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Been in Canada for approximately 25 years. I can say that the effect that Canada has on a legal immigrant is neither here nor there. If you can make lemonade out of any lemon you’re dealt, you will thrive in Canada (and anywhere else where your efforts are not overwhelmingly quashed by corruption, blatant racism or other forms of segregation). \n \nLynn, I was a lecturer in Kenya, went back to school here in Canada after wallowing in culture shock the first year, then circled back to teaching in college again after an arduous journey in school, but this time in a different field. \n \nAfter becoming a single mother of four kids, I had to also hustle on the side to build a small business empire along my life’s ladder. Partnership with God, goal clarity, the get-up-and-go, and relentlessness truly work. It isn’t the size of the dog but the fight in the dog that does it, regardless of where you live. \n \nThe starting point for a new immigrant can be very low due to the weather, unpreparedness and culture shock, but if you know that the only way is up, and are self-motivated, those challenges are soon behind you as the tests become testimonies. \n \nBy comparison people have more human rights here regardless of their status. The wheels of justice grind slow but they do grind fine. Women and children have equal rights with men. Politicians are mostly there to serve not necessarily to exploit. \n \nOpportunities for self-development galore - including being trained to become employable and going to school at any age (sometimes for free while you are still at the bottom of the ladder). There are food banks so you never go hungry if it came to that. The disabled are better treated with dignity. \n \nThere are prolonged parental leaves for both moms and dads for up to 18 months. Commensurate with earnings, parents under certain thresholds are given Canada child tax benefits and other supplements for each child under 18 years of age. \n \nDepending on the number of kids and their ages, the money can add up handsomely. Not to mention that there’s no tuition to pay for primary and high school students. Tuition fees start at post-secondary level. \n \nTo see a doctor is free as it is paid for by taxes. It the meds that you and/or your insurance pays for. Some medical equipments may be paid for by either or both the individual/insurance and the government depending on eligibility. \n \nBy and large, there’s cleanliness of common spaces. There’s also safety and relative peace. At least wherever I have lived, I can’t tell you how many times I forgot to lock my door with impunity. \n \nThere’s a lot more stressful work here in my opinion, but like you said Lynn, systems work a lot more efficiently and effectively. \n \nThe elephant in the room is the extra hard work that those living abroad must put in to fulfil expectations back home. Also known as black tax, the overwhelming financial dependency of relatives on their diasporan loved ones places undue stress on many here, especially because there are no short cuts to getting money here. \n \nAnyway, Lynn, thanks for such a great topical issue you’ve shared. I have to stop here as I have written a lot. Hope this helps someone on this forum. \n \nAnd last but not least, you’ll be proud to hear that even though Canada has been good to me, my face may now be turning towards home to see how I can be of use to mama Africa. Super excited!

My humble request to all those Indians who are unhappy in Canada, may please leave Canada immediately and return back to India. The fact is this that when you are kicked and rejected in India then you think of shifting to another country. Canada is one of the best country in the world for those who are not scared of working hard. One who works hard progresses fast. This respected lady is used to servants and domestic helps, that one cannot get here. I am here for just 7 years and I am a senior citizen but me & my wife got very good jobs and enjoying life. No one asks about your religion, what you eat what you drink. So all those who like lazy life please stay back in India. Yes if you want to get a good job you have to upgrade your education. Girls alone are safe even at 2am in buses.

100% correct assessment. I am here for last 25 years, came with family leaving a good job at early forty. It is tough for 1st generation of immigrant but good for the next generation. There is opportunity of growth and success if become a canadian professional and hard/smart work habit. My children are wel settled now. So, if you are well off in india and not ready for facing tough life initial years, then pl.dont venture ,as to have better life in canada you need canadian education and the cdn. experience. Good luck.

Do you know not only PUNJABIS live here? There are so many gujus, south indians and others why u guys target Punjabis all the time?

In my opinion if you move to Canada without taking the proper steps and expect everything to work out for you then you are very naive and cannot complain. First off a lot of Kenyans are applying for visitor visas instead of work visas which are harder to get and thinking once they are in Canada they can look for work. You are not allowed to work on a visitor visa and most employers will not even consider your applications if you do not have either a work permit, refugee status, or permanent residency/ citizenship. Work experience is also very important here and many employers will not consider someone even with canadian education that has no experience. Another thing is Canadian benefits such as subsidized health care etc is only available to people that are on long term work permits with no conditions, refugees, and permanent residency holders and government housing is only open to refugees and permanent residency holders/ citizens. So in short if you move there without a plan, the correct papers, and the willingness to work even lower income jobs until you get Canadian work experience and expect the government to help you just because you landed then you are sorely mistaken and will very easily end up on the streets. Another thing is just because you are granted refugee status does not guarantee you a home as we have seen, the government housing waitlist is very long and even Canadian citizens that cannot afford their rent end up on the streets because there are too many people applying for housing. So please do not think just because you were allowed to stay as a refugee life will be sweet. \nHowever if you do your research and take the right steps so you are fully prepared, put in the time and effort even though things may not be happening immediately then you can have a success story.

How do we know before they step foot in the US if they are convicted murderers or people that have a history of trafficking people? Can anybody interview these people and get a feel for why they are fine with sleeping on the streets and if they know if a lot of the people coming here are dangerous? I've seen 4 interviews all by citizens and they all said they have considered going back home because there are so many cartel people being planted all around the United States. I understand some of these people want a better life and that's fine..just please allow yourself to be background checked enough to make sure you aren't a danger to any of the citizens of this country

If people could just be watching news not just CNN or aljazeera but different global news network as a Kenyan especially on what's going on globally economically wise, disaster wise, pandemic wise meaning COVID-19 wasn't the last one there's another pandemic coming worse than COVID-19 so before you think of relocation think twice or you end up homeless in a foreign country after another lockdown,wars wise, climate change, then you'll not even think of leaving out of Kenya. I once watched a certain documentary last year that's it was about global inflation by few global economy analysts and they said that this global inflation that we are witnessing will go on for over 20 years. So that was their analysis but as you watch the news on what's happening in the world then people should just embrace inflation koz it's here to stay. People should just stop traveling through quack agents but do proper research and travel the safest way.

