New immigrants to Canada are using platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to share their first-hand experiences settling in their new country.
For those considering immigrating to Canada or already adjusting to life in Canada, these shared stories will not only provide inspiration but also valuable guidance.
Below, CIC News has handpicked five social media accounts that offer practical advice, personal stories, and community support for newcomers to Canada.
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canadian couple
Operated by: Harmeet Singh and Manpreet Kaur Origin: India Destination: Toronto, Canada Current stage of immigration: Permanent resident of Canada Notable content (YouTube): “Living in Canada – The First Weeks”. “How to promote Canada | Step by Step | Express Entry | Canadian Couples”; and “How to Get a Job in Canada”
Started by husband and wife duo Harmeet and Manpreet, the ‘Canadian Couple’ account reflects the couple’s own experiences and lessons learned while immigrating to Canada.
One of the most popular Canadian immigration vlogs on YouTube, Canada couple provides in-depth information for both aspiring and current permanent residents, covering the day-to-day challenges of immigrating to Canada and the latest in immigration policy. We discuss a wide range of topics, from information to best practices for expense management. and finding jobs that are in high demand.
Best advice for beginners:
Harmeet explained the value of working with a wide range of sources on what to expect when immigrating to Canada.
“I highly recommend watching a lot of YouTube videos and listening to podcasts from a variety of creators. Everyone has a different perspective. What works in downtown Toronto may not work for those seeking a quieter suburban life. It may not be right for you. It’s important to explore these different perspectives. Read the latest articles on forums and reach out to people living in Canada, including friends, family, and helpful contacts. , gather a wide range of insights…”
Where to find them and future plans:
Canada couple can be found on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Additionally, they have a Hindi vlog channel and host a weekly podcast called “CandidCast” on YouTube. “This is a great way to get to know different stories, especially for people who might be a little tired of just hearing us,” Harmeet quips.
traveler on the go
Operated by: Charbel Mehrab, Sabeh Badran, Tony Alkhoury Hometown: Lebanon Destination: Toronto, Canada Current stage of immigration journey: Permanent resident of Canada Notable content (Instagram): Building Canada’s first IKEA bed. A trip to Blue Mountain Resort; Canada Day fireworks at Montreal’s Old Port;
Travelers on the Go features the fun and ambitious side of the immigrant experience, showcasing the exciting activities and opportunities available in Toronto and across Canada.
Through this channel, Charbel, Sabé, and Tony help those new to Canada to discover Toronto’s artisanal food spots, attend film festivals, enjoy nightlife, plan dates, and live life to the fullest. We will introduce various attractions and experiences that you can enjoy. Life inside and outside the city.
Born from a shared love of exploring new places and creating engaging content, Travelers on the Go aims to guide first-timers and Canadians alike to Canada’s top cultural hotspots and must-see destinations. The purpose is
Best advice for beginners:
Travelers on the Go emphasized how important it is for newcomers to Canada to connect with those around them and be mindful of Canadian cultural values.
“Immerse yourself in the community by exploring local events, festivals, and foodie spots. Network and make connections through community groups and social events.”
“…remember, Canadian culture values kindness and respect. Small gestures can make a big difference.”
Where to find them and future plans:
First-timers can connect with Travelers On The Go on Instagram to catch up on all the latest adventures in Toronto and beyond.
The admin trio has some plans for the channel’s future and hopes it will continue to evolve into a “go-to resource for newcomers and locals” in Canada. “Our passion for this project is what drives us,” Sabe said. “And we’re committed to conveying that in a real way to our viewers. That’s what really sparks meaningful connections.”
Nneka Ezeaniya
Operator: Nneka Ezeanya Origin: Nigeria via Ukraine Destination: Thunder Bay, Canada Current stage of immigration: Canadian citizen Notable content (YouTube): “Schools to avoid as an international student | Thunder Bay, Canada” Your work permit will be rejected. ” “My PR has finally been approved | Permanent Resident of Canada”; and “How to become a registered nurse in Canada without a science or nursing background”.
Initially a nursing student in Nigeria, Nneka traveled to Ukraine to further her education before deciding to immigrate to Canada in search of better career and educational prospects.
Content on Nneka’s YouTube channel includes practical tips and
Information for people immigrating to Canada as medical students or healthcare professionals. Resources she felt were missing during her own transition:
“When I was planning to move to Canada, I realized that I could start the certification process from abroad, but I had no idea at the time,” she explains. The gap in available information inspired her to start her own channel.
