUCCEED. INSPIRE.

TURNING

Publications mail agreement number 40011993 | $5.95

COVID-19 FEATURE

SOCIAL GATHERINGS IN A PANDEMIC HUSTLE AND BUSTLE IN THE KITCHEN

CHALLENGES

INTO OPPORTUNITIES Iranian-Canadian business leader Gina Cody shares her inspiring journey

FROM CRISIS TO OPPORTUNITY Recognize where you are at, reset your new normal and regain your vitality

THE EXECUTIVE RESUMÉ MAKEOVER

Gaza-born doctor Izzeldin Abuelaish spreads a message of hope

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

CONTENTS Volume 17 Issue 5, 2020

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FUSION

PROFILE: Enakshi Sinha spreads the joy and power of Indian classical dance NEWS: Canadian Immigrant Virtual Fairs 2020, The pandemic has not diminished the public’s openness to newcomers

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COVER STORY

22 PROFILE

Gaza-born doctor Izzeldin Abuelaish spreads a message of hope

24 LIVING

Tips to protect your mental health at work WELLNESS: From crisis to opportunity

Iranian-Canadian business leader Gina Cody has gone from becoming to first woman in Concordia University’s history to earn a PhD in engineering to having the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science renamed in her honour

12 COVID-19 FEATURE

Social gatherings in a pandemic: Finding creative ways to have a good time while staying safe Hustle and bustle in the kitchen during the pandemic

17 CAREERS AND EDUCATION

CAREER COACH: The executive resumé makeover HIGHER LEARNING: How to be more organized

PARENTING: Get ready for winter IMMIGRATION LAW: Planned immigration levels for the future

20 SETTLEMENT

27 MONEY AND BUSINESS

TIPS FOR SETTLING IN FASTER: Financial

decision-making during uncertain times

ENTREPRENEURSHIP: Your best asset can be your optimism

30 BACK PAGE

HUMOUR BY Hemeterio

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People. News. Information.

ENAKSHI SINHA

VOLUME 17, ISSUE 5

2020

Spreading the joy and power of Indian classical dance

Group Publisher Sanjay Agnihotri Editor Ramya Ramanathan rramanathan@metroland.com Editorial Design Safi Nomani Sr. Ad Manager Ricky (Kawaljit) Bajaj rbajaj@metroland.com Tel: 905 273 8170 Assistant Manager 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

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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

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By Ramya Ramanathan

I

ndian-born Enakshi Sinha is one of the leading dancers of Odissi, an Indian classical dance form, in North America. Her career in Indian classical dance spans 18 years and includes performances in major festivals of India, Europe and North America as a soloist and with her dance productions. Sinha is the founder, chairperson and artistic director of Mrudanga Centre for Performing Arts, training dancers in Toronto and Windsor. Annually, the organization brings together globally acclaimed artists in a dance and music festival called ‘Umang’.

Sinha has received many awards and accolades. She has recently performed at events including the 2018 TajMahotsav with the backdrop of the Taj Mahal in India, 2019 performances in the Embassies of India in Paris and Portugal, and the 2020 Khajuraho Festival in India. She has had the honour of performing during the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Canada.

Tell us about yourself.

I am originally from Kolkata, India. Marriage brought me to this beautiful multicultural country. I have a lifelong devotion to Indian classical dance and work to spread its joy and power, wherever there is an opportunity for dissemination of knowledge, initiation of social change and appreciation of the art through new and collaborative dance productions.

and started performing in different places like schools, universities and in community shows. I also started travelling to different parts of Canada to raise awareness of Odissi. Slowly, I started enrolling students to learn this beautiful art form and thus Mrudanga Centre for Performing Arts took birth.

In 2007, I became the founding artistic director of Mrudanga Centre for Performing Arts operating in Tell us about your work.

When I landed in Windsor, Toronto and Windsor, a non-profit providing dance Ontario in 2006, I was taken aback organization to find a dearth of Indian classical training for children and adults. dance/dancers. I was not ready to Since 2008, Mrudanga has give up my passion or dream as a classical dancer and get a 9 to 5 job, presented annual shows with so I created my own environment students. Since 2012, we have

CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

organized a two-day dance festival in Windsor every year called ‘Umang’ with professional artistes from India, US and Europe, funded by the Ontario Arts Council which has slowly and steadily become popular.

Coming to this multicultural country has inspired me as an artist, leading me to create several solo pieces and collaborative productions with different genres of Canadian and Indian artists. Recently, I worked on a collaborative project with an Indigenous artist in Nunavut and for the very first time, Baker Lake, Nunavut, witnessed the fusion of Odissi dance with a throat singer.

FUSION In 2019, for the very first time in the Stratford festival, Indian classical dance was introduced as a full-fledged production. I presented my production called ‘Colours of Winter’ with a Symphony orchestra from Stratford and Waterloo region, and a Hindustani classical singer invited from India. In 2017, I had the opportunity to work with Theatre Prospero Company in their home production called ‘Anthem of Life’ showcasing Odissi with theatre.

What are your future goals?

I would like to spread my dance form as far as possible. The world is changing, and the change is more evident in some areas of life. There is an umbrella of uncertainty that hangs over all of us [with COVID] and all we can do now is to accept this new world as it is and find ways of embracing opportunities. I am planning to launch a web series on dance to reach out to a larger audience.

How do you deal with challenges?

It is because of the challenges I have faced that I am what I am today and am thankful for them.

I have always dealt with them with a feeling of positivity and taken them as opportunities to go to the next level in my career.

I am a professional performer and during this pandemic, where stage performances are zero, I have taken the opportunity to enhance my knowledge from my gurus (teachers) in India and provide online lessons to my students in Canada and abroad.

What is your advice to other immigrants?

To never ever give up on your passion to achieve your dream…it will be very tough in the beginning but don’t get defeated in the battle before you see its end, as we always see a light at the end of the tunnel.

Happiness is without bounds when your passion becomes your profession.

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news Canadian Immigrant Virtual Fair 2020 an opportunity to connect with exhibitors at the Fair, including employers, recruiters, immigrant service providers, educational institutions and more.

PRESENTS

Being held from 10 am–4 pm, these events will provide an opportunity to hear from key leaders and attend sessions on topics ranging from immigrant integration to entrepreneurship, small business, banking and soft skills.

Events will run throughout the day including financial tips for newcomers by event sponsor BMO, an opening panel on immigration and Looking for information and inspiration in integration, government procurement advice, and Manitoba) is being held on Wednesday, the areas of work, education, immigration and ways to gain permanent residency and a closing November 18 from 10 am–4 pm (PST). panel on soft skills. settlement during this pandemic?

The Canadian Immigrant Virtual Fair for The Fair will also provide a resumé critiquing the Central and Eastern Region (Ontario and Canadian Immigrant brings you two free informative and interactive Virtual Fairs on feature, allowing attendees to upload their Nova Scotia) is being held on Friday, November November 18 and 20, 2020. Sponsored by BMO, resumé for experts to review; offer tips and 20 from 10 am–4 pm (EST). these all-day Virtual Fairs offer a dynamic advice to help newcomers land their dream jobs.

