The Young Professionals
Writer and Photographer: Iva Poshnjari, Xue Bo
Carlos and Maria are a newly engaged Mexican couple who have decided to immigrate to Canada. They are currently international students and have only been in the country for eight months.
For Carlos Roberto González Meyer and his fiancée Maria Fernanda Navarro Magana, the Canadian experience is a new and exciting step in their lives. The young couple left Mexico to embark on a journey, one they chose to start with a master’s degree. The young couple is studying Business Administration (MBA) at Western University.
There are many factors that led to their decision of moving to this country. Magana explains that they knew Canada was the right fit after experiencing its multicultural scene. She says “You have a piece of everywhere in the world. After getting the chance to go around Toronto, Quebec, Montreal, Kingston, London… we just fell in love with the vibe.”
Career Foundations
The couple is a month away from finishing their degrees and graduating. They credit the university as a great opportunity to network and begin their professional lives before hitting the workforce in Canada. Meyer has already landed his first job as a marketing manager at General Mills, while Magana prepares herself for some upcoming interviews.
The journey to this point wasn’t always easy, Meyer said. Being away from home, friends and family can make it challenging to adjust to a new life. The couple is lucky to have the emotional support from loved ones back home and the ability to rely on one another. Magana says their relationship has gotten stronger since facing the challenges immigration has brought their way.
The Support System
The letters and compass Carlos' mother gave him before he left home
Homesick for Mexican cuisine
Cultural Advice
I have to keep reminding myself not to kiss people when I meet them on the streets.
---Carlos Roberto González Meyer
Among the many things they've learned since being in Canada, Meyer admits cultural cues have been the hardest to grasp. No matter the age or background, newcomers will always have to learn the Canadian way of living. Something as simple as saying hello can be confusing in a new country.
The couple also admits to missing Mexican food the most. Meyer says his family sends him boxes of packaged food which normally would cost $30 back home, but over $200 to receive in London, Ont.
The things they've brought along
Looking ahead, the couple plans to settle down and have a family together. Their next move is to Canada’s largest city, Toronto, where they expect to develop rewarding careers. The only member from their family who was able to make the move with them was Ling-ling, their cat.
As two young professionals, Meyer and Magana are optimistic for their future. They have immigrated to Canada determined to build a higher standard of living and look forward to their next steps.