Category Archives: Uncategorized

Spitfire Kitchen is now open!

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Woof woof. Woof. Woooffff. Woof woof woof. Woof.

Woof woof. Woof. Woooffff. Woof woof woof. Woof.

From the Brits that brought you The Feisty Jack, we have word that their restaurant — Spitfire Kitchen — is now open for business.

From their Facebook group:

Spitfire Kitchen is now open. As of now we will be open from 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. we are located at 132 Sixth Street which is Lakeshore and Islington (South Etobicoke or West Toronto, depending on who you ask…)

What is it? It’s a bit of everything; we have a massive selection of imported British imports, but not the fake stuff, real imported goods. God bless the Cadbury factory in Toronto … but if you’re a Brit you know it’s not the same — all of our imports are actually imported.

As well, we have a big selection of frozen ready-made meals for you to take home, no fillers, no chemicals, real food. Shepherd’s Pie, meat pies, sausage rolls, fruit pies, etc.

We also have a great selection of homemade jams and preservatives. Further to that we have a full coffee bar, espresso, flavored coffees and a massive tea selection that you can enjoy with a great table. If the weather is nice we have our outside patio and we are fully Wi-Fi and media-enabled.

On Saturday and Sunday we’ll be doing brunch from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

We hope you will come by and check it out!

New to Canada SuperShow and Information Expo from November 8-9, 2014

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We got chatting to Rhonda Jacobson, Community Outreach Manager, New2Canada SuperShow and Expo today on Twitter, keeping our conversation to 140 characters or less, and she sent us some information that may be of interest to those new to Canada …

From the press release:

New to Canada Resources is proud to present Canada’s largest show and exposition for newly settled Canadians. Featuring over 70 exhibitors from all three tiers of government, local community resource and support groups, and the private sector, The New to Canada SuperShow and Expo promises to be a must-attend event for all newcomers.

Unlike the many “job fair” type shows that frequent the GTA, this is the first all-encompassing newcomer expo in Eastern Canada, with specialized exhibits and seminars targeting the most important needs of new Canadians, from settlement issues and changing regulations, to recreation programs and local diversity support services.

The show takes place at The International Centre, Mississauga, on Saturday, November 8 and Sunday November 9. Admission is free for those who register online at n2Canadashow.org, or at the door.

And it’s open to anyone with an interest in newcomer issues, as well as the general public.

Some of the more than 70 featured exhibitors include: Service Ontario, York Region, The City of Mississauga, OCASI (settlement.org), major colleges and retraining organizations, job search strategy organizations, along with many smaller, hard-to-find community support groups … the grassroots organizations helping with the many and varied settlement challenges that a newcomer faces when immigrating to Canada.

There is also a free Welcome Pack for qualified show visitors upon presentation of a PR Card.

The GTA’s unique and highly diverse ethnic and multicultural foundations will surely make for an interesting and informative show.

Former Governor General Adrienne Clarkson discusses the nature of citizenship

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Former Governor General Adrienne Clarkson

Former Governor General Adrienne Clarkson

Here’s an excellent article in The Varsity (the University of Toronto’s student newspaper) about former Governor General Adrienne Clarkson and her thoughts on — among other things — citizenship.

Snippet:

“Citizenship is a subject Clarkson is well-acquainted with, having come to Canada as a refugee from Hong Kong at the age of three, as well as in her work as Governor General.

“‘Well, I founded the Institute for Canadian Citizenship … so when they approached me to do the talks, citizenship was the word that really got me,’ she explained.

“In Belonging, she writes, ‘It is worth noting that the motto of the Order of Canada is “to desire a better country.” This motto indicates, with typical Canadian understatement, that the country is not a wonderful basket of goodies to which we and others contribute and draw interest from. Instead, it assumes that as citizens we are proud of our country and therefore we will help make it better.'”

Read the full story here.

Say hello to Nick Noorani, founder of Canadian Immigrant magazine

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Caption here

This man’s forgotten more about Canadian immigration than you’ve had Sunday roast dinners

This is our new feature where we say hello to someone who — although they may not be a Brit — has made an important contribution to the life of Brits in Toronto somehow.

Hello Nick Noorani!

You’re probably most well-known for starting Canadian Immigrant magazine. What made you realize there was an outlet for that kind of subject matter when you founded the magazine?

From the time I landed in 1998 (from Mumbai, India), I was intrigued with the lack of information for immigrants … and so was born Arrival Survival Canada — a handbook for immigrants written by an immigrant!

The idea for the magazine came to me in a 3:00 a.m. dream in March 2003. I wrote down the idea and later that year when I was laid off I started the magazine. By that time I had been in publishing for five years and with a background in advertising and marketing, I felt well equipped to start the magazine.

I did extensive research with immigrants and saw a very clear niche — a magazine for all immigrants — not any one ethnic group. Something that would reflect Canada!

The magazine went on to change the media landscape as well as the information and motivation that immigrants needed, but I felt more needed to be done in the pre-arrival area so in 2010 I left the magazine (that I had by then sold to the Toronto Star) and started www.prepareforcanada.com.

We conduct monthly webinars in various countries including the U.K.! Check us out!

A lot of highly skilled immigrants come to Canada and end up in survival jobs, doing security or driving taxis. What advice do you have that can enable them to realize their true potential?

For the love of God please do research your profession before you come here! Most immigrants search jobs before they come, not their profession, and then find that they have years of studying to do in order to get their degree recognized!

Secondly, be prepared to start one or two rungs lower. Remember it did take you years to reach where you are in your home country … it may just take a few in comparison.

And lastly, have a cheerful disposition and the challenges will seem easier to deal with!

If you could go back to 1998 when you immigrated to Canada and give yourself some advice about what to expect in the years ahead, what would it be?

Again, I would say the things I said before: research your profession, choose the location based on labour market information, be prepared to start one or two rungs below, be flexible and go out and make lots of friends!

What’s your thoughts on the new Express Entry system being introduced in January 2015?

Express Entry will move the process to a demand-based one rather than a supply-based one. When immigrants come to Canada with jobs in hand, the settlement process is much faster and everyone benefits.

Open question: this is your chance to share some wisdom on being a successful immigrant to Canada.

Get involved. This is now your country, and sitting on the sidelines will always make you feel a stranger who is, well, sitting on the sidelines! I volunteer, mentor and am involved on several boards where I continue to try and make a difference in my new adopted home!

Favourite pub in Toronto?

The Spotted Dick.

Excellent advice, Nick, and keep up the good work you do to help immigrants to Toronto/Canada!

Successful Brits in Toronto: Marilla Wex

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Caption

Here’s actress Marilla Wex playing Marilla Wex. She’s very convincing!

Marilla Wex is an award-winning British actress, voice-artist and comedian who’s lived in Toronto for 11 years. Her one-woman show “Lost and Found” won Best of Fringe this summer at the Toronto Fringe Festival.

She is currently the Reader on the TV show “Reign” (she runs lines with the actors and speaks English at them. It’s kind of a weird job).

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

I met and fell in love with a guy in New York one Christmas. He was based in Toronto and couldn’t move to England because of his daughter, so I moved here! It was a major upheaval for me — restarting my career from scratch in another country. Luckily it turned out well!

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

I’m an actress so luckily my skills and qualifications are transferable! I sent my CV to five different agents and the best one picked me. I’ve done TV, film, stand-up, voice-work and theatre and currently work on the show “Reign” which films for nine months of the year in Etobicoke.

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

The best: it’s easy to navigate, you can get good curry (I’m from Birmingham where you are obliged to eat curry at least once a fortnight for health reasons) and there’s always a need for a British accent. I can get away with big swears in my stand-up and Canadians still think I’m adorable.

The worst: the bloody winter. I have to shoot on location and it can be quite uncomfortable!

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

I meet lots of Brits through my work. There are quite a few ex-pats working in the business we call show — both in front of and behind the camera.

I actually met my closest British friend Jess in the check-in line at Gatwick airport; she was showing her mum her temporary visa in her passport the day she landed in Toronto as a permanent resident. I butted in like a nosey parker and we’ve been mates ever since.

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

People underestimate the emotional impact moving to Canada is going to have. Make lots of connections as soon as you can because it can be quite lonely and the culture is more different than you probably anticipated.

It’s been brilliant for me professionally because I can do all the accents I couldn’t get arrested for in England. I’ve played a 50-year-old Scottish nanny in a commercial, an alcoholic traveller from Birmingham in a movie, a Mancunian trollop in “Murdoch Mysteries” and a Cockney abortionist in “Reign.”

Gor blimey, luv a duck! Cheers Marilla. Now exit stage left.

You can read more about Marilla at her website www.marillawex.com or on Twitter at @marillawex.

Totally biased product review by me — Elephant & Castle bangers ‘n’ mash

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We loved how the meaty bangers sat astride the creamy mash, the onion straws observing ...

We loved how the meaty bangers sat astride the creamy mash, the onion straws merely observing …

Bangers ‘n’ mash. Technically, sausages and potatoes. Meat and starch.

