By Adedamola Popoola
When I first arrived in Calgary, Alberta, I was filled with both excitement and uncertainty. With over 12 years of experience as a Project Management Professional (PMP), managing multimillion-dollar projects across several industries I was confident in my skills and experience, but I knew that adapting to a new country and its job market would come with its own set of challenges.
The first few weeks were overwhelming. Navigating a new city, understanding workplace culture, and positioning myself in a competitive job market felt daunting. I knew I needed guidance, and that’s when I discovered CCIS (Calgary Catholic Immigration Society).
Walking into CCIS felt like a turning point. My Employment Counsellor was incredibly supportive, offering practical advice on resume writing, interview preparation, and even sharing tips on how to tailor my applications for Canadian employers. But what truly stood out was the sense of community and the wealth of resources available to newcomers like me.
I enrolled in the program “Calgary – A New Chapter” A 3-Day orientation session that provided me with essential information about Calgary, including education, finances, volunteering and community services.
Another pivotal moment was enrolling for the Employment Communication Workshop (ECW), a 4-week program that equipped me with tools to navigate the Canadian workplace. I gained insights into workplace expectations, professional etiquette, and cultural nuances, which were both eye-opening and empowering.
Through the Mentorship for Integration Program, I was paired with a mentor—an experienced professional who had walked the same path. He didn’t just share insights about the Canadian job market; he gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward. His guidance reminded me that resilience and the right support can make all the difference.
One of the highlights of my journey was also attending the Networking for Success Event at the Calgary Petroleum Club where I met industry leaders and professionals who were eager to share their knowledge and expertise.
Looking back, I can confidently say that my experience with CCIS was transformative. The programs and support I received played a huge role in helping me adapt to my new environment, build a strong professional network, and prepare for success in my career.
If you’re a newcomer looking for employment and settlement support, I encourage you to reach out to CCIS. Call (403) 262-2006 to learn more about their programs and how they can help you achieve your dreams.
Here’s to new beginnings and endless possibilities!
Are you a newcomer, struggling with finding a job or writing your resume, our team of counsellors are here to help. Learn more about our employment services, by visiting the link: https://ccisab.ca/employment-and-career-counselling/
