Moving to a new country comes with excitement—and real challenges.

In the first episode of The Expert’s Corner, Sarah Uwadiae speaks with a PhD-trained Registered Social Worker and Counsellor - Dr. Linda Kongnetiman-Pansa, with over three decades of experience spanning healthcare, human services, private practice, and academia.

Our guest, Dr. Linda Kongnetiman-Pansa is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Calgary and the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Social Work, and is recognized as a leader in policy and systems transformation. In her counselling practice, she centers people’s lived experiences, offering non-judgmental, compassionate support while working to bridge gaps between individuals and the systems meant to serve them.

Together, we unpack how new immigrants can navigate government services, non-profit organizations, community resources, and informal networks, while preserving their identity, dignity, and emotional well-being.

In this episode, we discuss:

• What social support really means when settling in a new country
• How to access government and non-profit services without shame or fear
• The emotional and mental health impacts of migration and transition
• Maintaining identity and dignity while navigating new systems
• The role of community, culture, and personal agency in building stability
• When and how to ask for help—and why it matters

This episode is for new immigrants, newcomers, refugees, international professionals, and anyone supporting people through settlement and transition.