Liz Long immigrated to Canada from Belgium in 1998.  Since then she and her family have enjoyed a rich life in the Saint John Community through work, school, volunteering and social activities.

We asked Liz what life was like for her in the Saint John Community – what was it like to immigrate to Canada (to Saint John in particular), what she thinks of the community and how living here lets her live on her terms…

Liz Long

It’s love that brought me here eleven years ago.  My husband, who is from Saint John, already had a good job and a nice house.  It was difficult to leave my home in Belgium but I was excited about the possibilities that came with beginning a new life in North America.

The Transition: When I first arrived, I didn’t think I’d ever find my way around town, particularly with all the one way streets!  But Saint John is a nice sized city with a great deal of character.  The ocean, the market and work are all within a couple of minutes from home.

Employment Opportunities: Speaking four languages afforded me better and more numerous job opportunities here than in Europe.  My husband and I provide translation services to a number of local companies and on top of that I have been working for Air Canada for a number of years.

The Weather: I’ll never forget my first winter.  One day we came home to almost a metre of snow!  “What am I doing here?” I exclaimed.  But I am still here with Mike and our three children.  With time one can even get used to the Canadian winter!