Moving to a new country brings uncertainty, opportunities, and inevitable culture shocks. One of the biggest differences I noticed after settling in Canada was how kindness and politeness are defined differently than in my Latin American background. In my culture, we express passion, proactivity, and a strong inclination to take immediate action. In contrast, Canadian culture often values correctness, maintains a polite demeanour and sometimes prioritizes appearance over deep problem-solving and open experimentation.
Navigating Cultural Differences in Communication
One of my biggest challenges was adjusting my communication style. Initially, I was perceived as “too much” because my directness and enthusiasm did not align with the more reserved Canadian style. This led to self-doubt, and I started underselling myself—something my former mentor pointed out.
To navigate these differences, I took a dual approach:
1. Seeking therapy in my native language. Processing my emotions with a professional from my home country helped me understand my feelings and experiences from a familiar perspective.
2. English coaching with an immigrant mentor allowed me to refine my communication skills while ensuring my authenticity remained intact.
The power of self-advocacy and patience
Through this journey, I’ve learned the importance of advocating for my skills, finding value in my cultural background, and exercising patience in adapting to a new professional and social environment. It’s a delicate balance—adapting without losing oneself in the process.
As I work toward becoming a permanent resident, I want to support and uplift other newcomer women whose voices often go unheard. Advocacy, representation, and confidence in one’s unique perspective are key to meaningful contributions in a new country.
If you are a newcomer, remember this:
· Embrace your cultural background while learning to navigate new expectations.
· Seek support in familiar and new ways, whether through therapy, coaching, or mentorship.
· Understand that adaptation takes time and that blending cultures is a strength, not a weakness.
· Advocate for yourself and others—your perspective is valuable, even if it differs from the norm.
By sharing our experiences and learning from one another, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society where diversity is acknowledged and truly valued.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gabriela Otero-Zuluaga is a Colombian-born, Toronto-based copywriter and content strategist with over five years of experience crafting compelling, bilingual (English and Spanish) content for global markets. As a freelance copywriter at Canva Mexico, she develops high-impact copy that drives engagement and optimizes SEO for diverse audiences in the U.S., Canada, and Latin America.
Beyond content strategy, Gabriela is a dedicated Portfolio Coach who helps professionals build standout personal brands and creative career roadmaps. Passionate about functional, accessible, and authentic storytelling, she specializes in elevating brand voices through culturally relevant narratives that connect with audiences more meaningfully. Gabriela is also a proud graduate of the LYP Women's Leadership & Career Development Program.
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