From Global South to Canadian Fundraising: My Journey of Growth and Resilience

By Ashish Barua, CFRE | Saskatchewan, Canada

When I received my migration results in October 2023, I eagerly began exploring employment opportunities in Canada. Initially, I gravitated toward roles aligned with my experience as a seasoned program management and coordination professional. However, I soon realized that the development work I had been immersed in within the Global South differed significantly from the context of a developed nation in the Global North.

As I reflected on where my expertise could best align, policy advocacy—a field I had contributed to extensively in recent years—emerged as a strong contender. Yet, it was fundraising that ultimately stood out. Fundraising resonated deeply with me as it had been a significant focus of my professional growth, blending my programmatic expertise with a new challenge I was eager to tackle.

Discovering the Path to Fundraising Through Writing and Volunteering

While my creative writing passion didn’t advance as far as I once envisioned, I found fulfillment in crafting articles, position papers, and publications. Over time, this passion evolved into a meaningful expression through proposal development, reporting, and documentation—where storytelling became central to my work.

I wrote numerous proposals for foundations, businesses, and government entities, initially perceiving this as the extent of fundraising. I was unaware of the broader cycle that includes cultivation, relationship-building, and stewardship—critical components I unknowingly practiced in my program and project management work. This realization and my passion for creating impact encouraged me to formalize my entry into fundraising.

To gain relevant experience, I proactively sought volunteering opportunities, which proved transformative. Serving as a Grants Coordinator, even before moving to Canada, offered me valuable perspectives and a chance to reflect on my existing expertise while aligning with the cultural and professional nuances of the fundraising landscape in Canada. During this time, I began systematically documenting my skills and identifying strengths to leverage for future opportunities.

Embracing Local Experiences and Overcoming Application Hurdles

After arriving in Saskatchewan, I enthusiastically applied for roles. After just six applications, I was thrilled to receive my first interview call. While the interview went well, I realized my international experience lacked the localized context the panel sought. This was a pivotal moment—I needed to bridge the gap with local expertise.

I was overjoyed when I secured a part-time fundraising role through that first interview. Despite being a half-time position, it marked a vital first step into the professional world I aimed to grow in. This opportunity allowed me to apply my expertise while immersing myself in the local context—an enriching and priceless experience.

Motivated to advance, I continued applying and succeeded again after my third interview for another part-time opportunity. However, this came after 28 applications, which prompted me to analyze why my applications weren’t yielding more results. Determined to improve, I reflected on aligning my skills with employer expectations and addressing gaps in my approach.

Navigating Growth: The Path to Hope

Job applications typically list required and preferred qualifications. I focused on building my local experience while strategically addressing preferred qualifications to enhance my profile. Joining the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP Global) and Association of Fundraising Professionals Saskatoon Chapter was a game-changer. This membership provided networking opportunities, learning, and active engagement, such as volunteering on the National Philanthropy Day Committee.

Determined to further my growth, I pursued the Certified Fund Raising Executive designation from the CFRE International. Preparing for the CFRE required me to study extensively, engage in study groups, and complete practice tests, which helped me refine my working knowledge and skills and expand my network simultaneously. After acceptance of my application in July, I completed the process within four months.

During this time, I expanded my expertise in digital fundraising, donor cultivation, and managing year-end campaigns. I also improved my technical skills with tools like CanadaHelps, Benevity, AirTable, Canva, and MailChimp, which were integral to enhancing the efficiency and impact of my work.

Despite these efforts, the journey wasn’t without challenges. I submitted 58 applications, but I received only four interview calls. Rejections (or redirections, as I prefer to call them) were disheartening but also valuable learning experiences. I continuously reminded myself that success takes time and perseverance.

Finally, the turning point came in late November. Within one month of earning my CFRE certification, I signed an offer for a full-time fundraising coordination role. During this one month, I attended seven interviews, received two offers, and withdrew my candidacy from three applications after accepting this role. This period marked a significant boom in my career trajectory—a testament to persistence and strategic growth.

Key Takeaways: Lessons from My Fundraising Journey

Reflecting on this experience, I’ve learned several valuable lessons:

• Adaptability is Essential: Transitioning to a new job market requires understanding local practices while leveraging your existing skills.
• Continuous Learning Pays Off: Certifications like the CFRE enhance credibility, open doors, and update you on industry trends.
• Persistence and Resilience Matter: Treat rejections as redirections. Every interview is an opportunity to grow.
• Networking is Key: Active engagement with professional communities like AFP enriches your understanding and expands opportunities.

These insights have become guiding principles as I look ahead. I remain committed to advancing the fundraising field, fostering meaningful donor relationships, and creating lasting community impact. This is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

Ashish’s story was originally posted on LinkedIn.