I moved to Canada from Nigeria in June 2024, in search of the Canadian dream. With nearly 20 years of experience in the Nigerian banking sector, I had steadily built a career I was proud of. But relocating came with a deep fear, would all those years of experience matter in Canada? I had heard stories of professionals starting from scratch, and I didn’t want that. Leaving my life behind in Nigeria was already stressful; I didn’t want to leave my career behind too.
Sensing my concern, my wife encouraged me to join the ACCES Leadership Program for New Immigrants. She believed it would help me continue from where I left off. After completing the three-month program, I enrolled in the TRIEC Mentorship Program, which pairs immigrants with mentors in their professional fields to guide them through job applications, networking, and understanding Canadian workplace culture.
In December 2024, I was matched with Michelle Chann, a senior professional in my field. Our first meeting was online, and she immediately put me at ease. She wanted to understand my background, goals, and job preferences. We spoke candidly about my failed applications and the common feedback, “no Canadian experience.” But Michelle saw my potential and assured me that starting at a management level in Canada was possible. Her belief in me was the first turning point.
Over time, we had several insightful sessions. She shared her own career journey and emphasized the importance of gaining Canadian work experience. Her passion for the TD brand was striking, she didn’t just represent the brand, she lived it. Her loyalty and commitment were infectious, and I quietly began to dream of working there too.
Then one day, after reviewing the TRIEC mentorship program’s NDA agreement together, Michelle invited me to shadow her at her workplace. I became a “fly on the wall” in her meetings, excused only when confidential matters were discussed. After each session, we would have deep conversations where I offered my own solutions and insights. These moments made me realize that I could thrive in the Canadian professional space. That is when TD entered my daily dreams.
In another meeting, Michelle introduced me to Arnold Xavier, a fellow immigrant who had just joined TD in a management role. Calm, articulate, and deeply knowledgeable, Arnold Xavier shared a career journey that mirrored mine. His success fueled my belief; I could do this too.
In February 2025, I came across a job posting in TD security’s Global Payments and Deposits Operations Department. The role aligned with some of my skills. I reached out to Michelle, who referred me to the hiring manager. I was invited for an interview, and from the moment I met the panel, I could feel their passion for the TD brand as well. When the usual “Canadian experience” question came up, I smiled, I was ready. I explained how shadowing Michelle had given me firsthand insights into the Canadian work environment. Her mentorship had prepared me in the most practical way.
After two more interview rounds, I got the call, a verbal offer from TD securities. It was one of the happiest moments of my life.
A month into the job, I met with Michelle, this time, as colleagues. Eagerly, I showed her my staff ID. She looked at me, smiled, and said, “I see a different you, a more confident Tunde.” With a warm hug, she welcomed me to TD. Her mentorship wasn’t just about finding a job—it was about transforming my mindset and helping me see my self-worth again.
Today, I am proud to say I work at TD securities, in a role that aligns with my passion and experience. I continue to meet with Michelle monthly, discussing everything from work to life. Now, it is my turn to give back, I will enroll as a mentor in the TRIEC mentorship program, hoping to help someone else find their footing, just like Michelle helped me.
Want to learn more about how TMP can help you in your professional journey?
Visit https://www.mentoringpartnership.ca/ to discover how mentoring can support your career growth and help you reach your goals. Whether you’re a newcomer looking to establish your career in Canada or an experienced professional wanting to give back, TMP is here to make meaningful connections that transform lives.