Pranav Malik, a Geek Squad tech and freelance digital marketer, immigrated to Canada in 2022. He lives in North York, Ontario with his partner Divya Sridhar.
1. What inspired you to make the move to Canada, and how has your journey been so far?
I was initially inspired to move to Canada because I wanted to study Digital Marketing abroad, while also keeping doors open to potentially settling down. After researching many options and speaking with friends and family, Canada stood out as the best fit. It felt like the land of opportunities I had been searching for—a place where I could grow both personally and professionally. Looking back, I can confidently say it was the right decision
2. Where did you first stay when you arrived in Canada?
I was fortunate to have a friend here who helped me avoid the need to book a hotel or Airbnb.
3. How would you describe your experience finding a job in Canada?
Finding a job was not that challenging back in 2022, and I was lucky enough to get a couple of interviews within a week of landing here and found one at Toronto Eaton Centre selling apparel.
4. What were some of the biggest surprises or challenges you faced when you first arrived?
One of the biggest challenges I faced when I first arrived was finding trustworthy roommates and a stable place to live. Then, there were tough emotional moments. I remember the day I lost my pet back home—I couldn’t be there. It’s in moments like that when you realize how far away you really are from your family, and how difficult that can be.
5. How has your experience as an immigrant shaped your view of Canada as a country?
My experience in Canada so far has been nothing short of amazing. I've met some incredible people who’ve become family and found the love of my life here. I often think that if I hadn’t made the decision to leave home, I might never have experienced any of this. That choice changed my life, and it’s why I’ve grown to truly love this country and see my future here.
6. If you could go back in time, would you do anything differently about your immigration journey?
I wouldn’t change a thing about my immigration journey. I was mentally prepared long before arriving in Canada for the kind of work I’d need to do to support myself initially. Thanks to my friends who were already here, I had realistic expectations, and that made a big difference.
7. How do you see the future for yourself and your family in Canada? What are your hopes and aspirations?
I see myself building a long-term future here in Canada—applying for citizenship, growing my career and marrying my partner. We dream of having our first pet (maybe even a second!) and settling down in a place we can truly call home. I also hope to bring my parents here to visit and spend time with us. It’s important to me that they see the life I’ve built here and feel a part of it.
8. Proudest Moment in Canada?
Not relying on my parents for any financial support. I’ve managed to fund my entire education, cover my living expenses, and even learn to cook amazing meals all on my own. The growth I’ve experienced over the past three years has felt nothing short of magical.
9. Advice for Immigrants?
Thoroughly research before making the move. Talk to people who are already living here, join local Facebook groups, and gather as much information as you can. Also, learning some basic cooking and home management skills can go a long way.
