Jackie Wafula
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In 2017, Jackie Wafula, a Kenyan living in Toronto, Canada, left her local job as a secretary to pursue her dreams in Canada.
With support from her father, she meticulously researched educational institutions and provinces, ultimately choosing to study in Windsor City, Ontario. Her acceptance to her chosen school came swiftly, marking the beginning of her Canadian adventure. Upon arrival, Jackie confronted the daunting task of balancing her studies with financial self-sufficiency. Recognizing that her student allowance would not cover all her expenses, she embarked on a challenging job search. After nearly giving up, a lucky encounter with an Indian friend led to her first position as a resident assistant at her school.
Despite earning approximately 180,000 Kenyan shillings ($2,000) monthly, Jackie found this income insufficient to meet all her financial obligations. Determined to make ends meet, Jackie secured a second job as a baker, working gruelling early morning shifts. The harsh Canadian winter and demanding schedule took a toll on her health, necessitating dietary adjustments to maintain her well-being. Even with three jobs, Jackie struggled financially, often contemplating a return to Kenya due to the high cost of living in Canada.
Jackie's perseverance eventually bore fruit when she graduated and obtained a three-year work permit. She secured a position as an insurance broker, which seemed to pave the way towards her goal of permanent residency. However, her aspirations were dealt a significant blow in August 2024 when Canada announced that visitors could no longer apply for or renew work permits while in the country. This policy change threatened Jackie's carefully laid plans as her job was crucial to securing permanent residency. Faced with this new challenge, Jackie redoubled her efforts to stay in Canada. She began applying for jobs with employers who could sponsor her and attempted to persuade her current employer to support her continued stay in the country.
Jackie has given herself a six-month timeline to secure permanent residency. Jackie's experience is emblematic of the broader challenges faced by many immigrants globally. Her story reflects the complex interplay between individual aspirations, economic realities, and ever-changing immigration policies. The recent policy shift in Canada is indicative of a wider trend where countries are tightening immigration rules, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to transition from temporary to permanent status.
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The 2023 census revealed that for the first time Canada's population grew by more than one million persons in a single year.And 96% of that number were immigrants.
Despite Canada being viewed as "an immigrant welcoming" country,they are beginning to feel the pressure of shortages of housing,and scramble for jobs as a result of Increased number of immigrants.And when this happens, politicians,and policy makers take note.This is what has happened.
The so called advanced countries are facing a population decline,Canada Included.The easiest,and effective way to solve problems brought about by dwindling and aging population ; needs such as work force,and tax revenue, is to take a good look at your IMMIGRATION POLICIES,and do something.That something is sometimes not easily accepted by the masses.And politicians love to not have to buy votes,unless they have to.Yeap re-election can be expensive.
The 2023 census revealed that for the first time Canada's population grew by more than one million persons in a single year.And 96% of that number were immigrants.
Despite Canada being viewed as "an immigrant welcoming" country,they are beginning to feel the pressure of shortages of housing,and scramble for jobs as a result of Increased number of immigrants.And when this happens, politicians,and policy makers take note.This is what has happened.
The so called advanced countries are facing a population decline,Canada Included.The easiest,and effective way to solve problems brought about by dwindling and aging population ; needs such as work force,and tax revenue, is to take a good look at your IMMIGRATION POLICIES,and do something.That something is sometimes not easily accepted by the masses.And politicians love to not have to buy votes,unless they have to.Yeap re-election can be expensive.