Lauren arrived in Vancouver, BC with a clear purpose: to continue her work as an ESL instructor while preparing for the next step in her academic and professional journey. As she describes it, “I teach English as a second language to adults. I have been teaching for three years. I hope to return to school in Canada to pursue higher degrees in order to teach at the university level.”

Originally from the United States, she brought with her both experience and ambition, and immediately began searching for the right supports to help her transition into the Canadian labour market.

Discovering SOPA

Before her move, Lauren researched pre-arrival services and found MOSAIC and the SOPA Program, While planning her move, Lauren researched pre-arrival programs to better understand her employment options. “I found SOPA after researching my pre-arrival services option and finding MOSAIC in Vancouver.”

This led her to register for:

• Intake Counselling
• Employment Counselling
• Working in Canada course

Career planning and job search strategies quickly became her focus. Together with her SOPA employment counselor, she developed a tailored approach to entering the ESL field in BC.

Landing Her First Canadian Job

Lauren’s early success was remarkable. “I found a part time job as an English teacher within a few weeks of landing and only one week after meeting with my employment counselor. I am still pursuing full-time employment.”

Her quick transition into the workforce reflects both her professionalism and her willingness to apply strategies learned through SOPA as soon as she arrived.

How SOPA Supported Her Transition

According to Lauren, SOPA provided a “comprehensive overview” of her employment landscape in BC—Lauren emphasizes how transformative the program felt during an otherwise overwhelming period of resettlement. In her words, “SOPA provided me with a comprehensive overview of my career options in Canada, including relevant agencies, websites, tools, etc to aid my job hunt.”

A key part of her learning came from mastering new tools. “One particularly useful tool was Jobscan, which my employment counselor trained me to leverage for the optimization and organization of my professional materials.”

Most importantly, she found the human support invaluable. “I found my employment counselor especially helpful – she compiled for me information that would have taken me much longer to find. She made an overwhelming process more tangible by giving me steps toward my larger employment goal.”

Through SOPA, Lauren gained not only knowledge but confidence.

“SOPA helped me to better understand my field in the Canadian market and how to best market myself. I always learned future steps post-arrival and different options to reach my long-term professional goals in BC. I was educated in a host of resources I can access to support my professional transition and growth.”

Strategies That Helped

Lauren attributes her job search success to:

• using the resources compiled by her employment counselor
• understanding how the Canadian system evaluates qualifications
• applying consistently and intentionally
• staying open to part-time roles as stepping stones

These efforts helped her build momentum early in her settlement journey.

A Highlight from Lauren’s Employment Counselor

Her employment counselor shared heartfelt praise:

“I can’t express in words how pleased I am when I work with a true professional. Lauren was incredibly easy to work with—smart, educated, appreciative, and quick to understand every step of the process. She only needed a little guidance and direction; the rest was entirely her own excellent work. I wholeheartedly wish her success in her new home – BC, Canada!”
— Anna Romaniuk, Employment Services Advisor, SOPA BC

Lauren’s Advice to Other Newcomers

Her message is clear and encouraging:

“Take advantage of pre-arrival services ASAP!”

She wholeheartedly recommends SOPA to newcomers preparing to settle in Canada.

A Final Note of Gratitude

Lauren closes her story with heartfelt thanks to SOPA, and we extend the same gratitude to her. Her dedication, professionalism, and positivity made her a joy to support. Her path in BC is only beginning, and we are excited to see the bright future she is building here.

Story prepared by SOPA BC Team, Anna Romaniuk, SOPA BC Employment Services Advisor

The post From Pre-Arrival Support to Early Success: Lauren’s SOPA Story first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

She decided to get support early. “I decided to sign up because the services SOPA was offering aligned with what I needed to prepare for my new life in Canada.”

For her, even taking that first step felt like doing something instead of just waiting and hoping.

