Before the seeds are reaped: A Prologue

Change is new, change is hard, Impossible, at times; but necessary every time.

There comes a time in life, when each one of us has felt directionless. The complexity of the situation differs, of course. This is where we think of change. And that shapes our future experiences. Speaking contextually, change for me was moving to Canada, or when I got my first job, also switching between specializations from Journalism to Public Relations within the ever-evolving field; i.e., Communications. Being an aspiring communications specialist, I have realized that when you are in this profession, you never cease to learn. There is something new waiting for you in every phase of your career. This is one of the reasons why I chose it as a profession. I have also believed in the power of collective speaking and generating community engagement, and this has drawn me further inwards.

My first-hand experience in Canada is no different than any other immigrant. People speak about studying here first, which serves as a pathway to eventually take permanent residence. Others speak about the importance of gaining Canadian work experience, yet there are others who dwell upon how crucial the topics of diversity and inclusion are becoming, and how it is necessary to network with relevant professionals.

Trust me when I say this, I have tried and tested all the strategies. Well, one needs to be strategic while looking for jobs. The difference is that my hunting period continues for more than a year. Let me tell you how… Graduating during the same month when WHO declared COVID a pandemic was a fact- Companies were laying off instead of hiring people, veiling behind their screens; basically, transforming their modus operandi. As a fresher, and a foreigner, I originally didn’t have a plan B, but the reality struck me when people refused to even shake hands due to safety concerns. Friendly coffee chats, informational interviews and job fairs soon transformed into a monotonous affair between my work desk and the bedroom.

Still, I don’t blame COVID, I really don’t. The fact is that I tried (and am still trying my best). I remember the first time when I had changed my job hunt strategy: I had moved into a new city. I used to wake up fresh every morning and complete the daily checklist of filing applications. I believed in quality over quantity, which is why I spent time with each and every application I also networked massively via LinkedIn. As it continued, I also tried developing upon my interests: Started a photography page on Instagram, took courses online, read books, helped my sister and uncle diversify content on their social media channels, worked part-time at a restaurant, travelled when I could, and tried maintaining a healthy (and balanced) lifestyle.

Most importantly, I worked on a topic I hold dear: Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change.

Back in 2019, I had independently written a few research papers which addressed the climate change debate in communications by discussing how communicators have failed to persuade the public about it, in a time when they are supposedly the masters at the art of persuasion. This was followed up by another provincially segmented report outlining: the main environmental challenges faced by Ontario, public policies being implemented by the government after the 2019 election, and the intellectual initiatives that communities can take to bring a positive change. During 2020-21, I tried working upon a more comprehensive version that would focus upon the root cause, i.e. the lack of awareness, especially in such turbulent times of COVID. Through its medium, I wish to raise my voice against the elementary factors responsible (such as the media, government agencies, and the simulated busy lives of people). I would also focus upon communal action- while writing more thoroughly about how it is communicated ineffectively- and what needs to be changed is the mentality and the attitude of people.

I researched about the targets that Canada had set for itself as a part of The Paris Agreement, and the consequent federal policies surrounding it. Alongside, I made it a point to remain active on Twitter and voice out my concerns/opinions, in order to stay relevant. During the past year, I tried my level best to look for communications-related roles in non-profits on websites such as Charity Village. Even now, I would love to use my communication skills for

such an organization, if given a chance.

On the flip side, the reality is that I have two years left on my work visa, which consequently means that I am time-bound in order to meet my goals.

Now if I were to delve into writing research papers in the sustainability field; it would be an ordeal. Yes, I have an idea to implement, but how? There are people to interview, data to analyse and enough content to form meaningful narratives for a research paper. But, it also requires months of dedication, a mentor and relevant resources in the publishing business- to give it a certain direction. However, with a limited work visa in hand, how do I pursue it independently without having a running income?

I find myself being bound by time, and that’s why I have spent most of my time in 2020-21 looking for full-time permanent job opportunities. Let me take you through a few evident challenges every communications professional may have faced in their career: 1. It is hard to find a full-time, permanent position. In Canada, people usually take up contractual opportunities in this field, in order to climb up the ladder

2. Every job type listed as ‘entry level’, requires 2-3 or 3-5 years of work experience. That’s absolutely absurd

3. Some particular jobs within the non-profit industry; or publicly-funded organizations require bilingualism, permanent residence, or a master’s degree. Realistically speaking: I do not have the resources to achieve any of the three at this moment.

All I have (and need) is the right intent, motivation and integrity to stand up for myself and my professional interests. The right opportunity is what I await. I am not trying to blame the hiring teams because I understand: If I were a Canadian too, and were put in charge of recruiting the right candidate; my attention would go towards similar-looking or like-minded people. Well, immigrants can be like-minded too; they only await a chance to prove themselves. After a few months into job hunting, I had also started to actively apply for administrative support/customer service roles, because I felt the need to diversify my options. I knew since the beginning where I want to go, but life was pulling me in different directions.

The winter last year struck me hard, and I wanted to take a break from the routine. With a newly-issued visa in hand; I could think of no other option than to visit my home country, India. And I did. What was supposed to be a two-month stay, became eight months long. The second wave exceeded my expectations of ruining all plans. I missed out on opportunities in Canada, nonetheless, never stopped trying. I interviewed for many positions while managing the time difference. At a time when everybody around me said that I was stuck in the wrong place at the wrong time; I didn’t regret it. India is, and will always be home. Travelling back to Canada via a third country required extensive planning and a heavy pocket. It was quite a test, but I successfully landed back earlier this month.

Sometimes I think that: Public Relations, as a profession, is about earning publicity and making your brand more credible, not spending money to sell your brand - as one does in marketing. I see a striking similarity between this and my career. The merit that I have earned in the past is primarily because every pursuit had a meaningful desire behind it, and I have worked hard to deserve it. Resources were never given to me; I had to earn them.

With more than a dozen applications filed this week; I believe that the journey remains... Resumes and cover letters, portfolios, networking via LinkedIn and Zoom have now become a part and parcel of life. Everyone I have spoken with talks from their personal experience, the only difference is that I am here to make mine.

Even now, my inner animals come to play at night. Do you know how it’s easier to have pessimistic thoughts sometimes? That’s what happens. Dilemma takes over my sleep and I question everything. But does that mean that I will stop here? No way. My determination is bigger than my dilemma, and now that the industry has started re-flourishing post the third wave; I am feeling more hopeful than ever before.

To express a token of gratitude, my heart goes to all the people who helped and motivated me at some point in the crazy year that 2020 has been. Thank you all.