BANGERS ‘N’ MASH!

Say it loud and say it proud. A pure British treat, and none better (hmmmm, maybe there is, readers?) than what the Brits in Toronto crew had at the Elephant & Castle pub on King Street West recently.

First off the E&C on King has the lunch schedule down to a tee. In at 12 noon, ordered, eaten and paid for (with a nice tip because the service was great!) by 12:27 p.m. Not bad.

The bangers? Sliced nicely for easy consumption, a good seasoning and generous sizes.

The mash? Nice and creamy. No lumps, buttery and filling.

The onion straws? A little greasy, but nice and crunchy.

The gravy? We loved this part. Loads of it. Nice and thick. Not watery. Good to the last drop!

The sprig of rosemary. Forget it. Waste of plate space.

A really nice dish. We give it a Brits in Toronto 4/5 stars (would have been 5/5 but, well, the green bit …)

 

Totally biased product review by me — Union Jack mug

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Does exactly what is says on the mug

Does exactly what it says on the mug

The Brits in Toronto crew have been looking around for ages for a decent mug that holds a good-sized amount of tea, and we think this is it.

From HomeSense. $3.99.

The first plus point in our book is that the Union Jack design covers the whole mug. They certainly didn’t skimp on the red and blue paint (or whatever it is) when they fired this bad boy in the kiln. The flag is extremely well represented across the rotund surface of the mug, and — this really blew us away — also on the top of the handle. Very pleasing indeed.

We went to the Brits in Toronto test kitchen, popped the kettle on and waited in anticipation for the brew.

Once the tea was nicely steeped, we poured it into the mug, added some milk, a little sugar and hefted the weight in our hand. It was a nice ratio of “raise from the kitchen table” action to “taking a sip.”

That’s always important when buying a tea mug to adequately test it first, but sometimes it’s impossible to do that in the middle of a shop before buying it, but we’re here for you (on a Sunday) taking one for the team.

Don’t rush your tea. Take your time. You’ve certainly earned it.

Around 10 minutes later our mug was empty. We estimate — and we need to confirm this once we’ve checked the stats — that it took around 15* mouthfuls of tea to finish. (Disclaimer: that number may vary depending on whether you like to gulp or sip.)

All in all, the team are very impressed with this Union Jack mug and give it a solid Brits in Toronto 5/5 stars.

*More like 13.

Let’s all help fellow Brit Christian find a job!

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Christian's been in Toronto a couple of months and took this photo to prove it

Christian’s been in Toronto a couple of months and took this photo to prove it

Yes, Brits in Toronto works Sundays. We feel it’s a small price to pay to help a fellow Brit find a job. Today, we’re featuring Christian so give him a shout if you can help …

When did you arrive in Toronto and what brought you here?

I’ve been here for a couple of months after leaving England with my (Canadian) girlfriend. She had been teaching back in England but got a job recruiting teachers from Canada once her visa expired. After a two-week holiday over Christmas to meet the parents, etc. we decided I would come this summer and try the Canadian life!

What stage are you at: landed immigrant, permanent resident, citizen?

So far, I’ve just been playing the tourist role. I’m here only on the six months allowed as a visitor but now plan to stay longer and find work. As far as I can tell, the best option from here is to apply for the International Experience Canada and if all goes well, the common-law sponsorship after that. At this point though, any advice is welcome!

What kind of work are you looking for?

I’m trained in the sport and leisure industry and have a high level of football coaching badges (currently doing some voluntary coaching in Ontario). Where that hasn’t been a full-time position for me in the past, I’ve worked in education for the past four years, working in behaviour management and pastoral care. For now though, I’m happy to try my hand at anything!

What has been the best and worst aspects of the experience of coming to Toronto?

So I’m currently in the GTA (Oakville) but it’s so easy to get into Toronto, the people are mostly friendly and there’s plenty to do, with quite a lot of free options too. Enough sport to follow for someone keen on that topic and as an avid Tottenham fan, seeing JD again is good for me.

Downside? HST drives me mad!

Open question: what would you like to ask our readers, tell them or talk about? Use this as a chance to give your account of a British newcomer to Toronto.

I’ve met a couple of Brits so far, but sites like this can be so helpful. Any advice you can give/receive can go a long way. Saying that, after reading this, any advice you want to give/ask you can e-mail/Tweet me … I’ll leave the details at the bottom.

My one piece of advice to sign off with would be to take any opportunity that someone may give you, be sociable, explore and interact with people. You only get one life, enjoy it!

Twitter: @_Tian15 / E-mail: chris.tian15 AT hotmail.com

Quiz: Can you pass this Canadian citizenship test?

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And your starter for 10, no conferring: name this country

And your starter for 10, no conferring: name this country

“Can you name Canada’s first head of responsible government or the first European to explore the St. Lawrence River?

“If not, then you may know less about Canada than most of its new citizens.

“About 140 students from across the country were put to the Citizenship Challenge on Wednesday when they played a bingo-style game at the Chateau Laurier in Ottawa. The students answered questions about Canada similar to those that appear in a Discover Canada citizenship test.”

Read the full story on Metro.

Bonus story: What is a Canadian Permanent Resident visa?

“What does it mean to have permanent residence in Canada? Immigration to Canada is, and has always been, a changing process. With over 60 Canadian immigration programs that lead to permanent residence in Canada, it is understandable that a degree of confusion arises from time to time. New programs open, old programs close, criteria for existing programs are modified, and definitions change. Some newcomers to Canada who have successfully attained permanent residence status remain unsure about precisely what it is. This article will deal with some common questions surrounding permanent residence in Canada.”

Successful Brits in Toronto: Hannah Perrin-Haynes

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Hou's it gaun, Hannah Perrin-Haynes? A'm daein fine, an ye?

Hou’s it gaun, Hannah Perrin-Haynes? A’m daein fine, an ye?

Ahhh, Scotland. Rugged windswept scenery, beautiful castles, bagpipes, fish and chip suppers, haggis, Billy Connolly, deep-fried Mars Bars. What’s not to love?

Hannah Perrin-Haynes certainly agrees. As the Scottish Government’s Diplomatic representative in Toronto, she works as part of Team Scotland which includes Scottish Development International (which has a remit for trade and investment) and Visit Scotland (the tourism body).

“We are based at the British Consulate,” explains Hannah. “I work across the whole country, and have really loved all the different trips around Canada over the last year. Highlights: seeing bears and wolves in the Rockies, and driving around a foggy Cape Breton Island meeting different Gaelic-speaking communities.”

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

I was transferred to Toronto for my post as the Second Secretary for Scottish Affairs in Canada. I have been here for a year so far, and I’m loving every minute. My job — promoting Scotland in Canada — is made so much easier given the extraordinary affinity Canadians feel with all things Scottish.

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

What’s the infamous Canadian experience?! It was smooth sailing for me, and I felt right at home from day one.

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

The best: the diversity of Torontonians … and the best thing about that is the fantastic array of authentic cuisine.

The worst: ice quakes.

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

There are lots of really fun Brits at the Consulate, and it’s amazing how often I hear the familiar accent when out and about in the city. I’m a big fan of the menu at the Queen and Beaver, and The Caledonian is a great place to enjoy a Scottish beer.

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

If you’re a Scot in Toronto, or you have an interest in Scotland, then please do get in touch, we would love to meet you! You can find me on twitter @HPerrinHaynes or e-mail me at Hannah.Perrin-Haynes AT scotent.co.uk.

Successful Brits in Toronto: Roger Lyne

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COME ON YOUUU SPUUURSSS!

COME ON YOOOUUU SPUUURSSS!

See you next Tuesday, we said, and here we are. Yet another Successful Brit in Toronto. The city’s just teeming with ’em!

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

I had visited most of the big cities in Canada before and Toronto seemed the most multicultural and trendy. My Canadian girlfriend (now wife) got fed up with London after three years so we upped sticks and went to Toronto.

I got a one-year visa but six months in I decided to apply for permanent residency as I loved it so much. I guess the cold winter novelty will wear off over the years mind you …

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

I signed up with job agencies, job sites and went into shops with my resume. I worked in Golf Town while trying to get a job based on my experience and skills and ended up at Microsoft Advertising after six months. Plenty of jobs out there if you are persistent.

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

Best: Amazing places to see just a few hours’ drive outside the city, great for weekend getaways when you don’t get five weeks’ holiday. I love the local beer so the rise of the microbreweries has been awesome … and of course the Blue Jays regardless of their failings.

Worst: Traffic in and around the GTA is a bloody nightmare.

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

I like embracing the Canadian lifestyle so I don’t aim to seek out the Brits, but being the Toronto chapter leader for Spurs Canada, I get to meet a lot of English and Canadian supporters at our supporters’ pubs Real Sports and The Duke Of Gloucester. COYS!

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

It’s a great place to have fun.

Roger. Over and out.

Successful Brits in Toronto: Ian MacDonald

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"Snow way I'm gonna get board with this!"

