What does it mean to leave everything behind and start anew in a foreign land? The immigrant experience is multifaceted. It’s full of challenges, triumphs, and cultural negotiations. Today, I share Steph’s story of immigrating from Argentina to Canada. Her insights provide a unique perspective on adapting to a new country while honoring her roots.
Steph’s journey offers a compelling look at the complexities of immigration. It is not just about geographical relocation, but also about personal transformation and community building. Her story resonates with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. Or anyone who has navigated the tricky terrain of cultural identity.
Let’s get into The Immigration Experience
Early Memories of Argentina
Steph reflects on her childhood in Argentina with vivid memories. Despite leaving at the age of 13, she recalls specific moments. These include walking between school buildings and spending time with family. These experiences form the core of her connection to her homeland.
She describes her memories as almost compartmentalized. This allows her to vividly recall her life in Argentina before the move. It’s as if her brain preserved those moments, creating a strong sense of nostalgia and attachment to her roots.
The Decision to Move and The Immigration Experience
The economic instability in Argentina played a significant role in her family’s decision to move to Canada. Steph explains that her father lost his job. He then faced extended unemployment. This made it difficult for them to sustain their lives in Argentina. The declining economy and safety concerns pushed her parents to seek new opportunities elsewhere.
Her parents considered both Canada and Australia. Ultimately, they chose Canada because they had family there. They also knew that English was one of the country’s primary languages. Steph had attended a bilingual school. This made the transition a bit easier. The decision was a collective one. Steph and her brothers were excited about the prospect of a new adventure.
Staying Connected to Argentinian Roots
Steph’s parents stay informed about current events in Argentina. This is driven by a deep connection to their homeland and family ties. While news can be heavy, it’s important for them to know what’s happening in the country where they spent a significant part of their lives. Steph’s mother travels frequently for work. This allows her to visit Argentina and other Latin American countries.
Despite the desire to return, the economic and safety issues in Argentina make it difficult to consider living there again. Steph personally experienced trauma in Argentina. This adds another layer of complexity to her relationship with her home country. She dreams of a world where she could safely share her heritage with her son.
Navigating Cultural Shock
The move to Canada brought its share of cultural shocks, which is a normal part of the immigration experience. These were often small. But they accumulated over time. They created a sense of otherness. One of the first instances Steph remembers involved a simple invitation to “hang out.” She didn’t understand the meaning of the phrase.
These cultural misunderstandings extended to music, art, and pop culture references. Steph felt like an outsider because she was unfamiliar with popular icons like the Spice Girls and Backstreet Boys. This created a sense of isolation. It highlighted the differences between her upbringing and her new environment.
It’s important to remember that cultural adaptation is a nuanced process. It often involves learning the unspoken rules. This can range from slang to social norms. For immigrants, these small moments of confusion or misinterpretation can be significant. They impact their sense of belonging and identity.
From Corporate to Coaching
Steph’s coaching business started as a way to cope with burnout from her corporate job. She began taking courses in various skill sets. This included design and VA work. She realized that she could turn her passion for connection and community into a business. She focused on building relationships and partnerships. This led her to become a leadership and visibility coach.
Her business is centered around helping clients build confidence. Steph teaches public speaking. She also encourages them to share their stories. She helps them to create positive change in the world. This reflects her own journey. She found her voice. And she helps others do the same.
The Latinx Speaker Directory
The lack of Latina representation in the entrepreneurship space inspired Steph to create the Latinx Speaker Directory. She wanted to highlight the voices and also wanted to promote the visibility of Latinas. Steph sought to challenge the lack of diversity on stages. She wanted to ensure that more women of color have the opportunity to share their stories.
The directory has evolved over the years. It focuses on community and long-lasting connections. She hosts a fiesta. It’s an opportunity for members to connect. She also builds relationships. Steph envisions a future where the directory creates more meaningful and impactful connections.
Representation matters. When people see others who look like them, they feel empowered. This can encourage them to pursue their goals. The Latinx Speaker Directory helps break down barriers. It provides a platform for Latinas to share their expertise.
Final Thoughts
Steph Wharton’s story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of immigrants. Her immigration experience and journey from Argentina to Canada highlights the challenges. But it also shows the opportunities that come with starting anew. From navigating cultural shocks to building community and creating a platform for others, Steph’s experiences offer valuable insights for anyone who has ever crossed borders in search of a better life.
Her advice to new immigrants—to embrace the opportunity to reinvent themselves while staying true to their roots—is a powerful reminder that the immigrant experience is not just about adapting to a new culture. It’s about creating a new identity that honors both the past and the present.
With Love, Heidy
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