Facing the Job Search From Abroad

Before arriving, Nina noticed something many newcomers experience:

“It seemed harder to get callbacks and interviews when I was outside Canada,” she said.

It’s a reality a lot of people don’t expect until they start applying. But instead of letting that discourage her, she focused on learning how things work here. Through SOPA, she got guidance on the practical things that make a difference.

“SOPA helped me understand the targeted job application process and LinkedIn optimization. They also helped with building my confidence to go after the jobs I really wanted.”

Nina didn’t hold back. She used every tool she could:

“I used LinkedIn, ChatGPT and Jobscan tool for every job I was applying to and it really helped to get noticed.”

After Landing in Canada

Once she arrived in Brampton, she felt a shift.

“My journey has been beautiful. It seemed harder to get callbacks and interviews when I was outside Canada but it got easier when I got in Canada. Your location in Canada when you apply for jobs also matters.”

With the groundwork she’d already done through pre‑arrival services, she didn’t feel lost. She started applying with more confidence and clearer expectations.

“Be serious with pre‑arrival services. You’ll realize that they really help you with your mindset and they’ll share a lot of information that you can use to make your life easier.” Nina

Just two months after starting her job search in Canada, Nina landed an offer as an Insurance Advisor.

“It took me 2 months to go through the interview process and to receive an offer.”

When she talks about it now, she doesn’t just mention the job — she mentions how her mindset changed.

“I became more confident that it was possible to get a job. It helped open my mind about alternative opportunities that existed with my transferable skills.”

Nina’s Message to Future Newcomers

If you’re preparing your move to Canada, Nina has one clear piece of advice:

“Be serious with pre‑arrival services. You’ll realize that they really help you with your mindset and they’ll share a lot of information that you can use to make your life easier.”

And her counsellor, Smriti Arora, saw the same dedication:

“Nina stayed committed to every session and remained open and adaptable throughout her job search, qualities that make a real difference when starting a new life in Canada.”

Approved to immigrate to Canada?

If you’re getting ready to move to Canada, Nina’s journey shows what’s possible.

Her words reflect the hopes, doubts, determination, and small victories that so many newcomers experience. Nina reminds you that you can succeed in Canada—with preparation, the right tools, and the belief that your skills have value.

Story prepared by SOPA Alberta Team, Smriti Arora, Employment Specialist   

The post From Johannesburg to Brampton: Nina’s Journey to Success first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

My name is Aissata, and I come from Mali. I arrived in Canada in July 2025 and chose to settle in Winnipeg, Manitoba, a decision that marked the beginning of a new chapter for my family and me.

Before immigrating to Canada, I built my career in the global corporate sector. My most recent role was Area Product Business Controller at Maersk Line, one of the world’s leading shipping companies. In that position, I was responsible for analyzing Profit & Loss reports, monitoring financial performance, and ensuring that operations complied with global standards. The role sharpened my analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strategic business skills, competencies that continue to serve me well today.

I am now working as a Finance and Operations Officer at Welcome Place, a role that aligns closely with my professional background and expertise. Transitioning into this position so soon after arrival is something I am deeply grateful for.

Preparing Before Arrival Made the Difference

I first learned about the Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA) program through IRCC while my family was still in the immigration process. Even before landing in Canada, I knew how important preparation would be. I actively participated in pre-arrival services to ensure we were ready; professionally, emotionally, and practically for life in Canada.

SOPA was one of the very first programs I engaged with, and it became a cornerstone of my settlement journey. Through intake counselling, employment counselling, facilitated job search strategies, and soft skills training focused on workplace communication and working with others, I gained a deep understanding of the Canadian job market and workplace culture. Every course, webinar, and training session added value and clarity, helping me approach my job search with confidence and purpose.

A Thoughtful and Values-Driven Job Search

When we arrived in Canada, my immediate priority was my family – securing housing, preparing my children for school, completing administrative requirements, and obtaining my driver’s license to gain full independence. I officially began my active job search two months after landing and started working just one month later.

