My husband and I immigrated to Canada from Brazil in 2017, seeking new professional opportunities, and a fresh start. We had a good life in Brazil with successful careers, but we wanted to come to Canada because of its promise of even more opportunity. The most difficult moment was saying goodbye to our lifelong family and friends.
In Vancouver, Finding a Job Was Harder Than Expected
We had plans and dreams, but the reality was very different. Just days after we arrived, I started feeling that I was not as prepared as I thought. My English skills were considered good in Brazil – and got me better jobs – but they were insufficient here. I quickly realized that finding a job in the same field would be a challenge. Constant negative thoughts drained my confidence.
The beginning of life in Canada felt like a marathon. I had so much to navigate in a short period of time: finding a job, making connections, and seeking out new friends. In Brazil, I led an active social life, surrounded by family and close friends; the contrast to my social situation here was very difficult. As my confidence dwindled, I felt lost and as if my voice had been silenced. In the first few weeks and months, I grew quieter and sadder, I was longing for a sense of belonging. I started seeking groups with shared interests and spaces that could help me integrate into the community faster. It felt like finding my place in this world would take forever.
An Employment Program Connected Me to my Next Step: Dress For Success Vancouver
Things started to shift when I joined an employment program that connected me to Dress for Success Vancouver. My first appointment was with a stylist in Dressing Services, this new outfit gave me confidence I needed for job interviews. Soon after, I got my first job in my career field. Being hired was a huge relief, and boosted by confidence even more! After that, I had another Dressing Services appointment: I was given two complete outfits to start my professional journey in Canada. It was a remarkable moment, I was treated with such respect and kindness, I felt genuinely welcomed into the community. To this day, I still feel gorgeous and empowered every time I wear these outfits.
It’s been more than five years since my first Dressing Services appointment, and since then Dress for Success Vancouver has opened the door to countless opportunities. In 2022, I joined the Professional Women’s Group, which provided invaluable networking opportunities, professional development workshops, and immeasurable support. Through this program, I formed meaningful connections with other professional women, learning from their life stories while sharing my own.
Dress For Success Workshops Helped Me Grow
The workshops offered by Dress for Success Vancouver have helped me develop my skills, and ignited a passion within me. Sharing my story of determination to inspire other women to become the best versions of themselves is now my mission–it’s my way of giving back to the community.
Today, I’m a proud Dress for Success Vancouver Ambassador, and every aspect of this program feels truly magical and enriching. Being part of it is deeply meaningful, and leaves me feeling inspired, empowered, and more confident than ever. Through the Professional Women’s Group, and Ambassador program, I’ve experienced opportunities I never imagined. I’m no longer invisible. The transformation I’ve experienced in just a few short years, thanks to Dress for Success Vancouver, is truly incredible.
You can help make more dreams of confidence, community and connection come true by empowering women like Silvia into good jobs, financial independence and personal success by donating today.