I came across this thread randomly but have continued reading it because I am impressed by the hope and optimism that nearly everyone involved exhibits.
With that said, there seem to be a few involved that are not as optimistic about their chances to succeed. My message is directed toward you. Hopefully my thoughts will drive optimism and motivate each of you to continue your efforts to come to Canada, no matter what your current scores or short-term outlook may be.
So…
Is the system perfect? No.
Is the system fair? Well, it is a triage system, and such systems are never entirely “fair”. They are based on subjective tests and criteria that may – or may not – identify the most qualified or likely to succeed.
Fortunately, the system rewards personal growth, something you have a great deal of control over. Study the system and identify areas that you can improve upon. It may take time, but don’t let time erode your enthusiasm and goals.
The difference between someone that succeeds and someone that fails is usually quite small. Don’t fall into the belief that you can’t do it; doing so will only lead to a self-fulfilling prophesy and you won’t do it. Keep working diligently!
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Is the general population of Canada supportive of your efforts to come here? Will you feel welcome? Will you have a real opportunity to succeed?
Canada is a country that was built by immigrants and that has a continuing interest in attracting qualified immigrants to grow. After all, unless you are of Native American heritage, every person that calls Canada home is an immigrant or a relative of an immigrant.
Personally, I live in an area of Toronto that is incredibly diverse when it comes to home countries. When I greet my children in the afternoon as they get off the school bus, I am surrounded by a “United Nations” of sorts – my neighbors are from China, India, Pakistan, Venezuela, various countries of the E.U. and many others. We live and work together in harmony. Our children are friends and we share a strong sense of combined community.
Does discrimination exist? Yes, it does but it is the exception, not the rule. My workplace is similarly diverse and filled with people from around the world. Jobs are offered based on qualification, not upon where someone comes from. [Note: I am now in Toronto; Quebec isn’t quite the same. If you are intending to settle in Quebec I can share my insights after spending many years in Montreal. Feel free to send me a private message.]
There are few places in the world where the above really happens. Canada is one of them and you will find incredible opportunity here. Yes, it is often difficult to become established when one first arrives in Canada and you should expect to continue working very hard to achieve your goals… …but they are achievable.
The essential point is that you are welcome here. The Internet tends to bring out extremist views and statements that may not accurately reflect reality. Indeed, there is a vocal minority of Canadians (and immigrants once they are here!) that oppose immigration but they are a small minority. Ignore them.
Individuals also tend to post negative comments quite quickly and passionately but those that have experienced wonderful things tend to remain silent. That’s human nature.
I wish every one of you the best of luck and hope that you will be in Canada soon!
