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Imagine arriving in a new country and likening the experience to surviving on a new planet. That's precisely how our guest, Javier Lavelle, founder of ThrivVe magazine, describes his journey from Mexico to Canada.

In this episode, we shine a light on the tribulations and victories of international students navigating unfamiliar terrains. From opening bank accounts to securing accommodation, Javier shares his personal tales and insights, reflecting on the stark contrast between expectations and the reality of life in Canada. We also explore the lighter side of these experiences with fun exchanges about breakfast choices and cherished films.

From the heart of Mexico City to the vibrant streets of Vancouver, Javier's story intertwines with music and family, forming a rich tapestry of cultural dynamics. Growing up in a family of musicians, Javier navigated worlds filled with both chaos and community, shaping his identity in profound ways. Our conversation meanders through his educational journey, highlighting his transition from psychology to event management and digital marketing. Javier eloquently shares the emotional toll and ultimate realization that some career paths demand more than just passion.

Our discussion also captures the essence of building a supportive community for international students. Javier's mission through ThrivVe magazine is to create an unbiased resource, guiding newcomers through the maze of living and studying in Canada. Sharing authentic experiences and insights, we aim to empower listeners to embrace their emotions, overcome challenges, and connect with diverse cultures.
This episode offers a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of international students, with advice on making informed decisions and savoring the unexpected joys of cultural integration.

Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media channels below:

• My Thick Accent on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
• My Thick Accent on Threads - https://www.threads.net/@mythickaccent?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• MyThickAccent.com - https://www.mythickaccent.com/
• Gurasis's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamgurasis/
• Gurasis's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis/

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To contact Javier:

• Javier's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/javierlavalle-l?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B4M2ufCx%2BSYuB%2FogWrV6eIA%3D%3D
• THRIVVE Magazine Website - https://www.thrivve.ca

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Curious about the little rituals that form the backbone of our podcast interviews?

This episode unveils our brand-new segment, "Know Your Host," where we open up about the behind-the-scenes process that ensures meaningful and respectful conversations with our guests.
Join us as Ruth, our thoughtful guest, adds her voice to the conversation, sharing her journey of adjusting to Canada's coffee culture and the curious joy of discovering the "double-double" at Tim Hortons. Together, we reflect on how these fragrant cups of coffee and initial chats lay the foundation for deeper connections and remind us all that we aren't alone in our experiences.

The power of storytelling takes center stage as we chat with Ruth about the impact of sharing personal narratives. We explore how our relaxed and conversational approach allows for mutual cultural exchanges, providing listeners with a comforting sense of community and belonging. Ruth graciously shares a slice of Dominican Republic culture, adding a rich and personal layer to our discussion. This episode celebrates the transformative nature of storytelling and the enduring connections that bind us, underscoring the courage it takes to share one's story and the hope it can inspire in others.

Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media channels below:

• My Thick Accent on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
• My Thick Accent on Threads - https://www.threads.net/@mythickaccent?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• MyThickAccent.com - https://www.mythickaccent.com/
• Gurasis's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamgurasis/
• Gurasis's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis/

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To contact Ruth:

• Ruth’s LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/ruthjavierf
• The one word that transformed Ruth’s life - https://mnlct.org/ruths-story/
• Ruth’s Toastmasters speech ‘An Impostor Among Us - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dq3o47LjWQg

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Want to share your story? Or know someone I should invite next on the show? DM us or write to us at Hello@mythickaccent.com

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!

What if the key to resilience is found in embracing your accent and identity?
Join us on this inspiring episode as we sit down with Ruth Javier, an immigrant who has navigated the challenges of moving to Canada with grace and determination. From the snowy streets of Toronto to her vibrant Dominican roots, Ruth's story is a tapestry of community spirit, cultural pride, and personal growth. We explore her journey of self-belief, the unexpected delights of Canadian culinary quirks like pineapple pizza, and the profound lessons she learned along the way.

Ruth's narrative unfolds with heartfelt anecdotes about her upbringing in the Dominican Republic, where being the eldest of seven siblings nurtured her leadership qualities and teaching aspirations. We dive into the transformative power of Toastmasters, where Ruth conquered imposter syndrome and discovered her unique strengths, accent and all. Her experiences underscore the importance of storytelling and shared experiences, offering listeners a glimpse into the multicultural vibrancy that defines Canada's identity.

Volunteering becomes a beacon of hope as Ruth passionately discusses its role in helping immigrants transition their careers. We reflect on the power of cultural exchange, from the comfort of traditional dishes like moto to the joy of making new friendships in Canada. Through personal tales and cultural connections, this episode celebrates the universal themes of belonging and community, inviting listeners to appreciate the impact of personal narratives in shaping a resilient, inclusive future.

Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media channels below:

• My Thick Accent on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
• My Thick Accent on Threads - https://www.threads.net/@mythickaccent?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• MyThickAccent.com - https://www.mythickaccent.com/
• Gurasis's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamgurasis/
• Gurasis's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis/

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To contact Ruth:

• Ruth’s LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/ruthjavierf
• The one word that transformed Ruth’s life - https://mnlct.org/ruths-story/
• Ruth’s Toastmasters speech ‘An Impostor Among Us - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dq3o47LjWQg

Support the show

Want to share your story? Or know someone I should invite next on the show? DM us or write to us at Hello@mythickaccent.com

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!

Ever wondered how a simple dinner invitation could result in a cultural revelation? When Ritika first encountered the North American habit of dining at 4 PM, she was in for a surprise, marking one of her most memorable cultural shocks.
Join us for an episode filled with personal stories and cultural exchanges as Ritika shares her journey of embracing new traditions while holding onto the flavors and fondness of home. Listen in as we switch roles, giving Ritika the reins to question my personal growth journey, from discovering a hidden passion for cooking to conquering the fear of judgment and embracing a more carefree lifestyle.

Ritika offers a unique perspective on life's nuances, reflecting on advice she would give her younger self and sharing heartwarming anecdotes about the comfort food that takes her back to her roots. Our conversation also takes a lighter turn with humorous tales about language mishaps and university interactions. As we celebrate the joy of Christmas and other Canadian festivities, Ritika shares invaluable advice for fellow immigrants.
End the episode with us as we reminisce about the significance of friendships formed in new lands, wrapping up a session that promises laughter, warmth, and a sprinkle of nostalgia.

Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media channels below:

• My Thick Accent on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
• My Thick Accent on Threads - https://www.threads.net/@mythickaccent?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• MyThickAccent.com - https://www.mythickaccent.com/
• Gurasis's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamgurasis/
• Gurasis's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis/

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To contact Ritika:

• Ritika's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritika-saraswat?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3Bv7nvvHDxQw%2BHUUk1edbMiQ%3D%3D
• Ritika's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/saraswatritika/
• Re-Defined Page - https://linktr.ee/redefined11

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Want to share your story? Or know someone I should invite next on the show? DM us or write to us at Hello@mythickaccent.com

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!

From her beginnings as an international kinesiology student to becoming a prominent business analyst and nonprofit founder, Ritika Saraswat's journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Her story is one of resilience and empowerment, as she discusses her passion for supporting immigrants and international students. With a focus on the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing time with loved ones, Ritika offers a heartfelt perspective on pursuing personal and professional priorities with purpose.

Ritika delves into her favorite cultural indulgences, from Toronto's cafes to Bollywood's cinematic influences, and how these personal passions have shaped her approach to life abroad. Discover how she champions authenticity in networking, emphasizing empathy and transparency as keys to building connections in a diverse corporate world. Learn about her inspiring role at Deloitte and organizing events, where Ritika merges corporate influence with personal passion to foster community-wide change, proving that dedication and innovative advocacy can break down barriers and create lasting impact.

We also explore the art of balancing career ambitions with family commitments, addressing the pressures of social media and the power of personal storytelling. Ritika's global experiences, including her enriching visit to India and her participation in the One Young World Summit, highlight the importance of cultural diversity and advocacy in driving innovation and success. With practical advice on organizing transformative events and empowering newcomers, this episode is packed with insights for anyone striving to navigate life's challenges and make a difference in their personal and professional journey.

Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media channels below:

• My Thick Accent on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
• My Thick Accent on Threads - https://www.threads.net/@mythickaccent?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• MyThickAccent.com - https://www.mythickaccent.com/
• Gurasis's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamgurasis/
• Gurasis's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis/

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To contact Ritika:

• Ritika's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritika-saraswat?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3Bv7nvvHDxQw%2BHUUk1edbMiQ%3D%3D
• Ritika's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/saraswatritika/
• Re-Defined Page - https://linktr.ee/redefined11

Support the show

Want to share your story? Or know someone I should invite next on the show? DM us or write to us at Hello@mythickaccent.com

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!

Have you ever wondered what wisdom you'd impart to your younger self at a crossroads in life?
Join us for an enlightening episode featuring our guest, Simran, as he shares the lessons he's learned over the years. From the aroma of comforting home-cooked meals that transport him back to his Bihari roots, to the unexpected cultural revelations at a Thanksgiving dinner, Simran offers an authentic glimpse into the experiences that have shaped his journey. We'll laugh together at the mispronunciations and autocorrect mishaps that turned Simran into "Simon," and explore the rich cultural dynamics that highlight both the differences and similarities in our global community.

