When did you move to Canada? & why did you move to Canada? How was your life like in your country of origin before you moved to Canada?
I moved to Canada 15 years ago, and come to think of it, that’s a really long time! It was in April of 2003. I accompanied my father on his diplomatic posting to serve at the Nigerian High Commission in Ottawa, Ontario. Prior to moving to Canada, I was a carefree teenager living what I would consider a life full of blessings surrounded by family and friends in Nigeria’s capital city – Abuja.
What was your first impression when you arrived in Canada?
We arrived at Pearson International Airport in Toronto and I remember being overjoyed. Even more so when we arrived in Ottawa and it was snowing. I’ve watched movies but this was my first actual experience with snow, I was ecstatic, I was at peace, I was home.
What were some of the challenges you faced when you moved here?
I honestly did not find moving here, as challenging as others might have and I believe moving with my family played a part in that. I do however remember having to adjust to the ways and customs of Canada.
Was there any support from the community to help you integrate? If yes, what were they? If not, how did you survive?
I was fortunate to move with my parents to a city that had a strong Nigerian population. Other diplomats that came before us were quick to help out in any way they could. My family became part of a Nigerian church and was adopted into the community, which made navigating the city a piece of cake.
What do you miss most from your country of origin?
It is hard to simply say there is one thing I miss the most. To list a few: my family, my friends, my home church, my hometown, the culture, the food, the jovial spirit, and the carefree lifestyle. These are all things I miss.
Since coming to Canada, have you visited your country of origin? What was your first impression of going back? How did it feel?
I have been back to Nigeria a few times in the 15 years I’ve been here. My first visit back home was 6 years after I arrived in Canada; it was bittersweet. Bitter because in the time I was gone I missed a lot of milestones both the good and the bad. Sweet because I would get to see my family again, and my sister was getting married, which made it one of the greatest reunions. I left Nigeria a boy and returned a man, one thing I learnt is distance makes you appreciate the things you once took for granted.
What was your occupation in your country of origin and what is your occupation here in Canada? What have you accomplished so far and aim to in the future?
I was a student in Nigeria and at the time I was convinced I wanted to be an architect because I loved visual arts. Fast forward a few years and I am currently a Commercial Banker at BMO – Bank of Montreal. I graduated from Brandon University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, and have worked in the banking industry for 7 years now. I strongly believe in giving back to the community and as such have been actively volunteering with organizations like Brandon University’s Students’ Union, SIFE, the United Way and Rotary International. In the future, I plan to continue giving back and to go into business as I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit.
How has your life changed since moving here?
I consider myself very lucky! Since moving here I have had the opportunity to grow, learn to be responsible and independent, and work hard for what I want. I was 17 when my family moved back to Nigeria. And having to fend for yourself at that age, is not an easy task but, what is life without a little challenge?
What advice would you give to newcomers in Canada?
You are about to embark on the most exciting journey of your life. Canada is what you make of it. Embrace your new home and all the good in it. You can be a success, a failure, a person that improves the community around them or someone who makes no difference at all! Choose to make a difference, choose to make an impact. Whatever you decide on, remember, you are not alone! If others can do it, so can you. It will not be easy and it will not always work in your favour. But it will be well worth it!
What advice would you give to people back in your country?
Be resourceful! For years we have relied on our government to make the change we want. But we have to take things into our own hands and be the change we want to see.