Sandra Zarate

When she arrived in 2009 along with her husband and two children, Sandra Zarate knew London would be the right home for her family. A small community with good schools, hospitals, and opportunities for employment, the biggest barrier Sandra faced as a new immigrant from Colombia was being only fluent in Spanish. Sandra immediately set out to fix that, enrolling in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. Eager to get involved with her new community and despite her language barrier, she approached her children’s YMCA child care centre and asked if she could be a parent volunteer.
Sandra says stepping out of her comfort zone was a difficult step that led her on a path to good employment today. While she helped care for the children, her English-language education continued. “I would sit with all the children while the teachers were reading some children’s books,” Sandra says.
Although she already had a post-graduate university degree and years of professional experience, she felt like a “kid in the classroom.” The experience was invaluable and led to other volunteer opportunities with Children’s Aid Society, which then led to employment in Canada.
While contributing to the community and networking as a volunteer, Sandra continued her studies at Fanshawe College, then both she and her husband connected with London’s WIL Employment Connections. Through her willingness to try new things and get involved with the community, one thing led to another and she is now happily employed in her field.
Though it wasn’t easy for Sandra to come out of her shell, she has learned that stepping out of her comfort zone is the only way to build strong relationships and get connected. “It’s amazing what overcoming your fears and reluctance to reach out and ask for help can accomplish,” she says.
Sandra encourages newcomers to get involved. If you are good at something, find a field that complements that, as there are many opportunities in London.
“We have all come to Canada from somewhere – we are working hard every day to improve our own lives and the lives of our families, while positively contributing to society,” says Sandra.
Sandra knows the process can be frustrating at first. Her advice: Take your time to settle, but keep moving forward and accept help along the way.
“Being a Canadian is being supportive and compassionate. When you come to London, you are offered so much to help you settle, and the community makes you feel so welcomed,” comments Sandra

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