Building New Beginnings: Overcoming Barriers and Finding Confidence with Huma Jawed

Posted on March 12, 2025

For many newcomer women, the journey to success in a new country can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with cultural, professional, and personal challenges. Huma Jawed, originally from Dubai, shares her inspiring journey to Canada and how she overcame obstacles to build a new life and career.

Background and Journey

Huma was born and raised in Dubai, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. After nearly a decade working in HR for various international companies, she decided it was time for a change. Canada seemed like the right place to start fresh, and with her sister already living there, the move felt natural.

However, her arrival in Canada came with its own set of challenges. Huma found it difficult to adjust to the slower pace of processes, such as buying a car or opening a bank account, which were quick tasks in Dubai but took longer in Canada. Additionally, navigating the job market was tough, as even with her extensive experience and prestigious degrees, securing interviews proved challenging.

Huma realized that adapting to a new country was a continuous learning process. That’s when she discovered Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto (NEW). Through an employment agency in Mississauga, Huma was introduced to NEW and recognized the potential for growth the organization offered to newcomer women like her.

Experience with NEW’s Programs

Huma joined the Advanced Leadership Program (ALP) as it aligned well with her HR experience and career goals. During the ALP, she completed the MBA Essentials Program with the Rotman School of Management and Digital Fluency in the Workforce with Humber College.

For Huma, the most valuable lessons came in the form of active listening, confidence, and the power of networking. She learned that standing out in the job market isn’t only about experience but about how you present yourself and engage with others.
Huma’s participation in ALP gave her the opportunity to connect with professors, employers, and fellow women on similar journeys. These connections were a source of reassurance and empowerment, helping her realize that her struggles were shared. Through the program, she gained the confidence to approach the Canadian job market with new skills and a stronger mindset.

A Turning Point: Networking and Success

Huma credits much of her growth to the guidance she received from mentors and peers in the program. Professors Walid Hejazi and Freeda Khan from Rotman offered invaluable feedback and guidance, while mentors like Henna Agha (Telus) and Monika Duddy (Ontario Health) shared career insights that helped her navigate her career path. The shared wisdom and support from her fellow program participants also had a significant impact on her journey.
One of Huma’s biggest achievements from the program was the network she cultivated. By attending events, meeting professionals, and learning from industry leaders, she gained the confidence to advance her career. Shortly after applying the feedback she received for her resume, she secured multiple interviews and landed a role as a Recruiter at SE Health. The skills and connections she gained through the program played a key role in helping her take this next step in her career.

About "Building New Beginnings"

This series highlights the journeys of newcomer women as they overcome challenges and build their careers in Canada. Through their stories, we celebrate resilience, achievements, and the impact of Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto programs. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories!