The Countdown to Canada Podcast

Welcome to the podcast FOR newcomers hosted BY newcomers. We give you the information, resources, and tips you need to build a successful life here. Now let’s get you home.

Coming to Canada?

Whether you’re exploring your immigration options, looking for your first job, starting your studies as an international student, or adapting to life in Canada; this podcast will set you up for a smooth journey.

Where to listen:

Preparing newcomers to Canada—one episode at a time

SEASON 2

EPISODE ONE

Immigrating to Canada as a Permanent Resident

Overview of the various immigration programs Canada offers and tips on how to pick the right one for your situation

Your hosts: Andrea Bailey and Clem Leveau-Vallier

EPISODE TWO

How to create a Canadian-Style Resume

Tips on how newcomers can create a Canadian-style resume that’ll clear Applicant Tracking Systems and impress hiring managers.

Your hosts: Prachi Korde and Sugandha Mahajan

EPISODE THREE

How to use Linkedin for your job search in Canada

Tips on Linkedin to find roles, stand out as a candidate, and build your network to support your Canadian job search.

Your hosts: Ryan Aird and Clem Leveau-Vallier

SEASON 1

EPISODE ONE

Finding a job in Canada as a newcomer

Tips on finding a job in Canada as a newcomer. From getting the right work permit and building a Canadian resume, to networking your way into the hidden job market.

Your hosts: Clem Leveau-Vallier and Sugandha Mahajan

EPISODE TWO

Studying in Canada as an international student

Tips on coming to Canada as an international student. From applying for your study permit, to working part-time and PR pathways for students, and everything in between that will set you up for success.

Your hosts: Clem Leveau-Vallier and Film Vachiravuttanon

EPISODE THREE

Renting your first home as a newcomer in Canada

Tips on renting a home in Canada. From the types of homes available and how to find them, to navigating newcomer challenges while renting and everything you need (and need to know) to ensure a smooth move in process.

Your hosts: Clem Leveau-Vallier and Sugandha Mahajan

EPISODE FOUR

Networking for your Career in Canada

Did you know 65% to 80% of available jobs in Canada aren’t publicly advertised? As a newcomer, networking is the only way to tap into this hidden job market. In this episode, we share tips to build your professional network in Canada and leverage it for your job search.

Your hosts: Clem Leveau-Vallier and Sugandha Mahajan

EPISODE FIVE

Banking in Canada

As a newcomer, the financial decisions you make during your initial months and years in Canada can impact your long-term financial success – whether it’s choosing the right banking and investment products or learning how to use credit appropriately.

In this episode, Clem speaks to Wanzi Silva from the Newcomer and Cultural Segment at Royal Bank to Canada (RBC) on how banking works in Canada, financial products for newcomers and tips on building your credit history from scratch in Canada.

Your hosts: Clem Leveau-Vallier and Wanzi Silva

EPISODE SIX

Your first 100 days in Canada

As a newcomer, your first few months in Canada is when you lay the groundwork for your future life here. From getting your finances set up to fast-tracking your job search, and finding a place to live to adapting to Canadian culture, your first 100 days in Canada will be crucial for nearly all aspects of your life. In this episode, we talk about the things that you as a newcomer should do to ensure that your transition to life in Canada is smooth and stress-free.

Your hosts: Clem Leveau-Vallier and Saumitra Newalkar