Bro , I am an African and I am pro immigration but I am also a conservative and I can not wait to kick out this autocratic Government . The best governed Provinces are led by conservatives . \nYou mentioned Alberta. Alberta is the only province where mortgages are still within 1990s rates. \n\nOntario is Run by Chinese. And they don't like black people so do not blame conservatives. \n\nAlberta is the most attractive province for immigration. \nSaskatchewan too life is still easy here. \nThe housing mess was caused by liberals' poor maths. \n\nThe most group of people who get affected by mass immigration is black people. Because Europeans and Arabs are educated more than us then we are left to work for them and scramble for the left over.\n\nGhost agents are not a problem and I don't think It's wise to talk about what they do with what they charge. \n\nPeople who get assistance from these ghosts agents are people who would not get a visa at all. \n\nI have crossed African borders with or without a passport and I have seen how tough it is for even an African in Africa. \nIf people are drowning trying to cross to Europe then what is it being charged few thousands (thousands they can afford) to get them here safely? \n\nCome on bro. If you want to make money from this stop tarnishing other people's names. \n\nAlso all this nonsense will stop soon when we conservatives take over!!

I have been in Canada for more than 20 years. The cost of living is very high. Housing in Toronto is very expensive, it is better in small towns.\n\nThe most important thing is to come here as a skilled worker. The Canadian immigration website has all the information. \n\nLife overall in Canada is not bad. The government really takes care of the people. Schools are free, and so is health care. The unemployment rate is very low. If you want to work, you will get a job.\n\nMy advice especially for those who are doing fairly well in their countries to stay. I think it is more suitable for young skilled people and those with young children. \n\nWe should also start paying taxes in our countries to develop infrastructure and start holding our governments accountable.\n\nThe young lady in the video is a bid overdramatic. She is earning more than the average worker. She should be managing fine except if she lives in expensive cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

THE BIRD FEEDER ANALOGY \n \nI bought a bird feeder. I hung it on my back porch and filled it with birdseed. What a beauty of a bird feeder it was, as I filled it lovingly with seed. Within a week we had hundreds of birds taking advantage of the continuous flow of free and easily accessible food. \n \nBut then the birds started building nests in the boards of the patio, above the table, and next to the barbecue. Then came the poop! It was everywhere, on the patio tile, the chairs, the table…everywhere! \n \nThen some of the birds turned mean. They would dive-bomb me and try to peck me even though I had fed them out of my own pocket. The other birds were boisterous and loud. They sat on the feeder and squawked and screamed at all hours of the day and night and demanded that I fill it when it got low on food. \n \nAfter a while, I could not even sit on my own back porch anymore. So I took down the bird feeder and in three days the birds were gone. I cleaned up their mess and took down the many nests they had built all over the patio. \n \nSoon, the backyard was back to like it used to be…quiet, serene, and no one demanding their rights to a free meal. \n \nNow let us see here… \n \nOur government gives out free food, subsidized housing, free medical care, and free education and allows anyone born here to be an automatic citizen. \n \nThen the illegals came by the tens and hundreds of thousands, millions. Suddenly our taxes went up to pay for free services; apartments are housing 5 families; you have to wait 6 hours to be seen by an emergency room doctor; your child’s 2nd grade class is behind other schools because half the class doesn’t speak English. Illegals squawking and screaming in the streets, demanding more rights and free liberties. When asked why they breed like cockroaches, the reply is that it is a cultural thing. \n \nIt's long overdue for the US government to take down the bird feeder. Otherwise, we will continue cleaning up the poop!

As the child of immigrants, i think this is a perspective a lot of Canadians are facing. I could never bring myself to leave, most people my age are the same. All your friends are here, the neighbourhood you grew up in is here and you're simply not cut out to go to where your parents originally came from (half of us come from parents/grand parents who immigrated) because the climate is probably 1000x different lol (I just know I couldnt survive South Asian/Middle eastern weather).\n\nI just turned 18 though so I haven't experienced the insane rent and stuff (as it's literally impossible for me to move out). Things will be better I know it, but the question is how long will that take? Id personally give it 5 or 6 years. We need to put a cap on immigration and just completely cut off the GTA from receiving any for a set amount of time (think 2 or 3 years?). We also need to amplify our construction industry (incentives/rezone some areas for development) and the government should start subsidizing urban development projects with an agreement that prices will be lowered, or offer money to people who are purchasing condos/houses (think iZev but for urban housing and not electric vehicles). \n\nAlso stop taxing us and simply start slowing down/cutting non-essential social services; a specific government program should be created that closes all of these at once for a set amount of time (think 2 or 3 years as well) and they'll be able to redirect the money to more important causes.

For me Personally, I love Toronto. I know people are complaining that Toronto had changed and Toronto has declined. Anyway, I've been living here for 35 years and i know we faced some challenges in everything. Living in Toronto, You need to work hard at the same time be happy as well. I've been to 12 different countries and still believe that Toronto is one of the most beautiful City in the world. We need to be smart, happy and not being lazy and complain a lot. So in Essence Toronto is a beautiful city. It's the people who painted Toronto to be ugly in everything.

