Today we’d like to introduce you to Gurasis Singh
Hi Gurasis, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey began six years ago when I moved from India to Canada as an international student, seeking new opportunities and experiences. The transition was both exciting and challenging. On my first day in class, I introduced myself and was met with silence and confusion from my classmates, who found my accent unfamiliar. This experience made me acutely aware of the barriers immigrants face, not just in language but also in acceptance and understanding.
Despite the initial struggles, I was determined to embrace my accent and identity. I began to see my thick accent as a unique part of who I am, rather than a hindrance. This realization was the catalyst for creating “My Thick Accent,” a podcast dedicated to celebrating the diverse journeys of immigrants. I wanted to provide a platform where immigrants could share their stories of resilience, triumph, and the process of finding a home away from home.
Starting the podcast was a labor of love, fueled by my own experiences and the stories of others I met along the way. Over time, “My Thick Accent” has grown into a vibrant community, featuring over 60 episodes and showcasing voices from all walks of life. Through engaging conversations, the podcast aims to break down stereotypes, foster empathy, and highlight the rich tapestry of immigrant experiences. As I continue this journey, I remain committed to building connections and understanding, one story at a time.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being an immigrant in a new country is an adventure full of ups and downs. When I moved to Canada, I faced the typical struggles of adapting to a new culture, from navigating the labyrinth of public transport to mastering the art of small talk in elevators. There was the subtle yet persistent feeling of being an outsider, and I quickly realized that my thick accent was often a topic of curiosity or confusion.
Throughout my journey, I’ve had many such experiences. Whether in virtual rooms or job interviews, the focus was often more on my accent than my skills. One notable experience was while working at a market research company. During a phone interview, a man remarked, “Oh my God! You have such a thick Indian accent.” Not having the best day, I couldn’t resist replying, “Sir, you also have a thick Canadian accent.” This moment of humor and confidence became a turning point in embracing my accent.
Building “My Thick Accent” podcast has been another adventure filled with challenges. From technical hiccups to occasional self-doubt, starting the podcast was not without its hurdles. There were days when I questioned if anyone would tune in to hear my stories and the voices of fellow immigrants. Yet, each episode became a stepping stone, helping me to refine my vision and grow more confident in sharing these important stories.
Through it all, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is to embrace the chaos and find joy in the little victories. Every challenge has been an opportunity to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. I’ve come to appreciate that the beauty of the journey lies in its unpredictability, and I’m grateful for the experiences that have shaped “My Thick Accent” into what it is today.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am the creator and host of the podcast “My Thick Accent,” a platform dedicated to celebrating the diverse stories of immigrants and breaking down stereotypes. The podcast aims to challenge societal norms and foster understanding by sharing the unique experiences of individuals from immigrant backgrounds. Through authentic storytelling, I highlight the struggles, resilience, and achievements of immigrants, providing them with a space to share their voices and insights.
Specializing in amplifying diverse immigrant voices, I am known for creating engaging and thought-provoking content that resonates with listeners worldwide. My podcast features interviews with individuals from various fields, including career coaches, entrepreneurs, journalists, and artists. These conversations delve into the motivations and aspirations that drive immigrants to succeed, offering valuable insights and inspiration to the audience.
One of my proudest achievements with “My Thick Accent” is the celebration of its one-year anniversary with over 60 episodes and 50 guest interviews. This milestone represents not only the podcast’s consistency and dedication but also the impact it has had on fostering dialogue about immigrant experiences and challenges. I am especially proud of the diverse range of guests who have shared their stories, enriching the podcast and contributing to a broader understanding of the immigrant journey.
What sets “My Thick Accent” apart from other podcasts in this space is its commitment to uncovering the “WHYs” behind success stories. We don’t just scratch the surface, we dive deep into the motivations and aspirations of immigrants, exploring the cultural richness and diversity that make their stories unique. Additionally, we are embracing the edutainment route in the upcoming season, infusing humor and storytelling to make valuable resources more accessible and enjoyable for immigrants navigating life in a foreign land.
Ultimately, “My Thick Accent” is a labor of love that offers a fresh perspective on immigrant experiences, challenges societal norms, and celebrates the diversity of human experiences. Through this podcast, I aim to build a supportive and inclusive community that fosters empathy, understanding, and connection among listeners from all walks of life.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Finding a mentor and building a strong network can be transformative for personal and professional growth. Here are some strategies that have worked well for me:
1. Seek Out Communities and Events: Engaging with communities related to your interests or industry is crucial. For me, attending podcasting events, industry conferences, and networking meetups has been invaluable. These settings provide opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and potential mentors who share similar passions and goals.
2. Leverage Social Media and Online Platforms: Platforms like LinkedIn and industry-specific forums are excellent for connecting with professionals and thought leaders. I’ve found that actively participating in discussions, sharing insights, and reaching out to individuals whose work you admire can lead to meaningful connections.
3. Be Proactive and Genuine: When reaching out to potential mentors or networking contacts, being genuine and specific about your goals and interests is essential. I’ve had success by clearly communicating what I admire about their work and how their guidance could help me on my journey. Personalized messages and expressing sincere interest have often led to fruitful conversations.
4. Offer Value and Build Relationships: Networking is a two-way street. Offering value, whether through sharing resources, providing support, or collaborating on projects, helps in building strong, reciprocal relationships. For instance, collaborating with fellow podcasters or contributing to community initiatives has helped me build lasting connections.
5. Follow Up and Stay Engaged: Building a network takes time and consistent effort. I make it a point to follow up with new contacts, keep in touch, and show appreciation for their time and advice. Staying engaged and nurturing these relationships has been key to maintaining a supportive and resourceful network.
Overall, being proactive, genuine, and open to offering value has significantly contributed to my networking success. Finding the right mentor and building a network requires patience and persistence, but the connections and insights gained can be incredibly rewarding.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mythickaccent.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mythickaccent/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mythickaccent
- Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamgurasis
