Youssef Elhage

I am a newcomer from Lebanon. I possess a bachelor degree in accounting, but did not have significant employment experience in this field upon my arrival to Canada. Upon my arrival to Chatham-Kent, I rented a one-bedroom apartment, with the assistance of a family friend who previously lived in Chatham-Kent.

After initially struggling to find a job, I accepted a position as a full-time cashier at Petro-Canada, a job that was needed to cover my initial living expenses. Using this experience, I found employment as a Finance Assistant with the Chatham Capitol Theatre. I worked as a Finance Assistant for one year before taking over the Finance Coordinator position. My career goal is to complete an accounting designation.

I think that one of the most important things for any newcomer to understand is that learning the English language is an important key to success in Canada. I also believe that learning the language also gives an excellent networking tool to know about job opportunities, and also to make friends. Setting professional goals and working to achieve them no matter how much time it takes is another important piece of advice that I would give to any newcomer reading my story.

As an active member in the community of Chatham-Kent, I believe that newcomers will enjoy living and working in Chatham-Kent because it is a very accommodating city to live and raise a family. The things that I enjoy the most about living in Chatham-Kent are the nice people who are willing to lend a helping hand as well as the affordable rent prices. Chatham-Kent is also a great place to live because it is not crowded like other cities.

I am enjoying my life in Chatham-Kent, and I believe that newcomers to the area will be comfortable with the atmosphere in this area. It is important that any newcomer wishing to settle in Chatham-Kent has to be patient, active, and become involved in community through volunteering and participating in the many community events Chatham-Kent has to offer. Employment experience is also important, so start with any job that will give you Canadian-working experience and references on your resume, as well as setting up and achieving your goals, both personal and professional. I am confident that you will enjoy your time in Chatham-Kent, the same way I have enjoyed mine.

I would like to add that my wife and I have been blessed with twin boys born in Nov 2009, and we're grateful for all the services we have benefited from; before and after the birth of the babies in Chatham!