“I am sincerely grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and compassion demonstrated by the SOPA team. A very special thank you to Milagros, my very first point of contact, whose kindness and guidance set the tone for my entire experience. My heartfelt thanks also go to Nef, Martin, and Inna. Their work goes far beyond training. They uplift, inspire, and truly change lives.”

During this time, I applied the tools I learned through SOPA: targeted applications, Canadian-standard resume writing, strategic job searching, and networking. I even received an early job offer, but I made the difficult decision to decline it because it did not align with my personal beliefs and convictions. I firmly believe that no matter how important employment is, peace of mind and values should never be compromised.

Not long after, the right opportunity came one that truly matched both my professional skills and personal principles.

Lessons, Gratitude, and Words of Encouragement

What SOPA gave me was more than technical knowledge; it gave me clarity, confidence, and a strong understanding of the Canadian context. Every topic helped me adjust my mindset and approach, especially in workplace communication, which I now use daily in my role.

Our transition to Canada was remarkably smooth, but it was not effortless. In just three months, we accomplished what often takes much longer. There were many sleepless nights spent researching schools, groceries, housing, winter clothing, and administrative processes especially since we arrived just before winter. It took patience, dedication, and persistence.

Above all, this journey reinforced my faith. I truly believe that when you let go of something for the right reasons, God opens new doors and replaces it with something far better.

To fellow newcomers, my advice is simple: be proactive, apply what you learn, and stay confident. Work hard but never sacrifice your values. Trust the process.

A Heartfelt Thank You

I am sincerely grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and compassion demonstrated by the SOPA team. A very special thank you to Milagros, my very first point of contact, whose kindness and guidance set the tone for my entire experience. My heartfelt thanks also go to Nef, Martin, and Inna. Their work goes far beyond training. They uplift, inspire, and truly change lives.

Today, I move forward with gratitude, confidence, and hope, knowing that with faith, preparation, and perseverance, anything is possible.

Story provided by: Aissata

Edits: Mila Dacwag (SOPA Manitoba – Intake Counsellor)

The post A New Beginning Built on Faith, Preparation, and Purpose first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

From welcoming new partners to expanding services and contributing to national conversations, this year has marked one of the most transformative chapters in our program’s history.

At a Glance: 2025 Highlights

• 10 Years of Service – A decade of supporting newcomers across Canada.
• Manitoba Start Joins SOPA – Strengthening our national network.
• Expanded Services – New programs like Canada Connect and personalized sessions.
• National Engagement – Active participation in conferences and community events.
• Top 10 Client Stories – Celebrating inspiring newcomer journeys.
• Looking Ahead – Continued commitment to empowering newcomers.

Celebrating 10 Years of SOPA! Preparing Newcomers for Success

Celebrating 10 Years of SOPA!

This November, SOPA proudly marked 10 years of service, helping approved immigrants around the world arrive prepared.

What began as a visionary initiative by ISANS has grown into a nationally recognized pre-arrival program, supporting thousands of immigrants before they land in Canada.

To celebrate, our team created a special anniversary video featuring heartfelt reflections from SOPA staff and partners.
[Watch the Anniversary Video Here]

A huge thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey — our clients, our partners, and ISANS for planting the seed that grew into SOPA.

Here’s to the next decade of empowering newcomers and building welcoming communities across Canada.

Welcoming Manitoba Start to the SOPA Network

One of the biggest milestones this year was welcoming Manitoba Start as a new SOPA partner. Their expertise and community-based approach strengthen SOPA’s national reach and enhance the support newcomers receive as they prepare for life and work in Manitoba.

Expanding SOPA Services in 2025

This year, we grew our service offerings to provide newcomers with more comprehensive and flexible support:

• Launching IEDI Video Series – Strengthening intercultural awareness in Canada’s diverse workplaces.
• Canada Connect Program – Build meaningful connections before arrival.
• Free One-on-One Information Sessions – Personalized guidance for settlement and employment.
• Orientation Sessions – Prepare for life, work, and study in Canada.
• Monthly Events Newsletter – Stay informed and engaged.

