The New to Canada Podcast

The New to Canada podcast is a place for internationals from around the world to share their honest, real-life experience of moving to Canada. The host, Kate Malcolm, went backpacking solo around South-East Asia in 2016 and met a dashing Canadian... Cue an unexpected move across the world from a crowded English city to a new lake life in rural Ontario! After living and working long-term in 5 different countries, Kate is passionate about helping you adjust to your big move abroad by sharing the lessons she's learnt along the way and introducing you to others who are going through the exact same struggles that you are facing. You are not alone. Let's build a life in Canada that you love! Learn more: TheNewcomerCollective.com Instagram: @TheNewcomerCollective

Regretting Your Move and Going Back Home | Chiara from England 07/31/2024

LIVE: Speed Immigration Stories | Toronto Newcomer Day - May 23 06/11/2024

LIVE: Moving to Canada Party | Career + Social Life 03/14/2024

Mental Health After a Move | Gabriela from Chile 12/24/2023

British Pensions Abroad | Ian from England 12/12/2023

British Pensions Abroad | Ian from England If you’ve ever worked in the United Kingdom (no matter what nationality you are), you have paid into the UK State Pension. Once you move away, say to Canada, you might think that those payments are simply lost, or like me, you’re unsure what can even be done from overseas… Good news is, I’m joined in this episode by Ian Andexser, a fellow Brit in Canada and chairman of the Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners (CABP). He’s here to shed light on how you can “buy back” missing years of contributions since moving abroad and still receive a good payout when you reach pension age - Despite no longer living in the UK! Ian also discusses the ongoing “frozen” pension issue, a problem that is costing pensioners in Canada hundreds of thousands of pounds, as well as the ways that CABP is lobbying the UK government for change. You don’t want to miss: Ian’s story of hitch-hiking across Canada as a tourist in the 1970s and then falling in love with his Canadian wife of 46 years. His life today in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island. The basics: What is a UK State Pension, who qualifies for one and how do you get one. How to “buy back” missing years that you haven’t paid into the UK pension scheme since moving to Canada. Ian’s real-life example: How he retroactively paid $3,000 to now get $10,500 per year from the British government. PLUS, the fight against non-indexation of pension payments based on a pensioner’s country of residence - and an optimistic look to the future. Links & Resources: Join the Canadian Alliance of British Pensioners & learn how you can manage your pension: Check your State Pension age: Sign the Change.org petition to support the fight against frozen pensions. Join the New to Canada Academy: Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! Follow me on Instagram: For more about us and what we do, check out our website: /episode/index/show/newtocanadapod/id/29045603

Building Wealth in Canada | Tomisin from Nigeria 11/28/2023

Building Wealth in Canada | Tomisin from Nigeria If you’re inspired by “money mindset” podcasts, this is the episode for you! There comes a time in your immigration journey when you’ll start looking to the future and thinking about how to build your wealth in Canada long-term. This episode’s guest, Tomisin Salam, is originally from Lagos, Nigeria, and moved to Canada in 2011 to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. Together, we chat about the art of taking educated risks and grabbing the endless opportunities that Canada has to offer. Tomisin talks us through his journey from selling clothes out of the trunk of his car to now being the CEO of his own FinTech company, FiatMatch - (An initiative that helps immigrants navigate the financial challenges of living in a new country) - and how you can start to build additional revenue streams too. You don’t want to miss: All about growing up in Lagos, Nigeria - The cultural, financial, entertainment capital of Africa. His journey to entrepreneurship in Canada: Starting with building a payroll accounting system in Nigeria and taking the idea to Canada in 2011. Knowing when to “change” your dreams and pivot your goals when better opportunities arise. Where to start when you have an idea for a business and the importance of connection and mentorship. The financial struggles that Tomisin sees newcomers face again and again and why “credit” offered to newcomers may not be the best thing. Untapped opportunities: How to make additional income in Canada, from investments to side hustles. PLUS, the common scams and financial fraud that you should watch out for in Canada… Links & Resources: Follow Tomisin on LinkedIn: Learn more about FiatMatch - The international money transfer marketplace: Check out the Immigrant Library: Join the New to Canada Academy: Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! Follow me on Instagram: For more about us and what we do, check out our website: /episode/index/show/newtocanadapod/id/28828608

Indigenous Peoples of Canada | Danielle & Jamie-Leigh from RAVEN Trust 10/09/2023