“Snow way I’m gonna get board with this!”

“Shameless self-promotion” was actually uttered by a Brit. Yes, the heavens roiled, old men playing at the pool table in a pub on the moors stopped their game and looked up, and things were never the same again.

But, then again, Ian MacDonald has the talent to create work like this so we’ll let him off.

What, we wondered, brought Ian to Toronto? That’s not a rhetorical question because we asked him in an e-mail and he told us.

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

I was working for Auto Trader UK when our owners bought Auto Trader Canada from YPG. They wanted to bring over some experience to help grow the business and I was fortunate to be offered a role. I really wanted to have an adventure at that stage in life and I’ve always had huge respect for Canada and heard great things, so I decided to make the move and give it a try.

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

Well, as I mentioned, I had a job lined up but my wife had to find work in her field which is recruitment. She found most employers saw having experience from a major market like London was a big bonus if anything.

From speaking to friends I don’t think not having “Canadian experience” is as much of a hindrance as it once was perhaps. That is a sign of a city becoming more global and multicultural … which is a good thing.

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

The best is the size of the city — it has a big city feel, but is easier to navigate and get around than the likes of New York or London, especially on foot. I love how whether I’m meeting with an ad agency, recording audio in a studio, or attending a media conference, wherever I need to get to it’s almost all walkable within the downtown core. Being a Londoner and having spent hours of my previous life commuting, I hate the tube and by extension, any time spent on any subway system!

The worst is the roads downtown and the streetcars if you do have to actually get somewhere fast — the increasing strain of more and more people living downtown with no new transport options is turning it into a bit of a nightmare. Road construction seems to be endless and always poorly planned, and traffic is becoming so bad that I don’t bother to drive into the core anymore, I just walk.

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

Although it’s nice to be around British people, I am a believer that to really integrate here I need to be open-minded and make friends with new types of people, especially Canadians given I am new to the country.

One of the reasons I moved here was to meet new people and gain new perspectives and experiences, so if all my friends were British I think my overall experience here would be lacking something.

That said, I do enjoy the odd pub quiz organized by Brit groups; it’s nice to indulge in some memories of home for a few hours every now and then. The best place to meet Brits I’ve found is anywhere showing the Premier League soccer games. That’s where many Brits (including myself) can be found on Saturday and Sunday mornings!

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

Like anything, it is what you make it. Embrace all aspects of your new life, good and bad, as experiences. I find a lot of people struggle with the cold in the winter but I find it interesting and exciting to have so much snow and live with those temperatures for a few weeks — it’s so different to home and, after all, I moved to find something different.

For example, I have made the snow a positive. I have really got into snowboarding since I moved here so I make the best of the snow at Blue Mountain or take a flight out west.

My final tip is don’t be reluctant to modify your pronunciation when needed — I have given up on trying to ask for “water” in my accent and now ask for “warder” which people seem to understand better! This can save you a lot of time and confusion when you learn what the “problem” words are!

Thank you, Ian — great stuff. We’d like to help him with his shameless self-promotion just a tad more, so here’s Ian’s LinkedIn profile if anyone wants to connect on a professional basis, or needs a new motor.

Successful Brits in Toronto: Ian Sandusky

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Ian Sandusky and a "mystery stunner" according to The Sun

Ian Sandusky and a “mystery stunner” according to The Sun tabloid

Ian Sandusky has only been in the city for six months. But it still qualifies because he’s a BRIT in TORONTO. And we liked the cut of his jib.

Now, let’s see how SUCCESSFUL he is …

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

Years ago I had planned to move downtown for a job in advertising, but when the recession hit and I was laid off, those plans got put on hold. Earlier this year I met someone special in the city, and that was the catalyst to pack my bags and move to West Queen West. It was a snap decision, but I consider it to be one of the best choices I’ve made thus far.

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

I used the shotgun approach to get my first interviews, which in turn led to my first job in sales at Front and Spadina. I responded to every employment listing that sounded even remotely plausible — and many that I was completely unqualified for. I figured that if my name crossed enough desks, eventually something would stick … and it did!

Much like everything else, it comes down to persistence. It only takes one “yes” to make all the rejections irrelevant.

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

The best aspect in my opinion is living in the midst of such a hotbed of culture. There are so many people doing so many innovative things with so much unbridled passion — it’s incredibly inspiring to have that all around you.

The worst is the traffic — driving three blocks can take the better part of an hour, some days … but that’s a minor price to pay for all the benefits living down here provides.

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

I personally have not made an effort specifically – I’ve only been in the city for six months, so I’m just happy to meet people of any heritage at the moment!

My favourite is the Dog & Bear by Queen West and Dovercourt. Ask Richie for a pint of Beau’s Lugtread, and I’m sure you’ll be hooked.

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

This city is what you make it. If you focus on the negative, you’ll notice it all around you. If you choose to constantly be curious about Toronto and amazed by what it has to offer, you’ll never want to leave.

Take walks, talk to strangers, try new things — and before you know it, this will be home.

The future of immigrant journalism in Canada

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Absolutely hypnotizing array of words relating to journalist, organized according to a complex algorithm

Absolutely hypnotizing array of words relating to journalism, organized according to a complex algorithm

“The online media venture I created is based on a fairly straightforward idea: immigrants redefine a country and deserve to be a full part of the national conversation. I call this ‘immigrant journalism,’ a vein of journalism that privileges the voice of newcomers and always stands up for their point of view.”

So says George Abraham, the founder and publishing director for New Canadian Media (“the pulse of immigrant Canada”).

Read the full story here.

Totally biased product review by me — The Bristol Yard

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Yum. Out mouths are watering just looking at this blurry JPEG of the menu

Yum. Our mouths are watering just looking at this blurry JPEG of the menu

“A painfully hot, hallucination inducing, mind altering curry.”

Those words alone are enough to entice any self-respecting Brit — “Yeah mate, yeah … give us the ‘ottest ruby ya got!” — to wander along to The Bristol Yard for dinner.

First impressions: NOT a pub. Stylish bar. Dark wood. Nice. Not Jazz Club nice … but nice.

Starving. Went for the bangers and mash (I think). Was a while ago and we’d had a few bevvies. All I remember was that it tasted absolutely delish.

That doesn’t grab you? How does half of a Tandoori-roasted chicken, garlic mash, Indian-spiced Yorkshire Pudding, roasted mini red potatoes, sautéed carrots, broccoli and gravy sound? Right?

The Brits in Toronto crew need to go back to experience the dining choices more intensely. Watch this space.

For now, an interim Brits in Toronto 4/5 stars.

Totally biased product review by me — The Duke of Gloucester

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Some beautiful prose to mull over and reflect on as you take a whizz

Some beautiful prose to mull over and reflect on as you take a whizz (artist unknown)

Ahhh, The Duke of Gloucester. The Duke. Or just simply, “That British pub on Yonge between Bloor Street and Wellesley that is upstairs and has the flags flying outside. Opposite The Church of Scientology. Along by the strip club. Yeah — that one.”

One of the best. Brit HQ for the short-lived World Cup 2014 campaign. Standing room only. Two brave Italians. The best of times … the worst of times.

From a Yelp review: “You come here to forget about a girl. A girl who you would have married when you were young, if pride hadn’t made you turn your back on your last chance at true love, a long, long time ago. I’ll be back, if only because I found the best place to stare wistfully into space over a cold pint.”

Yes. Yes indeed.

The Duke is not a bar. It’s a pub that’s been around a while. Like an old friend, it’s in need of a new lick of paint, some chair repair, a menu upgrade.

But you don’t go to the The Duke for foie gras. You go to meet friends, prop up the bar and chat about football. Or “Mayor” Ford. Or if you have no friends, then chat to the friendly staff. Always willing to share a laugh.

There’s a dartboard. A pool table. An excellent patio. A jukebox.

Like Toronto FC? The Duke is U-Sector’s HQ and they have turned the nook into a shrine that has to be seen to be truly appreciated.

Who hasn’t stumbled down the steep stairs? Dropped a glass? Gagged on an Irish Car Bomb? Most Duke regulars have.

Free regulars’ Christmas dinner parties. St. Paddy’s Day celebrations. Live bands. Pub quiz night. Halloween events. Birthdays. Stag night stops.

The Duke has seen them all over the years. And we love it!

A Brits in Toronto 5/5 stars.

Reforms to immigration and citizenship act in Canada passed

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Got bored with using stock photos of the Canadian flag for these kinds of posts

“Ow! That’s a really strong Canadian citizenship you got there, mate!”

ExpatForum published a story yesterday about the strengthening of rules around access to Canadian citizenship. Here’s some highlights:

“Immigration and Citizenship Minister Chris Alexander said that reducing the decision-making process from three steps to one will vastly reduce the average processing time for citizenship applications to under a year by 2015/2016. The current backlog will also be reduced by more than 80%.”

“More applicants will now be required to meet language requirements and pass a knowledge test to ensure that new citizens are better prepared to fully participate in Canadian society.”

