Snigdha, an Administrative Assistant at Waste Connections of Canada, moved to Canada in 2022 and was later joined by her husband, Mayur Kavirala, a Recruitment Consultant at Wilson HR. They now call New Westminster home and have recently welcomed their first baby boy, Aiden.
What inspired you to make the move to Canada, and how has your journey been so far?
We’d always dreamt of pursuing higher education and starting a new journey abroad. We wanted to find a place that aligned with both our personal and professional goals. Initially, we planned to settle in Australia in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic made us rethink our plans. As we researched other countries, Canada consistently stood out for its high quality of life, inclusive society, and welcoming attitude toward newcomers. We were especially drawn to its diversity—not just in people and cultures, but also in opportunities. While moving to a new country comes with challenges, we’ve felt supported and welcomed every step of the way. We’re grateful for the journey so far and excited for what lies ahead.
Where did you first stay when you arrived in Canada?
When I first arrived in February 2022, Mayur hadn’t received his visa yet, so I made the move alone. I didn’t know anyone, and there was no one to pick me up at the airport. I took an Uber to a friend’s place, stayed there for about ten days before finding shared accommodation. It was my first time sharing a room—a big adjustment, but a valuable experience. Once Mayur arrived, our Canadian journey finally felt complete.
How would you describe your experience finding a job in Canada?
Our experiences were quite different. As a student, I started with part-time jobs—first as a cashier at Safeway, then at Waste Connections of Canada, where I still work. Mayur found a job within three weeks of arriving and now works as a recruiter. Knock on wood, we’ve been fortunate to have steady jobs, and that stability has been a huge relief.
How has your experience as an immigrant shaped your view of Canada as a country?
Our journey has given us a deep appreciation for Canada’s openness and inclusivity. Being welcomed and supported here showed us what it truly means to belong. From navigating winters to building our careers and friendships, every challenge strengthened our resilience. Canada has become more than just a country—it’s where we’ve learned to dream bigger and embrace new experiences with hope.
How have you managed to stay connected to your roots while embracing Canadian culture?
Our church has been a big part of helping us stay connected to our roots. It’s more than a place of worship—it’s a community where friendships have become like family. At home, we celebrate our traditions, cook familiar foods, and stay in touch with loved ones, while also embracing Canadian culture through new experiences and friendships.
What’s one Canadian custom or tradition you’ve come to love?
Canada Day! It has become a special day for us to connect with friends, family, and our new home while appreciating the diversity and warmth that make Canada so unique.
What do you miss most about your home country, and how do you cope with that?
We miss our parents and families the most, especially during festivals like Christmas and New Year. To stay connected, we’ve created our own traditions—Friendsgiving dinners, Christmas gatherings, and New Year celebrations with friends who feel like family. These moments keep our roots alive while making our lives in Canada even more meaningful.
How do you see the future for yourself and your family in Canada? What are your hopes and aspirations?
We just welcomed our first baby and are excited to raise our child in Canada’s supportive and diverse environment. We hope to pass on our cultural values while building a home filled with love, opportunity, and new experiences that make our journey here even more meaningful.
Proudest Moment in Canada
Graduating with a Master’s degree and becoming Permanent Residents together.
Advice for Immigrants
Work hard, stay patient, and build a strong support network of friends who can guide and encourage you. Every small step counts, and having the right people by your side makes the journey smoother, more rewarding, and much easier to navigate.