Attendees must pre-register to attend. To environment for immigrants who need help as The Canadian Immigrant Virtual Fair for register and learn more about the panels, speakers they look for jobs, go back to school and settle into their new home. Virtual attendees will have the Western Region (British Columbia, Alberta and exhibitors, visit canadianimmigrant.ca.

The pandemic has not diminished the public’s openness to newcomers A report released in October 2020, Canadian public opinion about immigration and refugees, finds that in 2020 Canadians have become more accepting of newcomers, not less so – despite the national crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the study, strong and increasing majorities of Canadians are comfortable with current immigration levels, see immigrants as good for the Canadian economy and not threats to other people’s jobs, and believe that immigration is essential to building the country’s population. It

also finds that a majority of respondents say that immigration makes Canada a better country, not a worse one, and they are most likely to say this is because it makes for a more diverse, multicultural place to live.

So, what lies behind this positive public opinion towards immigration and refugees?

According to the study this is not apparent from the data itself but it “may be in part a response to the pandemic (e.g., a “we are all in this together” reaction). It could be a reaction to the alarming political instability south of the border in the USA (“we are not like them”). And it may reflect a solidifying public consensus that Canada’s economy (and one’s own livelihood) depends on making space for newcomers, especially this year when the economy needs all the help it can get.”

The report is based on telephone interviews with 2,000 Canadians between September 8 and 23, 2020. This survey was conducted by Environics Institute, a non-profit that promotes original social research on issues of public policy and social change, in partnership with the Faculty of Social Sciences’ IMPACT Project at the University of Ottawa and Century Initiative.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

COVER STORY

TURNING

CHALLENGES

INTO OPPORTUNITIES Iranian-Canadian Gina Cody has gone from becoming the first woman in Concordia’s history to earn a PhD in engineering to having the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science at the university renamed in her honor

By Vivien Fellegi

I

ran l969: It’s two am and 13-year-old Gina Cody is bent over her physics book, on a mission to perfection. She stifles a yawn as she wrestles with one problem after another. Beside her, Cody’s mother puts down her novel and cuts some apples to keep her daughter awake. She doesn’t understand Cody’s scribbles, but the woman who never completed high school prizes education above all else. Especially for her daughters. “Don’t worry if you’re staying up all night,” she’d say. “You (are) building the foundation for your future.”

Her mother would know. The naturally “very strong” woman yearned to accomplish more than housework and encouraged her daughters to choose their own destinies. Cody’s father, a teacher, agreed. “My parents… measured their happiness by the mark I brought home,” she says. Her desire to please them stoked her own ambition.

The young woman was a natural fit in the field of engineering. She had always been handy, fixing the family’s broken television and other damaged belongings. “It’s very satisfying,” she says. Her logical mindset would later help her pinpoint the reason for a building’s deficiency. “The minute I find the cause, I will find the solution,” says Cody.

She enrolled at the Sharif University of Technology in Iran, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in structural engineering. Setting her sights on higher education, she came to Montreal on a student visa in 1979, to attend McGill University.

There were some hurdles initially. Having lived her whole life in a loving home, the young foreigner struggled with solitude. Her precarious financial situation was another source of stress. The newcomer had come to Canada with a total of $2,000 in travellers’ cheques, but her tuition at

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

McGill cost twice that sum. “I was terrified,” she says.

Then Cody had a stroke of luck. Her brother, a graduate of Concordia, arranged a meeting between his sister and his former engineering professor, Cedric Marsh. Impressed by her marks, Marsh offered the young student a full scholarship to study at his university. “He believed in me,” says Cody.

But there were obstacles as well as opportunities in the engineering program. At first, Cody’s male colleagues excluded her from their study groups. “The notion was she’s not as good as I am,” says Cody. The frosty reception just spurred her on to try harder, and her stellar grades changed their tune. “Now they wanted to be my friend,” she says.

Cody found love as well as learning at Concordia University. Smitten with the sharp and shapely Gina Cody, MBA student Thomas read up on Iran’s history and peppered her with questions about her homeland. “He (was) showing his interest in where I come from and who I am,” says Cody.

They married in 1981, and their egalitarian partnership has helped them grow. He’s my biggest supporter,” says Cody.

In 1989, Cody became the first woman in Concordia’s history to earn a PhD in engineering. After graduation, she moved to Toronto where she participated in writing the building code for the Ontario Ministry of Housing. A year later she joined a national consulting engineering firm, where she began inspecting cranes. There was no room for error. If just one nut was out of place, workers could tumble from the sky. “You (had) to be perfect,” says Cody.

Especially women. In a male-dominated practice, a female’s mistake reinforces gender biases. “That is what they expect from you,” says Cody.

Regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or wealth, everyone fully belongs to engineering,�

- Gina Cody about the mindset of inclusion embedded in the $15 million donation to the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science at Concordia University.

CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

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COVER STORY Some men didn’t think women belonged in engineering. As Cody clambered down an icy crane one bitter winter day, an elderly construction worker worried about her welfare. “Why don’t you learn to type?” he said.

“You don’t have to do this.” Cody didn’t take it personally – he wasn’t the first man to underestimate a woman’s strength.

The organization prospered under Cody’s helm, earning her a slew of accolades. The Financial Post named it one of Canada’s best managed companies, while Profit Magazine placed Cody in the list of Canada’s Top Ten Women Entrepreneurs. In 2020, she was named one of Canada’s Top 25 Women of Influence.

Cody proved him wrong. Seeking acceptance from her male colleagues, she arrived at the office at 6 am, washed the dirty dishes, brewed coffee and then tackled stacks of projects late into the night. As satisfied customers flocked back to the firm, Cody’s reputation soared. “Respect comes after delivering the product,” she says.

But Cody hasn’t let these honors go to her head. “I’m just a small person, lucky to succeed,” she says.

As Cody’s contributions mounted, she rose in the ranks of the firm, becoming its President and CEO. But she never let her position go to her head and treated everyone the same. “From the smallest person in the office to the VPs they could all come and ask me a question,” she says.

Cody also had a knack for spotting untapped potential. Once a structural engineer from Hong Kong showed up unannounced. “I just arrived a month ago....I have two kids, I need that job,” he pleaded.

Cody ushered him into the boardroom and handed him an engineering problem. He solved the puzzle and was hired on the spot. Another time, Cody welcomed a woman who was seven months pregnant and was desperate. Both her finds enriched the company. “People who want things also deliver,” she says.

But the firm’s leader could be tough as well as tender. When employees fell short of expectations, Cody let them go, as humanely as possible. She pointed out their strengths and steered them to more appropriate avenues of employment. “I would fire people, and they would be my best friends,” says Cody.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

Though she retired in 2016, Cody is busier than ever. She’s a regular on the keynote speaker circuit. At home she’s rediscovered the joy of fixing things, creating unique clothing from faded curtains.

But she’s far from complacent. Having profited from the gifts of others, Cody feels duty bound to pay them forward. She’s a prolific volunteer, bolstering the standards in her field through her involvement with Professional Engineers Ontario, the Canadian Standards Association, and university boards. Cody has also raised her own two daughters – a lawyer and an engineer – to reach for the stars.