SOPA Teams at Events

Our teams were active throughout the year, sharing expertise and contributing to important conversations about newcomer support.

• Soft Skills Facilitators Collaborative Session (May) – A valuable session for Soft Skills course facilitators to exchange best practices and explore innovative strategies for supporting newcomers to Canada. A heartfelt thank you to CCIS for graciously hosting this important meeting!
• Metropolis Identities Summit – Shivam and Rajmonda led a session on Breaking Barriers: Regional Approaches to Foreign Credential Recognition for Workforce Inclusion.
• Pre-Arrival Community Partners’ Committee (CPC) Conference (Hosted by IRCC and YMCA of Greater Toronto) – Anika, SOPA Supervisor, represented SOPA and strengthened collaboration across pre-arrival providers.
• Red River College Polytech Resource Fair and Canadian Mennonite University’s first-ever Career Fair – Inna and Martin actively engaged at these events, showcasing SOPA’s pre-arrival services and building meaningful connections to support newcomers.
• Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) – Anika and Sayed presented on the impact of the Canada Connect Program.

Top 10 Most-Read Stories of 2015-2025:

Over the past decade, SOPA has supported thousands of newcomers on their journey to Canada. We’re -deeply grateful to our clients for sharing their experiences and inspiring others.

Here are 10 of the most impactful and widely read stories from SOPA’s 10-year history. You can explore many more amazing stories on our blog:

1. Being Prepared is Half Way to Success
2. Small Talk Works!
3. Arrive Prepared and Find Success
4. An Eye Opening Experience
5. Olayemi Olaleye: A CPA’s Journey
6. Nigar’s New Home
7. How SOPA helped me get started in my Canadian journey
8. Focus and Dedication: Important Keys to Success
9. Unlocking Opportunities: Navigating the Canadian Job Market with SOPA Services
10. From Belarus to Canada: Starting Strong in Logistics with SOPA’s Help

Looking Ahead

From celebrating our 10-year anniversary to expanding services and strengthening partnerships, 2025 has been a year filled with progress and purpose.

We’re grateful to our clients, partners, funders, and teams for their ongoing support and dedication.

Thank you for being part of the SOPA community — and here’s to another decade of helping newcomers arrive prepared!

Post prepared by Albina Ziatdinova, SOPA Communications an Engagement Coordinator

The post SOPA Highlights 2025: A Remarkable Year — and a Decade of Impact first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

As I read your email, Kristy, I feel compelled to share my thoughts on achievement and feedback point by point. The SOPA program has been a game-changer for me, and I believe others planning to move to Canada should know how it can help them too.

The certificate gives me a sense of accomplishment and the course orients me in the right perspective where I stand in the job market. I have received valuable suggestions on getting my resume professional and impressive to suit the position offered. I’ve saved all documents generated or made available during this course so that I can go through them again. Similarly, the accessibility of this course for two more weeks is a bonus feature.

SOPA is a good initiative, especially for those who are capable and desirous of adding to the creative workforce in Canada. My wife has already enrolled for the Job Search Strategies (JSS) course in addition to her other courses. We will be pleased to endorse SOPA on social media platforms.

Looking at my professional background, it is a tough task for me to go through the processes to be eligible for a job in the same category listed in NOC. Perhaps it would take a couple of years to be eligible to apply for the position—or maybe the initiative would be restricted due to age-limiting criteria, medical fitness aspects for seniors, and any workplace accommodations for hearing-impaired (but well-compensated with aids) persons. I have not contacted an employment counsellor yet, but I will look into that after I know the essential eligibility criteria with specifics as above.

