The phenomenon of entrepreneurship among immigrant women in Canada is rapidly growing, particularly in cities like London, Ontario, where opportunities for new businesswomen are abundant.
A standout example of this trend is the story of Ozgun Papan Kasik, who, in 2018, left her home country, Turkey, with her husband. After selling almost everything and leaving their stable jobs, they decided to risk everything and start a new life in Canada.
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Papan Kasik, now co-owner of Acumen Business Consulting, a firm that helps other immigrants establish their businesses, has demonstrated that entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for integration and success in a new country. Her story reflects how immigrant women are transforming Canada’s business landscape. According to a report by the London-Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership (LMLIP), 19.5% of immigrants in London are self-employed, a significantly higher percentage than the 12.7% of non-immigrants. This makes London a hub for immigrant entrepreneurship, boasting the highest rate among large cities in Ontario.
Papan Kasik’s story is not unique. Many immigrant women are following a similar path, leveraging the resources available to start and grow their businesses. Kay Habib, an immigrant from Pakistan, is another example. She arrived in Canada in 2006 and after several years of working, founded Skill Decor, an interior design company that also employs marginalized women. Like Papan Kasik, Habib took advantage of the support system for small businesses in Canada, including grants and entrepreneurial programs.
These women are defying expectations, showing that entrepreneurship drives the economy and plays a crucial role in the integration of immigrant communities in Canada. Their success inspires other women to take risks and follow their own dreams in a new country, contributing not only to cultural diversity, but also to Canada’s economic strength.
Canada provides an ideal environment for creating successful businesses. At Canadian Visa Expert, we offer complete immigration guidance to help you take the first step toward a future full of opportunities.