The other day, I came across a post on Instagram that ignited a light bulb within me. I can’t help but share my thoughts about this.

According to the 2021 Canadian census, immigrants in Canada number 8.3 million persons and make up approximately 23 percent of Canada's total population (Wikipedia). Even those born in Canada usually have immigrant parents. This means almost everyone is an immigrant.

When I was new to the country, trying to fit in wasn’t very safe. Many times, I felt I was at fault for how I was seeing life and perceiving my experiences unknown I was seeing things clearly, just that I couldn’t understand the “Why” something happened the way it did.

I would ask myself while networking and meeting people at events and social gatherings;

• Would they like me?

• Am I communicating effectively?

• Am I giving a weak outlook?

In social settings, I couldn’t comprehend conversations, jokes, etc. This made me feel disconnected, and I felt highly sick in my stomach when I had to be among some folks unless they were familiar with me and cared to know me.

I noticed how passive-aggressive some people could be and disregard my cultural lens. This taught me how to brace myself for the impact each time I am out there in the open.

5 years into my relocation, I can see clearly now, and I need to gift you a crystal clear lens to see yourself as a new immigrant.

You are a precious gem

You might not see yourself as such because they told you that you can’t speak good English, looked down on, or treated like a piece of trash, especially with the phrase, “Oh, sorry, you have no Canadian experience.” The list goes on and on.

Not to mention, many immigrants paid alot of money to migrate to Canada. Migration can be costly for many people (depending on the route they use in coming over). Even crossing the border comes with extreme expense, incredibly emotional expense.

Either way, now that you are here, a mental tug-of-war is taking place as to who you see yourself as.

One rule I go by, if I weren’t needed here, the government wouldn’t approve my application.

Like crude oil, you are a precious gem; you have potential, but that potential will never be utilized or actualized if you don't get purified, distilled, treated, tested etc..

You are resilient

I never knew how strong I was until I went through my immigration case before getting my permanent residency. I died and got restored. Sometimes, people see my blog posts or videos and don't know I am just hanging on a thread.

It wasn't until I went through some difficult situations that I realized that while I was in Nigeria, where I thought I suffered, my suffering was learning.

I know you might be in s a similar situation, wondering when will yours get sorted out or if it gets sorted out. As much as we hope for the best, sometimes, your case might lead you to unimaginable outcomes. (Better results for your future)

You should know there is always a way; you might not know what that way is right now, so save your energy for what is essential.

What is important? Your happiness, joy, bills, family, making connections. Sometimes, new immigrant men pay little attention to these things when they are going through certain situations. They would instead move in isolation, thinking they can resolve the problem alone.

I understand that the nature of some people in the country is cold, but some genuinely care and are excited to help. All you need is to reach out, make yourself known, and they will find you.

You need to be purified

I understand that you have alot of experience in life, but still, there is room for more. There is room for growth, advancement and enhancement of your potential.

Your character and behaviour must be purified so you can show up in the best way possible.

Purification can be done by getting skin deep into the culture, increasing your curiosity, learning the history of the country you are in, understanding the politics, and establishing social connections.

Growth mindset should be your best friend

The gems inside of you

• You are likely to speak multiple languages: This, my brother, is an undeniable asset. If you can speak a foreign language, the better. It would be best if you acknowledge you are bringing value to employers, your community, your friends and your family. 

• You can see situations from different perspectives: This is a unique strength. Due to your experience of life outside of Canada, there are specific issues you get to see beyond the surface. Your perception of life can be broad and unique, so you can solve problems with your eyes closed. 

• Better influence on those in your home country: Now that you can see things that those back home can’t see, this makes you an asset. You can plug into specific projects or influence certain people’s mindsets with the experiences that you’ve gotten. 

You are invited

It's a fact that tackling challenges alone can be tough. That's why I've organized this event for new immigrant men to come together, support one another, set ambitious goals, and tap into our inherent strengths.

This network is not replicating what great non-profits are doing but complementing their fantastic services.

I aim to support and empower new immigrant men, helping them gain the confidence to create the best life possible in their new home.