“As a way of recognizing the important contributions of those who serve Canada in uniform, permanent residents who are members of the Canadian Armed Forces will have quicker access to Canadian citizenship. The Act also stipulates that children born to Canadian parents serving abroad as servants of the Crown are able to pass on Canadian citizenship to children they have or adopt outside Canada.”

“Citizenship applicants will need to be physically present in Canada for a total of four out of their last six years. In addition, they will need to be physically present in Canada for 183 days per year for at least four of those six years. These provisions will come into force in approximately one year.”

Full story here.

Common People: British Film by Canadians coming to Toronto

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One of the many well-shot, scripted and beautifully acted scenes from Common People

One of the many well-shot, scripted and beautifully acted scenes from Common People

This e-mail we received speaks for itself. (Bolding and caps are ours.)

Dear British Bloke in T.O.,

LOVE YOUR WEBSITE. Read every Successful Brit in Toronto interview thinking I should write to them all, but then figured it might be easier to write to you, and hope you might be able to disseminate this info from your Brits in Toronto Headquarters.

I’m the Canadian writer/co-director of the hit British film, Common People, which will be having its Canadian Premiere in Toronto at the ReelHeART film festival on June 28, before it is released on iTunes nationwide in Canada the following week.

I’m absolutely thrilled to be bringing it to Toronto, as that is where the whole odyssey began, when I was writing the last draft from an apartment overlooking the Bell Lightbox during TIFF 2011.

The journey since then has included shooting the actual film for £35,000, outdoors over 18 days in London during, “the wettest April since records began;” winning awards at our first and subsequent festivals, a one-off screening in London that snowballed into a nine-week sell-out run, and, last week, a nationwide theatrical released in the U.K., to considerable acclaim from British critics.

As the budget suggests, we’re a micro-budget operation, with no marketing team, so we’d really appreciate any help to spread the word about the film among Brits and Anglophiles in Toronto.

My co-director (and Essex Girl) Kerry Skinner and I will be flying in from the U.K. for the festival, and we’d be extremely grateful of any help to spread the word before we bring Common People to Toronto.

Thankfully, I think the film screens BETWEEN World Cup matches. We’ll also be finding those BRITISH PUBS to watch the England matches in at a much more convenient time.

You can read all about the film and view the trailer at www.commonpeoplethemovie.com and see the trailer, and London audience responses to the film on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/commonpeoplethemovie

Tickets can be booked here: http://reelheart.org/saturday-june-28/saturday-june-28-300pm/

And do come along if you’re free. It’s a lovely film.

All the best,

Stewart Alexander
Common People Productions

Successful Brits in Toronto: Andrew Davies

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Not sure where Andrew Davies is, but it looks very "cool" (hee hee)

Not sure where Andrew Davies is, but it looks very “cool” (hee hee)

“Sure, why the hell not.”

With those enthusiastic, committed and determined words, we managed to line up yet another Successful Brit in Toronto. There are so many — the city is truly spoilt by the sheer number of talented Brits willing to give up their cushy lives over the pond, and come here to make a go of it.

Andrew Davies … the stage is yours:

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

My then Canadian girlfriend, now wife, lives in Toronto so it was inevitable that ultimately I would end up in Toronto, especially as my skill set (civil engineering estimator) is in such demand here.

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

Arrived on Saturday, CNE on Sunday, interview on Monday and a job offer arrived on Tuesday. It was all very Solomon Grundy apart from the bit about being buried on Sunday. I have been buried in work since I arrived. The lack of “Canadian experience” fortunately hasn’t really been an issue — and if anything, being British has opened a few doors for me. Cool Britannia. 🙂

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

Traffic and commuting in Toronto is a nightmare. My first two months of commuting was probably the most stressful and painful thing I have ever had to do, other than leaving family and friends back in Yorkshire.

However once you get to where you are going though, you will find that people are welcoming, open, understanding, friendly and great fun. The city has so much to offer that there is never a dull moment. If you want it, Toronto has it.

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

I have British friends and, yes, I enjoy getting together with them. However, I don’t go to meet homesick Brits pining for Coronation Street, Heinz tomato soup or Curly Wurlys as that’s not me. I go to have a laugh with a fellow Brit who “gets” the humour and doesn’t get offended if you tell them to f**k off.

Don’t get me wrong though, I miss a decent pie and pint like the next guy.

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

If you are moving to Toronto, don’t hesitate, do it. I did, I don’t regret it and I wish I had done it 20 years ago. I would urge you though, to network with friends who are already here and get advice on locations before you do it.

That’s great advice, Andrew. Thanks mate! If anyone is curious where the photo was taken you can connect via LinkedIn.

The best thing about living in Toronto during the World Cup is …

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Beep every time you see this glorious sight on a Ford Capri 2.0. That's us

Beep every time you see this glorious sight on a Gold Ford Capri 2.0. That’s us

… the car flags!

Football is the best sport in the world. Brits are passionate about it. And now the BEST sporting event is a few days away. The Brits in Toronto crew cannot wait.

We are going to drink a lot of booze during this event. Let’s be honest about it. The best thing? Socializing with other countries’ fans. There will be Italians in the pub we frequent this coming Saturday. We have friends in blue football jerseys. It’s about the spirit of the occasion, the competition — not the aggro and trouble.

The best part, though? We love seeing all the different car flags driving around the city too. There’s nothing better than rounding the bend on the Gardiner — the one by Jameson — and suddenly spotting the red and white fluttering in the wind speeding by on the other side.

Quick! Hand on horn. Listen for the reply. Job done! Acknowledged. Respect due.

Also, the joy of overtaking the German flag. Cutting off an Argentinian flag. Slowing down to let a Japanese flag in front, as they’re polite and also won’t last long.

It’s all good fun! The city’s multiculturalism is one of its strengths. Toronto welcomes people from all nationalities, and this is the best time when that comes to the fore.

So … Brits in Toronto … get those car flags on and show support for England!

Successful Brits in Toronto: Nick Drew

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Nick Drew forgot to send a photo of himself, so here's E.T. auditioning for the next A-Team film (E-Team?)

Nick Drew forgot to send a photo of himself, so here’s E.T. auditioning for the next A-Team film (Mr. E.T.? The E-Team?)*

We have a LOT to thank Robin Brown for. A lot. Not enough to reward him financially in any way, but just enough to link to him again.

You see, a while ago, by the wizardry that is Twitter, we put out a call for more Successful Brits in Toronto volunteers. Tumbleweeds and chirping crickets.

Was just about to press “Delete Blog” and go for a pint, but … like a last-minute strike from Rooney to win the upcoming June 14 England vs. Italy World Cup game … Robin e-mailed us a tip. And that tip was Nick Drew.

Thank you Robin, and take it away Nick …

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

I guess I kind of fell into it. After 10 years of living in London my girlfriend and I had a general feeling of, “There must be more out there than this.” She was offered a transfer to Toronto within her company, so we thought why not?!

“Permanent” sounds quite final, though; I think after four years we’re still in the “trying it and seeing how it goes” stage.

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

It was actually relatively straightforward: I worked out pretty quickly that multinationals are more amenable to hiring expats than domestic firms, and went for a few interviews. I’m lucky to work in a role in which international experience is a valuable asset — and an industry where an English accent is still regarded as a desirable trait!

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

For me, the quality of life is far and away the biggest difference from the U.K. It’s a combination of so many things … but hot sunny summers and cold sunny winters are a big factor. Cost of living can be more expensive here (i.e. mobile phone, groceries), but being able to live three miles from the downtown core in a house with a garden is something you could only dream of in London!

As for the worst aspects, Toronto infrastructure has to be up there on the list. Construction on the Gardiner and across the city; TTC reliability apart from the subway; even the waste water system is in desperate need of overhaul. It’s such a shame, because I think it’s what keeps Toronto from being among the absolute best cities to live in.

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

A lot of my best friends here are Brits, but it’s really not intentional — I just keep kinda running into them. It’s probably something to do with a worldview, and having similar context and experiences. For pubs, The Queen and Beaver and The Oxley are excellent tastes of home: they even have cask ales!

Amaya comes closest to a British curry that I’ve found, although I’m always keen to try others (any suggestions?). And for meeting other Brits, we’ve found the sports leagues to be a good starting point: the football (soccer) leagues are great, and for the younger crowd (20s and 30s), the ski club is a great way to meet expats.

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

One of those clichéd inspirational quotes comes to mind: “It’s not the destination that’s important, it’s the journey” — and when it comes to deciding where to live, that’s so true. Spending even a few years in Toronto is excellent, just to experience the change.

And for sheer excitement, seeing someone you don’t know in the office, or on your street, or just in a café, and having them give you a cheery, “Hello, where are you from?” can’t be beaten!

Thanks Nick! If any other Brits out there want to connect or recommend a good portrait photographer to Nick, here’s his LinkedIn profile.