Cody’s greatest source of pride are the familiar letters gleaming on the walls of her old school. The Gina Cody Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science was renamed in her honor in 2018, following her $15 million donation to the program. The money has been earmarked to fund scholarships as well as research. A mindset of inclusion is embedded in the whole donation, says Cody. “Regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or wealth, everyone fully belongs to engineering,” she says.

This stance against discrimination is the legacy Cody most hopes to leave. And though she shoots high, she’ll settle for modest gains. “If I change one person’s life, I’ve done my job,” she says.

FEATURE

SOCIAL GATHERINGS IN A PANDEMIC Finding creative ways to have a good time while staying safe

By Baisakhi Roy

F

all and winter bring important religious events and cultural festivals for many communities, and the need to connect with loved ones in this season is palpable. And then, of course, winter is a few weeks away which might prompt people to spend more time indoors. With COVID-19 rules dictating that social gatherings need to be restricted, Canadians are trying to find creative ways to have a good time while staying safe – both indoors and outdoors.

Gathering inside safely As Indian-born Sanchari Sen Rai and her friends settled down in her Toronto home in October, to watch the livestream from Belur Math – a Hindu temple in India – broadcasting their annual Durga Puja celebrations, there was a familiar sense of warmth and bonhomie. “We were all decked up in our traditional sarees.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

While the priest was conducting the rituals on the livestream, we were complimenting each other on our clothes in hushed tones. Exactly how we would all be in a temple, excitedly discussing our outfits while the puja (religious ritual) went on,” she says with a laugh.

Rai has been in a bubble with her close friends and their families, in line with existing regulations, since the beginning of the pandemic, meeting only on special occasions and keeping up social distancing while meeting indoors. For this particular day – a major festival for the Bengali community – the group made sure that they were spread out in Rai’s home. While some members of the group took the upstairs rooms to hang out, the others took turns to view the livestream in batches in Rai’s spacious basement.

Albanian-born microbiologist and associate

above Dasantila Golemi-Kotra

professor at York University, Dasantila GolemiKotra, advises caution even in these social bubbles.

“The risk of exposure to novel coronavirus becomes significant in prolonged indoor gatherings with poor ventilation and where physical distancing is not possible. Considering the above risks of COVID-19 transmission, keep the people in your bubble at a minimum.

If you must gather indoors, ensure that people that you are inviting can maintain the physical distance. It is best to keep the gathering for a short time, one hour at best. If your intention is to spend more than one hour (with physical distancing), think about wearing face masks and/or ensure extra ventilation,” she says, urging extra caution this year when winter rolls in.

Keep your distance outdoors It has been widely recommended in this pandemic that, if needed, people should meet and interact outdoors.

“Outdoors interactions are safer. But at times, cold weather drives us towards gathering closer to each other. So, avoid close-up and prolonged encounters (a 10-15 minute close encounter can be sufficient for an exposure to the virus to happen). If physical distancing becomes an issue, use a cloth face mask, this will not only offer some protection from the cold, but it will inhibit the respiratory droplets too,” says Golemi-Kotra, adding that while her family will choose outdoors activities to enjoy the winter, they plan to be cautious with the crowds, by going skating at odd hours or sledding in the hills close to home.

Physically-distanced walks or meetups in parks or any large open area, bike rides and patio dinners are all great options to fight the winter blues.

Burmese-Canadian chef and owner of AVIV Immigrant Kitchen, Robert Chee is gearing up for winter patio season and hopes that the community and the neighbourhood will rally like they did in the summer and fall months.

AVIV’s owners and chefs are from all over the world and their food has been a big hit for years with their clientele. With the help of the wage subsidy and loan provided by the government, Chee and his partners were able to get through some very difficult months. Like some other restaurants in the city, they have been trying to find ways to keep the patio open. “We will have

above Sanchari Sen Rai (in white and red sari) with her bubble, celebrating Durga Puja in her basement

The risk of exposure to novel coronavirus becomes significant in prolonged indoor gatherings with poor ventilation and where physical distancing is not possible. Considering the above risks of COVID-19 transmission, keep the people in your bubble at a minimum. If you must gather indoors, ensure that people that you are inviting can maintain the physical distance.”

- Dasantila Golemi-Kotra

small, portable propane heaters at our tables so that patrons can still enjoy outdoor dining.

We also offer our guests a cup of hot water with lemon when they come in and we are always told by our patrons that this little gesture is so appreciated!” says Chee.

Just like at AVIV, restaurants across the country are finding innovative ways to keep customers warm: whether by constructing portable pods and tents or giving out thermal blankets.

Chee mentions that making reservations in advance help due to limited seating in their backyard patio. For those still anxious about stepping out, AVIV like many other establishments is making their exclusive products like sauces and pickles available to customers – a great incentive for the holiday season.

And speaking of the holidays, while Halloween wasn’t at its spookiest best this year, some neighbourhoods tried to salvage it with creative methods of dispensing candy to eager kids. Candy chutes and pre-packaged treats were a common sight, with some families also opting to modify the celebrations by screening a scary movie in their backyard or taking the little ones for a drive around the block to enjoy decorations.

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As we go into the holiday season, one thing in certain – we all need to learn to adapt and find creative ways of celebrating with

our families and friends – whether it is virtually, indoors or outdoors – while following public health guidelines to keep safe.

above DBurmese-Canadian chef and owner of AVIV Immigrant Kitchen, Robert Chee

TIPS FOR INDOOR SOCIAL GATHERINGS

With temperatures dipping in the winter months, more people will lean towards meeting indoors.

The Government of Canada has laid down guidelines for such congregations. Highlights include: 1. Have your guests perform a self-assessment check for any COVID-19 symptoms before your event 2. Make hand sanitizer available to all your guests 3. Make sure that there is enough room for your guests to maintain 2m distance between each other 4. Make sure your room is properly ventilated 5. Keep your social bubble (of 10) small and consistent More information is available at canada.ca 14

CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

FEATURE

Hustle and bustle in the kitchen during the pandemic

T

By Ramya Ramanathan

he pandemic has had a huge impact on the ways we live our lives. Our social commitments and interactions have been reduced, and we are spending a lot more time at home.

Not surprisingly, many Canadians are finding innovative ways to unleash their creative side and are channelling their energies into hobbies and interests.

While some are identifying a new interest, others are taking the opportunity to rediscover existing interests, and some are even turning their passions into a business opportunity.

Cooking up new skills Takshil Shah is one of the many Canadians who has been exploring his passion for cooking. Shah calls himself a “big foodie” and says that he is able to spend more time in the kitchen given that he can work from home and doesn’t have the same long commute to get to the office.

“Things were different preCOVID – we ordered in 2-3 times a week. Since March, we have started cooking more because we now have a lot more time. I would travel from Brampton to Scarborough every day for work, now I save two hours of commuting time,” he says.

Shah and his wife were also hesitant to order from restaurants because of the fear of the potential for the spread of the virus. “We were skeptical about ordering in because of COVID. You never know, with the number of cases rising even in spite of precautions – for instance, [through contact with] the delivery guy.”

