For newcomers, arriving in Canada means starting over, with language barriers, unfamiliar customs, and the need to build a social network from scratch. Trying to find your place in a new city is not for the faint of heart—especially for those who have left behind established careers, family, and friends. One participant in CultureLink’s English Conversation Circles shares her journey of adapting to life in Canada and the role this program has played in helping her feel at home.
Originally from Colombia, she moved to Canada seeking safety and to reconnect with her daughter in Toronto. The first weeks were very difficult, often facing loneliness and uncertainty. “I had a great job, family, and friends back home. Here, I felt out of my element,” she recalls.
The English Conversation Circles offered a lifeline. This informal, supportive group gives newcomers a space to practice English, discuss Canadian culture, and learn about services available in their community. It’s more than just language skills—it’s about connecting with people who understand the challenges of immigration.
Through the sessions, she found a welcoming environment where she could speak freely without stress or anxiety. With the encouragement of facilitators and other participants, she gained confidence to engage with others, even outside the sessions, despite her naturally shy personality. “The empathetic approach (of the program) boosted my confidence and made me feel part of the community,” she shared.
The outcomes speak for themselves: not only has she improved her English, but she has also begun to establish social connections and feel more at home in Toronto. Looking ahead, she aims to achieve English proficiency that will allow her to work, study, and build meaningful relationships. She plans to continue participating in the English Conversation Circles, knowing that each session brings her closer to her goals.
Her advice to other newcomers is simple: take the opportunity to join a program like this. “I am grateful for CultureLink’s support and highly recommend their program to other newcomers seeking to improve their language skills and settle successfully into Canadian life.”
Our English Conversation Circles are more than language practice sessions—they’re stepping stones to community, confidence, and belonging. For newcomers navigating the complexities of a new country, these sessions offer a space to practice, connect, and thrive.