Indigenous Peoples of Canada | Danielle & Jamie-Leigh from RAVEN Trust As new residents and citizens of Canada, it is so important for us to learn about and become allies for its Indigenous Peoples. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples have been living in what is now Canada for thousands of years, and they each have unique histories, languages, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. We newcomers are now lucky enough to call this beautiful country our home - but we must remind ourselves that we are living on their land. In this episode, I’m joined by Danielle and Jamie-Leigh, who come to us from , a not-for-profit that raises legal defense funds to assist Indigenous Peoples. They also have a fantastic online video course called that you can take for FREE to start your learning. In this episode, we discuss the history of colonization in Canada, including the definitions of Terra Nullius, the Doctrine of Discovery, and the Indian Act. We also speak about the common misconceptions about Indigenous peoples, as well as the ongoing conflict over broken treaties. I ask Danielle and Jamie-Leigh whether Indigenous Peoples welcome immigrants and refugees to Canada, as well as what they think about the term “Canadian”. They also share some of the ways that newcomers to Canada can contribute to ongoing reconciliation efforts. __ In Canada, September 30 is The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, or “Orange Shirt Day.” The day aims to raise awareness about the Indian Residential School System, where Indigenous children across Canada were ripped from their families, abused and thousands killed. It is also an opportunity to commit to the process of truth, justice, and reconciliation. You can learn more __ Links & Resources: is a new, free online learning tool that is funny, honest, and accessible, providing a no-risk, comfortable way to understand Indigenous law, Canadian law, and their impact on the nation we call home. The series of 10 x 30-minute modules is the first public education initiative from RAVEN, an organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous rights. Join the New to Canada Academy: Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! Follow me on Instagram: For more about us and what we do, check out our website: /episode/index/show/newtocanadapod/id/28266266

Canada's Luckiest Newcomer | Hannibal from the Philippines 09/20/2023

Camping Tips | Audrey from Parks Canada 08/23/2023

Camping Tips | Audrey from Parks Canada Searching for some camping tips as you head out into Canada’s National Parks this summer? Look no further! This episode’s guest, Audrey Levesque, is a Canadian camping expert who has worked with for over 20 years. Canada’s diverse NATURE is one of the main reasons that newcomers give for moving here and Parks Canada manages and protects many of the most special places it has to offer - 171 national historic sites, 47 national parks and 5 national marine conservation areas to be exact! Join us as Audrey shares her experiences working in some of Canada’s most beautiful and interesting spots, as well as her best advice for making the most of your campsite. You don’t want to miss: Living in Nova Scotia: What to expect from the summer season. An update on the ongoing wildfires burning across Canada. What is Parks Canada, why was it created and the important work that it does. The “Graveyard of the Atlantic”: Audrey’s favourite posting after working with Parks Canada for 20+ years. Front vs Back-country camping, as well as the various “glamping” options available. How to reserve your National Park campsite and the fees to expect. The endless list of activities you can take advantage of during your visit. Leave no trace: Tips for keeping the parks clean and avoiding unwelcome wildlife visitors(!) Camping safety and etiquette. PLUS, all about the ‘Learn to Camp’ overnight program if you’d like your first camping experience to be with an expert. Links & Resources: Parks Canada website: Reserve your National Park campsite: FREE National Park admission for 1 full year with the Canoo app: Visitor Safety: ‘Learn to Camp’ Program: Camping Checklists, Recipes, Printable Games, Tutorial Videos, and more: Join the New to Canada Academy: Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! Follow me on Instagram: For more about us and what we do, check out our website: /episode/index/show/newtocanadapod/id/27833217