Shah and his wife have taken the additional time available to them to experiment with recipes from other cuisines, and these foods have become a regular part of their cooking. “Things turned out well, we cooked more and hardly ordered out. We started trying recipes from different cuisines – Chinese, Italian and Mexican – and they got incorporated into our

daily cooking.”

A YouTube Culture & Trends report, Watching the pandemic, found that there was a spike in cooking viewership in the first months of the pandemic with people watching more videos about making food at home.

According to the report, “Cooking up new skills in the kitchen is one of the most accessible ways a

person can grow their idea of who they are and what they are capable of, and people flocked to tutorials on YouTube while restaurants were shut down.” The report also found that videos with restaurantstyle cuisine became popular “because cooking and eating these foods is as much about the feeling they provide as the nutritional value”.

From their kitchen to yours A number of food services like ready-to-eat meals for pre-order, DIY kits and family-style meals for home delivery are starting to pop up everywhere. Many with a passion for cooking and an entrepreneurial mindset are even starting to offer up home-cooked meals on online forums. A search for “home-cooked meals” on Facebook Marketplace now brings up an increasing array of options to choose from.

Those with a passion for cooking and an eye for business are offering up home-made meals that are delivered to your doorstep on a daily basis. These services are often recommended by others in the community who are using them.

Since August, Shah and his family haven’t had additional help in taking care of their daughter, which means less time to spend in the kitchen. “My mother-inlaw was visiting us and went back home at the end of August. We have a 20-month old daughter, and [now] we hardly have time to cook.”

They have now started ordering

CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

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home-style food: “We started using a tiffin service – they come and deliver every morning and drop off lunches: fresh home-cooked meals instead of pre-cooked food and the person who cooks does it herself.

This is working for us since we are more occupied now and have less time than during earlier in COVID,” says Shah.

Making healthier choices Health and wellness are in the spotlight during the pandemic and there is a lot of advice about avoiding “emotional eating” due to the stress related to drastic lifestyle changes. Tips on grocery shopping, meal planning and healthy eating are available online including on public health websites.

While Indian couple Uday and Sheena Bhatia are watching more YouTube cooking videos, they have also been experimenting with healthier food choices. “We have always loved cooking and trying out new recipes. We are taking time to explore healthier options, especially now because now it’s cold outside and we don’t even get that much exercise.”

The Bhatias have been baking and grilling and are now considering buying an air fryer on Black Friday. “It’s definitely not the same taste but it’s healthier than deep frying and you get to eat what you desire: fried chicken, fritters, bread rolls, etc.”

Not everyone is as enthusiastic about spending additional time in the kitchen.

While Polish-South-AfricanCanadian Ola Cukrowska has tapped into her creative side and sewn some beautiful masks during the pandemic, even ordering special fabric to do so, her time spent in the kitchen is pretty much the same. “Absolutely nothing has changed. I use Uber Eats more. I have never baked bread and nor shall I ever. I think scrambled eggs are a perfectly good meal,” she says.

“Sure, take-out comes with its own risks…but it’s less of a risk than walking into a restaurant and ordering food and taking it out; with ordering in, I will be only exposed to one person.”

“Popcorn and wine that’s my dinner,” she says.

above Takshil Shah with his family

Starting your career

#YourFutureInFinancialServices

Thousands of financial services jobs are waiting for you.

Explore IFSE’s interactive career map – Career Pathways.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

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CAREERS & EDUCATION CAREER COACH

The executive resumé makeover 3 Ways to highlight your leadership story

I

t’s the age of LinkedIn and AI. You might ask: do we still need a resumé? The surprising answer is “Yes”. While your LinkedIn profile is great, it cannot take the place of a document that clearly highlights your career accomplishments and potential.

At the same time, the best resumés should not be laundry lists of accomplished tasks, but ones that tell the story about who you are as a strong leader.

Here are three tips to help ensure your executive resumé fully reflects your leadership profile.

1

It’s not just a resumé: It’s your leadership story

Don’t just refresh. When updating their resumés, most people just update and add whatever they have done since the document was last saved.

Instead, start at the beginning and write down every leadership activity you can think of. The resumé should definitely include anything that left an impact or defined you as a leader.

If you are using a cover letter, add value to it. Instead of a long-drawn narrative, make it short, punchy and data-oriented. The first section that meets the eye is the top one-third of your resumé or cover letter. Start with a compelling introductory statement. Follow it up with a bullet-point summary that is clearly laid out and makes the hiring manager want to know more.

Research keywords common in your industry and the position you are applying for. And add them to your resumé. In today’s digital age, keywords are screened and captured by the ATS, i.e an automated Applicant Tracking System, used by employers to scan and rank job applications they receive for open positions.

Using the right keywords in your resumé can enhance your search rankings and place you in front of anyone searching for your specific experience.

2

Showcase your preparedness

The leadership resumé is one that strikes just the right balance of experience and the important accomplishments, especially your ability to serve as a leader. The goal is to convey not only your expertise, but indicate your potential to succeed in the next role.

Highlight the most relevant and impactful items

first, and then add in other accomplishments.

Remember that an executive recruiter is first trying to establish whether you can do a specific job. And then, he or she is trying to figure out if you have leadership potential.

3

Paint the full picture of your leadership experience

At the executive level, it makes sense to include evidence of soft skills. Strong human relations skills that enable you to productively interact with others can set you apart. You can also provide evidence of previous executive accomplishments. One way to do this is to quantify it with measurable results. Instead of just listing job functions, strengthen your narrative with real statistics.

And lastly, it pays to be more elaborate when it comes to listing an accomplishment.

Why cut it short by just saying: • Revamped the management team with a new strategic plan

When you can be a little more elaborate: • Revamped the management team with a new strategic plan • Aligned with HR to develop new performance metrics • Achieved double-digit improvements in engagement • Increased annual employee retention by over 20 per cent As you can see, any recruiter will definitely want to go with the second candidate. Whatever the context of the situation, clearly articulate the steps you took to deliver an outcome. This helps the hiring managers understand what you can do for them.

In summary, the process of updating your resumé can be just as important as the end product.

This is the time to take inventory of your career.

Updating your resumé offers an opportunity to reflect on what you’ve learned and accomplished in the recent past — and, more importantly, what makes your leadership story unique.

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

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CAREERS & EDUCATION HIGHER LEARNING

How to be more organized

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Set yourself up for academic success

here are many good reasons for students to get and stay organized, from achieving greater productivity, saving time, decreasing stress and increasing feelings of being in control. When organized, you will be ready to tackle your work and feel confident that you haven’t overlooked critical dates and deadlines.

With the global pandemic and other concerning issues, staying productive and focused can be tough. Still, keeping your academic work organized is even more vital.

Being an online student makes the need to be organized even more important; you cannot rely on inperson interactions with professors or classmates to remind you of what needs to be done.

organized and hardworking students and provide you with some first-hand tips.

