Elaiza’s Journey: From the Philippines to a New Career in Canada
Elaiza Marie Caboles’ journey is about finding her way, adapting to a new life, and building a future she’s proud of. A trained chemical engineer, Elaiza made the bold decision to leave the Philippines and start a new chapter in British Columbia, Canada. Today, she works as a Market Analyst at a video game consulting firm, having successfully transitioned her career to data analytics. Her journey highlights the critical role that the SOPA (Settlement Online Pre-Arrival) program played in helping her achieve her goals.
Although Elaiza conducted her own research on settlement and employment in Canada, she admits she still felt unprepared for the challenges ahead. That’s when she discovered SOPA. Through the program, she enrolled in three impactful courses: Job Search Strategies, Soft Skills: Working with Others, and Soft Skills: Workplace Communication.
Reflecting on her experience, Elaiza shares, “No words can express how much SOPA has helped me through my immigration journey. Thank you so much to all the facilitators and employees behind this amazing program. I hope you will continue to help more newcomers like me succeed in this amazing country.”
Here is what Elaiza shared about her SOPA experience:
How has SOPA helped you secure your current job in Canada?
“Being a newcomer to Canada, the Job Search Strategies program was very helpful in introducing me to the Canadian job market. My facilitator, Elmira Alim, helped me develop a Canadian-style resume and provided critical feedback to improve my elevator pitch when introducing myself to others.
Moreover, my counselling sessions with Mar Smaili were incredibly insightful. I was able to ask specific questions about my job search, and he made sure I explored all possible avenues to find a job. He also guided me in ensuring my LinkedIn profile was up-to-date and professional-looking. Finally, the Soft Skills course with Taylor Eggemann helped me improve my communication skills, rounding out my preparations for settling in a new country.”
“No words can express how much SOPA has helped me through my immigration journey. Thank you so much to all the facilitators and employees behind this amazing program. I hope you will continue to help more newcomers like me succeed in this amazing country.”
How did SOPA change your approach to seeking employment in Canada?
“Job searching in my home country is very different from Canada’s. The courses and sessions with SOPA not only helped me learn about the Canadian job market but also made me more flexible and confident in myself. The resume and cover letter writing sessions made me reflect on my personal and professional journey, enabling me to present myself in a calm and organized manner during interviews.
Lastly, the communication tips I received from my facilitators have been invaluable. They have helped me navigate the social aspects of my new job and adjust to life in Canada.”
What tips or helpful information can you share with other newcomers?
Elaiza offers this advice:
- Never give up: “Immigrating to another country is one of the bravest things you can do. Applaud yourself for starting this scary but amazing journey.”
- Be flexible and open-minded: “Canada is very different from my home country. Being open to new experiences and new people has been key to adapting to this beautiful country.”
- Be kind to yourself: “No matter how much preparation you do before arriving, you will encounter unexpected situations. Don’t beat yourself up if you make mistakes or take longer to achieve your goals. Everything will work out in the end.”
Elaiza’s journey shows how preparation and support can make a big difference when facing the challenges of immigration. Her time with SOPA helped her gain the skills and confidence to build a new life in Canada. For anyone thinking about joining SOPA, her story is proof that with the right tools and guidance, you can achieve your goals.
Ellaiza Marie Caboles, SOPA Ontario client
Story prepared by Elmira Alim, SOPA Ontario Job Search Strategies Facilitator
edited by Albina Ziatdinova, SOPA Online Community and Social Media Monitor
Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA) is an Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC) funded program that delivers free pre-arrival services for job readiness, success and retention.
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