My SOPA Experience

When asked, “How would you describe your SOPA experience?” my answer is simple:
This is a totally new learning platform for me as pre-arrival services. It certainly changed my mindset and approach in dealing with questions when planning for relocation to a culturally different place. The course contents are informative and very practical for job seekers from immigrant backgrounds. The step-wise modules helped me learn and assimilate slowly. Practice sessions taught me things that might not have been taught in my native country. Assignments kept track of individual involvement and understanding of the module.

“If you are preparing to move to Canada, SOPA can help you just like it helped me. It’s not just about learning—it’s about changing your mindset, understanding Canadian workplace culture, and gaining practical tools for success before you even arrive. From resume building to interview preparation, SOPA equips you with everything you need to start your job search with confidence.” Arvind

To summarize, my experience with SOPA was that of learning, interacting, and improving for personal benefits—which ultimately would add up to societal gains. Overall, it was an excellent and memorable experience.

What Did I Learn?

When asked, “What did you learn from the SOPA program that helped prepare you for your job search?” my answer is:
Many things. Starting from courtesy in interactions, methods to gain focused knowledge, effective implementation of that knowledge, and respect for the culture and society where I am going to live and work. Specifically, the modules on targeted resumes, preparations for interviews, self-promotion, and analysis of the job market were very useful for me.

Why This Matters for You

If you are preparing to move to Canada, SOPA can help you just like it helped me. It’s not just about learning—it’s about changing your mindset, understanding Canadian workplace culture, and gaining practical tools for success before you even arrive. From resume building to interview preparation, SOPA equips you with everything you need to start your job search with confidence.

Story written by Arvind Bamanikar, Consultant Physician, SOPA Ontario Client

Story edited by Albina Ziatdinova

The post From Uncertainty to Confidence: The Course That Oriented Me in the Right Perspective first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

The virtual sessions were eye-opening. They helped me understand the expectations and realities of the Canadian work environment. These include workplace culture and dress codes. They also cover communication, ownership, and professionalism.

One event focused on Engineering and Project Management Networking. It broadened my perspective and introduced me to diverse opportunities within the engineering sector in Canada.

Many people discouraged me from applying for licensure, saying the process was time-consuming, exhausting, and expensive. However, with the resources and guidance provided by SOPA, the path became much clearer and more straightforward. That gave me the confidence to move forward.

Remember: You can achieve anything you set your mind to. Leverage the resources available, follow the process, and success will surely come.

Many people discouraged me from applying for licensure, saying the process was time-consuming, exhausting, and expensive. However, with the resources and guidance provided by SOPA, the path became much clearer and more straightforward. That gave me the confidence to move forward.

It’s possible to begin the process before arriving in Canada, just as I did. I arrived in Canada in September 2024. The key is having the right information—and that’s exactly what SOPA and other support services are here to provide. Being an immigrant shouldn’t limit one’s career aspirations. Stay resilient, focused, and proactive: attend events, volunteer when possible, and pursue your licensure.

To obtain my engineering license in Canada, I:

1. Applied through the provincial engineering regulatory body in the province where I planned to settle — APEGS (Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan).
2. Had my academic credentials verified by WES through a course-by-course evaluation.
3. Demonstrated my years of relevant professional experience.
4. Regardless of my experience, first registered as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) before progressing toward my P.Eng. designation.

With my EIT, I was able to secure a job, and I am now working toward my P.Eng. designation. I recently passed my NPPE exam in September 2025. I’m especially grateful to SOPA for the wealth of materials and resources shared by Rajmonda Deliallisi, Foreign Credential Navigator. I also appreciate Jennifer Dixon, Employment Specialist with SOPa Saskatchewan for her consistent reminders to attend live sessions.

Story written by Jessica Obi, M.Sc, EIT (APEGS), REng (COREN), SOPA Saskatchewan Client

The post Starting Strong: My Journey from Engineer-in-Training to P.Eng. in Progress first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

Halan’s success wasn’t by chance, it started months before he even set foot in Canada. By preparing ahead of time with SOPA’s courses and counselling, he gained the tools, confidence, and mindset needed to adapt quickly. His hard work, adaptability, and the guidance he received through the Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA) program all came together to make his transition smoother and his job search more successful.