1. Keep your things organized: This will help you find what you need, and it makes you feel more prepared and ready to work. Start with labelling everything from notebooks to binders. This helps you differentiate between various classes. Then get page flags or separators. These two things might seem insignificant, but they can help you keep your notes organized by unit, importance or priority. Dating your notes may also be helpful in ensuring they are kept in order. This is true for not just your papers but also for online work and notes. It is especially critical to label everything from notes to documents so things are easier to find. Keeping separate folders for Three tips to stay organized So, how can you be organized? classes on your computer is also We decided to speak to some a good idea so you can keep your

WORLD OF DIFFERENCE

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NOV. 19th, 2020 | 4-5PM To RSVP or make a donation visit www.accesemployment.ca/wod 18

CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

academic work organized by class.

2. Keep your space organized: Having a tidy and uncluttered space can add to your motivation and help ease you into getting started. It can be difficult to concentrate when you have piles of things in front of you.

Ideally, you need to have space in your home designated for studying so that you can keep your home life separate from your schoolwork, especially now that many people are studying from home.

3. Keep your time organized: Using a planner is crucial for keeping track of critical events such as assignment deadlines, group meetings and exam dates. This can also help you balance your school, work and home responsibilities. If you like paper and find that writing helps, you can buy a planner that is already printed with a certain layout. This is a good option if you don’t have time to customize a planner. Some academic institutions print student planners based on the academic year and make them available for free or at a low cost. The second kind of planner is a bullet journal, which is simply a notebook that you can customize for your own needs. There is a large community on social media providing tips on how to customize a bullet journal, so it works best for your needs. If you prefer using technology, there are many programs and apps online to help you organize your time such as Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook. These online calendars allow you to set reminders for important dates and events that you don’t want to miss.

Avoid unnecessary distractions if you can, especially from your computer device and the phone.

Google Chrome has a free extension called Forest, which allows you to create a list of websites that you

want blocked for a certain amount of time so you can focus on what you need to do, so you don’t find yourself repeatedly and mindlessly checking your social media feeds.

Turning off notifications or putting away your phone can also help you maintain attention to your task.

Other tips include using one planner for all of your activities including school, leisure and work rather than using separate ones.

This way you won’t inadvertently double book yourself and can plan your study time while taking into account all your commitments, obligations and needs.

Start your day by making a list of what you would like to accomplish.

Remember to prioritize what’s most important and be realistic – a list that is too long may leave you feeling like you didn’t get much done.

Avoid perfectionism when organizing. As in most things, moderation is key. You want to get organized but you don’t want to spend so much time doing it that it ends up squeezing out actual available study time.

While being organized is useful for most learners, students with learning disabilities, attention problems, chronic procrastinators and the over-committed may find it particularly necessary.

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.

Member:

Tae Woo (Terry) Kim; R413519

Member:

Ryan Dean, R409631

Company Name/ Location:

Kajata Inc., Calgary, AB

Company Name/ Location:

The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultant’s Corp. (CICC Corp.) Vancouver BC, Canada; Employment Lab; Camerica Visa LLC; Las Vegas, NV, USA

Finding:

Finding:

Sanction:

Decision and Reasons: Sanction:

Decision and Reasons:

https://tinyurl.com/y9uvgxse

https://tinyurl.com/y9uvgxse

SETTLEMENT PARENTING

Get ready for winter

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inter is almost here – get ready for shorter days, colder temperatures, wind, rain, ice and even snow. While the weather conditions vary across the country, this is a wonderful season to enjoy, if we are fully prepared for it.

Below are some tips that can help families stay safe and enjoy the cooler seasons.

Be prepared when out and about

Always check the news, traffic alerts, and weather forecast before heading out. If using public transportation, check the schedule. If you own a vehicle, ensure that your car is in good working order, equipped with snow tires and your gasoline is at least half full at all times. Reduce or avoid driving in extreme weather, especially with young children. Carry essential items such as a first-aid kit, emergency car kits, warm blankets, non-perishable snacks, water and clothes for children. Moreover, always remember to bring your fully charged phone and a charger when going out.

Dress for the weather

Given that schools have increased their outdoor learning due to the pandemic, it is especially important for parents to dress children appropriately for the weather. Essentials include waterproof boots, jackets, and pants. Don’t forget thermal underwear, thick socks, mittens, toques, earmuffs and scarves. Also remember to pack an extra change of clothes and socks for younger children to bring to school. If possible, put on a reflector on their jacket or backpack to help them stay

more visible when it’s dark outside.

Plan for all types of emergencies

Prepare your home emergency kit and first-aid kits, in case of lockdowns, storms or other emergencies. Make sure to stock up on all family members’ medication, non-perishable food supplies and personal hygiene items. Do include extra personal items for children, such as books and toys, diapers, and also batteries and chargers. For more information about being prepared for all types of emergencies, visit getprepared.gc.ca

Stay healthy

Ensure that you and your family stay healthy by having a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising and getting sufficient rest. Don’t forget the flu shots, extra supplements, lip balm for chapped lips and lotions for the dry skin. Be sure to mask up when out in public places, and to stay home when sick. Make sure to teach children to sneeze or cough into the elbow and to always carry hand sanitizers and extra tissues.

Connect with family and friends

With the pandemic, it is more important than ever to have great support and meaningful connections with your friends and family. Also check in and lend a helping hand to others who might need additional support during this challenging time.

Follow public health orders, and find safe and creative ways to keep in touch with friends and families.

No matter where you are in the country, be prepared, bundle up and find safe ways to embrace winter.

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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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

I M M I G R AT I O N L AW

Planned immigration levels for the future

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Where we are coming from and where we are going

n October 30, 2020, Marco Mendicino, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship tabled Canada’s 2020 Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration.

In this annual publication, Canada’s immigration department summarizes Canadian immigration statistics of the previous year and provides immigration levels planned for the future. This year’s report was especially anticipated because of uncertainty over how Canada’s planned immigration levels would be impacted by COVID-19.

Where we are coming from In 2019, Canada welcomed 341,180 permanent residents, the third highest level of immigration in the country’s history, exceeded only by 1912 and 1913. Of this, 74,586 were individuals who transitioned from temporary resident status to permanent.

The economic immigration class continued to be the largest source of permanent resident admissions, at approximately 58 per cent of all admissions in 2019. Overall numbers were also up for Canada’s family reunification, protected person and humanitarian classes.

In 2019, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) also approved 404,369 work permits and 402,427 study permits. When accompanying family members are factored in, this means that the number of people who entered Canada with temporary status greatly exceeded the number of permanent residents admitted.

To briefly digress, when it comes to the impacts of immigration on Canada’s economy, housing prices, social cohesion, etc., the media often focuses on the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada. However, as can be seen in the above statistics, the admission of permanent residents only tells part of the story regarding who is coming to Canada and is not reflective of the total number of people actually admitted to the country.

In the 2019 Report to Parliament on Immigration, IRCC stated that its goal in 2020 was to welcome approximately 341,000 people as permanent residents. This will not happen because of COVID-19.

Although the official numbers will not be out till the end of 2020, it is anticipated that the number of permanent residents admitted to Canada will be roughly half of what was planned. There have been similar decreases in both work permit and study permit approvals.