*Update: Nick e-mailed us today and apologized for forgetting to send a photo of himself, and included the one below of him and the famous pug from Men In Black, the one that the special effects guys made say, “Kiss my furry little butt!”

Nick Drew

Toronto’s eight great places to watch the World Cup

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See ya later, Italy!

See ya later, Italy!

The World Cup is only 11 days away now, and if you haven’t been thinking about where to watch the games, Inside Toronto have come up with a handy guide.

“For England fans there are not specific neighbourhoods where fans gather so it’s a matter of finding your favourite pub. There are no shortage of English pubs, given Toronto’s heritage, for instance, just to name a couple: The Queen and Beaver Public House at 35 Elm St. or The Duke of Gloucester at 649 Yonge Street, or Opera Bob’s Public House at 1112 Dundas Street West.”

Brits in Toronto is partial to The Duke, but there’s also The Official England House or possibly one of these locations.

No excuse! Loads of great pubs to check out. COME ON ENGLAND!!

Looking for more Successful Brits in Toronto

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Are you British? In Toronto? Are you successful? Call us!

Are you British? In Toronto? Are you successful? Call us!

We love to highlight successful Brits coming to Toronto and doing well for themselves. Good for them … and good for the city.

It’s also one of our most popular features, so we’re looking for more Brits to feature. You’re in good company. Here’s who we have featured so far. Brits one and all.

Eric Gruber
Robin Brown
Jessica Napier
Sarah Doucette
David Miller
Paulo Antunes
Andy Byford
Michael Cooke
Karin and Kieran Ronde
Catherine Mayled
Dave Fleet
Fiona Knight
Ed Lee

Or just lazily click here to see all the links in a pre-search format.

So, pass the word on … we want MORE Successful Brits in Toronto!

“Now there’s a much easier path to ­citizenship: birth tourism”

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Canadian citizenship, Jan Wong calculated, is worth about $840,000 in tangible benefits, excluding welfare payments should you end up on the dole

Canadian citizenship, Jan Wong calculated, is worth about $840,000 in tangible benefits, excluding welfare payments should you end up on the dole

Interesting article on the Toronto Life website today by Jan Wong about pregnant women travelling to Toronto to have their children on Canadian soil, thus granting them citizenship.

Here’s some quotes from the article:

“Now there’s a much easier path to ­citizenship: birth tourism. Foreign companies are helping pregnant women take advantage of our breathtakingly generous birthright policy, which grants automatic citizenship — and all the rights and ­benefits it entails — to any baby born on Canadian soil.”

“With today’s relatively cheap airfares, it’s easy for non-Canadians to fly in, have their babies and then whisk their newly minted Canadian citizens back to the motherland to raise them. Upon reaching the age of 18, the birth-citizen can return to Canada and apply to sponsor his or her parents, ­grandparents and siblings for ­immigration — all without having paid a single cent in Canadian taxes.”

“What is Canadian citizenship worth in cold hard cash? Like a birth tourist trying to decide whether to hand over $36,200, I crunched the numbers. Canadian citizenship, I calculated, is worth about $840,000 in tangible benefits, excluding welfare payments should you end up on the dole. Assuming a current average life expectancy of 81 years, free health care alone is worth at least $485,000 ($5,988 annually, but much more if you require major surgery or a long hospital stay), according to 2013 health data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information.”

“Here’s an idea: how about we stop lavishing our home-and-native assets on newborns unless their mothers have spent a few years in the country, preferably as landed immigrants or citizens themselves; instead, let’s issue one-way, exit-only, good-for-travel-back-to-the-motherland documents for the infants. Canadian citizenship shouldn’t be a freebie to anyone whose mother waddles through the airport arrivals lounge. I suspect ­Grandfather Chong would approve.”

If Bill C-24 passes, Canadian citizenship will be harder to get and easier to lose

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What a little bugger you are, Grumpy Cat

What a little bugger you are, Grumpy Cat

Our roving Brits across the fair City of Toronto send us leads all the time and we are very grateful.

Here’s two that crossed our desk this morning …

If Bill C-24 passes, Canadian citizenship will be harder to get and easier to lose

“On February 6, 2014 the federal government introduced Bill C-24, a law that changes the Citizenship Act of Canada. This new law changes core aspects of Canadian citizenship as we know it.

“If passed, Bill C-24 will make it more difficult for new immigrants to get Canadian citizenship and easier for many Canadians to lose it, especially if they have dual citizenship. Most Canadians do not understand the ways in which Bill C-24 will undermine their fundamental right to be a citizen of Canada.”

Full story.

Canadian government debating stringent new rules for citizenship

“The Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act, now in consideration, states that applicants for citizenship must spend at least 1.460 [might mean 1,460?] days in the country for six years before submitting their applications.

“It continues that, during at least four of those years, applicants must have spent 183 days physically present in Canada. Stays in the country under a temporary residency visa will not count towards the upgraded citizenship requirements.

“The bill is already controversial, with the Canadian Bar Association warning that its passing into immigration law will likely discourage immigrants and also have an effect on Canadians working abroad.

“Furthermore, the bill will allow revocation of citizenship held by dual nationals if it’s found that they’ve been convicted of and served more than five years’ imprisonment for offences outside Canada’s borders which would be construed as terrorism within the country.”

Full story.

The England team that will win the World Cup

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"Hey you, the Three Lions crew, show what you do, make a break, make a move!"

“Hey you, the Three Lions crew, show what you do, make a break, make a move!”

The England football team manager, Roy Hodgson, today unveiled the names of 23 blokes that the hopes of a country will be resting on come the World Cup in June.

Brits in Toronto REALLY likes his choices, with a few slight exceptions.

We think that Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling, 19, and Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson, 23, are excellent selections, having just come off a sterling English Premier League campaign, only narrowly missing out on the title to Manchester City. Hopefully, that momentum will keep spurring them to success.

Arsenal’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, 20, is also a good choice, having had a great season too. And Southampton’s Adam Lallana, 26, is a no-brainer for us as well — fantastic season.

Brits in Toronto are still on the fence about Everton’s Ross Barkley, 20, but hoping that he will be the breakout star of the tournament … there always seems to be one, so why not an England player?

Finally, we disagree with the selection of Frank Lampard (getting up there and doesn’t seem to play to his best in World Cup/Euro) and possibly Wayne Rooney for the same reasons. We hope they prove us wrong.

Just a footnote as to why people are disappointed not to see Gareth Bale in the England team. It’s because he’s Welsh.

There you have our humble opinion on the England team heading to the World Cup. It’s a young, hungry squad so let’s all get behind the Three Lions!

Welcome to the Immigration Portal

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Toronto is certainly home to a diverse range of photo shoot models

Toronto is certainly home to a diverse range of smiling photo shoot models

“Welcome to the Immigration Portal.” That sounds pretty cool.

Now try it in a Dalek voice: “WELCOME TO THE IMMIGRATION PORTAL! WELCOME TO THE IMMIGRATION PORTAL!” That sounds pretty bloody cool.

The Immigration Portal is a very useful website resource created by the City of Toronto to help those thinking of starting a new life here.

This page is particularly handy as it helps you to prepare BEFORE arriving, with relevant checklists, the applications and forms you need, how much it costs to live in Toronto and — of course, every Brit’s favourite small talk subject matter — the weather.

The Working in Toronto section contains links to job boards and also Enterprise Toronto for business development purposes.

For those who speak other languages — such as Welsh or Brummie — you can also get assistance here.

All in all, this is a great resource for Brits who have just arrived in Toronto and those who are planning the move. Take some time to read it and you’ll learn a lot!

The Official England House is gearing up for World Cup 2014

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Come on Engeeerrlllannddd!!

Come on Engeeerrlllannddd!! Shit. See you in 2018 then

If you haven’t heard yet — but if you read this site on a regular basis, we hope you have — there’s a little sporting event coming up in June 2014 called the World Cup.

To Brits in Toronto it is probably THE sporting event that we all look forward to the most. The predictions, putting the England flag on your car, joining the office World Cup pool for a fiver … and … above all … planning what pub(s) you will be watching in!

That’s where The Official England House may be able to help. Their aim is to bring passionate fans together to watch the game, with some added value.

From their site:

“Frustrated at the lack of planning and empathy from the local pub trade, [a group of England supporters] … put together a group of about 40 to 50 football fans who would gather together in their local under the badge of ‘England House.’ They had no plans to promote or push the group, only to welcome anyone that wanted to come and watch England games with them, with a typically British ‘more the merrier’ attitude.”

Here’s their promo video:

Just a quick note to clear the air. Brits in Toronto had a slight Twitter scuffle — or Twuffle — with The Official England House a few weeks ago. Bit like when a Gooner walks into Scallys. Full story here.

The Brits in Toronto position is that most people tend to have a local pub they like to frequent for football games, they know the staff etc. That’s why we list some good recommendations and let fans make their own minds up. So we don’t stand behind or represent any one pub. There’s just some we really like.