Her channel covers her entire immigration journey, from obtaining a study permit to transitioning to a work permit, obtaining permanent residence, and (most recently) obtaining Canadian citizenship. She plans to share more about her new status and its implications in future videos.
Best advice for beginners:
Nneka emphasizes the importance of remembering your motivation to persist.
“Remember why you started this journey. Writing down your why can be a powerful reminder during difficult times. It will bring you many challenges, but it will always be worth it. Based on my own experience and the experience of my loved ones who are currently enjoying this benefit, I can assure you that the effort and struggle during the immigration process will pay off in the end. ”
Where to find them and future plans:
Nneka can be seen on YouTube under her full name (Nneka Ezeanya).
Now that she has achieved her goal of obtaining Canadian citizenship, Nneka is focused on becoming a certified nurse and possibly moving from Thunder Bay to a new city.
She is enthusiastic about the next stage of her Canadian journey and is eager to take her audience with her.
NRI guide
Operator: Brijesh Soni Birthplace: India Place of Immigration: Toronto, Canada Current Stage of Immigration: Canadian Permanent Resident Notable Content (Instagram): “Canadian Scams (Series)”. “6 winter items to bring from India to Canada”; “Secrets to finding a job in Canada”.
Brijesh Soni started creating content on social media under the account ‘the_nri_guide’ because she wanted to help others overcome the challenges she faced during her own immigration journey.
He covers a wide range of topics, from choosing the right winter gear and understanding public transportation, to reviewing important up-to-date information on immigration and recommending reliable sources of information.
Brijesh is particularly passionate about helping newbies avoid scams and misinformation through his content.
“Social media has made it incredibly easy for bad actors to impersonate licensed consultants and lawyers these days. I’ve even seen someone impersonate me,” he warns.
Best advice for beginners:
Brijesh emphasized the importance of utilizing resources before arrival.
“I attended an IRCC-sponsored workshop in India that prepared me mentally for migration, provided me with important contacts and resources, and built community with fellow immigrants before I even arrived. I was able to start.”
He also pointed out the need to be persistent and have a flexible plan of action when immigrating to Canada.
“If something doesn’t work, be prepared to try a new approach…I’ve seen a lot of people who came here with determination and a readiness to do whatever it took. These people are highly successful.”
Where to find them and future plans:
Brijesh can be found through his _nri_guide account on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
He says he is dedicated to using both his personal time and social media presence to support newcomers and continue to provide them with valuable information.
“I continue to volunteer with ACCES Employment, an organization that I found through a bridging course when I first came to Canada, and they helped me a lot when I first came to Canada. I will definitely continue to support newcomers here with my social media videos and use these platforms to inspire, inspire and empower others on their journey to and within Canada. .”
maple indian diary
Operated by: Nehal and Nikhil Vyas Origin: India Destination: Ottawa, Canada Current stage of immigration: Canadian work permit holder Notable content (Instagram): “21 things you need to know before moving to Canada thing”. Bought my first car in Canada. Main reason for immigrating to Canada.
Maple Indian Diaries covers a variety of topics about immigrating to Canada as a newcomer, with a great mix of practical immigration information and personal vlogs about life in Canada.
Started by Nehal and Nikhil a little over a year ago, the Maple Indian Diary account was initially born out of a shared need for practical information on settling in Canada and a desire to tell the reality of the couple’s own stories. Created.
Nehal and Nikhil have created content on topics such as understanding credit scores, shopping for groceries in Canada, adapting to Canada’s climate, and managing the cost of living.
We also feature personal experiences such as seeing the Northern Lights for the first time, ice skating, and experiencing fall weather.
Best advice for beginners:
Nehal and Nikhil advocate the importance of grit and community when immigrating to Canada.
“Persistence is key. Be sure to take advantage of community support and resources. Don’t get discouraged by the first setback.”
“And for those who come here alone, building community is essential,” Nehal added. “It’s not easy to settle in a new place, so people will feel much less alone on their journey.”
Where to find them and future plans:
Maple Indian Diary is available on Instagram and YouTube.
In the future, the couple hopes to expand their social media presence and document their adventures in Canada and navigating the Permanent Residency (PR) process.
“There is still so much we want to explore and share with everyone who has joined us on this incredible journey,” the couple said.
Check if you are eligible to immigrate to Canada
