Everyone is different.
Software development is a relatively "easy" field to get into (in terms of startup costs). If you have access to a computer, you can write code. It's something that can be done at home - it makes it easier for people to get started on their own. It also doesn't require apprenticeship, doesn't require licensing, and is highly valuable at the moment (as there is a huge push to put everything online). I started writing code when I was 5 years old - I liked being able to build things.
I chose Canada because I'm a native English speaker. I don't really want to be in a position where I can't communicate effectively (even if it's temporary). I have issues with the way the United States handles healthcare, support systems, and politics. Given this, the main options were the UK, Australia, and Canada. I happen to prefer Canada given it's proximity, level of corruption, and less craziness (in some ways) than the UK.