But, we recognize what The Official England House is trying to do = bringing England fans together to support what they love. Brits in Toronto STRONGLY SUPPORTS THEM and feel it’s very similar to what we are trying to do with this website = bringing Brits in Toronto together for that common ground.

Anyway, welling up here a little so check them out on Twitter and Facebook and give them a shout. Cheers!

The Feisty Jack food truck is opening a restaurant in Toronto called Spitfire Kitchen!

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Spitfire Kitchen launches very soon ...

Spitfire Kitchen launches very soon …

The Feisty Jack is one of Brits in Toronto’s favourite food trucks. We reviewed it here and gave it a rare Brits in Toronto 5/5 stars. This is why.

We have ears all over the city, and the word on the street is that The Feisty Jack is opening a new RESTAURANT IN TORONTO this summer! (“Word on the street” sounds cooler and more edgy than “their webmaster uploaded that information.”)

So, start your engines … and stay tuned for another Totally Biased Product Review By Me when it opens.

Successful Brits in Toronto: Eric Gruber

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A smiling Morrissey in a parallel unbiverse

Form a line, Canadian lasses

Just by coming to Toronto — leaving your friends, family and decent Baked Beans behind — and trying to make a new life already makes you successful in our eyes. It’s a bold step.

Good job too as Eric Gruber’s only been here about two months and the ratio of Successful Brits in Toronto to Totally Biased Product Review By Me blog posts was a bit lopsided, so we took what we could get for this one.

Only joking, Eric! In fact, it’s nice to hear the thoughts of someone newly-arrived in the city, so here we go …

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

I must admit, I have only been in Canada for little over two months, so I am a little “fresh off the boat,” as it were. I originally came over for a holiday to visit my family in Oakville* after I had finished my contract at my old job back in the U.K. and I just decided to take a quick look at what opportunities there were available here. One thing led to another and, well, here I am …

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

I had a very fortunate experience when I was applying to marketing agencies here in Toronto. Back in the U.K. when you applied to a marketing agency, you would have to fill out a 3,000-word application form, after which you may hear nothing back — or if you do get invited for an interview you have to do two days of jumping through hoops in a group interview setting and have very little chance of actually getting the role.

Where as here in Canada I have been incredibly lucky. I applied to the Mint Agency on the Monday, heard back on the Wednesday, and had an interview on the Friday during which I was offered the role on the spot! Mint have since taken me under their wing and is an incredible place to work.

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

I think the people are definitely the best aspect of Toronto. I know by Canadian standards Torontonians are considered a little unfriendly, but by London standards, everyone treats you like a good friend. The fact there is real weather is pretty good too!

Obviously I miss my family and friends back home in London, but I think the worst thing about Toronto is that you can’t watch the incredible sunrise over the River Thames in the morning on your way to work. That and the lack of “Sure” spray deodorant. I’m still not convinced by this roll on nonsense.

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

I will admit I haven’t made any specific steps to seek out my fellow Brits, though I have met one or two through work events.

In terms of pubs/eateries, although it doesn’t feel very authentic I would recommend the Duke of Somerset on Bay. Their fish and chips are rather good and the staff there didn’t look at me like I had dropped from another planet when I asked if they serve Pimm’s!

However, for more of an authentic feel I would go for The Pour House on Dupont. They have a good selection of beers and ciders, and have genuinely old furniture as decor, helping it feel more like a real pub.

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

In terms of advice, I would say a smile goes a long way here. EVERYONE will comment on your accent (don’t speak too fast or they won’t understand you) and it may take a little time … but you will eventually get used to strangers talking to you in the elevator (that’s lift to you and me).

Oh! And there is no ground floor here, it’s the first floor. That has caused a couple of issues to date.

Thanks Eric, excellent stuff! Good luck in your time in Toronto and your future career.

*Posh version of Burlington

Let’s all help fellow Brit Phil find a job!

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New York. Tokyo. Las Vegas. Swansea.

New York. Tokyo. Rio de Janeiro. Las Vegas. Swansea.

“Love the site … Can’t whack the great British humour… Banging!! Well done.”

We really enjoy getting e-mails like that, brightens our day. (We prefer to get ones asking about our rates for prominent and relevant banner ads, but fan mail is a VERY close second.)

So, Phil was already a good bloke in our estimation before we even read further down. Here’s some of what he had to say:

“I came across the site whilst researching what my wife, and myself’s next move was going to be in re-locating to Canada, or more specifically Toronto.

“We decided to make the move last year, as Canada being better suited for my wife’s line of work, which is a Geologist and Petroleum Engineer (she has glowing references ).

“Myself, recently sold my small construction business to my business partner in order to get a few quid together for our new adventure, previously with 20 years’ experience in B2B sales at management and Director level.

“All in all we planning on coming to Canada to provide a better life for ourselves and family, and would greatly appreciate all advice from those who have done it all before us in order to obtain employment within the Toronto area.

“Thanks for the opportunity to communicate our dream to your site.”

Some further information that Phil provided detailed the acquisition of the company that owned the Dolphin Hotel in Swansea, Wales with a view to investing approximately £3.5 million into creating a 3-star plus hotel “in the heart of the city.”

So if anyone in Toronto can help give Phil a start in our fair city, you can contact him via e-mail at philwhitewalls AT hotmail DOT co DOT uk.

Good luck, Phil!

Tax 101 for immigrants to Canada

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Your hard-earned tax dollars at work on taking professional quality photos of grey buildings

Your hard-earned tax dollars at work on paying for professional quality photos of boring grey buildings

Now that mum and my aunt Sheila has started to tell all their friends at the Social Club about Brits in Toronto, our traffic has exploded and we can’t keep up with new content.

Coincidentally, we were musing the idea of inviting USEFUL and RELEVANT guest articles. No money has changed hands. We haven’t started on an advertising strategy yet.

That was a nice segue into the subject of money. Here we present an article on some basic tax tips — useful for the 26 readers in Great Britain asking about life in Toronto, or those who have just arrived.

Tax 101 for immigrants to Canada
By Taxback.com

Tax season has arrived and so it’s time to file your Canadian Tax return. A lot of people don’t want to think about tax when they are abroad — but it can be very worthwhile especially if you’re due a tax refund.

If you were working in Canada throughout 2013 you would’ve paid between 15% and 29% income tax on your wages. The good news is that you’re probably due to claim some of this back. You can apply for your tax refund by filing a Canadian tax return.

Useful Canadian Tax Tips

• The Canadian tax year runs from January 1 until December 31 … but you cannot apply for a tax refund until March 1 of the following year
• The deadline for filing your tax return is April 30, 2014 [yesterday!]
• Your employer will issue you with a T4 at the end of the tax year (usually in February). This form outlines your earnings for the previous year
• You should gather all of your expenses for 2013 including any monthly transit passes, medical expenses, motor vehicle expenses, child care expenses and moving expenses. Register here for more information on what expenses you can claim

During the year will be able to see how much tax you are paying on your wage slips, but keep in mind that when you apply for a tax refund, you will not get 100% of what you paid back. The amount of your tax refund will depend on a number of factors such as:

• Your residency status in Canada
• How long you were working in 2013
• How many employers you had
• Any income that you received from overseas and the existing tax treaties your country may have with Canada

On your payslip you will also notice that you pay something called CPP and EI in Canada. CPP is the Canadian Pension Plan and EI is Employer Insurance. If you have overpaid either, you can claim a refund. This claim is not separate and is made on a regular tax return.

Thinking about tax can either give people a headache — or send them to sleep — so we recommend getting an expert to look after it for you.

Register here and taxback.com will set you up with a free personal Tax Tracker account and remind you to apply for your Canadian tax refund at the end of the tax year.

Totally biased product review by me — Tasty Bite Bombay Potatoes

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The plate, spoon, rice and green stuff are NOT included and are a serving suggestion only

The plate, spoon, rice and green stuff are NOT included and are a serving suggestion only

I love Toronto. I love curry. The two mix well. But one dish I find hard to source is Bombay Potatoes.

So, I jumped in my bright orange 2-litre Ford Capri with go-fast spoiler and racing wheels and roared off (within the legal speed limit) on the hunt for Bombay Potatoes I could cook in the Brits in Toronto office kitchenette.

I chanced upon Tasty Bites Bombay Potatoes so decided to give them a go.

The packet was heavy. It had some substance, which indicated there was a fair-sized portion contained in the yellow packaging. Being a greedy bugger, that’s always a plus point.

I just want to take a personal moment to thank Tasty Bite for their thoughtfulness. Not having a pair of scissors to hand, I was extremely relieved to see they had provided a handy notch cut out of the packet so it was easy to open. Thank you, Tasty Bite.

Thinking ahead, I was reluctant to use the microwave to cook them in the one minute it claims in case it dried them out. So I opted for the boil-in-the bag option which only takes five minutes.

Quick note: once you factor in the extra four minutes to get the water to a boil, and the 45 seconds to get them onto the plate, it actually takes around nine minutes and 45 seconds from start to finish.

Taste test: very good! The sauce was thicker than expected — which was a pleasant surprise — and they were quite filling as a side dish.

