A journalist who fled Egypt after enduring imprisonment and torture for criticizing the government has described the complex challenges faced by immigrants trying to build social connections in Canada. Having arrived in 2024 through the Canadian Global Refugee stream for human-rights defenders, the individual recounted a stark contrast between social integration experiences in the Middle East and those encountered in Canadian urban settings.

Prior to coming to Canada, the journalist spent years in exile, including time in Beirut, where networks of fellow expatriates and culturally proximate communities provided a natural and supportive social environment. In cities like Beirut and Cairo, social hubs such as coffee shops and bars act as informal gathering places fostering spontaneous, repeated interactions that ease the formation of friendships. By contrast, in Toronto, the journalist found that social interactions tend to be highly scheduled, with meetings arranged well in advance, reflecting the demanding pace of life, work obligations, and long commutes that characterize many Canadian urban residents.

This shift has contributed to feelings of isolation, particularly among immigrants. Affordable housing often lies far from city centers, complicating access to communal spaces. Additionally, newcomers juggle added responsibilities, from navigating bureaucratic systems to supporting family members abroad, making devoted time for relationship-building scarce. The sense of belonging also remains elusive for many immigrants and exiles who, despite acquiring Canadian citizenship or residing in the country for years, continue to live with uncertainty about their future.

Cultural differences further complicate social integration. The journalist described friendships in Egypt and Lebanon as deeply intertwined with family life, characterized by frequent, informal visits and an expectation of close, continuous contact. In Canada, politeness and reserve, compounded by the social reticence heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic, can make such openness difficult to establish.

Seeking connection, the journalist turned to online dating and friendship apps, reflecting broader trends identified in recent studies. Research from the University of British Columbia’s Migration Studies Centre indicates immigrants are significantly more likely than native-born Canadians to use online dating platforms. However, experiences on these apps were often confusing or disappointing, revealing mismatches in expectations and cultural understandings. Meanwhile, a survey found that only 8 percent of Canadians were dating as of 2025, with financial pressures commonly cited as barriers, including 42 percent of singles adjusting or cancelling dates due to cost.

Eventually, the journalist moved away from digital avenues and focused on building relationships through in-person interactions in public spaces such as parks, libraries, and community centers. Although Canada offers many venues for social engagement, barriers persist. Rising costs, colder climates, and the nature of organized social events can hinder spontaneous and informal community-building seen in other cultures. Moreover, the pressures of work and life obligations often limit the frequency and depth of social contact available to immigrants.

Despite these hurdles, the journalist has managed to establish a close network of friends from diverse backgrounds, including fellow immigrants and colleagues from graduate studies. While acknowledging the difficulty of maintaining regular social connections amid competing demands, the individual emphasized the importance of continued effort to nurture friendships and meet emotional needs. The ongoing pursuit of belonging and human connection remains vital, even as it requires persistent work to feel authentic and sustainable in the Canadian context.