Where we are going The 2021-2023 Immigration Levels Plan appears to take the 150,000 “missing immigrants” as a result of COVID-19 and distribute them evenly over the next three years. As a result, the previous goal of 351,000 immigrants for 2021 is now 401,000. In the 2019 Report to Parliament on Immigration, IRCC stated that it planned on welcoming 361,000 immigrants in 2022. It is now 411,000. The plan for 2023 is now 421,000.

There are several things to note about these projections.

First, IRCC has not stated if planned annual admissions of permanent residents exceeding

400,000 is the new normal, or if this is just a temporary bump to make up for the 2020 shortfall.

Second, the range in the number of expected immigrants is massive.

Normally, IRCC immigration level forecasts have a range of about 50,000 immigrants. In 2021, meanwhile, IRCC is expecting to welcome between 300,000 to 410,000 permanent residents, with a target of 341,000, an uncertainty of 110,000. This is likely the result of COVID-19.

Third, the proportion of economic immigrants who are destined for Quebec is expected to continue to decline. Quebec is responsible for setting its own economic immigration levels and establishing eligibility criteria. The increase in their levels have not kept pace with the rest of the country. In 2015, for example, Quebec welcome 28,787 out of 170,384 economic immigrants. In 2021, the target is for them to welcome 27,700 out of 232,500 economic immigrants. If Quebec changes its immigration

policies to reflect the rest of the country, the overall number of permanent residents that Canada welcomes will greatly increase.

Fourth, the largest component of Canadian immigration will continue to be economic immigrants, which at 232,500 are expected to comprise over half of Canada’s new permanent residents in 2021. This number is expected to steadily rise from 2021-2023. As well, IRCC from 2021-2023 is not anticipating either a significant increase or decrease in the number of people claiming asylum. It also does not plan on increasing the number of refugees that are resettled in Canada, either through private sponsorship or government assistance. This means that the proportion of refugees to Canada’s immigration system will decrease from 2021-2023.

Finally, and as is always the case, there are no planned admission levels for foreign workers or international students. While the government is responsible for setting permanent resident targets, the private sector and post-secondary institutions largely dictate how many temporary residents are admitted this year.

The number of foreign workers and international students each typically exceeds the number of permanent residents, especially when you factor in dependents. As such, it is important to remember and reiterate that when it comes to Canada’s economy and housing market the number of new permanent residents tells only part of the story.

A growing tension in Canada’s immigration system is the gap between the number of people in the country with temporary resident status and those who can transition to permanent residency.

It is going to take much greater increase in the number of new permanent residents to close that gap.

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

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PROFILE

GAZA-BORN DOCTOR

SPREADS A MESSAGE OF HOPE

By Lisa Evans

Palestinian-Canadian Izzeldin Abuelaish is an advocate for peace, despite the various tragedies he has encountered in his life, and strongly believes that education is the key to long-lasting peace in the Middle East and around the world.

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alestinian-Canadian Izzeldin Abuelaish is an advocate for peace, despite the various tragedies he has encountered in his life, and strongly believes that education is the key to long-lasting peace in the Middle East and around the world.

Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish was the first Palestinian doctor to work in an Israeli hospital. Tragedy struck on January 16, 2009, when Abuelaish’s three daughters and niece were killed in his own home by an Israeli tank fire attack.

While one would assume that such a devastating tragedy would cause a father to want to seek revenge on those who took the lives of his beloved daughters, Abuelaish turned his grief into hope and has become an advocate for peace and for the education of girls in the Middle East. Over the years, his message of peace and hope in response to the devasting loss of his children has earned him several humanitarian awards worldwide.

He now resides in Toronto with his remaining five children, has authored a book called I Shall Not Hate, and is the founder of the Daughters for Life Foundation, a registered charity that creates accessible education opportunities for young women from the Middle East through strategic partnerships with academic institutions and empowers them to bring lasting change to their communities.

Life as a refugee

Abuelaish was born and raised in Jabalia Refugee Camp in the Gaza Strip.

Life as a refugee was a constant struggle, but Abuelaish found hope in the camp. “In life, there are two types of disasters: natural disasters and man-made disasters,” he says. Abuelaish realized that the challenges he was facing were the latter, and he had the power to challenge them. He discovered that education was the only way to escape his circumstances.

Abuelaish was educated in refugee camp schools and earned a scholarship to study medicine in Cairo, Egypt. He later received a diploma in obstetrics and gynecology from the University of London, UK. From 1997–2002, he

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

completed his residency at the Soroka University hospital in Beer Sheva, Israel, followed by a sub-specialty in fetal medicine in Italy and Belgium, and a Master’s degree in Public Health from Harvard University. He was the first Palestinian doctor to work at an Israeli hospital and up to the devastating loss of his daughters, he worked as a senior researcher at the Gertner Institute in Sheba Hospital in Israel.

January 16, 2009: The date that changed everything

On January 16, 2009, an Israeli tank fired through the wall of Abuelaish’s home, killing three of his daughters (Bassan, 20, Mayar, 15 and Aya, 13) as well as his 14-year old niece, Nour.

For the gynecologist and father of eight children who had lost his wife to cancer only four months prior, the deaths of his daughters caused him, he says, to temporarily lose faith in humanity. “The world was watching what was going on and just considering the Palestinians as numbers,” he says. “I will never accept my children to be numbers. Each of my daughters was one world. Each of them had their own plans.”

gesture reinforced to Abueleish the social and community values that he had hoped for his family and for the world.

Providing his children with the education opportunities that he knew were rare for many children around the world was also top of mind.

Abuelaish is proud to say that two of his daughters have now graduated from the University of Toronto’s engineering program. His son graduated from Rotman School of Business and his youngest son has recently been accepted to Schulich School of Business at York University.

Education, says Abuelaish, is key to fixing the problems in the world.

“In life someone can take anything from you, but no one can take your education or prevent you from dreaming or achieving your dreams by working hard,” he says. This is the message Abuelaish has spread to his children. It’s the message he hopes to spread to all Canadian newcomers, and to the young women who have received education through his Daughters For Life Foundation.

In spite of the tragedies that have befallen him, Abuelaish says he has never felt anger in the negative way of hatred. “Hatred is a disease. It’s a contagious destructive disease that impacts the one who is carrying it. Hatred makes me incapable, stagnant, paralyzed, blind. It’s a toxin; a fire that burns the one who is impacted by it,” he says. “I needed to be strong physically and mentally to overcome this challenge and to keep my daughters alive, not with hatred, but with good deeds,” he says.

Daughters For Life Foundation

Abuelaish turned his grief for his daughters into a beacon of hope for many young women in the Middle East. He created the Daughters for Life Foundation, a registered Canadian charity that provides scholarships for aspiring young women living in the Middle East, enabling them to pursue undergraduate and graduate education opportunities in Canada, the US and UK; education that would otherwise be unattainable.

Abuelaish strongly believes that education is key to long-lasting peace in the Middle East and the world. To date, the Foundation has supported more than 500 young women in their education.

“I created this charity to keep my daughters alive,” says Abuelaish, who hopes that the young women who receive the scholarships will be able to go back home and serve their home countries.