Thanks Lynn for bringing this up. I am a Kenyan living in Canada. You highlighted the most important thing- due diligence. There are a lot of people that come here with a promise of a better life and the notion is that it’s instant. I want to confirm to you that it’s better life, but it’s not instant. You have to put in the work and prove your worth. You have to gain Canadian experience to get a decent job. Also be ready to go back to school and upgrade your skills. There are jobs here zinaitwa Trades. These are the jobs that we don’t value at home but pay amazingly well here. Construction, Electricians, Plumbers, Mechanics, Carpentry, Welding, Hairdressers, Tailors.. Those are very valued skills here- if you can invest in learning these trades but pia ukikuja hapa you have to convert your certs to Canadian ones by doing an exam or going back to school . If you are into office jobs, make sure you have market relevant skills that align to this country. Be ready to embrace the digital revolution and mpende hesabu. Accounting is very much valued here. The secret is be ready to start from the bottom, be ready to upgrade yourself, be ready to work like you’ve never worked before… You will make it eventually .. Mungu mbele! \nI am confirming that we are going through a recession here and as per the market trends, it’s only going to get worser until we get to a point of stabilization. The housing market is crazy, food costs and gas (fuel)costs are off the roof .. it’s not easy. So if you have a good job in Kenya, hold onto it for now until things get better ( due diligence /research) .. Make sure you have the right visa that allows you to work here. That visitors visa theory is not working anymore. \nOverall Canada is a good country with lots of opportunities but it’s not for the faint hearted. \nLastly, be prepared for the harsh winters and days of severe loneliness- Si lakini ni life? Kila nchi ina challenges zake. God bless!

Hi. We too did the same mistake moving to Europe as a family where we do not have anyone. It's so lonely here. We moved from Middle East thinking we will have a better life, and for my child education in t college but just like you I am feeling so lonely, restless crying day n night...I wish we could go back...Middle East countries are much better.

It’s already happening???. I laugh but it’s not funny. Sometimes Kenyans are so ignorant na Jimmy akisema the truth is hidden in writing wa nasema ni madhash. Not surprised. I gave my reviews in another video of an agent claiming to take Kenyans to Canada with visitors visa, then wakifika Canada they have lawyers to…. Nilimalizia hapo coz that’s was a just con. In my reviews as I repeat here, let people go to the immigration websites of this countries and cross check or even check if you qualify. Canada, Australia not sure of others follow a point based system for their immigration. Now, good people, mjuange, English test it’s also a must including UK, especially if you’re going as a student or worker. This places hakuna rocket science their website it’s clear even with guideline of when you can expect your visa. Na wakichelewa mtu wangu call that embassy ulize nianje manze, si 5 months ziliisha??‍♀️ In Kenya mine was late, called Embassy on Wednesday, additional information was provided on Friday, Tuesday I had my visa. In fact those people stranded should sue their agent ASAP! And yes skills and experience if you don’t have that, it’s common sense unaenda ku do? Thanks Lynn for this topic??????

Its not bad publicity. Here in the UK things have really changed in the last 2yrs. You work work and you still living hand to mouth. ThanksLynn for this discussions. We have so many people who have come with the COS for Carer giving jobs but when they get here they are left on their own because the agencies that brought them here dont have the jobs they are meant to offer so people are stranded without jobs.

Japan is a beautiful country and there is something for you or family to do every season, the question is how many can afford it?\nThe cost of living here in Japan is so high and it’s worse with inflation.\nMost foreigners here are here to teach English, they cannot survive with one job. Some recruiters are so strict, they don’t want their workers to look part time jobs.\nAs you said earlier on, no one tell you that the rent is expensive and the food. \nYou have to look 2 more jobs to survive.\nA lot of foreigners here save their money to go to study in Canada, some of them without supporting relatives are doing ‘hand to mouth’.\nSome of them are back home getting better jobs and climbing ladders of success.

1. Canada's immigration is primarily skilled labour. Non- skilled labour is imported mostly from the Carribean countries especially Jamaica and you have to leave every year and come back in the next. So, that can be disruptive, but I've met Jamaican's who've been on those programs and done well as well as those who haven't.\n2. If you come to Canada illegally utakipata. Be prepared to hustle for long.\n3. Since Covid everything has become very expensive especially housing. \n4. The videos you've shown of people sleeping outside is because of an increase in the influx of refugees wanting to come to Canada. Refugee shelters are allocated money in the budget for what the Govt estimates will be the number of refugees they'll take in, but there's been an influx lately.\n- A point to note though, ALL refugees Canada received from Ukraine had jobs within 2 months. Why? very skilled labour.\n- Canada's refugee policy is much more lenient than in the US and thus most refugees have been coming to Canada even from the US. The US ones have since been blocked by an agreement signed by both countries.\n5. Are there jobs in Canada? YES, but they require certain skills. The good thing is that once you get one, its the beggining of good fortunes.\n6. If you have skilled qualifications, be prepared to start at a lower level than you are used to and claw your way up. Just don't expect to start where you left off. A Nigerian friend of mine who had performed several surgeries in Nigeria could not be hired until he went back to get certified here in Canada. He has since joined the medical field after going back to school.\n\nAll in all, research, research, research before you make any move.

People are coming here in Canada blindly and with a lot of expectations. Do your research as Lynn said before you come. Additionally, come with an open mind. Things are tough everywhere. \n I came in Canada 14 yrs ago and can’t regret. There are so many opportunities especially for young people compared to kenya. You must work hard and stay focused for you to be successful.

Life has become very expensive worldwide. Whether in Kenya or in Canada, the cost of living hits you hard. I have lived in the US for the last more than twenty years. When I first came here $50 would be enough to buy food for a whole month. Today $50 cannot buy you food for even a week. A gallon of petrol today is over $5. The same thing is happening in Kenya, I believe. There are a number of problems when you land in Canada as a visitor. One: To covert a visitor's visor to a work permit is a process. Two; where do you want to land in Canada? If you land in Toronto, Ontario, you get stranded because everybody is landing there. People dont want to go to the north. All those pictures you are seeing are in Toronto. Because of the influx of people arriving there, the government has spent the budget for visitors and refugees. Three; the choice of jobs. When somebody promises you a job in Canada and helps to get a visitor's visa, think twice before you leave home. If somebody promises you a job in Canada, let him help you to get a work permit before you leave home. That way you are surered of a job. There are so many things to consider before you leave home.