“With SOPA I learn more about the work environment in Canada, how people interact and some good practices to communicate in your work. All these helps me to adapt to secure my job.”

Preparing Before Arrival

While preparing to immigrate to Canada, Halan signed up for SOPA’s personalized services, including one-on-one employment counselling, the Job Search Strategies course, and the Soft Skills: Complex Conversations course. These courses and services gave him a clear action plan and the confidence to face the challenges ahead.

“SOPA gave me an action plan before I arrived, outlining the things I would need to do after my arrival, such as obtaining a Social Insurance Number, enrolling in health care, among others.”

Through these courses, he learned to create targeted resumes and cover letters, use his NOC code to search job postings effectively, and navigate the unspoken rules of workplace culture in Canada.

Overcoming Challenges

Like many newcomers, Halan faced challenges when he first started his job search.

“The only challenge I faced was that it was difficult to find a job at the beginning. Networking actually helped me find one.”

His persistence, combined with SOPA’s preparation, helped him stand out and land a role in his field.

Support from SOPA Counsellors

SOPA’s Employment Services Advisors remember Halan as a proactive and positive client.

“He showed a genuine passion for learning and consistently went above and beyond to understand the Canadian job search and hiring process,” shared Josephine Wang, Employment Services Advisor at SOPA, MOSAIC BC.

“With just a little guidance and a few supportive words, he was quick to absorb suggestions and adapt them to his approach,” added Anna Romaniuk, Employment Services Advisor at SOPA, MOSAIC BC.

Advice for Other Newcomers

Halan knows firsthand that moving to a new country is more than just finding a job, it’s about learning how things work and adapting to a new culture.

“To settle in another country requires understanding the culture and how things work. It also involves adapting to different rules, social norms, and daily practices, which can be challenging but essential for successful integration.”

His advice to others preparing to move to Canada is simple: take advantage of the support available, and prepare as much as you can before arrival.

Life in Canada

Outside of work, Halan is also enjoying the little surprises of life in Canada. One that stood out to him?

“Many people love dogs and treat them like they are their children.”

He also hopes to share a taste of home by bringing traditional Chilean dishes like sopaipillas con pebre, churrascos, and empanadas de pino fritas to his new community.

A Smooth Transition

Reflecting on his journey, Halan is grateful for the support he received:

“I just want to express my appreciation for the work SOPA does for immigrants. What stood out the most to me was how they helped me adjust to life in a new country and made the transition feel less overwhelming.”

Halan’s story is a great reminder that with preparation, guidance, and determination, newcomers can build a successful career and fulfilling life in Canada.

Story prepared with a help of Halan Briones Merino, SOPA BC Client and Josephine Wang, Anna Romaniuk, SOPA BC Employment Services Advisors.

The post Halan’s New Beginning: From Preparation Abroad to Employment in Just 3 Months first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

That’s when I met Tatsiana. Our conversation was incredibly helpful. She explained the full range of SOPA services. She also helped me see how they can support my transition. She recommended that I start with orientation courses, and I chose Job Search Strategies and Soft Skills. At that time, I wasn’t familiar with the Canadian job market or its expectations, so I knew I had a lot to learn.

Starting My Job Search Before Arrival

I began my job search one month before arriving in Canada, in January 2025. I was already enrolled in SOPA’s Job Search Strategies course and had started working closely with Andrea, who became my mentor. Together, we tailored my resume and cover letter to fit a specific job post I had found, a position for an Import and Export Coordinator.

This role was very similar to what I did back in Belarus, where I worked as a Transportation Planning Manager in the trucking industry. Of course, the Canadian version of the job came with new nuances and expectations, but the core responsibilities aligned well with my background.

