The Myth of "Starting Over" You’re Bringing Value

August 06, 2025

In partnership with

Hey Re-Definers,

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had some truly honest conversations with international students and professionals navigating their new chapters in Canada. And one thing keeps coming up: that quiet, sometimes heavy feeling that you’re starting from zero.

If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “None of what I did back home matters here,” or “I feel like I’m starting all over again,” you’re not alone. I’ve heard this sentiment from so many of you, and I want to say this clearly:

You are not starting over. You are starting from experience.

This month’s newsletter is for you. It is a reflection, a reframe, and a reminder that your journey up to this point is still valid, still valuable, and still deeply relevant.

Breaking the myth

We know the systems in place do not always recognize international experience right away. But change is happening. Employers are slowly learning to value what global professionals bring, and we also need to start telling our stories differently.

We cannot wait for recognition. We need to lead the narrative.

Step 1: Reframe your experience

One of the biggest mistakes many of us make is evaluating our experiences through job titles instead of through the skills we've built. When titles change or don’t match local standards, it’s easy to feel like our experience doesn’t count, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

In reality, everything you’ve done counts. Every project, role, leadership opportunity, and volunteer experience matters. Start by listing out the core skills you've developed over time. For each one, ask yourself: What evidence do I have to show not just that I can do it, but that I can do it well?

Reflect on:

  • What did I learn?

  • What did I achieve?

  • What kind of impact did I create?

This is what employers care about. This is what you truly bring to the table.

You don’t need a local job title to validate your abilities. When you start seeing your journey through the lens of skills and outcomes—not titles—you’ll not only be more confident in your story, but you’ll also show up with clarity and conviction.

Step 2: Show transferability

Employers often wonder: Can you apply what you know in this new context?

The most powerful way to answer that question is by showing them. Take on local volunteer roles, short-term contracts, or community-based projects that allow you to demonstrate your existing skills in a Canadian environment.

These opportunities create a bridge between where you’ve been and where you’re headed. They give employers confidence, not just in your capabilities, but in your ability to thrive and deliver results here.

Step 3: Make your story visible

You’ve done the work, now let’s make sure people see it.

What many people don’t realize is that everyone is hiring; they just don’t know who you are yet. So make sure they do.

Start by practicing your elevator pitch. Update your LinkedIn to highlight both your global and local experience. Share your work, your growth, and your wins…yes, even the small ones. Don’t wait for validation. Start creating visibility around what you’ve already accomplished and what you're capable of.

Whether it's through your online presence or in-person conversations, consistency in how you present yourself matters. The more real and relatable your story feels, the easier it is for others to trust your potential.

Own your journey. Speak about it with pride. Let your story be seen and heard.

Final thoughts

There will always be people who overlook your experience. That is okay. Focus on those who do see your value. Surround yourself with mentors, employers, and communities that believe in what you bring.

You are not starting from scratch. You are starting from strength.

Let us own that together.

Ready to turn your experience into opportunity?

Join us at Newcomers Collision 2025, a dynamic space where your skills, story, and potential are recognized and celebrated. Connect with employers who value global talent, meet mentors who support your growth, and engage with a community that understands your journey.

Secure your spot today and take the next step toward building the career you deserve.

Looking for unbiased, fact-based news? Join 1440 today.

Join over 4 million Americans who start their day with 1440 – your daily digest for unbiased, fact-centric news. From politics to sports, we cover it all by analyzing over 100 sources. Our concise, 5-minute read lands in your inbox each morning at no cost. Experience news without the noise; let 1440 help you make up your own mind. Sign up now and invite your friends and family to be part of the informed.

Reply

or to participate.