A decade after leaving Nigeria for Canada, Tunde Omotoye has shared reflections on his journey, offering invaluable advice to those planning to emigrate.
Now a successful professional, entrepreneur, and student, Omotoye’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of knowledge.
In a post sighted on X formerly Twitter by Allnaijadiaspora, Omotoye’s arrival in Canada ten years ago was marked by challenges.
Unlike today, there were no social media platforms, WhatsApp groups, or YouTube videos to guide newcomers. Orientation was limited to advice from a family friend and an agent who assisted with his admission. Adjusting to life in a foreign country required navigating unfamiliar systems, learning from others, and independently sourcing information.
Since then, Omotoye has built an impressive career, attending three Canadian institutions, including his current studies in Public Policy, Administration, and Law at York University.
His achievements include ascending to a managerial role in a Fortune 100 company, founding a tech startup focused on immigration solutions, and securing venture capital funding as part of Google Accelerator’s North America cohort.
He has also helped hundreds of aspiring immigrants access resources to fulfill their dreams.
Reflecting on his journey, Omotoye highlighted key lessons learned over the years. One of the most significant was understanding workplace culture.
He recounted how his first manager taught him about the low power gap in Canada’s corporate environment, encouraging him to speak up and collaborate as an equal contributor. This advice transformed his professional approach and propelled his rapid career growth.
Financial literacy, he stressed, is another crucial skill for newcomers. Understanding Canada’s financial systems, including credit scores, is essential for accessing opportunities like home ownership and loans.
He also emphasized the importance of preparing for the harsh winters, recounting how he nearly lost two fingers during his first month in the country due to inadequate clothing.
Omotoye shed light on Canada’s hidden job market, explaining that networking and building professional relationships are vital for career advancement.
He also advised newcomers to familiarize themselves with public transportation systems, particularly in cities where timing buses and trains can be challenging.
He warned about the high cost of living in some Canadian cities, urging prospective immigrants to research and plan accordingly.
Additionally, he highlighted the benefits of learning French, noting that bilingualism opens doors to more opportunities in corporate and government roles.
Education remains a cornerstone of Omotoye’s success. While it is possible to secure jobs with foreign qualifications, he recommended pursuing Canadian education to enhance resumes and increase employment opportunities.
As Omotoye continues to inspire others with his journey, his reflections offer practical insights for aspiring immigrants. His story underscores the importance of preparation, continuous learning, and adaptability in achieving success abroad.
