10 years ago, today, I arrived in Canada from Nigeria, & life hasn’t been the same since then.

To those planning on travelling abroad this year or in the near future, come closer because things aren’t what they used to be.

Before I begin, it is important to clarify that:

– Not everyone will travel abroad.

– Not everyone can travel to Canada, UK, US, etc.

And this is in no way persuading anyone to. But if you have to, please plan adequately. Research properly. Times have really changed.

See, when I was preparing to travel back then, there was no social media group to join. There weren’t WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook groups. No Nigerian YouTube video to watch for orientation.

The only orientation I got was from the man who helped with my admission back then. A family friend also gave me a short orientation. But he only spoke of how intense the cold can be. You had to navigate your way. Learn from the few you meet and also source for information yourself. It’s been a journey really, and I am grateful for all I have learnt all along.

Here are some key lessons from someone who has attended three different schools in Canada (studied Human Resources Management and Immigration & Citizenship Law) and is currently studying Masters in Public Policy, Administration, and Law at York University. Including:

– worked his way up in Corporate Canada as the Head of a Unit and Tech Manager in a fortune 100 company

– run a start-up that has been in the fore front of immigration technology in Canada

– start-up accepted into Google Accelerator as part of North America cohort

– received VC funding and other grants for the start-up

– assisted hundreds of other aspiring international students find their path and provided resources needed to actualize their dreams

Here are 10 key lessons I have learnt over the years abroad:

1. Understand the Canadian Workplace Culture (or that of any country you are moving to)

Learning the nuances of the work etiquette in corporate Canada will contribute to your professional success. One thing I learnt quickly is that the power gap here is relatively low. This, of course, can be because of the typical way of life.

At my first professional job, the Director I reported to called me to her office one day to lecture me on power gaps. In her words, “I know I am the boss, but you make it very visible; there shouldn’t be any power gap between us. Only my title makes me different, as you have as much input to the team as I do.”

That moment I felt like a child who had been ‘power gap molested’ and had to immediately find a way to cure my bruises. From that time, I approached every role like I deserved to be there and polished my leadership skills.

Walk the talk. Show up. Speak up. Collaborate more. When you do this in corporate Canada, you’d thank yourself.

People always said my growth in Corporate Canada was so quick. I can tell you, it’s simply because I didn’t cower anymore after that simple advice from my first Director.

2. Financial Literacy is a must

Managing your personal finances is important. Your finances and credit score can influence the house you buy, the car you drive, and the financial access that you have.

Let me simply put, understand the Canadian financial system as early as possible.

3. Healthcare Awareness is quite important

There’s been debate on whether the healthcare system here is good or not, but my advice would be to really understand your health needs. Start from there. Also, it is important to know how to navigate the system to be able to get early access to needed healthcare services.

For many international students, they aren’t even aware they have access to medical insurance via their schools. Please look it up and check with your international office so you don’t pay out of pocket.

4. Weather Adaptation

Canada is a cold country. Know this and know peace. Winter will always be winter. The amount of snowfall might defer, but the cold will always be the same. I almost lost two fingers in my first month of arriving because I went grocery shopping without taking my gloves.

Always equip yourself for the weather. It’s as simple as that. Over time (although no one loves the cold), you get used to it.

5. The Hidden Job Market

Canada, like many other countries, has a hidden job market. You crack this hidden job market through:

– speaking up

– meeting new people in your field

– networking

– joining professional networks

– joining job search groups

– working with recruiters

6. Transportation

If you don’t drive, then it’s a different ball game entirely. Also, depending on where you live, you might need to carefully time the buses or trains needed for transportation.

Travelling by air within Canada is quite on the high side. In some cases, it’s even cheaper to fly outside than within the country.

7. Visa, Work Permit and PR Requirements

One thing to never forget is the expiration date of your status.

8. Cost of Living

Depending on the city, the cost of living can be really high. I have done a number of threads on different cities and what you should expect in terms of cost of living.

It is quite important to plan and prepare to avoid or minimize surprises.

9. The Bilingual Advantage

There are some jobs you can only get if you are only bilingual. Canada is both English and French. If you put an effort in learning French, it’d come in handy in Corporate and Government Canada.

10. Investing in your Education

You don’t have to be educated in Canada to get jobs (like if you arrived educated as a Permanent Resident), but having a Canadian education on your resume could go a long way. Even if it’s a short course at a University or College, try adding it to your resume to increase your chances.

P.S: I clocked 10 years on the 3rd of January, 2025.

For those considering work and migrating, you reach out to me via the link in my bio to find out the best options. All the best!

Author: Tunde Omotoye

Twitter: @TundeTash

Instagram: @TundeTash