Mehul Rao, who works in corporate software sales, immigrated to Canada in 2019 with his wife, Neha. They have since built a warm life in Pickering, Ontario, where they are raising their two children, Anniah, 8, and Ari, 3.
Q: What inspired you to make the move to Canada, and how has your journey been so far?
A: For us, the move to Canada was about building a stronger future. We wanted stability, opportunities, and a safe environment where our children could thrive. Back in 2019, our daughter Anniah was only two and a half years old, and we knew the choices we made then would shape her life and, eventually, our son’s too. The journey hasn’t been without challenges, but it’s been fulfilling. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11) That verse has carried us through.
Q: Where did you first stay when you arrived in Canada?
A: When we arrived in June 2019, we didn’t know many people here. We stayed in an Airbnb in the Toronto region for about two weeks. It was exciting but overwhelming, figuring out everything from groceries to transit. Soon after, we found our first rental in Etobicoke, which became our first true Canadian home.
Q: How would you describe your experience finding a job in Canada?
A: I was fortunate to have a job secured before coming, which made the transition smoother. Neha joined the workforce in 2020, but after the birth of our son Ari in June 2022, she decided to take a parental sabbatical. That choice gave her the chance to focus on raising both kids during those early years. It reminded us that careers can pause, but family moments never return—something we’re grateful we prioritized.
Q: What were some of the biggest surprises or challenges you faced when you first arrived?
A: The pandemic arrived just six months after we did. Settling in is tough enough—you’re trying to build connections and adjust to a new culture—but suddenly, everything shut down. It was isolating, but it also taught us to lean on each other as a family. Looking back, it strengthened our bond.
Q: How has your experience as an immigrant shaped your view of Canada as a country?
A: Canada has shown us its inclusivity and resilience. Even during uncertain times, we felt welcomed and supported. Neighbors, colleagues, and community members extended kindness that reassured us we belonged here.
Q: How have you managed to stay connected to your roots while embracing Canadian culture?
A: As Christians, our celebrations—like Christmas and Easter—are very much the same here as they were back home. That familiarity has helped us feel grounded and connected. What’s different is how we celebrate them—here, the community aspect is very strong. We’ve found ourselves celebrating alongside neighbors and friends from diverse backgrounds, which has made those traditions feel even richer.
Q: What’s one Canadian custom or tradition you’ve come to love?
A: Since many of our celebrations overlap with Canadian ones, what stands out most is the spirit behind them. Christmas, for example, feels especially magical here—the snowy nights, festive lights, and sense of togetherness. It’s the same holiday we grew up with, but here it carries a new layer of warmth through community gatherings.
Q: What do you miss most about your home country, and how do you cope with that?
A: We miss family deeply—the closeness of grandparents, cousins, and the larger support system back home. Raising kids without that network isn’t easy. We cope through constant phone calls, video chats, and sharing everyday moments virtually. Visits help too, though the pandemic made those rare. Still, our faith reminds us that no distance can weaken love.
Q: If you could go back in time, would you do anything differently about your immigration journey?
A: I wouldn’t change a thing. Every challenge taught us resilience and reminded us that God’s plan is greater than ours. Those experiences shaped who we are today.
Q: How do you see the future for yourself and your family in Canada? What are your hopes and aspirations?
A: Canada is home for us, long-term. I hope to continue growing professionally while giving our children the best opportunities in education and community life. Neha, after her parental sabbatical, is considering her next steps too. Our aspiration is simple—to raise children who are confident, rooted in faith, and ready to make a positive difference.
Proudest Moment in Canada
Watching my children thrive here—knowing that my kids are safe, happy, and growing in faith and confidence makes me deeply grateful. At the same time, building a career here has been a personal milestone. It reassures me that the sacrifices we made were worth it.
Advice for Immigrants
Be patient and give yourself grace. Immigration is not a sprint—it’s a journey. Things won’t always fall into place right away, but with resilience, faith, and openness, it gets better. Celebrate small victories because they add up to big milestones. “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
