Beyond the Resume is a storytelling series that reframes refugee professionals not as resettlement cases, but as global connectors and economic catalysts in Canada.

Starting Over with Purpose 

Starting over in a new country is never easy. It comes with unknowns, uncertainties, and often, a sense of being one step behind. But for Felix Sosa, the journey of rebuilding was not just about restarting; it was about discovering his capacity to grow, adapt, and thrive in ways he never imagined. 

Originally from Latin America, Felix arrived in Canada as a skilled professional with international experience. But like many immigrants and refugees, he quickly realized that starting fresh in a new country means navigating more than just a new address. It means learning new systems, new workplace cultures, and, in many cases, starting from square one. 

“Living in another country, sometimes the chances of growing can be more difficult compared to local people,” Felix reflects. “But Canada is different. This country is for immigrants. I truly believe we have a chance to grow here; both personally and professionally.”

Redefining Success in a New Land 

For Felix, growth was not just about job titles. It was about reclaiming stability and dignity through everyday milestones: owning a car, finding a home, and having the tools to build a secure future. 

“For some people, it may sound simple,” he says. “But for us, it means a lot.”

While Canada offered possibilities, finding the right opportunities required support. That is where Jumpstart Refugee Talent came in. 

Building Confidence, Step by Step 

Felix discovered Jumpstart during his early job search in Canada. Confident in his past experience, he sought help tailoring his resume and preparing for interviews in a Canadian context. 

“When I spoke with Dan, I received resume support. My resume was already good, but they gave me great suggestions; like simplifying the language and focusing more on measurable results.”

This guidance helped Felix frame his international experience for Canadian employers. He added brief explanations about the companies he worked for, the industries they operated in, and their structures. These small tweaks helped recruiters better understand his background and see him as a strong match. 

More than Practice: Mentorship that Matters 

Beyond resume reviews, Felix also participated in mock interviews, which proved to be transformative. 

“Those mock interviews really helped me. They made me feel more prepared and confident.”

After a few months, Jumpstart matched Felix with a mentor who offered daily check-ins and support. 

“When I got an interview invitation, I messaged him right away. We would go over the job posting together, discuss the company, and prepare for possible questions.”

This mentorship became a cornerstone of his success. It was not just about job preparation; it was about building self-belief. 

“It gave me confidence, not just for interviews, but in myself.”

Reclaiming Identity and Voice 

Reflecting on his journey, Felix expresses deep gratitude for the role that Jumpstart played in helping him find his footing in Canada. 

“They really helped me see my own experience from a new perspective. They did not try to change who I was; they just helped me tell my story more clearly and effectively.”

Felix’s story is a powerful reminder that refugees and newcomers bring more than just skills; they bring determination, resilience, and adaptability. What they often need is not charity, but access to opportunities. 

Looking Ahead with Hope 

Thanks to the support he received and the hard work he put in, Felix transformed his challenges into growth and his journey into success. 

“I think Canada really gives us the opportunity to grow,” Felix says. “It is not always easy, but with the right support, it is possible.”

Key Takeaways from Felix’s Journey 

• Access Matters: Refugees do not need handouts. They need tools, networks, and opportunity. 

• Small Edits. Big Impact: Tailoring a resume and explaining international experience clearly can change the game. 

• Mentorship Builds Confidence: Consistent support from a mentor can empower newcomer refugees to succeed. 

• Everyday Wins Are Powerful: Owning a car, finding a home. These milestones matter deeply in rebuilding a life. 

• Your Story Is Your Strength: When told with clarity and confidence, your lived experience becomes your greatest asset.