Simran's reflections take us beyond the surface, as he draws parallels between his life and the soaring independence of an eagle or hawk, and advocates for a global law for mandatory community service to enrich cultural exchanges. He shares heartfelt insights about finding a sense of belonging in Canada, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in connecting immigrant communities. From reconnecting with his first Canadian friend, Rohan Khanna, to adopting the quintessential Canadian weather conversation, Simran's stories are filled with humor, nostalgia, and deep human connection.

Tune in to this engaging episode to explore the power of authenticity and enjoy a meaningful conversation that promises to resonate long after you've finished listening.

Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media channels below:

• My Thick Accent on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
• My Thick Accent on Threads - https://www.threads.net/@mythickaccent?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• MyThickAccent.com - https://www.mythickaccent.com/
• Gurasis's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamgurasis/
• Gurasis's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis/

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To contact Simranzeet:

• Simranzeet's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/simranzeetsinghvig?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BqDSiD%2BpAROC%2FHroHonvQlA%3D%3D

Support the show

Want to share your story? Or know someone I should invite next on the show? DM us or write to us at Hello@mythickaccent.com

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!

Simranzeet Singh's inspiring journey from the vibrant streets of North Delhi to the bustling corridors of a Canadian university offers a captivating narrative of cultural assimilation and personal growth. Join us as we share Simranjeet’s experiences adjusting to a new way of life, where even developing a taste for coffee symbolizes broader societal adaptations. Through poignant discussions, we uncover the layers of identity transformation and the universal challenges faced by international students in their quest for belonging and self-discovery.

Navigating the intricate dynamics of family traditions and societal norms, this episode thoughtfully examines the patriarchal influences that subtly shape our worldviews. Through heartfelt stories, we reflect on the balance between familial expectations and personal dreams, shedding light on the journey of unlearning ingrained biases. Simranzeet's insights highlight the power of diverse perspectives in fostering equality and justice, underscoring the responsibility to stand up for others and champion authentic self-expression.

Explorations of cultural differences provide a window into the life of a visible minority, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of being a Sikh student in Canada. Simranzeet's candid anecdotes about classroom experiences and the significance of wearing a turban open up valuable conversations around identity and acceptance. With a focus on community and connection, we celebrate the importance of sharing stories and gratitude, emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling in bridging cultural divides and enriching our shared human experience.

Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media channels below:

• My Thick Accent on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
• My Thick Accent on Threads - https://www.threads.net/@mythickaccent?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• MyThickAccent.com - https://www.mythickaccent.com/
• Gurasis's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamgurasis/
• Gurasis's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis/

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To contact Simranzeet:

• Simranzeet's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/simranzeetsinghvig?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BqDSiD%2BpAROC%2FHroHonvQlA%3D%3D

Support the show

Want to share your story? Or know someone I should invite next on the show? DM us or write to us at Hello@mythickaccent.com

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show!

Ever wondered what advice you'd give your younger self or which comfort food you would choose if calories didn’t count?

Our guest, Doreen, takes us on an insightful journey through her personal reflections and cultural insights, revealing her fearless advice to her younger self and her love for Indian & Pakistani food, and the universally loved pizza. As you listen, you'll discover her hidden talents in piano and cooking, along with her passion for chocolate.
Doreen’s stories of Canadian Thanksgiving at Rice Lake cottages paint a picture of family, gratitude, and togetherness, making the essence of Canadian traditions come alive.

Join us as Doreen shares her profound connection with nature and animals like horses and dolphins, and discusses the strength she draws from her supportive network. Her candid tales of online shopping regrets and dreams of endless travel bring a relatable humor to the conversation.

Emphasizing the significance of community support and helping others, she opens up about the transformative "I Am Remarkable" workshop, highlighting personal strengths and resilience. Doreen’s message to live, accept, and simply be, serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of storytelling and the strength found in embracing our unique journeys.

Follow the host and the podcast on Social Media channels below:

• My Thick Accent on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
• My Thick Accent on Threads - https://www.threads.net/@mythickaccent?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• MyThickAccent.com - https://www.mythickaccent.com/
• Gurasis's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamgurasis/
• Gurasis's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis/

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To contact Doreen:

• Doreen's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doreen-fernandez-00988164?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BW8%2FJy5pSRXqx6SmXeMTS0A%3D%3D
• Memory Bloom Website - https://memorybloom.ca/

Support the show

Want to share your story? Or know someone I should invite next on the show? DM us or write to us at Hello@mythickaccent.com