Very fascinating article and appreciate the policy and business context that brought some of the new faces I see in my community. For context I live close to a Canadian university campus which has recently gone through an explosion in foreign enrollment. My partner works as physcian on campus so I hear a anecdotally how it has changed her practice, shifting from sexual health issues (and of course exam deferrments) to more with mental health issues arising from the challenges and pressures these foreign university students face (33% of student body now and probably 50%+ of her cases). The responsibilities they are faced with are immense at such a young age, where their families put so much on the line and expect these students to succeed.

I have always been fascinated by the immigrant story, and in Canada I feel there is evolution happening. Like the story mentioned it seems these young, desperate and motivated individuals represent the ideal worker for Canadian employers/government. I have encountered uber drivers, retail workers and tech proferssionals, all from this demographic and they have so much grit. This feels different the previous generation (my parents) were they filled mostly underskilled labour but had childern who mostly went on to more skilled professions.

I just hope some form of the Canadian dream is still viable. My parents were able afford a house and have kids who did well in school, to be honest that was thier saving grace both in terms of happiness, retirement and giving them a sense of pride and accomplishment for thier many years of struggle. I know some of my peers fear if they are able to acoomplish even that (even with thier 6 figure incomes) I can't imagine what these newcomers are facing.