My Birth + Postpartum Story | Kate, Your Host 08/10/2023

Unlock Canada | Roberto from Mexico 05/14/2023

Unlock Canada | Roberto from Mexico Roberto was just 18 years old when he moved from Mexico to Canada to be an international student. 17 years later, he’s built a successful career and family life in Canada and he's here to share with us the ups and downs of his journey. Today, Roberto gives back to the newcomer community through his work at the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. They run the Citizenship ceremonies that you’ll attend when you eventually get that all-important Canadian passport; as well as their incredible (FREE!) app Canoo - which grants Permanent Residents & Citizens free or discounted access passes to many of Canada’s best attractions, parks, and experiences. You don’t want to miss: All about growing up in Durango, Mexico. Roberto’s “small” university experience: Attending the separate Glendon Campus of York University, and the benefits of gaining a Canadian education. Buying his first winter jacket and boots in Canada! A 17-year newcomer rollercoaster: Missing your family, building true friendships, and how long it really takes for Canada to feel like ‘home’. Canadian Citizenship: Do you feel any different once you have that special blue passport?! Roberto’s work at the Institute for Canadian Citizenship: What to expect at their Citizenship Ceremonies, as well as the various ways they challenge the barriers faced by immigrants and advocate for change. ‘Unlocking’ Canada with the FREE Canoo app: How Permanent Residents and new Citizens of Canada can take advantage of discounted travel, attractions, national parks, and more. PLUS, find out what happens when a brand-new Mexican immigrant tries to “hail” a Toronto public bus like a taxi… Links & Resources: Learn more about the FREE Canoo app + start exploring Canada: | | Follow the Institute for Canadian Citizenship: | | | Mexican food recommendations in Toronto: Sit-down meal: | Street food: in Kensington Market. Join the New to Canada Academy: Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! Follow me on Instagram: For more about us and what we do, check out our website: /episode/index/show/newtocanadapod/id/26831874

Pregnancy in Canada | Ashley from Scotland 04/14/2023

Self-Doubt and Resilience | Brenda from Kenya 03/29/2023

Workplace Culture in Canada | Lindsay from the USA 02/02/2023

Small vs. Big Cities in Canada | Mustafa from Pakistan 01/13/2023

Moving to Vancouver Island | Emme from England 12/07/2022

Pep Talks: What NOT to Do When Your Move Abroad | Your Host, Kate 11/22/2022

Series 3 Reunion Episode | Kate, Elizabeth, Harisha and Mike 11/04/2022

Job Search Tips | Hugo from Ireland 10/17/2022

Canadian Citizenship | Larry from Butkowsky Immigration Law 08/15/2022

Brazilian to Canadian Culture | Mike from Brazil 07/01/2022

Peace by Chocolate | Tareq from Syria 06/04/2022

Pre-Arrival + Life in Manitoba | Diane from Prairie Relocation 05/19/2022

The Power of Volunteering | Lina from Egypt 04/08/2022

Making Maple Syrup | Yvonne from CLOCA 03/26/2022

Finding Your Passion | Zara from Armenia 03/19/2022

Finding Your Passion | Zara from Armenia Please note:This interview was recorded on January 26, 2022 before the Russian invasion of Ukraine was announced to the world. This episode’s guest, Zara Bagramian, was born in Armenia but moved to Kyiv, Ukraine with her family when she was one year old. We discuss both countries at length. Zara would like to take this opportunity to share an organization with us that she has been supporting since this interview was recorded. Toronto real estate agents Natalia Popovitch and Todor Yordanov dropped everything and, using their personal money and donations from friends, headed to Bulgaria to help Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war. You can hear more about their story via as well donate to their humanitarian efforts via their or . ____ Episode summary: If you have managed to combine your passions with your career, you are truly living the dream. This doesn’t come easy for a lot of us, including this week’s guest, Zara Bagramian. Zara was born in Armenia, grew up in Ukraine, and has now lived in Toronto for the past 8.5 years. In this episode, we chat about what to do when you find yourself unfulfilled by your career, stuck on autopilot, and feeling like something is missing. She shares with us the methods she used to discover her true purpose in life and redirect her career path to bring her more happiness. We also discuss homesickness and ways to overcome it, as well as the immigrant “blip” when trying to understand new cultural references. You don’t want to miss: A Canadian wedding proposal picked up by the media: Her fiancé spelling out “MERRY ME” in the snow and quickly correcting it before she got home! All about life in Armenia and Ukraine. The kindness of Canadians. How long the ‘honeymoon’ phase typically lasts before homesickness can kick in… The immigrant “blip”: Feeling behind when not understanding cultural references. Some simple tools to help you combine your passions with your career. Ikigai: A Japanese concept for finding your sense of purpose and how you can shift your mindset to fill each area with multiple passions instead of striving for a “one fits all” career. PLUS, find out what an Armenian *really* thinks about the Kardashians… Links & Resources: Follow Zara on Instagram: Read more about Natalia & Todor’s humanitarian efforts at the Ukrainian border: | | Download my 50 free tips from newcomers to Canada: What they wish they knew before they moved! Follow me on Instagram: For more about us and what we do, check out our website: /episode/index/show/newtocanadapod/id/22501676

Sports in Canada | Jack from Wales 03/06/2022

A Child's Perspective | Emilia from Honduras 02/24/2022

Introducing: The New to Canada Podcast 02/14/2022

Loving Your Accent | Elizabeth from Colombia 02/10/2022

The New to Canada Podcast

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