Who is the Canadian Returnee?
A Canadian Returnee is someone who has lived abroad and is now back home in Canada. It is a term that captures more than just physical relocation; it speaks to the experience of rediscovery, adaptation, and reflection. For those of us who have spent years away, returning is not simply a return to a place but to an identity that has evolved in ways we may not fully understand until we are back on familiar soil.
I know this journey well. As a dual citizen of Canada and the United States, I have spent years abroad, shaped by the cultures, histories, and political landscapes of different countries. When I moved back to Canada, I found myself seeing it through both familiar and unfamiliar eyes, appreciating its strengths while confronting its complexities. That dual perspective is what drives my writing, an attempt to capture not only what it means to live here but also what it means to return.
The Power of Storytelling in a Changing World
Writing has always been a way for me to make sense of the world. What began as personal reflections soon expanded into broader explorations of cultural trends, politics, and social issues. I started sharing more about my background, my views on the evolving state of both Canada and the world, and the questions that keep me up at night. Over time, my work grew into something larger, a space for deep conversations, critical thinking, and personal storytelling.
I launched Canadian Returnee not just to document my own experiences but to connect with others who see the world through a lens of curiosity and thoughtful reflection. Whether I am unpacking current events, dissecting the nuances of Canadian identity, or reflecting on the joys and challenges of life here, my goal is to offer something engaging, thought-provoking, and, above all, meaningful.
Beyond writing, I have expanded into new forms of storytelling, a podcast, social commentary, and updates on Substack Notes because I believe that engaging with the world requires more than just observation. It requires dialogue, reflection, and the willingness to challenge what we think we know.
By subscribing, you’ll access engaging stories, helpful tips, and a unique perspective on the world. Whether you're here to learn more about Canada, gain a fresh perspective, or enjoy heartfelt reflections, you’re in the right place.
Why Your Support Matters
In a world where attention is one of our most valuable resources, I do not take yours for granted. Whether you are here to gain a deeper understanding of Canada, explore new perspectives, or simply find stories that resonate, I am grateful for your time.
Subscribing is free, and I welcome all who wish to join this conversation. But for those who want to go a step further, a paid subscription is an investment, not just in my work but in independent storytelling itself.
A paid subscription unlocks the full archive, giving you access to everything I have written beyond the past 12 months. More than that, it helps sustain this work, allowing me to continue writing, researching, and sharing insights that matter.
Supporting independent writers also strengthens platforms like Substack, creating a space for meaningful content that does not rely on clickbait or advertising dollars. If you believe in fostering thoughtful, independent journalism, your contribution makes a difference.
And, perhaps most importantly, it feels good to support work that matters to you. If my writing has given you something to think about, challenged your perspective, or simply made you feel seen, consider it an investment in a shared conversation.
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Be Part of This Story
Every reader, every comment, and every conversation sparked by Canadian Returnee is part of something bigger than just my own experience. It is about the collective reflections of those who have moved, returned, questioned, and learned.
If this resonates with you, I invite you to subscribe, share, and support this work in whatever way feels right. A paid subscription, a referral to a friend, or even just buying me a coffee, all of it helps keep this journey going.
This is a Canadian Returnee. Whether you are new here or have been following along for a while, I am grateful to have you on this journey with me.
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For Canadians or residents looking for an official guide on returning to Canada, please refer to I Declare: A guide for residents returning to Canada.
To learn more about the tech platform that powers this publication, visit Substack.com.
