People travel worldwide to live and work in the Bow Valley. Because of the global draw and transient nature, international employees have become essential to many industries. It's inspiring to see these fantastic people travelling from around the world to enjoy what the Rockies offer while offering the local economy their skills and dedication.
We spoke to Daena Bamford to learn more about her journey as someone who moved here from New Zealand. Daena is a Full-time Project Coordinator at Alberta Bone & Joint Health Institute and Barre Teacher at WildHeart Canmore. She has been in her role with Alberta Bone & Joint Health Institute for three months. While it's been a steep learning curve, she has been enjoying her work and loving that she can bring her professional skills and background to Canada. She has also been teaching at WildHeart for over eight months. "The Studio is full of friendly and supportive teachers, and the clients are always happy and friendly. It has been enjoyable to learn from everyone," she shared.
She spoke about her professional journey: "I have a Bachelor of Science majoring in Biochemistry, and before moving to Canada was working as a Laboratory Technician for three years. Since moving, I have been a server in Banff while determining what and where I was going. Then moved to CIBC in Canmore, where I obtained my Mutual Funds License and worked as a Financial Service Representative for job stability and a steady flow of income. I was able to get back into the Science field by being employed by Rocky Mountain Soap Co as a Quality Control Supervisor, where I could use my technical and theoretical knowledge and more recently to Alberta Bone and Joint Health Institute."
Originally from Hamilton, New Zealand, Daena has called the Bow Valley home for nearly six years. "I had originally come through Banff during a solo World Trip in 2015-2016 and had made many friends while staying at the hostel. When returning back to New Zealand after my trip, I went back to the monotonous city life and was no longer happy and fulfilled," she reflected. "The friends I had made said they were all moving to Banff on work visas, so I decided to do the same and learn to snowboard."
Daena only planned to stay for six months, but she met her partner only three weeks after moving to Canada. He opted to move to Banff as well, and she decided to "stay in Canada, get permanent residency, and make a life here."
Now, she has been a resident of Canada for three years and will be looking to become a citizen in two years.
The process of applying for permanent residency was not easy. Daena reflects on being "physically ill from the stress of going through the paperwork, ensuring it was filled out correctly." She noted that making sure the forms were up to date was a challenge as some changed throughout her application process and forced her to redo them several times.
She wasn't supported by an employer or expert throughout the process, "it was all self-supported," she said.
The process can be difficult, and there are many moving parts to account for. Therefore, it can be hugely beneficial to seek expert support.
Even with the tricky process, Daena is grateful to call this place home. "My days back in the city were wake up, work, gym, sleep. Whereas in the Valley, I am able to do the activities on work days, some of which include Teaching Barre, trail running, hike, and mountain biking. I feel like I appreciate work-life balance more," she said. She also referenced the sense of community she feels here. She loves the fact that there is always something going on around town and "how much everyone supports the local companies and generally how friendly everyone is."
This story was made possible by our Community Partners Program. Thank you Foothills Immigration Inc. for helping to expand local news coverage in the Bow Valley. Learn more.