Hi Lynn, l live in Banbury, Oxfordshire. There is nothing in the west, Africans are better off in Africa. Life in England is like attending a top school where you have to work so hard to keep up. Theoretically in the west, the first 40% to 50% of your wages goes in taxes. This leaves you with half your income. Your half income will then cover your rent/mortgage and all other bills. Once you have paid eve body, your basically left with nothing. Our lifes are in forever debt spinning wheel. I am a Ugandan, lived in the UK for 33yrs. This is home and is l know. But l am sure many places are better than here. What is guaranteed is food and health. Food is very cheap in relation to people's income. Health services are free, kids education are free too. These are the things you can't guarantee in Africa. Could be the main reason many foreigners choose to settle in the UK. Thank you.

I have lived in Canada since 2000. My dream is to go back to Kenya and live there. We lived in Toronto for ten years and it wasn't easy for our parents to make ends meet. I moved to Alberta in 2011 and I am so happy that I moved here when I did. We live well. My husband and I are into trades and we thank God for taking good care of our family. It is getting harder here since Trudeau became the prime minister. Food, gas, clothes. housing everything has gone up and you need a good job and have legit papers. The grass isn't always greener on the other side

Happy birthday Lynn! I’m so happily amazed you touched on this subject. I am commenting from Canada and seeing people getting frustrated coming on visitor visa to look for work/convert visa to work permit. Even employers with LMIA approval are asking for work permits. Anyone coming to Canada should preferably secured a job or school before coming here. It is so so so expensive and jobs aren’t easy to get without Canadian credentials or experience . Any Canadian credentials including a certificate will up your game in getting a job. Meanwhile while in school you can now work unlimited hours but ensure you stay in school and finish. Be careful with agents promising jobs . It is hard here but once you get into the system hard & smart work pays. And getting into the system can only be done front door. What one pays an agent for visitor visa, you might as well do a one year certificate that’s approved for post graduate work permit. Less headache and better opportunities. When a deal sounds too good think twice- agents are really smooth talkers and super salespeople from what I’m told by those coming here through them. Be wise….I have no regrets coming here I wish I did it earlier as I’d have gained more through longer school options in my youth ?.

Hi Lynn, I love this conversation. It is the same everywhere,the cost of living is so high even here in the US. If you go to a different country without following the right procedures and getting the right papers things are going to be really hard.

Hi Lynn. First of, I would like to say that I'm such a huge fan of yours. Since you started at Tuko and still following to date. You are an inspiration to me and so many people out there. I love and respect what you stand for and your work. I completely resonate with everything you are about. Second, I've lived in Canada for over 30 years now. I am Eritrean and was born in Kenya. Moved to Canada when I was about 9 and have lived here since with my family. I have to say that for us, Canada has been a God Send. It has helped us in so many ways, and we are so grateful for the opportunities and life it has given my family. From health care to schooling and job opportunities. We also cane here in 1989. So times and cost of living was very different than it is now. Of course, times have changed now, and the economy and standard of living have too. There are pros and cons to everywhere we live in the world. Everyone is different and has different experiences. There are various factors that may affect everyone's perspectives and experiences when they come to Canada, whether it was a long time ago or recently. Some factors could be, weather, economy, feeling lonely ( no family), language barriers, support...etc. Change is not easy at all and can affect t your whole emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Social life here is also not like it us back home...just alot of factors. People here work and work to make it. My mom brought us here as a single widowed mom. My sister and I were very young. But she was determined to give us a better life and worked her whole life, and it has paid off. It depends on how you look at everything and what your goal is. My mother was determined and made it happen and has raised us on her own very successfully. She loves Canada and appreciates it for everything it has done for us. Everyone's experiences are different. You have to do your research before coming and come with an open mind. Overall... Canada for us has been a blessing. \n\nI hope that helps somehow. But again, everyone's perspective and experiences are just as valid and rightfully so. \n\nI hope to meet you someday. Love you, Lynn, From Canada ?? ❤️

Hey team Lynn this is a good conversation am currently working in Egypt we are so many Kenyans here almost 1000 or 1000+ all of us with different experience good and bad let people follow the instructions you have given on your pinned comment for me number 5 People expect a lot and they end up disappointed personally I relate

Am a kenyan Canadian and living in canada is the best decision I have ever taken. Lot of kenyan are paying agencies to come to canada through visit permit. People should blame agencies who promise them jobs not canada government . When you come to canada through visit permit you need to change to work permit or study permit. Actually there are thousands of kenyan who have come through visit permit and they are claiming refugee status. Canadian Government is doing its part by giving all claimed refugees shelter and give the money for upkeep. When you have visit permit you can't work in canada but you can convert it to work permit which is not easy but an expensive process. You need to get a company that can process you lMIA that labour market Impact assessment . You need skills to get a company to apply you Lmia or uende China ya maji you pay Indians who have companies in kenya $30-$40 to apply for you lmia. Or you can convert your visit permit to study permit and universities here are damn expensive. Getting a Canadian to marry you for status is very hard. In short am trying to say if you do not come through work permit or landed immigrants life wil be tough use the money you are paying agencies to start something in your country. They are so many opportunities in canada if you have the right papers or status. As for me am a happy single mom who as accomplished alot here and I love canada .

I think it's a matter of where someone's blessings are. We have people who go there and are successful and probably live there, we have those who go there maybe for further studies but end up working in their home countries. We have others who don't go there at all they make it in life in their respective countries. I think one thing that people need to figure out is , if this dorbst work, what else can i do and where else can I go before I waste so much time on something that is not working. \nSi ata wewe Lynn ulikua majuu and here you are living your purpose in your own country...\nSo people should gree to make changes especially their beliefs that when you go to Canada you must make it there and therefore you stay there for so long and by the time you realize that place ain't for you, you've wasted so much and you start regretting..

