When new immigrants arrive in Canada, they have one goal: staying.
From the moment they step off the plane, this singular focus fuels endless possibilities.
Ravi Kumar, our Customer Experience Manager in Dieppe, New Brunswick says newcomers arrive with “suitcases full of dreams.” Ravi arrived in Canada in 2018 – when he was just 19 years old - after leaving India to pursue higher education.
In the sea of these endless possibilities, we’re privileged so many choose to chase their dreams at Walmart Canada.
It’s a responsibility we take very seriously.
The culture we create inside our four walls is a huge part of their Canadian experience. It teaches them about our nation’s values, people, and what makes Canada such a special place to live.
To build this culture, we must create a sense of belonging. Our associates need to feel like they’re part of a team, and most importantly, part of a community.
New beginnings are hard, whether it’s a new country or a new job. At Walmart Canada, our managers prioritize inclusivity from the beginning of the onboarding process. From holistic team building to intercultural training, we want our associates to feel safe, comfortable, and involved.
On June 30, we took a moment to celebrate the important role the whole community plays in welcoming newcomers.
Walmart Canada sponsored 500 new Canadians to enjoy their first Halifax Wanderers Football Club soccer game.
Joined by municipal, provincial, and federal government officials including the Hon. Sean Fraser, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, the team and its more than 6,000 fans celebrated new Canadians and the important role they play in growing our community.
More than 50 of our new Canadian associates in Halifax cheered on the team, but more importantly, were passionately cheered on by welcoming fans.
In an extra special moment, Gifty Dua, our Omni Assistant Manager in Halifax joined Minister Fraser, MP Andy Fillmore, Halifax Mayor Mike Savage, and team captains at centre field for the pre-game coin toss.
Gifty represented hundreds of new Canadian associates across Nova Scotia and tens of thousands across the country. She’s been in Canada for four years and with Walmart Canada for (almost) the entire time.
Gifty is now well on her way to receiving permanent residency via the Atlantic Immigration Program and will soon make her dreams of becoming a Canadian citizen come true.
It doesn’t take a lot to make someone feel welcomed. Engage, include, embrace.
For co-workers, take a moment to lend a helping hand.
For managers, ask how you can make their experience more enjoyable.
For leaders, find opportunities to help strengthen team connections.
Each time we add an associate to our already amazing team, we add new experiences, new perspectives, and new ways of thinking. The strength of our team compounds.
We don’t have to wait for another ‘New Canadians’ night at a sporting event. A small act today can make someone feel like Canada is truly their new home.
