Finding Home Far Away-Motunrayo’s Journey

Motunrayo had always been one to chase her dreams with unwavering determination. Two years ago, she made the bold move from Nigeria to British Columbia, Canada. What started as a student journey quickly evolved into a fulfilling career as a Preschool Manager and Early Childhood Support Worker. She found herself deeply in love with her work, guiding and nurturing young minds every day.

An ambivert at heart, she loves her cozy indoor moments, but when she stepped out, she lived life to the fullest. Whether it was exploring new restaurants, dancing to the rhythm of music festivals, soaking in the energy at carnivals, or cheering loudly at hockey games, she embraced every moment.However, Motunrayo can’t wait till when she starts documenting her life she says, “I hope that one day, I will find the courage to create memories of my everyday life through photos and videos, especially when I’m in my soft girl era.”

Falling in Love with Canada’s Culture

Motunrayo’s favorite thing about living in Canada is the work culture. She described it as “pure bliss because the concept of work-life balance is actually respected, no late-night emails with urgent slapped across the subject line. No guilt-tripping for signing off at the right time.”

For her, the employment benefits were a breath of fresh air. But nothing amazed her more than Canada’s relaxed return policy. The fact that she could buy something, decide it wasn’t worth the money, and return it for a full refund? That was a love language she had quickly become fluent in, she laughed. 

Adjusting to the Cultural Differences

Of course, moving to a new country came with its fair share of culture shocks. One of the most surprising things about Canadians was how openly they shared personal information. Conversations with strangers would sometimes feel like spontaneous therapy sessions.

Motunrayo found it almost hilarious and strange, coming from Nigeria, where secrecy was a survival instinct. As far as she was concerned, her personal life would remain personal, “my lips are sealed tight when it comes to my personal life, lol.”

Creating New Memories in Canada

Over time, Motunrayo carved out her own version of fun in Canada. She became a master at window shopping and loved visiting local farmers’ markets for fresh, organic produce. She said, “I’m a foodie at heart, so trying out new dishes at restaurants is always on my list.”

She also enjoyed the thrill of watching live hockey games, hosting game nights with friends, and unwinding at carnivals where the air was thick with energy and laughter.

Whenever she craved pure excitement, she would head to Canada’s Wonderland for some adrenaline-pumping fun. But for a touch of creativity, she loved visiting the iArts Museum in Toronto. The 3D illusion art was mind-blowing, making her photos look so realistic it felt like stepping into another world.

And for something truly awe-inspiring, nothing beats standing before the roaring beauty of Niagara Falls. She said with awe, “there’s something magical about standing so close to nature’s power.”

Missing Home and Coping with Homesickness

Motunrayo talked about how no matter how well she was adjusting, the ache of missing Nigeria never really left, There was a warmth back home that was hard to replicate. The closeness of friends and family, the feeling of community. “Nigeria has a vibe that brings joy and laughter to your spirit, irrespective of what one is going through, it’s hard to explain but I miss it.”

She also misses her favorite amala spot back in Nigeria, a craving that no Canadian dish has been able to satisfy.

“I miss Nigeria every single day—except for driving through the 3rd Mainland Bridge in heavy traffic. But the vibe? The joy and laughter that fill the air no matter what people are going through? I miss that.”

And when the homesickness became too much, Motunrayo would spend hours on calls with her friends, reminiscing about good times. She mentioned that it feels like a virtual hug. Although, on some days, she would let herself cry, then lift her spirits by planning her next trip back to Nigeria. Just knowing she had something to look forward to made the loneliness feel a little less heavy.

If She Could Bring One Thing from Nigeria

If there was one thing Motunrayo could import from Nigeria to Canada, it would be spices. Authentic Nigerian spices that transformed bland meals into delicious memories of home.

“Spices, spices, spices! And garri. And maybe a few bags of plantain chips to snack on when nostalgia hits.”

Despite everything, she was learning to create a life she loved. It wasn’t perfect, but it was hers. And every day, she inched closer to the dream she had carried with her from Nigeria.

Conclusion

Motunrayo’s journey from Nigeria to Canada is a testament to courage and hope. Every day, she’s crafting a life filled with adventure, fulfillment, and bits of home she carries in her heart. While she continues to chase her dreams, one thing remains constant—her love for Nigeria and the memories that keep her connected to it.

And when it comes to staying connected, Zole makes it easier. Whether it’s sending money back home to support family, celebrating special moments, or simply keeping that link to Nigeria alive, because no matter where life takes you, home is never too far away.