I stay in Toronto because of my kids who are teenagers. Aside from enjoying singing in my choir and living in the Beaches area… I’d leave in a heart beat. I loathe driving into the city! You basically can’t anymore as the roads are taken over with bike lanes… There is constant construction everywhere and they removed the Gardiner heading east so everyone has to take Lakeshore in! That road is a nightmare due to construction everywhere. There are many more homeless people and long lines to food banks I’ve never seen in the 35 years I’ve been here! Rent is insane as mentioned with no one doing anything about it!

Southern Ontario is ugly as F**k, I was born here and have seen all the woodlands marshes and especially small streams and creeks disappear over the past 50 years. You have to drive a fair distance north to find an appealing landscape even driving to Niagra falls is a big disappointment now that it has become a giant shi*hole of overcrowded tikky takky shops and motels.Everyone thinks Canada is this huge country with tons of beautiful spaces to live while in reality 75% of the country is uninhabitable for farming or houseing which is shown in the rates of low inhabitants living farther north. 90% of Canadians live within a 1 to 2 hour drive of the U.S border for a reason because there is very little livable places to live in Canada if you don't want to live like an Eskimo. There are vast amounts of places to visit in the north in the summer time but to visit not to live. That leads to the question of why is Canada incentivizing peoples from more tropical climates to immigrate to a nation that is frozen 6 or 7 months a year which i think can lead to a lot of immigrants dealing with depression, its hard enough for the people born here but thats never discussed for fear of imprisonment by the government The government had 2 choices to which way to go in this country, the first was to find a way to pay for all the older citizens through CPP and OAS payments in the next 25 years which ment higher taxes and less money for the elderly citizens and the 2nd was mass very mass immigration to pay for these programs and in doing so turned the country into a place where no one can find a doctor no one can find or afford a place to live,cities have become overcrowed because they were not given the time to adjust thier infrastrutures to deal with all the new people and voila you have a giant shithole of a country.

Maritimer here: I remember going to a small town in Maine for my cousin's funeral a few years back (half my family is American), and when we were checking-in at the hotel, there was a couple taking their suitcases out of the trunk of their car. The man had a handgun tucked in the back of his pants, and I remember the feeling I got seeing it when he bent over. It was pure Fear. In my mind, this man could kill me or my family in an instance if he wanted to. To me, that was the scariest thought, it felt so wrong that it was normal to carry a weapon. \n\nMind you, we have guns in Canada, they are mainly used for hunting or gun ranges, and you need a licence, which you need to pass a test if you want to go hunting with it. I guess growing up in Canada made me think that guns are dangerous and should be kept away from people... so hearing about the children's safety concerns around guns.. is probably because to us, guns out in the public is inconceivable... even worse around children. \n\nWhen there's a shooting in Canada, it's not a feeling that is reserved for the town or city where it happened. The country in its entirety mourns, it becomes Our issue. Anyways, I know my response is months late, but I felt compelled to share. :P

You no lie, na overhype dey kill this places.. Too many assignment, u do certification this and that . Omo here na overhype. Most people are just leaving on a moderate level.I doubt if u can ever become so wealthy here

Yes actually I do have a comment or two. I think that Toronto has become the victim of either its own success as a multicultural, diverse and growing metropolis or the perceived idea that Toronto is the place to be. And what that brings with it? Yes, people who are interested in living the life and those who can afford it pay it. You said it very well, the city has become unaffordable to most people but the wealthy or at least those who are getting paid the best salaries and those who bank on real estate take advantage of this, be it the hype or reality since also, most job opportunities are still there. So to me the problem is with the lack of contro of the real estate market. And people who cant pay but for whatever reason live there just have to pay the price. The refugee situation is not surprising to me at all. We are struggling with affordable housing for crying out loud but we are also advertising to the world that we are that welcoming and peaceful society that those people can be part of. But at what cost. Toronto cannot continue like this if it will still be considered as a city for the people and not the wealthy and chronically increasing poor. No wonder they chose a progressive for a mayor and not a conservative or hard line liberal because people want change but not radically. People want to live in the best city they can having all necessary services and in peace and safety. So, there are so maby layers to pill here but again, the main reason why things have gotten the way they are is because they let real estate run unleashed. All the best, Alina.

While I identify and agree with the overall sentiment of this video, here is the problem Alina. As a somewhat successful tech person who came from nothing, I refuse to move out of a city to a culturally or globally lacking city due to “budget”. I tried spending time in BC and Nova Scotia in the capital cities. I could not spend more than a week in Saskatchewan. I can assure you that someone with decent skills and lifestyle would not be able to sustain their social and personal life, and mental health anywhere in Canada other than Toronto. If I spoke decent French, I’d say Montreal is a decent option. Vancouver is too lopsided as an international real estate haven, even though beautiful. So the problem is that Toronto is honestly the only city someone like me (and most my friends) would consider living in Canada, and we are all unfortunately being forced to move to the US. We are in our very early 30s so it’s still not too late to have a big move but none of us wanted to try out NYC or SFO much later than now. I hope things improve and we are able to move back to Toronto. But right now, unless you make $300k+, it’s impossible. And we are only able to make that money in the US (most of us). Cheers and keep it up.

Nice video - but every city has had issues since covid. Look at San Francisco - yikes! Toronto in relative terms is definitely a bit down from where it was pre-covid, but being balanced, it's improving - just over the last 2 months, the Go Train into the city is now FULL 5 days a week (not just 75% on Tuesday to Thursday and then empty Monday/Friday). Vibrancy is therefore returning to the core, there are more people, a bit less homeless (many have moved their tents to Hamilton), and while we have a ways to go, it's still the best large city I've been to, very safe, clean, and I still love it. That said, downtown east after dark is a bit sketchy, but it always has been, so just be street smart and you will love it here.

