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From Venezuela to Canada: A Story of Courage, Identity, and Starting Over - Ep. 137
Description
Welcome to episode 137 of The American Dream in the Eyes of Immigrants Podcast. I am your host, Heidy De La Cruz, and I am on a mission to change the narrative of immigration one immigrant story at a time!
Mafe Salazar shares her journey from Venezuela to Canada, where she immigrated 11 years ago. What was meant to be a one-year adventure turned into a permanent move rooted in community, growth, and purpose. Today, Mafe is a podcast producer and host, helping others bring their voices to life.
In this episode, Mafe reflects on leaving Venezuela and navigating cultural adjustments in Canada, from adapting to the cold weather to understanding new social norms. She opens up about the importance of friendship and community in her decision to stay, as well as the reverse culture shock she experienced when visiting Venezuela years later.
Mafe takes us through her professional journey from working in the hospitality and accounting industries to building a business in podcast production. She shares how she launched her own show, From Tourist to Local, pivoted her business to focus fully on podcasting, and embraced entrepreneurship despite burnout and uncertainty. Through it all, she highlights the parallels between immigration and entrepreneurship—both require courage, reinvention, and stepping into a new identity.
With Love, Heidy
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