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Refugee Resilience Tetinana, Ukraine

19 October 2023

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Celebrating the Resilience of Canada’s Refugees

Tetiana, a legal professional from Ukraine, landed her first job in Canada through a networking event in Calgary. Her initial job search disappointment turned to triumph highlighting the transformative power of connections. Tetiana shares her story here:

“My journey to Canada began a few months ago. With over 15 years of experience in the legal field back in Ukraine, I was hoping to find a job in my field here in Calgary, where I currently live with my son.

My decision to move to Canada wasn’t an easy one. After spending ten months in the UK alone while my husband remained in Ukraine and my son in Poland, Canada was the right choice to reunite with my son, despite the distance from Ukraine.

When I arrived in Calgary, I fell in love with the city’s natural beauty and the warmth of the sun. It felt like a new beginning, and I cherished every moment. However, the initial months were tough, filled with disappointment and rejection. I applied relentlessly, but the job offers remained elusive. A fellow Ukrainian told me about an organization that offers support for Ukrainians, Jumpstart Refugee Talent. They specialized in supporting newcomers like me to refine their resumes and connect with job opportunities.

Two days after applying to their employment support programs, I received an invitation to a networking event in Calgary. At first, I hesitated. The event’s aim, bridging refugees, didn’t seem directly related to my legal background. The idea of networking was new and somewhat intimidating to me. But a voice within urged me to take the chance.

When I stepped onto the event, I was impressed. I met amazing people, and had the chance to share my story, and, to my surprise, one of those encounters changed my life. Her name was Jenny, a lawyer based in Calgary. As we talked about my experiences and job search, she offered to spread the word within her network about my search for a legal assistant position.

The very next day, I received four different emails from lawyers looking for a legal assistant. After months of rejections, I now had job interviews lined up. It was surreal. Within a week of the networking event, I received a job offer. This marked a new chapter in my life, and I eagerly embraced it. I connected with my new colleagues, ready to delve into Canada’s legal system.

My next steps involve settling in Canada, getting my permanent residency, and bringing my husband here so we can start a new, beautiful, and happy life together.

This experience taught me the incredible power of networking. I’ve volunteered at Immigrant Services Calgary, mainly assisting fellow Ukrainians as a translator. I tell everyone I meet about the transformational potential of networking. It can truly change your life.

In my volunteer work, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of connecting with others. Many newcomers, like me, are nervous about networking, perhaps due to language barriers. However, I now know that networking is a vital tool for finding a job and building a new life in Canada. I’ve become an ambassador for networking, encouraging all Ukrainians and newcomers to attend events, make connections, and chase their dreams, just as I did.”

Learn more about our Welcome Talent Canada Program, where we match mentors and mentees for valuable learning exchanges that facilitate networking, growth, and career pathing for refugees to Canada. 

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