Calgary newcomers share welcome and not-so-welcome surprises
Posted Dec 13, 2022 6:47 pm.
Last Updated Dec 13, 2022 6:48 pm.
What do you wish you knew about Calgary before moving here? Newcomers are sharing welcome and not-so-welcome surprises about living in Calgary.
Calgary’s population continues to climb at a steady pace, with both international migrations, as well as Canadians moving from other provinces.
Newcomers to the city have some unique experiences and perspectives about what it’s like to live in Calgary.
“Somebody told me to just face the winter,” said one newcomer to the city.
“I think this is one of the coldest places in Canada — probably that I’ve ever experienced,” said another.
One person that spoke with CityNews says, “It’s more chill, more relaxed. Just go with the flow and do what you have to do.”
Hyder Hassan, CEO of Immigrant Services Calgary, says one big adjustment for newcomers coming from abroad. Is navigating winter weather and winter driving.
“I’m excited to announce that we are working with the Alberta Motor Association to finalizing a deal with them where we would be able to offer two free driver’s ed. Classes and other incentives as well.” Hassan said.
Breath-taking mountain views, freak hailstorms and chinook winds are some other things Calgary newcomers are getting used to, but according to this new resident from Ukraine, the people have taken her by surprise.
“Very welcoming, no judgement in their eyes or asking why did you come here? You could have stayed there,” she said.
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Hassan says there’s one specific question he asks all Calgary newcomers.
“The first question we ask the client is, ‘What is your dream?’ Why are we asking that? Because newcomers have this bias that – I have to do survival jobs. My dreams are not valid here.” Hassan said.
He says many newcomers abandon their own dreams to focus on their kids’ dreams.
In response, Hassan says both can be a reality, and immigrant services have plenty of resources to help.