A Targeted Resume, and Real Interview Prep

With Andrea’s help, we built a targeted resume that really showcased my experience. Thanks to that, I was invited to an interview for the role. It was the very first job I applied for in Canada.

Before the interview, I had a mock interview session with Andreea, which turned out to be an absolutely essential step. It had been over 10 years since my last job interview, and I felt quite nervous. Andreea covered many of the exact questions I was later asked in the real interview. She is an amazing mentor and a true professional.

After the first round, I was invited to a second interview a week later. This time, Wided stepped in to help. She prepared me for a session in French (some participants were French-speaking), which made me feel more confident and well-prepared.

Arriving in Ottawa, and Starting My New Job

Just two days after landing in Ottawa, I had my final interview on February 3. To my surprise and joy, I received the job offer the very next day. I officially started work as an Import/Export Coordinator on February 10—only ten days after arriving in Canada.

I was incredibly grateful for this opportunity and especially for the guidance I received from the SOPA team. From Tatsiana’s initial advice to Andreea’s resume work and mock interviews, to Wided’s support before the second round—every step mattered.

I was incredibly grateful for this opportunity and especially for the guidance I received from the SOPA team. From Tatsiana’s initial advice to Andreea’s resume work and mock interviews, to Wided’s support before the second round—every step mattered.

What Helped Me the Most

• Having a targeted resume and understanding what Canadian employers look for.
• Mock interviews to practice self-presentation and boost my confidence.
• Focusing on one domain—logistics and coordination—so I could align my past experience with the local job market.
• Doing research on LinkedIn and Indeed, attending job fairs, and analyzing common job requirements.

One of the biggest personal challenges I faced was self-presentation. Coming from a culture where speaking about oneself isn’t common, I wasn’t used to highlighting my achievements or strengths. The conversations with SOPA mentors helped me grow more confident—and even a little proud of what I had done in my career so far.

My Advice to Newcomers

• Appreciate the people who help you and the opportunities your new country offers.
• Don’t be afraid—be open.
• Be polite and always say thank you. In that way, Belarusians and Canadians are very much alike.
• Do your research: try to find information about the position, contact HR if possible, or look for mutual connections.
• Never give up—even if the process takes time.

I feel incredibly lucky that my journey went so smoothly, but I know this was only possible thanks to good preparation and the amazing support of the SOPA team.

Ottawa already feels like home. The nature reminds me of Belarus, and more importantly—the people are kind and welcoming.

Thank you, SOPA!

Story written by Darya  Liberava, SOPA Ontario Client

Story prepared by Wided El Fessi, Bilingual Employment Specialist with SOPA Ontario Team

Story Edits by Albina Ziatdinova, SOPA Communication and Engagement Coordinator

The post From Belarus to Canada: Starting Strong in Logistics with SOPA’s Help first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

When I first embarked on my journey to Canada, I registered with Connexions Francophone. During one of their sessions, I learned about various organizations dedicated to assisting candidates in settling in Atlantic Canada. This is especially true for those who speak English. Although English is not my primary language, New Brunswick being the only officially bilingual province in Canada caught my attention. I immediately registered with SOPA (Settlement Online Pre-Arrival).

In December 2023, shortly after registering, I met with an Intake counselor, Debra. Thank you, Debra, for your wonderful job! During our first session, she developed a detailed settlement plan for me. Debra then referred me to SOPA’s employment program with an employment counselor, Aleksandra. I was also referred to a job search strategies course with a facilitator, Cynthia. At the end of my Intake session I received a detailed action plan.

“SOPA played a crucial role in helping me secure my first job in Canada. I took advantage of the session on building a targeted resume and preparing for interviews.”

I took advantage of all the sessions I attended, and every piece of advice received from the employment counselors was very helpful. I also participated in multiple SOPA courses: Job Search Strategies (facilitated); Soft Skills Courses: Complex Conversations, Workplace Communication, Social Interactions, and Working with Others; as well as self-guided course Canadian Workplace Integration.