A Canadian future

Abuelaish’s path to hope included a decision to relocate himself and his remaining children to Canada, in July 2009, after receiving a job offer as an Associate Professor at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto. Although part of him wanted to stay close to the graves of his daughters, as a newly single father of five, Abuelaish couldn’t deny his children the opportunities that Canada could provide. “One of the wisest decisions that I am proud of is that I decided to come to Canada,” he says.

Abuelaish describes Canada as a very social and friendly place; something he felt from the first day of the family’s arrival. Upon meeting their new neighbours on their first day in Canada, Abuelaish says the two families, who had children around the same ages, decided to take down part of the wooden fence between the two houses, allowing the children to play together whenever they wished. This CANADIANIMMIGRANT.CA |

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LIVING WELLNESS

Tips to protect your mental health at work Prioritize your wellness in the workplace

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communication skills, selfadvocacy training and conflictresolution skills are helpful in any kind of workplace environment.

ork or being employed is good for our mental health. It not only provides income and status in society, it expands our social life, helps us feel productive and also motivates us to achieve bigger things in life. However, a negative work environment and stressors related to the job have an impact on our physical and mental health. It is important that employers support the mental health of all employees recognizing their unique needs and challenges, and employees prioritize their mental health and seek support at work.

Mental health problems are common in workplaces with some sectors seeing higher rates than others. Depression, burnout, anxiety disorders, alcohol dependence and suicide are some of the problems associated with exposure to stressors at work.

When workers experience mental health problems, it has impact not only on the affected individuals and their families, but also on co-workers and morale of workforce as well.

Some employees experience mental health problems differently due to race, gender, job type, immigration status and other factors. Many new immigrants and refugees work in physically demanding jobs, may be assigned fewer hours than others and could also have higher qualifications than the job. Often, immigrant workers do not report their workplace problems, injuries or experiences of discrimination due to fear of being fired and not having an income. Language barriers and not having social support networks in a new country can be a challenge in seeking treatment or care.

8.

Take work breaks to boost your energy and also work performance (especially when you are working from home). It can be relaxing and a distraction from the challenges of work activity and also prevent burnout.

9.

Participate

women, migrant farm workers and new immigrants experienced a mental health crisis due to job losses, poor working conditions and managing multiple demands at work and at home. If finding another job is not an option, workers can always try to improve the situation and protect their own mental health.

Here are some tips to protect your mental health at work:

1. Understand your role, job description and expectations clearly in any job you take as it helps you to know where you fit in and what is expected of you.

2.

Read the employee handbook, policies and benefits that are provided carefully to seek support and advocate for your rights when a need arises.

3.

Identify problems early enough and ask for help with issues such as bullying, sexual or psychological harassment by bringing it to the supervisor’s attention or the union When COVID-19 hit our country, representative. Long-term exposure those employed in nursing homes, to a toxic atmosphere affects mental service industries, small businesses, health.

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

in wellness initiatives at work and expand your awareness and knowledge about mental health. This can help you to look for signs of distress in yourself and others, and also what steps to take. Early professional support and treatment can reduce risks for mental illness.

4. Communicate with your managers and peers periodically and handle any negative feedback 10. Support your physical health effectively and provide any by getting good sleep, eating comments in a professional manner healthy and engaging in physical activity. This has positive effects and not as a personal attack. on your overall mental health and 5. Utilize your vacation and sick energy levels. days and use your mental health day Employers who recognize work(if you have one in your employee benefits plan). This can help you to related influences on the mental relax, rejuvenate and better prepare health of employees and commit to you to handle issues at work with a improve psycho-social conditions, support work-life balance and relaxed approach. offer mental health support will be 6. Seek mentors at your rewarded with increase in employees’ workplace to get support and job performance and loyalty to the guidance. If you are new to the workplace. Employees who have job country and the work culture and satisfaction, good relationships with job roles are different, it is helpful peers and know how to get help can to have someone to talk to – if increase their overall happiness you are working remotely during levels in life. The pandemic is posing this pandemic, schedule virtual additional challenges to work life conversations when possible. with remote work options and new health and safety protocols. Effective 7. Access any additional training engagement is going to be vital for opportunities to help you succeed employers and the employees to with co-workers and supervisors ensure a positive and healthy work on your team. Language training, environment.

Nandini Tirumala is a mental health wellness coach, educator and advocate with 25 years of experience in Canada with a special focus on mental health support services for newcomers and immigrant families.

WELLNESS

From crisis to opportunity Recognize where you are at, reset your new normal and regain your vitality

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ho would have guessed back in March that we would still be living with the COVID-19 pandemic in November? And yet, here we are. In fact, statistics from the media seem to suggest that we can expect a few more months of living through this crisis.

For some of us, the days this year may have felt exceptionally long, a few others may say they have been short, and some may say they have rolled into one long, blurry pandemic haze.

One thing is certain – life goes on, pandemic or not. Life is a precious gift; the COVID deaths have been a bleak reminder. We get one shot at making our life the best it can be, regardless of the circumstances in which we find ourselves.

If you haven’t already done so, take stock of your year in 2020 and think about how you want to live your life in 2021 – who do you want to be, what do you want to do, and what do you want to have?

The pandemic will bring what it will but your response to those events, and any other external circumstances and life events, is completely within your control. You need not feel stuck or hopeless. It is a choice and decision you make. It can be liberating and empowering to remember that you have with, new opportunities, we may discover new strengths, confidence and determination. the power to choose how you react to events and to other people.

Do you recognize which stages you have moved through in 2020? Maybe you moved back and forth between a few stages, having some good days Recognize where you are at When faced with a crisis there are many ways in which people respond. and some not-so-good. What might you need to reflect on to learn to move forward and stay healthy, physically, and emotionally?

Let’s look at the Change Curve theory as it applies to the pandemic: Shock and denial: thoughts such as “is this really happening?”, “this Reset your ‘new normal’ The challenges we continue to experience with the pandemic provide won’t affect me”, “this is a problem in other parts of the world; it won’t an ongoing opportunity to reset any unhelpful (and therefore unhealthy) happen in Canada”. We may refuse to believe the issue is real and is response patterns – be they thoughts, feelings or behaviours. happening.

Some of us may have developed a few unhealthy ways of coping with the anxiety and uncertainty of the pandemic and protecting ourselves against its negative effects, e.g. overeating, comfort eating, over use of stimulants (alcohol, caffeine), digital distractions (social media, TV, media, video games), online purchasing/retail therapy, disconnecting from others etc.

Is it time to say “cancel” or “stop” to a habit or response that is causing you unnecessary stress, draining your energy and/or making you feel unwell?

Can you refocus to use your time and energy more purposefully, so you keep moving forward, becoming more of the person you want to be in 2021? What intentions or goals will help you stay on track to a happy and healthy life?

Regain your vitality

Our behaviours and thoughts can trigger either a stress response or a relaxation response in the body. When we stay in a prolonged state of fear and anxiety it puts our body under stress and keeps our natural relaxation response from operating at its best. This weakens our body’s defence Frustration and anger: at the impact and consequences including systems designed to help us fight and recover from illness. Consequently, panic buying, physical and social distancing, business and school closures, we end up sick as our immune system becomes depleted.