Go to a Scandinavian country and see how you'll be treated there. Smh. There is a huge Nigerian community in Ontario and other parts of Ontario. All I ever hear is complaints from refugees and immigrants. Meanwhile you guys are treated better than ppl who have been here 40 years or more. As well as Canadians who are actually born here. When Caribbean ppl came here 40 years ago they had it really hard. Nigerians and others don't. If it's so bad here for you then go somewhere else. African ppl and other groups are handed a lot when they come here. If I go to live in Nigeria for example will I get any help whatsoever from you're govt? Let's be honest. No I won't

Oooh Chorkor.... You just made my day with this YETUNDE's GOOD NEWS ABOUT HER HUSBAND AND KIDS.\n\nWE are so hreatful to God for His grace sir.\n\nWe are celebrating here in my home even if i neber knew her personall because this will be our story too very soon.\n\nGlory be to God...

You are very lucky to be so gorgeous and able to work/model/get sponsors to pay for your lifestyle, and not have to live in Canada. Canada as a whole, the Western capitalistic society, as a whole as become extremely greedy. The interest rates in the Western countries went down to almost 0%, causing all the capitalists to borrow this free-money and gobbled up all the real estate, and they now dictate the rental market. Corporations as well as individuals who bought real estate before 2010 used their equity and got into the real estate flip-game and ABNB, and they are all rich. And yet they still gouge renters because they can. I would also leave Canada. But I am stuck here because I am poor. Canada/Toronto will not change. Once you're used to eating filet mignon, you will never settle for meat loaf. These landlords will never lower their rents as long as they hold all the cards. 10 years from now, Canada's birth rate will be negative because people who pay $700,000 for 500sq ft condos do not have kids. Nor can they afford them.

Why have so many canadians become stabbers? What you are describing about Toronto is meanwhile all over Germany going on too... The mainstream media in cooperation with most politicians is seriously telling us, that germans have become more violent and foreigners committing crimes are often tourists too, which of course is absolute BS. But, we never had so many stabbing, gang rapings with 8 or more men raping underage girls and other woman, abuse of KO-Drops young man attacking police and ambulances, drugdealers near schools etc. before 2015... That canadians that are so happy abt refugees can maybe come to Europe and take some more to Canada. In the last 3 days 10.000 young african men arrived in Italy by boat, and non of the people here wants them really plus hundred thousands of arabs and afghans and millions from the ukraine. It is normal that the whole system will implode soon like the Titan... Best wishes from the Bananarepublik of Germoney!

I am an immigrant from South Africa here in Edmonton since June of 2023. What the brother is saying is true. Canadians make no room for the human element in the workplace/environment. Everything is based on productivity at the expense of your humanity. They also treat workers as very expendable and disposable. The fact that they import so many foreign workers to do certain jobs is perhaps a reason why born Canadians no longer want to put up with the exploitation (I don't know if this is the true reason though).\n\nCanada is very convenient, and public services and infrastructure are amazing compared with South Africa. But the rest of the culture is very sterile. Tim Hortons, Starbucks, and Ice Hockey are considered cultural identities. Maybe the older generations had a distinctive culture, but most Canadians of today's are only interested in consumerism and the car lifestyle. If you are looking for people with warmth and depth, you will most likely find it with fellow immigrants (and maybe the poor and marginalized communities of Canada).\n\nCanada is a very safe country, and South Africa may not be worth it for me to return to. But the strongest element I thought for coming to Canada was that people here appreciated life and each other. This is not true. Canada is 'stable and happy' because the people are intoxicated by the comfort that material wealth provides the individual (despite all their complaints and problems, most Canadians still lead very comfortable and easy lives). Take away their comfort and materialism, and they won't know who they are. They won't know how to stand together either since they have been so strongly conditioned to live for themselves as individuals.\n\nCanadians are known for their politeness and friendliness, and this is true. But there is a big difference between politeness and kindness (and being genuine). Canadians are not kind.\n\nMy opinion is obviously limited and biased. I am sure there are wonderful and pleasant exceptions. But I will still limit these as exceptions. \n\nThink hard before choosing Canada (and perhaps also the USA). Unless you have a strong community to support you here, it will be a lonely and alienating experience.

Diamond, I know it's not easy because I'm also here in Canada, What I will just say is that Health is wealth, You don't have to be working 4 days a week, and you are still lucky that you have to go to school 1 day in a week......So try to have time for yourself, if you continue these, you will break down, even me, I make sure I later make sure I leave a days to rest, the other 6 days is school and work, but just try think about it okay , God will bless us all

Sorry but not Sorry stay in your own Country yawl should be Proud to know where you come from and have a place to call your own unlike Black born in americiakkk we don't know where our Ancestors came from so this here is our Country and the whites who Ancestors who Stole this like to say go Back To Africa but they don't wanna go back to the Mountains where they are from and give the American Indians their Land back.? Not enough space bye, bye stay out.

Im Canadian from Northern Alberta. I travel often to the balkans often. Every time I come home i see how bad it is here. People work so hard for very little. And the extras people have is wasted away. Then there is the nanny state aspect, it is not just from the government but the citizens as well. Which creates a atmosphere that makes community building seem impossible. \n We hit the apex 10 years ago. And it really is time to leave. \n Health care?\n My friend had a botched back surgery, he nearly lost everything. Waited over 6 months for mri and other tests, treated like garbage. Now in Belgrade Serbia. You call for a mri you get it the next day for 100 dollars. \n Things aren't as good as the people believe they are. \n Modernity is killing the human connection, but other places still have it. And it is refreshing to see it.

this is all Joe Biden's fault and the Democrats\nThey selling and pushing for all the drugs , the kids being traffic, the money and power going to the cartels. This is a humanitarian disgrace.\nWell, we have record of homelessness people suffering and dying on our street right here right now ! We cannot take care of our own people. If you're living paycheck to paycheck, are you willing to just let one stranger stay in your home how about three or five or 10?\n\nDo you know that here in Chicago they're trying to get people to open up their houses to let migrant stay there ?\n\nThis is insanity - and it's by design\n\nJoe Biden has been on vacation more days then he's been . We are not stupid he's not running anything, which is why that fraud is so bad. The powers to be cooked at election. Wanted it to be exactly how it is.\n\nAmerica in downfall ...

