Immigration has been one of the key reasons for Canada’s massive growth, it was projected in 2023 that immigrants compose about 30% of Canada’s population. In 2023, Canada’s newcomer target was 465,000 new permanent residents, of which I am proudly one. In Calgary, approximately 33.3% of the population are immigrants (according to the City of Calgary’s 2021 census).
As the new year comes into effect, it is hard to not reminisce about my first year here in Canada.
My immigration experience is unique as I believe it is for all immigrants. Reasons for immigration range from work, better standard of living, to love.
My reason was love. Which I find quite special.
It wasn’t easy but I don’t think it is easy for anyone. I believe I was one of the lucky ones, I was able to find a job and a place to live relatively quickly. Also, I believe I settled in quite easily and did not experience the biggest culture shock.
I find Canada a very welcoming country to immigrants. Personally, in Calgary I have never felt judged or ostracized for my country of origin or unique South African accent. Stereotypical as it might sound, Canadians are really friendly.
I was able to build a life here without letting go of my South African roots, something which I never want to lose.
I would say the biggest adjustment was of course the weather! Experiencing a -40-degree Celsius week of winter was definitely a new experience, one that I would never have in South Africa. Also, prices and tax are quite different here. I still have to remind myself that the price on the shelf will be different to the price at the till. In my mind, I still compare the price difference between the South African Rand and the Canadian Dollar, and I am always surprised at the vast differences in prices of clothing, groceries, dining, and more. Hopefully, this will change one day, and I will adapt to the new currency of my life.
I also realized in my year here how privileged I am to live in this country. The price of petrol (South Africans call it petrol not gas) is more reasonable here. Public transit is safer and more convenient here, which might be a shock to some Calgarians I know. There is always electricity and water here unlike in South Africa, something which I will never take for granted. It is also a privilege to not have to pay for certain healthcare services that we would have to pay for in South Africa to receive proper care.
I must admit there were times when I wished I could go back to my family in South Africa. But I know if I stay here, I will be able to better provide for my family back home and the children I would like to have here in the future.
I look forward to what the future holds and will be forever grateful for what this country has given me – a safe, welcoming, and prosperous environment.
