Ways to Develop Cultural Competency When Moving to Canada

June 12, 2023 by Professional Studies Staff

If you're moving to Canada, it can be easy to feel like an outsider. Canadians are different from other cultures in many ways, but they share a lot of similarities as well. Developing cultural competency is crucial to ensuring you have a positive experience living in Canada. In this blog post, we will explore ways to develop cultural competency and how to take advantage of resources available to help you navigate your new life in Canada.

1. Learn about Canadian culture

The best way to develop cultural competency is to learn about Canadian culture. You can start by reading books or watching documentaries about Canada. Additionally, you can participate in cultural events or visit museums and art galleries to gain a broader picture of the country and its people.

When you move to Canada, it's important to know that your new home is a multicultural society. There are many different cultures and ethnic groups that make up Canada's population, including First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

The country also has a rich history of immigration that includes waves of European settlers who began arriving in North America in the 1600s. They were followed by nationals from many different countries, seeking a new home in Canada for a variety of reasons, including jobs, refuge from war and persecution, and opportunities for a better life. You can learn more about Canada’s immigration history by viewing this timeline at The Canadian Encyclopedia site.

2. Explore the differences and similarities

Moving to a new country can be an overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to adjusting to a new culture. One way to ease this transition is by exploring the differences and similarities between Canada and your home country. It's important to keep in mind that Canada is a multicultural country that prides itself on diversity and inclusivity. By embracing and respecting the various cultures, religions, and beliefs present in Canada, you can make the most out of your experience and develop a deeper appreciation for the country.

Canada's culture is influenced by other cultures around the world but also has its own unique characteristics. It's a blend of traditions, languages, and customs that contribute to its rich cultural heritage. The environment also has a significant impact on how Canadians live their lives. For instance, Canada's extreme weather conditions, such as severe winters, shape how people dress, travel, and socialize. The natural resources that sustain Canada, such as forests and lakes, have influenced its economic and social development.

It's important to remember that exploring the differences and similarities between Canada and your home country is not about making comparisons or judging which culture is better. Rather, it's about gaining a better understanding of the country you now call home and appreciating its unique qualities. This can help you adapt to the new culture and feel more comfortable in your new surroundings.

3. Take a cultural competency quiz

There are several free online quizzes available that test your cultural competency. Taking a quiz can help you identify areas where you may need to improve your understanding of Canadian culture and values.

You might be surprised at how many questions on the quiz have nothing at all to do with Canada! The test will help you gain an appreciation for all kinds of things that are important in Canada. Here are a few:

Our love of hockey (and who doesn't love hockey?)
Our passion for maple syrup and Tim Hortons coffee (or tea)
Our love of nature (we have awesome trees everywhere!)

4. Be open-minded

Being open-minded and willing to learn is essential when developing cultural competency. You may encounter beliefs, customs, and values that are different from your own. It is essential to keep an open mind and not judge these differences. Instead, try to understand and respect them.

Accept new experiences and ideas, even if they seem unusual or unfamiliar to you. This can be a challenge when you're moving from one country to another, but it will help you settle into your new country.

Be open to new people and opportunities as well! If there are any local businesses that may be able to help with your relocation needs (such as housing or transportation), try exploring them before making final decisions about what kind of area suits best for your family's needs.

5. Learn the language

Learning the language is one of the most important things you can do when moving to Canada. Not only does it help you communicate with people, but it also helps you understand their culture and learn about their way of life.

Mastering a new language can be a challenging endeavor. Simply attending classes and taking tests may not be enough to develop strong speaking skills in English. If your goal is to communicate effectively with people from different cultures and backgrounds, it's important to focus on more advanced language skills beyond basic proficiency. Striving to expand your vocabulary, improving your pronunciation, and practicing conversational English are all crucial steps in developing effective communication skills. Remember, it takes dedication and hard work to become fluent in a new language, but the rewards of being able to communicate with others in your new community are well worth the effort.

6. Put yourself in the others’ shoes

When moving to Canada, your first instinct may be to assume that everyone else knows what they're talking about and thinks as you do. However, this is often not true. The best way to understand another culture is through empathy—being able to put yourself in their shoes and see things from their perspective. It's also important not to judge them or expect them all to think like you (or have the same background).

When interacting with Canadians on a daily basis, be curious as well as understanding, and don’t hesitate to ask questions when necessary. Many Canadians will appreciate being asked about their thoughts on particular issues, and you may learn why some things are done differently than you might have expected!

7. Develop relationships with people from diverse backgrounds

The first step in developing cultural competency is to build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. It's important to develop a network of friends and colleagues who share your interests, values, and goals. Connecting with people who are also new immigrants can help you learn more about Canada's culture and history before moving here—and they'll probably have some advice on what it's like to live here!

Here are some examples of people who may be interested in connecting:

Family members who currently reside in Canada. They can offer you invaluable advice and support as you adjust to life in a new country.
Friends from high school or college who may know someone who has recently moved to Canada. They can introduce you to new people and expand your social circle.
Other expats or immigrants who have already gone through the process of settling in Canada. Connecting with them through online forums, social media groups, or in-person events can provide you with useful insights and tips for navigating the challenges of adapting to a new culture.

In conclusion, moving to Canada can be an exciting yet daunting experience, but developing cultural competency can help ease the transition. Remember, adapting to a new culture takes time and effort, but embracing diversity and inclusivity can help you make the most out of your experience living in Canada. We hope these tips will help you navigate your new life in Canada and create a positive experience for yourself and those around you.

If you are an internationally trained teacher coming to Canada, one of the best ways to develop your cultural competency is to join the Internationally Trained Teachers Program (ITTP) at Queen's University. This program is designed to help internationally trained teachers adapt to the Canadian classroom environment and develop the skills they need to succeed as teachers in Canada. Through this program, you will have the opportunity to learn from experienced educators, gain valuable classroom experience, and develop your teaching skills in a supportive environment. By joining the ITTP, you will not only improve your cultural competency, but also enhance your professional opportunities and make a positive impact in the lives of your students.