I’m born & raised in Montreal, Quebec and while it’s extremely multicultural and has an incredible education system, we have been experiencing a continuous housing crisis. Every year the rent prices and general cost of living are skyrocketing yet wages remain the same. It’s actually becoming a huge problem in Montreal. Young people are being pushed out as prices are starting to little by little be comparable to Toronto. \nAnd don’t get me started on the hate Anglophones receive here. Even Montreal natives like myself who are historically English get discriminated against every day. \nThe Quebec government is pushing the English language out of Quebec, making it harder and harder for Anglophones to be able to function and live practically here. You can’t even go to the hospital and get service. If you don’t speak French you can’t call and speak with any government services, and even businesses are forced to have French names, and only conduct their business in the French language. \nI myself am bilingual, but for someone who doesn’t speak the language, or is learning having trouble it’s nearly impossible to live in Quebec as they wouldn’t even be able to get a job. The discrimination Anglophones receive is insane and we are seen as a ‘bottom of the barrel’ minority, which is so sad seeing that this is where I was born and raised and where I call my home. \nThey’re taking away more and more public & social services and literally funnelling multi millions of dollars of funding , which is desperately needed for homelessness and many other social problems we have within Montreal and it’s all now going towards pushing the French language in Montreal (we literally have what’s called the ‘language police’ who’s job is to enforce French. They will give businesses thousands of dollars of tickets and even shut them down all because someone is caught speaking English) \nHopefully something will change soon or else Montreal is going to continue to become a place completely taken over by hate and discrimination and it will experience a MASS exodus (which is already starting).

The most depresssing factor of canada is it's weather...\nIntially i was not realizing it bt it just dawned on me that how important is sunlight for your body and also for your mental health especially in winters......yahan pe sirf 3 mahine hi suraj rehta hai..june july and August .... september se leke may mid tak.rarely you will get a glimpse of sunlight...\nI mean you wake-up every morming nd its always dark and gloomy outside from September end till april end....you dpnt feel like doing anything...especially in winter's you wake up at 9 o'clock and 4 oclock its dark.....you have no idea how much it effects your mental health...people get depressed mentally and also gets deficit of vitamin d...also government have legalized Marijuana and saying oh it will make your mind feel happy and you will not get stressed anymore...i mean how come...government is killing you softly..they dont want you to think higher..they want you to leave behind....i realized most of the people suffer from knee pain..joint pain bcoz they dont get enough sunlight ....\nI read somewhere that most of the suicide case happens inthe month of January bcoz this is the month when people get more depressed....i must say comparatively to canada india is the best place to stay ....you will get sunlight whole year... also in Toronto there is no such social life as india ...so much taxes by the government...houses are getting expensive.....all you r doing is just work , come home. Sleep and go back to work again...you work 12 crazy hours here and your 7 hrs work salary goes staright to the government as taxes...and on top of that car insurance...home insurance ..morgatege payments...phone plans ...property tax..gas bill...water bills...hot tank bills...electricity bills and so much more ...ye sab bulls bharne ke liye ek single person ko double job karni pad rahi hai bocz of which he gets sick mentally and physically...\nAlso the health care sytem is the worst here..if you r sick and call for an appointment they will appoint u after 6 month's....\nDoctors have become more corrupt nowadays.....\nI know india mein middle class family itna afford nahi kar sakti bt alleast india mein log satisfied hain ..khus hain.bhale hi paisa kam ho...atleast they spare some time to spend with their families..friends...bt yahan aisa kuch nahi hai...yahan log paisa bana lete hain bt wo khusi nahi milti..wo satisfaction nahi milta india jaisa........\nAgain i must say canadas weather is the main cause for your sick mental health and also your bine health....if you want to be in a good health....your mind should be in a healthy state first ....and as you all know health hai to wealth hai\n..

most canadian are ignorant. they would say go back to wher eyou from then. 99% of them dont realize that canada got a higher divorce rate then usa 47% that means every marriage got 50 50 chance of not working. now domino affect of that is single mother homes. single mothers dont raise man I REPEAT SINGLE MOTHER DO NOT RAISE MAN. man have to suffer through mistake and life lesson to understand how to be a man. they need a good father. most woman now dont want to be wives but rather the title to tell their friends and have the hoopla. most will say the cost of living requires bla bla bla. no its not the cost of living its your lifestyle that you want that is expensive. its the decision you made are making that makes it challenging. most woman get into marriage for love that is the dumbest thing ever since woman dont love they just love the way a man can make them feel until he cant anymore. you marry for duty and lifestyle and not love. man love woman respect. once she lose respect its over if she didnt have none from the jump then you got F. \n\nThat 1970 line is when men & women were expected to stop behaving differently in life & work. That’s the major event. Rockefeller economics wanted all citizens to be lifetime tax payers, not just men. That’s the only real, solvable issue. If woman a determined to embrace their natural place in society, to be matriarchs as they once were, instead of chasing masculinity and seeking to be patriarchs, a huge impact on everything would result. We’re not mature enough to have that discussion, however.\n\nThe XX’s were simply unavailable ideologically as labor/employees, and were deeply committed to being matriarchs: being nutritionists, home decorators, social emissaries , herbalist , first aid expert , gardeners, child care , pregnancy, child birth , lactation etc…they once were, then the labour market would be much more supply driven, wages rise, and both males and females not only a much easier life, but the children in that environment thrive.\n\nthis is a domino effect of what woman in the workforce created. this is grown man discussion here. this is critical thinking discussion here. unfortunately woman will never go back to where it was. oh and make no mistake I REPEAT MAKE NO MISTAKE MEN NOW ARE F ING WEAK AND WHEN I MEAN WEAK THEY ARE GODLY WEAK in almost every sense possible. we have 50% less testosterone then are grand fathers in the 1950 our sperm count decrease 1% every year this is factual check it out. so we need to blame weak men. rich man in power dont care as long as they make a profit. 85% of advert is toward woman. woman holds 3é4 of the depts . 98% of jobs that you need to run a society are run by man ( plumber , electrician , oil rigs , etc... ) we give woman ceo jobs but none of them deserve to be ceo or in position of power basically. there are so many few that could that its insignificant. crime is through the roof 90% of criminal , drug addicts , homeless , innmate are from single mother home. \n\nwhat woman want to be working 40 hours + with 2 + kids at 35+ years old instead of staying home ? show me those woman ? now that men are so weak we have a new industry of sex that makes younger adult woman make money not caring about consequences for their future child or their current ones. 1 in 3 woman are on some antidepressant 35 years old + . the least happy demographic is 35+ years old woman with no child no man and a job . i mean the stats are all there but th eprofit is to sweet for the ppl in power. they dont care because they are reach. \n\ntrudeau wife divorced him not a month ago but 2-3 .. year prior mentally. i bet she wasnt ready for a man with no spine. this push for alphabet mafia must of said ok thats enough. canada is becoming what ppl never thought it would be. in 5-10 years canada and china will have very little difference. its a beautiful country with beautiful landscape beautiful ppl beautiful opportunities led by the worst ppl on earth .

