Empowered by Hope: A Journey from Shanghai to Toronto on ‘Moving Countries 101’
In a compelling new episode of Moving Countries 101, host Clare Kay engages in a thoughtful conversation with a guest, Jennifer He, who candidly shares her journey from Shanghai, China, to Toronto, Canada. This episode delves into the challenges, choices, and personal growth that accompany such a significant life change, offering listeners an inspiring look at what it takes to thrive in a new country.
Growing up in a multicultural neighbourhood in Shanghai, Jennifer was no stranger to diversity. However, she longed for a deeper immersion into an English-speaking culture. Although initially enrolled in a U.S. university, she ultimately chose Canada as her destination, drawn by the opportunity for permanent residency and guided by her mother’s advice to prioritize her marriage by staying with her husband.
Her arrival in Canada, however, presented unexpected challenges. Searching for work proved to be a stark contrast to the ease with which Jennifer and her husband had previously secured jobs in China. Despite these obstacles, the guest remained resilient, offering a profound insight into judgment—remarking that when people judge others, it often reveals more about the person making the judgment than the one being judged. This perspective has shaped her approach to challenges, focusing on hope and resilience rather than dwelling on others’ opinions.
This resilience contrasted with a friend’s assumption that her move to Canada would be a slice of heaven. For Jennifer, the true challenge was not in the move itself but in her ability to adapt and flourish in a foreign land.
Reflecting on her upbringing, Jennifer shares how women in Shanghai tend to assert their independence, and she herself is not shy about having her say. This cultural influence not only shaped her decisions in China but also empowered her to navigate the complexities of life in Canada.
The episode also touches on Jennifer’s temporary return to China, motivated not by the challenges of living abroad, but by new opportunities that arose. Her reflections emphasize that the difficulties of life are universal, no matter where one lives, and that the true test lies in how we respond to them.
Throughout their conversation, Clare Kay skillfully draws out insights that resonate with anyone who has faced—or is considering—a significant move. Jennifer’s reflections, particularly regarding marriage and her approach to personal development in work, offer a profound look at how she has shaped her life. Adopting an attitude of “says who?” she overcomes doubt and pursues a life shaped by choice rather than circumstance.
Moving Countries 101 continues to deliver engaging stories that go beyond the logistics of relocation. This episode, in particular, is an inspiring listen for anyone at a crossroads, offering valuable lessons in how to navigate the uncertainties of life with confidence.
Tune in to this episode to hear how one woman’s journey across continents has not only defined her life but also her approach to business and personal growth.