The actual pieces of potato were slightly smaller than expected, but still a good mouthful, especially when you combine the “potato to chickpea spoon ratio” as illustrated on the front of the packet.

Spicy? As always … not quite enough. BUT that is a personal choice and not a criticism. They had some bite and I was reaching for the tissue a few times to blow my nose. The flavour was very nice, and will be on my shopping list again.

We give Tasty Bites Bombay Potatoes a respectable Brits in Toronto 3/5 stars.

Totally biased product review by me — Mackie’s of Scotland crispy bacon crisps

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Sometimes, there just nothing like a packet of Scottish bacon-flavoured crisps to scratch that itch

Sometimes, there’s just nothing like a maroon packet of Scottish bacon-flavoured crisps to scratch that itch

The Brits in Toronto crew were a bit stumped for a snack the other day, so went wandering to Whole Foods. And what did we find? Scottish bacon-flavoured crisps! Hoots mon!

So before Scotland possibly becomes an independent country based on what happens this coming September 2014, let’s get in there quick and review these crisps …

First impressions were good. The bag had a good heft in our hand. Felt like it could hold its own in a bar fight with other bags of crisps. Good start.

Upon popping open the bag, another plus point: only one fifth of the bag was pure air. We had actually paid for a decent amount of crisps, instead of the half-full bag you sometimes see from other brands.

We dived in.

The crisps were — for want of a better word — crispy! A nice crunch to them. Three out of three so far. But …

Lack of flavour. Noooo! We were expecting a more intense, smokey flavour of bacon, but it left us a bit wanting. Mackie’s = please up the bacon ante.

We have to give them a Brits in Toronto 2/5 stars.

Sidenote: We also have a bag of the Aberdeen Angus steak-flavoured crisps to sample so will review those soon too.

So, what’s your point, Immigration Watch Canada?

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Flyer distributed in Brampton by Immigration Watch Canada

Flyer distributed in Brampton by Immigration Watch Canada

CTV News reported the story of anti-immigration flyers being distributed in Brampton by an organization called Immigration Watch Canada.

From their website: “The destruction and senselessness  that naive Canadians (as well as those with sinister intentions) have created has caused many Canadians (especially those in Canada’s larger centres) to become very angry. These Canadians feel that this social engineering project has raised ‘Diversity’ to the level of a national goal. They feel this amounts to the country being ethnically cleansed and re-colonized.”

So, any Canadians reading this: do you feel that immigrants are re-colonizing and ethnically cleansing your country?

Would be interesting to hear the debate from both sides.

Here’s a quick backgrounder from the Government of Canada entitled “Facts in Canada’s Immigration History” for ready reference.

Canadian oath refusers take their battle to court

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Not a happy camper at all

Not a happy camper at all

So, the Brits in Toronto crew were shooting the breeze over some pie and mash on Queen St. West, and we chatted about  how lucky we were to live in a nice country like Canada, with all the benefits and privileges it affords us. Very lucky indeed!

Then we ran across this story of three longtime foreign residents fighting for the right to become Canadian citizens, but without having to swear allegiance to the British Queen. They’ve even gone to bloody court over it.

One 80-year-old-bloke, who came to Canada in 1964, describes himself as “a staunch Republican, adding that the oath would violate his conscience.”

Two others — from Jamaica and Israel — say “their religion forbids them from taking an oath to any personas.”

And the kicker: “The lawyer for the three says it’s not fair to ask new Canadians to make an oath they don’t believe in.”

Not fair? But it’s “fair” and in their “conscience” to choose to come to Canada and enjoy all the benefits it offers? And to be “forbidden by religion?”

Sorry — but when you choose to live in another country, you abide by its rules and legalities that you have chosen to leave behind in your former country. Simple as that.

These people are very misguided.

How to abuse Canadian Citizenship: Blame temporary foreign workers?

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Blogger thinks we should be criticizing the system that creates bad working conditions for everyone

Blogger thinks we should be criticizing the system that creates bad working conditions for everyone

How to ABUSE Canadian Citizenship: Blame Temporary Foreign Workers for problems of a global Capitalist Economy

That headline above caught our roving eye today; pretty strong words.

Commenting on a story on CBC News (Saskatchewan) — Waitresses in Saskatchewan lose jobs to foreign workers — the blogger opens up her post by commenting:

“Once again, the media uses the wrong gaze to look at a program that does injustice to migrant workers and abuses their rights for their labour. Sandy Nelson’s story is just use as a place-mark for xenophobia and racism. We should be criticizing the system that creates bad working conditions for everyone – not look at individualized grief and blame all temporary foreign workers.”

Brits in Toronto did a little digging and, according to the Canadian Government’s website explaining the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, “Economic Action Plan 2014 proposes to invest $11.0 million over two years and $3.5 million per year ongoing to strengthen the Labour Market Opinion process to ensure Canadians are given the first chance at available jobs.”

Will be an interesting issue to watch. Thanks Melissa for the initial blog post that caught our attention.

After 40 years, Immigrant Settlement Program needs an overhaul

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Time to change the system?

Time to change the system?

Interesting article in today’s Globe and Mail:

“Would-be immigrants to Canada continue to face a series of bureaucratic impediments that either delay their status or reduce the effectiveness of integration once they arrive here. Fixing these problems is long overdue.

“Last November, Immigration Minister Chris Alexander met with more than 400 people in Ottawa, mostly representatives of non-governmental organizations. These Service Provider Organizations contract with Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to deliver settlement services to immigrants. He told them, ‘You tell us what we need to get it right.’

“In this spirit, there are several significant weaknesses in the system that need to be addressed.”

Full story.

St. George’s Day events in the Toronto area

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"Take that, dragon!"

“Take that, dragon!”

It’s St. George’s Day on Wednesday, April 23 and the English everywhere will be raising a pint to the homeland. It’s not widely celebrated like St. Paddy’s Day is in Toronto, so here’s a few events we tracked down if you want to go out and do something.

St. George’s Day Pub Night

Organized by the St. George’s Society of Toronto, this event features fish and chips, curried chicken and raffle prizes.

Curries and Casks for Charity

Great-sounding event organized by fans of real ale. And it’s all for charity! Tickets.

St. George’s Day Party

This event is organized by The Franklin House about 30 minutes away in Streetsville. Goes on all day.

So, there you go. If you know of any more related events please add them to the comments section, e-mail or tweet us.

Cheers!

Canada welcomes record number of new Canadians/Express Entry

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"Hi there friend! Is link bait and Google image search rankings good in Canada too?"

“Hi there little friend! Are link bait and Google image search rankings good in Canada too?”

So, two items of relevance crossed the 24/7-manned Brits in Toronto desk recently. Linked below for your reading pleasure.

Canada welcomes record number of new Canadians

“So far in 2014, Canada has welcomed more than 75,900 new citizens; the highest intake of new Canadians in almost four years. Canada has the highest rate of naturalization in the world with 85 per cent of eligible permanent residents becoming citizens. As a result, potential migrants have identified Canada as a viable place to migrate to, and since 2006, the CIC has received a steady increase in citizenship applications from around the world.”

Full story here.

Canada’s new immigration model will be called “Express Entry”

“Canadian Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced recently that Canada’s new recruitment model for economic immigration will be called ‘Express Entry.’ This new model is set to launch in January 2015.

“‘Express Entry promises to be a game-changer for Canadian immigration and Canada’s economy,’ said Minister Alexander. ‘It will revolutionize the way we attract skilled immigrants, and get them working here faster.'”

Full story here.

Successful Brits in Toronto: Robin Brown

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The name's Brown. Robin Brown

The name’s Brown. Robin Brown

Brits are a modest lot. Even though we’re the funniest, make the best tea and once owned the world, we’re still very modest.

Robin Brown is modest. His tweet accepting our invitation to be the next featured Successful Brit in Toronto attests to that. He moved to Toronto in 2003 and is now Environics’ Senior Vice President of Consumer Insights and Cultural Markets (the SVPCICM for short).

He is also the co-author of Migration Nation about Canada’s multicultural markets. Here’s the trailer.

Apart from plugging his book to a worldwide audience of information-hungry British immigrants with money to burn who read Brits in Toronto, we also had some questions for him …

What made you decide to choose Toronto as a city of choice? Did you plan a permanent move, or wanted to “try it for a while and see how it goes” and it turned out to be longer than planned?

I had moved from the U.K. to Asia when I was in my mid-twenties and I ended up living there 10 years, meeting my wife and starting a family. The company I was working for was acquired by a global company and I approached them for a new role. I guess I shouldn’t say this here but I asked if there were any positions in the U.S. — but there weren’t. There was the position managing the Toronto office.

So you could say I did not choose Toronto. It chose me. And I am very glad it did. I love living here.

What steps did you take to land your first Toronto job? Did the infamous “Canadian experience” hinder you in any way?

