When Maria Elena Dominguez Garcia first moved to Calgary from Mexico she faced many of the struggles that new immigrants experience: language barriers, limited connections, and the challenge of finding a secure financial path in an unfamiliar city. But Garcia’s passion for fitness and a strong desire to build a community for herself led her to take a leap, literally, by introducing a new workout trend to Calgary — kangoo jumping.
According to the Business Development Bank of Canada, immigrant entrepreneurs account for 17 per cent of businesses. Yet, their contributions extend far beyond those numbers by driving 25 per cent of Canada’s net job creation. In the next 10 years, it’s projected that over 40 per cent of Canadian entrepreneurs will be immigrants, up from 34 per cent in 2024.
In Calgary, immigrant-owned businesses in create inclusive spaces and celebrate cultural diversity. Programs offered at the Centre for Newcomers are key in this journey, equipping newcomers with the skills, mentorship and confidence to turn their dreams into reality.
Pablo Franco, the associate director of career and employment services at the centre, says, “Many of our clients come with incredible talent but lack the connections and understanding of the Canadian job market.”
He adds, “We focus on building those connections, enhancing skills, and creating opportunities for meaningful careers. For some, this guidance becomes the foundation to do something bigger.”
Franco highlights challenges such as language barriers, credential recognition and adjusting to Canadian workplace culture. The Centre for Newcomers has helped many immigrants settle in through services such as language classes, career and employment, one-on-one mentorship, and events and workshops for professional development.
PHOTO: JASLEEN BHANGU
The extensive programs offered by the Centre for Newcomers help new immigrants secure their first jobs and give them the confidence and skills to pursue long-term goals, including starting their businesses.
“We don’t just help people find jobs,” Franco says. “We help them build their futures.”
Calgary has a large community of immigrant entrepreneurs shaping the city’s economy with unique skills and ideas. These businesses represent the city’s diverse population from family-owned boutiques to fitness studios. However, behind their success stories also lie those challenges that many immigrant business owners face as they navigate an unfamiliar economic and cultural landscape.
Garcia’s journey began in 2012 when she moved from Mexico to Calgary with a limited understanding of the English language and few local connections. She recalls how difficult it was to communicate, even for basic daily needs, and the added frustration of not having a support network. But through it all, she carried a passion for fitness and well-being, which had always grounded her and brought her joy back home.
“It was tough at the beginning,” recalls Garcia. “No family, no one to guide me. But I saw an opportunity to bring something new to Calgary.”
The kangoo workout, which uses special rebound shoes with spring-like soles, offers a unique way to exercise that’s easy on the joints and high in calorie burning. For Garcia, however, it’s much more than a fitness class; it’s a way to foster community and connection in a city that once felt isolating.
Determined to create a path that would allow her to combine her love for fitness with the need for financial security, Garcia began researching unique exercise trends.
“I’ve always loved exercise. I’ve done zumba, pilates and yoga. When I came to Canada, I started working in retail but saw an opportunity to start my own business,” says Garcia.
“I got certified in rebounding and began teaching classes here. I wanted something that could be fun for me and others and bring people together.”
Starting a business comes with its own set of challenges. Navigating Calgary’s business regulations, securing funding and finding a suitable location.
“It’s not expensive, but you must invest time and money, notes Garcia. “So I needed to buy the rebounding shoes, look for a place and spend time advertising my business on social media and using business cards”.
Finally, after months of preparation, she launched her first kangoo class in a dance studio at the Airdrie Genesis Centre.
“Kangoo jumping has become a way for me to bring people together,” says Garcia. “I see people leave my class smiling, which is the most important part of running my business.”
Looking forward, Garcia hopes to expand her fitness business by offering zumba classes and recently acquired her zumba certification hoping to begin teaching classes very soon.
In the heart of northeast Calgary, Gurjot Kalra, the owner of Label Kohinoor, combines traditional South Asian fashion with modern business practices. His boutique showcases vibrant fabrics, intricate designs and jewelry celebrating his cultural roots.
“My family back home has been in the clothing and textiles business for 25 to 30 years. So, I feel that this is inherited in me, and I am continuing their legacy back home here in Canada,” says Kalra.
“It’s more than just a business,” adds Kalra. “Each piece reflects our heritage, and through this I hope to share the beauty of South Asian culture with Calgary and beyond.”
Like many immigrant entrepreneurs, Kalra faced challenges, including navigating trade regulations and adapting to Canada’s market. But he sees these hurdles as opportunities for growth.
“Adjustments need to be made when starting the business here compared to back home. Getting my inventory shipped here was one of the hardest parts — going through all the trade agreements India has with Canada and acquiring business permits. There were many challenges for me, but going through all that was a learning process I eventually overcame,” says Kalra.
Immigrant entrepreneurship is not just about economic impact, it’s about enriching Calgary’s community with diversity and cultural appreciation.
From programs and services at the Centre for Newcomers to inspiring stories like Garcia and Kalra, Calgary’s immigrant entrepreneurs prove that perseverance and innovation can turn challenges into success.