Five years ago, on November 11, 2018, my family and I set foot in Toronto, Ontario, embarking on a journey that would lead us to Saint John, NB. This move would mark the beginning of a transformative chapter, a chapter filled with challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons. Today, as I reflect on these five years, I am compelled to share the story of how working at Burger King became a stepping stone to new opportunities and personal growth.
Opening Doors at Burger King:
Burger King, a fast-food giant, played a pivotal role in shaping my Canadian experience. Initially, it was a means of employment, but it quickly became a classroom for learning transferrable skills. Having spent most of my career in the Philippines providing remote customer service to North America, the face-to-face interaction with diverse communities in Canada was a welcomed change. It was an eye-opener, a chance to observe the patience of Canadians and their openness to different cultures.
Transition to a New Industry:
As fate would have it, my journey took an unexpected turn when I transitioned to work for an insurance company, gaining insights into the importance of insurance in Canadian society. In contrast to my homeland, where insurance was often viewed as a luxury for the wealthy, Canada showcased its significance in daily life. This experience broadened my understanding and appreciation for the intricacies of the Canadian financial landscape.
Seeking New Horizons:
After four years, a desire for new challenges and experiences led me to explore opportunities beyond customer-facing roles. With determination and prayer, I submitted my resume to various positions, not always meeting every requirement but hoping that my diverse background would speak volumes. Eventually, I secured an interview with a local company, and to my delight, they valued my experiences, especially my time at Burger King, recognizing the retail and inventory management skills acquired.
Lessons Learned and Growth:
In hindsight, I realize that each experience, even those seemingly unrelated or challenging, served a purpose. Working in roles that were not initially aligned with my career aspirations taught me valuable lessons and contributed to my personal and professional growth. Moving to a new country often means starting anew, a challenge many immigrants face. It’s a journey of personal growth and the journey may not always follow the expected path. Yet, these detours often lead to unforeseen opportunities and a deeper understanding of oneself.
Gratitude and Support:
I express my gratitude, especially to my brother-in-law, whose support opened the doors for my family to move to Canada through Burger King. His assistance became a catalyst for a series of experiences that shaped my journey in Canada.
As I stand at this juncture, I am grateful for the twists and turns that have defined my Canadian journey. To those who find themselves in roles they did not anticipate, I offer a reminder that every experience has a purpose. Embrace the journey, draw from each encounter, and trust that, in time, you’ll find yourself exactly where you are meant to be or maybe you are already right where God wants you to be. Life’s lessons are often disguised as challenges, and the path from Burger King to new beginnings is a testament to the resilience and growth that can emerge from unexpected places.