In a New Country, People Are Your Greatest Asset

When my husband first came to Canada, he came alone. New country. New system. No familiar faces.

Like many newcomers, he quickly learned that beyond visas, jobs, and plans, people matter.

During that season, God placed a family in his life the family of Mr. Lanre Akinyele and his lovely wife, Lara. They showed him genuine care, support, and warmth when he needed it most. They didn’t treat him like a stranger, they treated him like family.

When my children and I finally arrived in Canada, this same family came all the way to the airport to welcome us. That moment spoke louder than words.

Even after life took us to different cities, they to Hamilton and us to Ottawa, the bond remained. They still made a 6 hours journey to visit us, just to spend time together. Moments like these are priceless, and we cherish every bit of them.

Why relationships matter, especially for newcomers and immigrants

• They turn loneliness into belonging
• They offer support Google can’t provide
• They give emotional safety in unfamiliar places
• They open doors through trust, not just qualifications
• They become family when relatives are far away

This is a gentle reminder to all of us;
Be kind, even when it’s inconvenient.
Build relationships, not just contacts.

In a new land, relationships are not optional, they are priceless.

Thank you so much, we appreciate you and your family 🙏