Healthy habits for our body and mind are key to staying strong and changes to work schedules and routines etc. We may be fearful, assign resilient to deal with the inevitable stresses and setbacks in life as well as blame, believe conspiracy theories, resist, and protest. fight and recover from illnesses.

Depression and panic: inevitable and overwhelming thoughts creep in: What three new habits could you keep? “will I lose my job?”, “how will I support my family?”, “when will I see my Consider one physical, one mental and one social habit, e.g. get outside friends and family again?”, “how will I manage?”, “when will this end?”. for 20 mins of air and movement every day, learn/practise some deep breathing techniques to remain calm, contact one friend or family member Acceptance: as time goes on we start to realize that we are all in this every week. together, that we cannot go back to how things were pre-COVID, that Be proactive and take control of your mental and physical health and our routines have changed and we may need to pivot, adapt, do things wellbeing. It remains your best defence against the COVID crisis. differently. The sooner we get to this stage, the quicker we can let go of the negative reactions, reduce our stress levels, and get back on track.

Hazel Morley has worked as a trainer, facilitator and coach for Problem solving and decision making: we find creative solutions more than 25 years, in England and after immigrating to Canada to establish a ‘new normal’. We take time to find the lessons and the in 2009. After her own personal health crisis, she shifted gears positives and make required changes. As we notice, and experiment to focus on strategies for enjoying optimal health.

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MONEY & BUSINESS T IP S F OR SE T T L ING IN FA S T E R

Financial decision-making during uncertain times Tips to keep in mind while making money decisions Consider credit options that may be cheaper than what you’re currently using. A line of credit, for instance, comes with an interest rate that is considerably lower than a credit card. A consolidation loan, meanwhile, can help you simplify, manage and reduce the carrying costs of your overall debt.

4. Talk to an advisor It’s easier than ever to connect with a financial advisor wherever you feel most comfortable as most major banks can provide advice online, over the phone or in person – and with no obligation. An advisor can offer a second opinion on the decisions you’re thinking of making,

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eople have a lot of questions these days: When will life return to normal? Will there ever be a “normal” again? When will I be able to gather with large groups of friends and family? And how do I make smart decisions about my money? In uncertain times, it can be really hard to know the best strategies to protect your money, especially if you’ve recently arrived in Canada.

While everyone’s situation is different, making smart decisions about preserving, borrowing, investing and spending your money is a matter of returning to some financial basics. And as November marks the 10th anniversary of Financial Literacy Month in Canada, the timing couldn’t be better.

Here are five key steps to keep in mind while making money decisions today.

1. Don’t panic The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a great deal of fear and anxiety, especially when it comes to our health and our money. Making decisions from a position of fear, however, won’t serve us in the long run. Our ability to see the future effects of our financial decisions can become clouded by panic.

While times are unsettled right now, and you may feel like you’ve

got to do ‘something,’ it’s wise to take a breath, review all your financial options, and consider how any action you take today may affect your long-term goals and priorities.

and show you opportunities to save in your day-to-day life. At the same time, they can help you meet your long-term goals and balance both your present and future needs by looking at your complete financial picture.

Just remember, you don’t need to make financial decisions alone.

Advisors are here to help you make the most of your money, and guide you through the options that make the most sense for you.

Answers to your money questions, big and small, especially in these uncertain times, will provide you with a better picture of where you are today, and a plan for your tomorrow.

Amit Brahme is senior director, newcomer client strategy with Royal Bank of Canada. Visit rbc.com/newcomers or visit a branch near you for help and advice to help you save more and settle in faster.

Written in collaboration with Diane Amato, a Toronto-based freelance writer covering finances, travel and technology.

2. Look closely at your budget If money is tight right now, see if you can find areas within your budget that can be adjusted to give you some breathing room. Are there subscriptions or memberships you might pause for the time being? Can you trim some extras that aren’t important to you right now? Also, think about whether you’re making any pre-authorized contributions to an investment, or if you’re on an accelerated mortgage payment plan.

While these are smart financial decisions when your cash flow is stable, if you’re in the middle of a crunch, taking a break from these additional outlays could give you the relief you need today.

Computer-delivered IELTS: Results available in 3 to 5 days Accepted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and over 550 organizations across the country.

For more information,visit: ielts.ca/computer-delivered-ielts

3. Understand your cost of borrowing If you’ve had to rely on credit to get you through a dip in income, you’re not alone. But if you’re having a hard time paying down your balances, your interest costs may be creeping up — and if that’s the case, it may be time to evaluate how much credit is costing you and look at other options.

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MONEY & BUSINESS

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Being an entrepreneur is already a challenge

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Your best asset can be your optimism

ne of the values that characterizes most entrepreneurs is an asset that helps us manage times like the one we are currently experiencing with the pandemic. That is the ability of being optimistic about better outcomes.

We speak from experience.

Having spent some time running our growing Calgary-based startup: RemarkaBall, we can tell you that this is what keeps us going.

Our advice to fellow entrepreneurs: live in the moment and focus on what we can have an impact on: our attitude towards any given situation.

such as: exercising, having your daily coffee with someone you love or simply by being thankful for your health.

Let’s not forget the amazing opportunities we can have just by being in this country Canada, which we now call home. If we ask some of our older family members about what is important to them or if they have any regrets, we may be surprised to find out that the “small things” are not really that small. In fact, the most fulfilling memories about earlier events in our lives likely include those times we were simply laughing with our families back in our native country or the hug a loved one gave us on our birthday.

complexity we all face as immigrant When it comes to dealing with The pandemic has added an extra entrepreneurs. our daily lives, try to find balance by appreciating the “small things” layer of difficulty to the everyday If you are running a business, look at any help the federal or provincial government can offer to help sustain your business during the pandemic. The Government of Canada is always looking for ways to help new businesses as we can be a source of employment opportunities for Canadians or new immigrants while contributing positively to the economy.

scaling up food businesses. It can be intimidating to scale up your business, but you have to seize the opportunities to do so. In our case, Giovanna went into a grocery store and asked that our high energy protein balls be sold there – but she did it and now the product is in 50 retail stores in Calgary.

Search for opportunities to not only help your business, but to give back by hiring staff who do not speak fluent English, giving them a chance to gain the confidence they deserve to grow professionally in the Canadian workforce. We believe that everyone has a story that has value.

1. Value your health every single

We also invite you to be vulnerable and real with your story.

We have taken opportunities to share our story during an inspiring webinar (organized by the Startup & Slay Digital Series) about

Lastly, we will leave you with our three most valuable pieces of advice that could help you with your dayto-day lives. moment.

2. Be optimistic about a brighter

future by taking action with your dreams.

3. Look at yourself in the mirror while asking yourself, did I have an amazing attitude today?

If you apply these three tips to your lifestyle, we promise you that a brighter future is just around the corner.

Most importantly of all, enjoy the “small things”!

Entrepreneurs Marines Tineo and Giovanna Serauto are co-owners of Calgary-based RemarkaBall. Learn more at remarkaball.ca

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

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CANADIAN IMMIGRANT Volume 17 Issue 5 | 2020

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