Sidra Mobin: Learning Opportunity

Sidra Mobin is originally from Karachi, Pakistan. She landed in British Columbia on June 28th, 2020- during the pandemic. Sidra was all alone and did not know anyone in BC as opposed to back in Pakistan, where she has family and friends who were always there for her. With her positive attitude, Sidra wanted to experience an adventure and find out if she was up to doing it on her own.

As a Manager and HR Consultant by profession with experience in public, private and non-for-profit organizations, Sidra wanted to start her career with a nonprofit organization in Canada. She registered with SOPA before landing in Canada which gave her a clear direction on how to find work and settle, also she was given updated information on how things are during the pandemic; hence, she was mentally prepared for any added struggles that may occur.

Sidra’s tip to newcomers is to be financially prepared, always willing to learn new things, stay open to all opportunities, and Network! Network! Network. Brace yourself for struggles ahead, but also consider this time as a learning opportunity because you will get a chance to start your life where the sky is the limit. 

During her time with SOPA, she learnt how to write a proper Canadian resume, cover letters and has been through mock interviews. She was also given some resources like networking events and mentoring programs. This gave her a clear outlook on how to get prepared and integrate into the Canadian work culture and into Canadian society.

She found out that the demand for the “Canadian experience” is the biggest challenge, and so, she volunteered at a non for profit organization as a co-designer and co-facilitator on a project named “Let’s Talk” while she also had a transitional job as an inventory auditor to help her gain the relevant experience.

We are happy to report that Sidra has recently found employment as a Job Developer with one of the biggest Intercultural Community Services organizations and is on her way to giving back to Canadian society which gave her the kick start in Canada.  Sidra will continue to work toward her goal in the management / HR Consultancy field and with her winning attitude, we have no doubt that it won’t be long before she lands her dream job.

Sidra would like to give a big thanks to SOPA and MOSAIC who assisted newcomers with open doors for more opportunities with programs like  Pre-Arrival services, volunteer work, mentorship and the staff who are always there to answer any of her questions.

Sidra’s tip to newcomers is to be financially prepared, always willing to learn new things, stay open to all opportunities, and Network! Network! Network. Brace yourself for struggles ahead, but also consider this time as a learning opportunity because you will get a chance to start your life where the sky is the limit.

Linda Ragoonanan is an employment specialist with SOPA British Columbia, specialized in working with pre-arrival immigrants. She moved to Canada over thirty years ago and has seventeen years of experience with the employment industry. Linda is knowledgeable in supporting clients with their concerns regarding credentials, labour market, licensure, certification, resume, mock interview, and other questions on employment and settlement. Linda is fortunate to work with Job Search Strategies, Soft Skills, Working in Canada, and Workplace Communication. During her career she facilitated / advised over two thousand clients in different sectors of the job market. Being passionate about people, culture and writing success stories, Linda’s experience expands from Tourism and Hospitality, Skill Programs and Pre-Arrival services. She believes that knowing how things work in advance can make a tangible difference to new arrivals.