Asian Star- Shashi Shashikanth

Native Village/Country parent’s background:

I was born in Chennai, but grew up and studied in Bangalore, Karnataka — a City often called the “IT Capital of India.” 

Bangalore brings back so many warm childhood memories. I was raised by my paternal grandfather, the late K.S. Sivaprakasam, who led the Karnataka Electricity Board. He believed deeply in women’s Education and Financial Independence, and he passed that conviction on to me.

My early struggles shaped me into a strong woman — resilient, driven, and determined.

Your Early Education:

I completed my schooling in a Government-funded School, then earned a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce. After that, I did a twoyear Computer Science program at NIIT.

Studying in Bangalore was one of my best decisions — the City’s cultural diversity helped me meet people from many backgrounds, and I became Multilingual along the way.

When & Why You came to Canada:

I first came to Canada on a business trip, but in 2005 I returned as a student — I enrolled in a OneYear PostGraduate Certificate in Human Resources Management at Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario. 

I made that move for my daughter, who was unwell back home and I wanted to give her a chance to experience a more hopeful and beautiful life in Canada.

Your career advancement initiatives, volunteer work, and present occupation:

I began my entrepreneurial journey in India at the age of 24, and alongside my husband, R. Shashikanth, I grew Shashi Career Consultancy Pvt Ltd from a humble beginning into one of India’s most respected education consultancies.

For over 16 years, I’ve worked with immigrants — and I continue to do so. This experience has deeply humbled me and constantly motivates me to grow as a person.

Today, I serve as Director of the Career Mentorship Program at the Edmonton Region Immigrant Employment Council (ERIEC).  I help skilled newcomers in the Edmonton area connect with established career professionals, integrate into the Local Labor Market, and find meaningful employment.

Your Regret in Life:

I believe life is a beautiful journey of learning, and every person I meet is a chance to spread kindness and love. My empathy runs deep — it’s both my greatest strength and, at times, my vulnerability. But through the years, I’ve realized that being openhearted doesn’t make me weak; it fuels my purpose.

I carry no regrets — every experience has tested me, humbled me, and made me stronger. My journey continues to remind me that success isn’t just about achievement; it’s about connection, compassion, and the positive change we bring into one another’s lives.

Pick Any One of Your Best Achievements:

I went back to school in Canada after a tenyear break, all while being a mom — and I earned my PostGraduate Certificate with honours in HR. Within a year, I landed a job as an HR Manager at The Home Depot.

On a personal front, as a parent, I feel so grateful that I was able to give my daughter the best — I raised her as a compassionate, strong human being, and stood by her through her Master’s program. Now she is on her way to pursuing a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Sciences, and I couldn’t be prouder of the journey she’s taken and the impact she’ll make.

Did you face discrimination?

Yes — I was discriminated against early in my career in Canada, and honestly, it still happens sometimes. But over time, I have learned to face it headon: I address issues assertively, while also trying to understand where people are coming from. Canada has taught me how to be firm and diplomatic, and kindness and integrity bring more kindness back.

Are You Happy in Canada?

I don’t try to define whether I’m truly happy — I live in the moment, believing that everything happens for a reason. India will always be my Janma Bhoomi, my place of birth, and Canada is my Karma Bhoomi, the land where I act and build my life. 

Every day, I feel gratitude for both worlds that shape me.

Your take on Canada’s Culture:

I really value how Canada embraces Cultural Diversity — people come from everywhere, and their traditions and identities are not just tolerated, they are celebrated. I believe deeply in equality and social justice; fairness across gender, race, religion, and sexual orientation truly matters to me. Politeness and respect are part of everyday life here. I appreciate that Canadians balance individual freedom with a sense of community — there’s space to be myself, but also a strong belief in shared responsibility. Communication in Canada feels clear and respectful: people speak honestly, but thoughtfully, and they genuinely respect personal space and privacy. 

What about Canada’s Weather:

Living in Canada sometimes feels like I signed up for weather roulette. Even though I’ve been here for a few years, the climate still surprises me — one day I’m in a heavy Winter coat, the next I’m stripping off layers because the Sun’s out, and then bam — a sudden snowstorm or a wild hailstorm shows up just for fun. As an immigrant (now a citizen), I did not just adapt to a new Culture; I am still learning how to read Canada’s mood swings in Celsius.

What Brought You Success in Canada?

Strong Language skills and I stayed persistent and resilient — even when things were uncertain, I did not give up. I am adaptable: I learned quickly, embraced new ways of working, and adjusted to Canadian culture. I also have a strong work ethic and a real sense of initiative — I did not wait for opportunities, I created them. And through it all, I maintained selfconfidence, believing in my ability to contribute and succeed.

Are You Willing to Help New Immigrants and How?

As I mentioned earlier, I currently serve as the Director of the Career Mentorship Program at ERIEC, and it’s deeply fulfilling to support immigrants in building successful careers in Canada. The work is both challenging and enriching.

Our program thrives thanks to the dedication of volunteer mentors. At ERIEC, we’re always looking for experienced, established professionals who are willing to guide newcomers on their career journey. Learn more and apply to become a mentor through our program here: Apply to be a Mentor on the ERIEC website.

Your Message for Canadians of Asian Origin:

I just want to say how much I appreciate the strength, culture, and wisdom you bring to Canada. Our communities make up nearly 20 % of the country’s population, and that diversity is one of Canada’s greatest gifts.

Your resilience, culture, and innovation help make Canada what it is. Whether it is in our Businesses, our Art, our Science, or our everyday neighborhoods — we are not just here, we are shaping the future.

Thanks for everything you do — for building this Country, sharing your Heritage, and helping make Canada a more inclusive place.

Let’s keep lifting each other up.