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Life Before and After: The Story of Nadiia Borysova

olgastrasburger

Fifteen years ago, when Nadiia Borysova first visited Canada, she couldn’t have imagined that one day she would call this country her home. Back in 2009, it was just a visit to her friend. Inspired by the culture, nature, and people, Nadiia realized that she could see herself living there. However, upon returning to Ukraine, she focused on building her career and didn’t dream of emigrating.


Over the years, Nadiia achieved significant professional success in Ukraine. She became an HR specialist in a large corporation, gaining valuable experience in people management, data analytics, and leadership. But life is unpredictable: the war forced the Borysova family to leave their homeland in search of safety. Their journey to a new home was long and challenging.


A New Beginning in Canada


The decision to move to Canada was difficult but inevitable. The family applied for the CUAET visa and waited eight months for its approval. During this time, they developed a clear action plan: they researched the job market, educational opportunities, and living conditions in different provinces. This helped them avoid unrealistic expectations about life as immigrants.


Nadiia’s husband started looking for a job even before they moved. Through persistence, numerous resumes, and direct outreach to employers, he secured his first interview and later landed a job. This was a critical step in the family’s adaptation to life in Canada.


Nadiia, too, wasted no time. She actively engaged in volunteer work through Grassroots Response (https://wrgrassrootsresponse.ca). Her first interaction with the organization came through their Christmas initiative for Ukrainian children. Touched by the support, Nadiia decided to join the team of volunteers. Today, she serves as an HR volunteer, helping newly arrived Ukrainians navigate the local job market. Her expertise in human resources has become an invaluable resource for those taking their first steps in a new country, even though she is still in the process of finding stable employment.


Advice from Nadiya for Newcomers


Based on her experience, Nadiia shares a few key tips for successful adaptation in Canada:

  • Expand Your Network: Building connections through events, LinkedIn, and volunteering can open doors.

  • Focus on Learning: Improving your English or French and gaining local certifications can increase your chances of employment.

  • Be Flexible: Don’t be afraid to start from a lower position to gain Canadian work experience.

  • Create an Action Plan: Define your short- and long-term goals and outline the steps to achieve them. A clear plan will help you avoid chaos and disappointment.

  • Believe in Yourself: Immigration is a challenge, but your perseverance and desire to grow will inevitably yield results.

Despite her ongoing job search, Nadiia remains optimistic and proactive, knowing that each step brings her closer to success.


A New Life with Confidence in the Future


Today, Nadiia continues to help others, build a new life for her family, and inspire those who are just starting their journey in Canada. Her story is a testament to the fact that even in the most challenging circumstances, one can find the strength and motivation for a fresh start.

"Your successful adaptation depends on your willingness to learn, take action, and persevere. Canada offers countless opportunities for those who are ready to work on themselves and build their future," says Nadiia, sharing her experience and insights.


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