#11. You don't need to fit into anyone's narrow categories
You just need to be yourself.
Hey hey,
How’s your week been? Mine has been rainy. We had some sun today but the forecast says we’ve got more rain coming over the next few days. We’ve become the Vancouver of Alberta.
In today’s newsletter: O’Nell Agossa doesn’t mind if you don’t understand him.
Also: If you are a founder looking to move to Canada, Veronica Sepehr has some good news for you.
Plus: I think this podcast on fast vs. slow Canada is a great listen if you have the time.
By: Dozie Anyaegbunam
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You can find the online version of this newsletter here.
You don’t need to fit into anyone’s narrow categories
I’ve always reacted not so pleasantly (in my head) anytime I sensed someone was lumping immigrants into one box. Part of why I launched The Newcomers was to counter this narrative.
So, this conversation with O’Nell Agossa was beautiful in many ways. I love the grace with which he approaches the conversation. It’s one I can only aspire to for now.
Mind you, this is a dude who moved to Canada as a 9yo. And then got told by a lady on a bus to “go back to where you are coming from” when he was 13yo.
O’Nell hasn’t allowed that experience define him.
Listen to the full episode⤵
Who’s eligible for a C11 Significant Benefit Work Permit?
If you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or running a startup that can create jobs in Canada, export goods or services, or otherwise benefits the economy, especially in under-served regions or industries, please take a second look at this immigration pathway.
is your go-to if you need more specialized advice. However, if you are looking to take on the role of a passive investor, this won’t work for you. The Canadian government expects you to actively participate in building the business.Read the full thing⤵
Immigration’s impact on Canada’s economy & regions
Matthew McDonald shared the Borderlines podcast with me on LinkedIn, and gosh, it’s so so good. If you are trying to understand Canadian immigration and how it impacts our economy, the episode with Daniel Hiebert of C.D. Howe Institute is a great listen.
Plus Steven Meurrens and Deanna Okun-Nachoff are such delightful hosts.
Some takeaways
Our immigration system isn’t designed to bring in immigrants who bring some of the skills we need the most - such as construction and plumbing - despite the significant demand in those areas.
Canadians generally view immigration as a “problem-solving” program, unlike many other parts of the world where it's seen as “problem-creating.” While this fosters a welcoming environment, it also places a huge burden on immigrants to fill specific labor gaps or settle in certain regions that Canadians themselves avoid.
The reality is that the more immigration Canada has, the more its big cities will grow, and smaller places will stagnate or decline. This means immigration, despite its perceived role in solving issues, actually exacerbates the regional disparities and the crisis of aging in rural Canada.
Watch the full thing⤵
What am I excited about?
The summer. I am on a recording break till September and I intend to take full advantage of the holiday.
The coloring book. I finally have all the illustrations in bar one. I’ll be working with the illustrator over the next few weeks on contract, pricing and all. It’s important to me that no AI is used when illustrating.
Events
Black Social Club, August 2025
Who: Meet, connect, and grow with young Black professionals in Calgary. Build meaningful relationships, gain insights, and expand your network.
When: Friday, August 1 | 6-9 MDT
Where: Heritage Square, 8600 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary
What: Build meaningful relationships, gain insights, and expand your network.
Free