Beware of the single narrative. He’s speaking from his own experience, but it’s not the same as everybody’s. I’ve lived in Canada now for 4 years…got my citizenship this year. I lived in Nigeria for the 10 years prior to moving to Canada, and I also schooled and lived in the UK before that, so I speak with a wealth of diverse experiences. \n\nBefore you move to Canada or anywhere else for that matter, do the following:\n\n1. Research the country you’re moving to…what jobs are in demand, how that aligns with your qualifications…if you need to recertify or retrain in a different field. Many people move here thinking “oh I was a bank manager in Nigeria, so I’ll move here and become a bank manager”. It doesn’t work that way. The streets of Canada are littered with qualified medical doctors who drive Uber because they didn’t understand how difficult it would be to be certified to practice here.\n\n2. Find role models who are living the life you aspire to, or who have made similar moves and seek advice or guidance, and learn what they did right/wrong. Don’t just assume because your friend moved here, you can also move here and live the same life. You don’t share the same life experiences, history or have the same network.\n\n3. Before you immigrate physically, you have to immigrate mentally…be in the right mindset to live in a new country, understand their culture and learn to adapt. If you’re expecting to leave Nigeria and move to Canada to live a Nigerian lifestyle with “owambe” parties every weekend, or having 4 cars and 3 housemaids, then you’re still living in Nigeria mentally. Even Justin Trudeau does not drive 4 cars.\n\nI work in tech, so I knew that with God’s grace I’d find a way to succeed here. My wife worked in a Nigerian bank, and was able to transition to tech after we arrived here. Our combined annual income is roughly $500k, and we both work less than 40 hours a week, and I believe God will continue to bless us. I have easily 20 or 30 friends and colleagues who moved within a year or two of each other, and everyone is doing fine and working in tech jobs paying 6-figures. \n\nDon’t be discouraged by people’s failures and hardships. With the right planning and mindset, you can achieve your goals in any country. Reach out to people on LinkedIn, build a network and ask for advice (constructively)…many like us are more than willing to help.

India is in a much better situation in this recession.. even better than the US and Canada. I have a good job here.. Enjoy my weekends with great food from swiggy zomato and beer?. You get better salary packages in India. Cities like Pune, Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Ahmedabad, Navi Mumbai are great to live in and earn. I work from home...nice work life balance, enjoy my vacations in Goa... Go for a vacation every 4 months. Thoughts came in to shift to Canada... but decided not to go. Why struggle so much abroad. Pajji has said the truth...so relatelable! Thanks for making this eulye opening video for people deciding to come to Canada.

Life in Nigeria is only decent for those living affluently in Lekki, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, certain areas of Ikeja and Abuja. Outside of that, life for everyday Nigerians is crap. Water & electricity (NEPA) are highly unreliable & intermittent, so fuel-powered generators are a necessity for living everyday life per household or per apartment in apartment complexes. The banking & government systems are notoriously sluggish, taking weeks and months to process simple paperwork such as drivers licenses, passports, certificates, banking transaction reversals, you name it. Bribery is a daily occurrence EVERYWHERE. Police (if you can call them that, mostly untrained thugs) detain & extort motorists and/or people innocently going about their daily lives, just for the money. Many many many people disappear mysteriously without ever being seen again by family or friends. Lots of inter-racial discrimination and animosity between the three major tribes that make up Nigeria… Yoruba, Igbo & Hausa-Fulani. The federal & state governments are horribly corrupt, bordering on dictatorship. Elections are undemocratic, to say the least, with thugs threatening voters at voting booths. I could go on?\n\nThis is why many Nigerians with any amount of wealth live in diaspora, whether that be the UK, Canada, the USA, Europe, or wherever. And, yeah, be prepared for everything being structured & organized in these countries, especially in North America. The cost of living is definitely higher to pay for a higher quality of living. That’s the difference between a developed country vs a country, such as Nigeria, that’s developing or considered ‘third-world’. Unfortunately, here in Canada we cannot account for the last 8 years under our current administration, which has gone rogue & is out of control, causing high inflation, interest rates and housing and cost of living to soar. This is not normal conditions even to those of us natural-born here. So, we feel for immigrants who have arrived in good faith in the last few years. I’m sure their country of origin is looking better than what is being experienced here in Canada currently.