Concerned by the growing insecurity in Madagascar, Sedera and his wife dreamed of a better life and, above all, a quality education for their 2 children. Here’s how, with courage and determination, this father was able to offer the greatest gift of all: a fresh start in Quebec. This is his story.
For the love of his children
Like any good father, Sedera wants what’s best for his children and his wife. Even if that means leaving his native country behind. He considers Canada as the promised land he’s looking for—a welcoming environment renowned for its quality of life, work-life balance and access to education.
When a recruiter offered Sedera a position as a developer analyst, Sedera devised a plan to make his wish come true. He flew alone to the province of Quebec and, thanks to his new job, saved enough money to take his entire family there.
Tip: Open your account remotely
Do like Sedera, who opened his account with Desjardins remotely before he left. You’ll get plenty of tools, advice and especially, a distinctive support to facilitate your arrival in the country.
An unexpected kindness
There is good reason to be nervous: This is the first time that Sedera has flown beyond Madagascar’s borders. When his plane landed in Montreal in June 2021, the man found himself alone and somewhat distraught in a big city where he didn’t know anyone. What should he do? Where should he take the bus? He was amazed at how easy it was for him to get answers and help from complete strangers. All this, in a good mood and with a smile.
It was amazing to me that when I asked for something, someone was always ready to guide me to the right person or the right place.
Discovering the city
At the end of his quarantine at the hotel, Sedera moved to Quebec City with a roommate. He quickly befriended her, and the latter ensured to keep the newcomer busy. “My roommate planned basketball sessions and happy hours with friends, she rented a car to take me sightseeing — she didn’t want me to feel lonely until my family joined me,” says Sedera.
An equally warm welcome awaited him at his workplace. Barely a week into his new position, he received a spontaneous invitation from his manager to explore Old Quebec with him. For the whole day, she proudly shows him the attractions and good locations of his new city.
How to get ahead of the schedule?
Although Sedera is happy in Quebec, he was worried about his family. He regularly called his wife and looked forward to have them around. According to his calculations, he would have to save another 6 to 7 months to pay for the 3 desired plane tickets—an unbearable wait.
He was looking for a way for his family to join him in Canada faster. That’s when his employer suggested that he obtain financing from Desjardins.
Sedera had only been in his position for a few months and has no credit history, which complicates his case. But a Desjardins manager saw beyond the numbers. She recognized the face of a determined man, ready to do anything for the happiness of his family, who has crossed the ocean to improve his living conditions. Showing initiative, she developed a proposal related to the duration of the newcomer’s work permit. It was accepted.
Two days later, the money was deposited in my account and I was able to buy all 3 airline tickets. My family arrived 3 weeks later. We were finally together.
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Living as a family in Quebec
Sedera and his small family were reunited in the fall, and it didn’t take long to find their bearings. His wife quickly found a job. His children have a very different start to the school year than in their native country.
Even the harsh Quebec winters — which worried them somewhat — turned out to be a source of pleasure. “We love it!” says Sedera. Maybe the Christmas carols and decorations around town helped, but we got a taste for it. ”
Sedera wanted to provide the best possible future for his children. During the pandemic, when education went virtual and continues with the school’s material support, Sedera knows he made the right choice. They feel supported and reassured.
His mission is accomplished: His family is reunited and they enjoy life in Quebec.
Count on Desjardins to facilitate your integration into Canada. We are your ally in carrying out your plans and those of your family.