I was fortunate. I had a job here and came here on a work permit. I have acted as a mentor for newcomers seeking employment on behalf of Toronto Region Immigrant Employment Council (TRIEC)’s Mentoring for Change program and I am well aware of the challenges and the infamous “Canadian experience.” I believe it is often another way of saying, “I’m not really sure about you.”

What’s the best/worst aspects of living in Toronto?

I love Toronto. It’s a cliché but I love the diversity. My wife is Chinese and we agree that this is probably the best city in the world to raise our kids where they can feel entirely comfortable and be so connected to their twin identities. I like the values, the fact that basically if you’re nice and behave yourself you can do and be what you want. I think it is very respectful.

Also, I live near the waterfront and sometimes when I walk my dog on the beach I stop and wonder at how fortunate I am to live in a place like this.

The worst? Well you’re asking me on a day when it snowed in April so there’s that. I arrived in February and I remember in my early days eating lunch alone, sitting in a food court with my winter coat on, the floor grey with slushy footprints and thinking, “What have I done?”

And restaurants giving me a cup of lukewarm water with a tea bag on the side.

Do you make an effort to connect with other Brits in the city, or just meet them when chance allows it? Any recommended pubs/eateries/other places for homesick Brits to meet each other and network?

Not really. I was coming here from Asia so I’d already been away from home for 10 years. My neighbourhood (the Beaches) is very British. Places to meet? Not many. I remember a British colleague of mine complaining that if England won the World Cup (big if) we’d have nowhere like Little Italy to congregate and celebrate. The largest concentration of Brits I have come across would be Scallywags pub during any international rugby or football match.

A very active networking organization for ex-pats from all countries is InterNations.

Finally, I never fail to hear a British accent when I go to Cinamon Indian Bistro and I would advise any Brits nearby to go there. You may not meet anyone but they’ve got great food.

Open question/comment: feel free to write anything here/advice/tips on a Brit living in, or moving to, Toronto.

They’ve probably heard it already but my advice to those newcomers seeking employment is to network like crazy. Personal connection is important here. And while it is important to reach out beyond your community, do not be afraid to leverage connections with your fellow immigrants from the U.K. or wherever you are from.

Most of us here in Toronto are immigrants and I am always impressed with how willing people are to help those who have newly arrived if they can.

Fantastic — thank you Robin. Curries, pubs, lukewarm tea and a budget-conscious trailer for your book … this Successful Brits in Toronto post had it all!

Cor blimey, luv a duck! The British Isles Show is back again from April 11-13, 2014

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Oh Jimmi, you're so fine, you're so fine you blow my mind, hey Jimmi! Hey Jimmi!

Oh Jimmi, you’re so fine, you’re so fine you blow my mind, hey Jimmi! Hey Jimmi!

Brits in Toronto previewed and reviewed the last British Isles Show back in November, and we all had a jolly good time!

Now it’s on again from April 11-13 so get the cucumber sarnies and weak lemon drink packed lunch ready, and head on out.

See you there? Possibly. Might be busy, we’ll see. Will try and make it though. Cheers.

Immigration Consultant Diploma Training in Toronto

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Ooooh, they're a bit touchy

Ooooh, they’re a bit touchy

So, you arrived in Toronto to start a new life, but the job is just not cutting it. You’re thinking about getting some training for a new career path.

How about becoming an immigration consultant? Helping others as you were once helped?

We scouted around and found this course at Herzing College in Toronto: The Immigration Consultant Diploma program.

We have no idea how good the course is, so are just linking it here for your information and not an endorsement.

Let’s all help fellow Brit Shaun find a job!

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Shaun wears this T-shirt 24/7 and never takes it off

Shaun wears this T-shirt 24/7 and never takes it off

Shaun contacted Brits in Toronto and bribed us with this opening sentence: “Firstly, big props for the site. As a Yorkshireman who is planning to independently move to Toronto in August, it’s reassuring to see that the city has a small community of fellow Brits who have taken to Toronto as their new home. Also pleasing to see that, despite being across the pond, Brits in Toronto still enjoy a pint and going out to watch the football.”

Shaun is now our new best friend. Which is why he’s today’s “let’s all help a fellow Brit find a job” blog subject.

Here’s what Shaun had to say:

“I am entering Canada on an IEC 12-month working holiday visa, as such I’ve already started researching potential work opportunities in the Toronto area. I currently work for a national youth and community charity in London. I have extensive experience in programme management, youth work and inclusion/access/diversity practice. My current role as an Inclusion Associate Manager requires me to ensure that the community engagement programmes we run are fully accessible to all young people regardless of any physical, societal, cultural or religious barrier.

“I am looking to get into a similar field of work in the non-profit sector, ideally with an organisation that has a youth and community focus, although I am open to other opportunities. I have already identified the recruitment website, Charity Village, which seems to have a good amount of opportunities in the sector I am interested in working in. However, if anyone has any tips or good contacts in Toronto, I would love to hear from them.”

So, there you have it. A forward-planning, caring Brit with an excellent T-shirt is coming to Toronto and looking for job leads and contacts. You can e-mail him at shauncornfoot AT hotmail DOT co DOT uk if you — or a colleague — wants to reach out.

Good luck, Shaun!

Totally biased product review by me — Apni Havelly

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Here's all the deets you need

Here’s all the deets you need

When you get that curry craving and don’t mind grabbing the passport, jumping in the motor and heading to Mississauga, there’s a place for you to scratch that spicy itch and raise the heat levels a little.

Apni Havelly is located by Dundas Street East and Dixie Road and is worth the drive, I believe.

Because it’s a mix of Pakistani and Indian cuisine, some — not all — of the dishes are extra spicy. Not “blow your head off” levels, but enough to make you want to refill your glass (with the personal big jug of water they give you) more often and blow your nose frequently.

Also, because it’s a Muslim eaterie, alcohol is not an option, so no worries asking a friend to be designated driver — they won’t miss out.

Here’s the menu, but I recommend going on a Friday or Saturday night as they do an excellent buffet, including a generous selection of vegetarian choices and a barbecue section for Tandoori Chicken and spicy sausage.

A few words of caution. It can get quite busy with families on those evenings, so avoid if you are averse to small children running around hot food. Some of the dishes also contain quite a bit of ghee (clarified butter) so although very tasty, they can be quite oily. That may put some diners off.

A DJ/singer starts around 7:00 p.m. on a Saturday night, so leave the restaurant earlier than that if Bollywood songs as you eat are also not your thing.

Having said all that, the food really is delicious. There’s a good salad and dessert section too, and a nice mix of different types of curries. The staff are also extremely friendly and willing to accommodate any special requests.

So, go to the buffet with a very empty stomach and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Apni Havelly gets a Brits in Toronto 4/5 stars.

Canada wants to attract skilled newcomers … but might make it more difficult. Huh?

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Canada wants you here, but it will be harder

Canada wants you here, but it will be harder

Two opposing snippets of news the Brits in Toronto crew spotted this week …

Attracting Skilled Newcomers to Canada

“Federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) immigration ministers today reiterated their commitment to actively recruit economic immigrants that have the skills the Canadian economy needs most.

“Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander and Alberta’s Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour Minister Thomas Lukaszuk co-chaired the meeting of FPT ministers responsible for immigration. Economic immigration was a top priority for all ministers around the table.

“Ministers agreed to continue collaborating on building the new active recruitment model which is known as the Expression of Interest (or EOI) system. It is intended to transform Canada’s immigration system into one that is more responsive to labour market needs.”

Full story here.

Proposed Changes By Canadian Government Will Make Getting Citizenship More Difficult

“On February 6, 2014 Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander introduced into Parliament the first comprehensive changes to the Citizenship Act since 1977. Following Conservative government’s practice of giving political names to its legislation, Bill C-24, is titled ‘Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act.’

“According to the Minister Alexander the Bill ‘will protect the value of Canadian citizenship for those who have it while creating a faster and more efficient process for those applying to get it.’ The cost of applying for Canadian Citizenship is also increasing to $400 from $200. This increase is effective immediately.

“Citizenship and Immigration Minister Alexander in a prepared statement also said, ‘Our government is strengthening the value of Canadian citizenship. Canadians understand that citizenship should not be simply a passport of convenience. Citizenship is a pledge of mutual responsibility and a shared commitment to values rooted in our history. I am pleased to bring forward the first comprehensive and overdue reforms of the Citizenship Act in more than a generation.’

Full story here.

So … Canada has programs in place on one hand to attract good people, but makes it harder for them to become citizens? Are we missing something here?

Study underway to assess trade qualifications for Brits and Irish

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A new international study that will help British- and Irish-trained tradespeople assess their skills against Canadian criteria is being supported by Citizenship and Immigration Canada

Tools of the trade

An interesting article today in HR Reporter:

“A new international study that will help British- and Irish-trained tradespeople assess their skills against Canadian criteria is being supported by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

“The project is a component of the CIC-funded Canadian Immigrant Integration Program, which provides newcomers with labour market information and helps them gain employment that reflects their skills, credentials and experience.”

Read the full article here.