Himanika Bahuguna (2024)
I am honoured to share my journey as a volunteer with the Centre for Immigration and Community Services (CICS), an organization dedicated to supporting newcomers as they integrate into Canadian society. My name is Himanika, a new immigrant and healthcare worker with an MBA. My transition to Canada was challenging; I initially felt lost and uncertain about my decision to immigrate.
During a visit to the library, I encountered a CICS representative who spoke my language, immediately putting me at ease. She introduced me to a range of resources, including English language courses, skill-building classes, and essential community services. This encounter marked the beginning of a transformative experience.
I joined the SOAR program, an initiative by CICS designed to assist new immigrant women in administrative roles. Under the expert guidance of Jenny Yeung, the program offered invaluable resources, including proficiency training in Microsoft Office with Perry, job search strategies, and insights into Canadian workplace culture. Orjeta’s support in refining interview skills and Kula and Alan’s mental health workshops further enhanced my confidence.
The SOAR program not only enriched my skills but also provided opportunities to volunteer at CICS offices. This hands-on experience allowed me to apply my newly acquired skills and connect with a supportive community. Within three weeks, I formed lasting friendships and felt more equipped to face my new life in Canada.
CICS’s comprehensive services extend beyond the SOAR program. They offer Early Years Services, Children and Youth Services, Family and Senior Services, Employment Services, Language & Training Services, Settlement Services, Community Food Programs, and Community and Volunteer Engagement. Each service plays a crucial role in supporting immigrants and fostering their successful integration. I was glad to interact with the community receiving these services while volunteering at the Markham office. Celebrating all festivals of all diverse communities with the same spirit and enthusiasm made a special place for CICS in my heart.
Thanks to CICS, I have found a family that has been my guiding star throughout this journey. I am deeply grateful for their unwavering support and the positive impact they have made in the lives of many new immigrants, including myself.
As I look forward to my short-term employment goals, I am confident that the skills and connections I have gained through CICS will pave the way for my continued success in Canada. Thank you, CICS, for transforming my experience and offering a beacon of hope and support.
Khalid HussainNaik (2024)
My name is Khalid Hussain Naik. I moved to Canada in April 2024. The experience of relocating to a new country was initially overwhelming; I found myself in a situation where I knew no one and was struggling to establish connections. As I applied for jobs across various sectors, I faced a recurring obstacle: many employers requested Canadian work experience. This challenge led me to explore volunteering opportunities, ultimately bringing me to the Centre for Immigrant and Community Services (CICS).
After researching online, I reached out to CICS and was fortunate to connect with Yan, the CICS Volunteer Program Coordinator, who played a critical role in my journey. Her willingness to accept my application and trust in my potential, despite my lack of experience, was profoundly motivating. Yan's support not only marked the beginning of my volunteering experience but also instilled in me a sense of responsibility to honour the trust she placed in me throughout my time at CICS.
I began my Canadian journey at the CICS Food Bank on Midland Avenue, a place that became a cornerstone of my integration into Canadian society. Here, I met Shupa, our supervisor, who proved to be an invaluable mentor. She was always available to guide me, whether it was about volunteering tasks or adjusting to the nuances of Canadian life. The insights I gained from Shupa were not merely practical; they provided me with a deeper understanding of the cultural contexts in which I was operating. The lessons I learned from her are those that cannot be taught in a classroom, enriching my experience in ways I had not anticipated.
Another key figure in my volunteering experience was Victoria, who brought joy and positivity to our team. Her infectious sense of humour and unwavering optimism created an uplifting environment, even during the most stressful moments. Victoria's ability to maintain a cheerful demeanour taught me the importance of positivity in overcoming challenges. Her influence encouraged me to adopt a similar outlook, which has been essential in my adaptation to life in Canada.
Throughout my time at the Food Bank, I was surrounded by remarkable volunteers, many of whom were retired yet exhibited an extraordinary level of energy and dedication. Their selflessness and commitment to service were truly inspirational. Each day, I was uplifted by their presence, which reinforced the value of community engagement and the positive impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole.
CICS has been an incredible support system for me, not only in my personal journey but also in their mission to assist those in need. The work they do through the Food Bank is commendable and essential, as it addresses food insecurity—a fundamental issue. I firmly believe that access to food is a basic human right, and CICS is making significant strides in ensuring that those who require assistance receive it.
My experience at CICS has been instrumental in my integration into Canadian society. The skills and connections I developed while volunteering provided a strong foundation that ultimately helped me secure a job with the federal government. The networking opportunities and practical experience I gained allowed me to present myself as a capable candidate, demonstrating both my commitment to community service and my adaptability to the Canadian work environment.
In conclusion, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at CICS and to contribute to such a meaningful organization. I look forward to maintaining my connection with CICS and hope to have further opportunities to support their vital mission in the future.