Upon arriving in Canada, Debra referred me to post-arrival services in Moncton (MAGMA). She also sent me invitations to all webinars organized in the area on diverse topics to ensure our transition was as smooth as possible. Fortunately, after just one month in Moncton, I landed my first job in the field of Information Technology.

SOPA played a crucial role in helping me secure my first job in Canada. I took advantage of the session on building a targeted resume and preparing for interviews. Although I was already familiar with the STAR method, the emphasis during the session helped me fine-tune my approach, making me better prepared and more confident during interviews.

I also attended job fairs, and I can proudly say that I got my first job during the first job fair I attended at “Centre Avenir” in Moncton. Additionally, I kept my LinkedIn profile up to date and to the point, which proved to be beneficial.

As a newcomer, I believe it is essential to have a winner mindset, a good strategy, be consistent, and never settle.

Article written by Stephane Douglas MEUKIEJE

prepared by Cynthia Wang, SOPA Altantic Cultural Communications and Job Search Strategies Facilitator

Watch Episode 4 of our IEDI (Intercultural Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) video series, created to support newcomers as they prepare for employment in Canada. In this episode, we explore power dynamics in Canadian workplaces and how they differ from more hierarchical systems in other countries.

The post Thriving as a Newcomer in New Brunswick’s IT Industry first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).

Rather than waiting until she arrived to begin preparing, Jennifer registered for the Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA) program. She completed Job Search Strategies, Workplace Communication, Canadian Workplace Integration, and worked one-on-one with an employment counsellor to refine her resume and better understand Canadian employer expectations.

“When you move countries, it’s so important to be mentally prepared and understand the culture you’ll be integrating into,” Jennifer shares. “SOPA gave me the tools to do just that. The mentoring, courses, and job search guidance helped me communicate more effectively, refine my resume, and prepare for the licensing journey ahead.”

“It’s really important to do your groundwork before you move. Get started on credentialing and exams early, and prepare your resume in advance. That way, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and make your transition smoother once you land,”

After arriving in BC, Jennifer focused on the credentialing process to become a Registered Physiotherapist. She passed both the written and clinical exams while staying involved in the healthcare community by volunteering as a health coach. She also used networking and social media to connect with HR professionals in various health authorities, so she’d be ready to apply once she was licensed.

Exactly one year after arriving in Canada, Jennifer achieved her dream – she became a Registered Physiotherapist in BC and now works in a role that aligns perfectly with her experience and passion.

“It’s really important to do your groundwork before you move. Get started on credentialing and exams early, and prepare your resume in advance. That way, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and make your transition smoother once you land,” she advises other newcomers.

What helped most in her job search?

• Attending SOPA workshops on resume writing, Canadian workplace culture, and communication
• Volunteering in a health-related role to stay active in the field
• Proactively networking through LinkedIn and with HR professionals
• Starting the licensing process before moving to Canada

Special Comments from Jennifer

“Anna was always so positive and supportive. She regularly checked in and genuinely cared about my progress. Her encouragement and guidance throughout the process meant a lot to me.”
— Jennifer D’souza

Feedback from the SOPA BC Team

“Jennifer was a truly outstanding client to work with. From the beginning, she was clear about her goals and remained focused, even while managing professional responsibilities back in India. She engaged fully with all aspects of the SOPA program — from resume development to cultural integration — and never hesitated to reach out, ask questions, or reflect on feedback. Her knowledge, open-mindedness, and proactive attitude made it easy to believe in her success. Now, seeing her working as a Registered Physiotherapist in BC fills me with pride. It was an honor to support her on this journey.”
— Anna Romaniuk, Employment Services Advisor, SOPA BC

Story prepared by Anna Romaniuk, Employment Services Advisor, SOPA BC

The post Jennifer’s Journey to Becoming a Registered Physiotherapist in BC first appeared on Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA).