From Belarus to Canada: Starting Strong in Logistics with SOPA’s Help

When I received the email from IRCC requesting my passport, I noticed a mention of SOPA (Settlement Online Pre-Arrival) and the services they offer to newcomers. It immediately caught my attention. I had a strong feeling that going through the immigration process with the guidance of professionals would make a huge difference. So I registered and signed up for the first orientation session.

That’s when I met Tatsiana. Our conversation was incredibly helpful. She explained the full range of SOPA services. She also helped me see how they can support my transition. She recommended that I start with orientation courses, and I chose Job Search Strategies and Soft Skills. At that time, I wasn’t familiar with the Canadian job market or its expectations, so I knew I had a lot to learn.

Starting My Job Search Before Arrival

I began my job search one month before arriving in Canada, in January 2025. I was already enrolled in SOPA’s Job Search Strategies course and had started working closely with Andrea, who became my mentor. Together, we tailored my resume and cover letter to fit a specific job post I had found, a position for an Import and Export Coordinator.

This role was very similar to what I did back in Belarus, where I worked as a Transportation Planning Manager in the trucking industry. Of course, the Canadian version of the job came with new nuances and expectations, but the core responsibilities aligned well with my background.

A Targeted Resume, and Real Interview Prep

With Andrea’s help, we built a targeted resume that really showcased my experience. Thanks to that, I was invited to an interview for the role. It was the very first job I applied for in Canada.

Before the interview, I had a mock interview session with Andreea, which turned out to be an absolutely essential step. It had been over 10 years since my last job interview, and I felt quite nervous. Andreea covered many of the exact questions I was later asked in the real interview. She is an amazing mentor and a true professional.

After the first round, I was invited to a second interview a week later. This time, Wided stepped in to help. She prepared me for a session in French (some participants were French-speaking), which made me feel more confident and well-prepared.

Arriving in Ottawa, and Starting My New Job

Just two days after landing in Ottawa, I had my final interview on February 3. To my surprise and joy, I received the job offer the very next day. I officially started work as an Import/Export Coordinator on February 10—only ten days after arriving in Canada.

I was incredibly grateful for this opportunity and especially for the guidance I received from the SOPA team. From Tatsiana’s initial advice to Andreea’s resume work and mock interviews, to Wided’s support before the second round—every step mattered.

What Helped Me the Most

• Having a targeted resume and understanding what Canadian employers look for.
• Mock interviews to practice self-presentation and boost my confidence.
• Focusing on one domain—logistics and coordination—so I could align my past experience with the local job market.
• Doing research on LinkedIn and Indeed, attending job fairs, and analyzing common job requirements.

One of the biggest personal challenges I faced was self-presentation. Coming from a culture where speaking about oneself isn’t common, I wasn’t used to highlighting my achievements or strengths. The conversations with SOPA mentors helped me grow more confident—and even a little proud of what I had done in my career so far.

My Advice to Newcomers

• Appreciate the people who help you and the opportunities your new country offers.
• Don’t be afraid—be open.
• Be polite and always say thank you. In that way, Belarusians and Canadians are very much alike.
• Do your research: try to find information about the position, contact HR if possible, or look for mutual connections.
• Never give up—even if the process takes time.

I feel incredibly lucky that my journey went so smoothly, but I know this was only possible thanks to good preparation and the amazing support of the SOPA team.

Ottawa already feels like home. The nature reminds me of Belarus, and more importantly—the people are kind and welcoming.

Thank you, SOPA!

Story written by Darya  Liberava, SOPA Ontario Client

Story prepared by Wided El Fessi, Bilingual Employment Specialist with SOPA Ontario Team

Story Edits by Albina Ziatdinova, SOPA Communication and Engagement Coordinator

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