Montreal, a city that promised a fresh start and new adventures, became a canvas for my fluctuating emotions and identity struggles. When I first arrived, I was filled with hope and excitement. I envisioned a life brimming with opportunities, a place where I could reinvent myself away from the familiar shores of Mauritius. The busy streets, the blend of cultures, and the artistic expressions around every corner painted a picture of possibility.





However, as the days turned into weeks, the reality of my situation began to sink in. The winter chill seeped into my bones, mirroring the growing sense of isolation I felt. Despite all the potential the coty had to offer, was an underlying struggle within me. I found myself grappling with feelings of being lost and out of place. A deep sens of loneliness often accompanied me.






Montreal is a city full of contrasts—where European charm meets North American vibrancy. While I reveled in the street art and diverse neighborhoods, I couldn't ignore the poverty that lingered in some areas. The sight of homeless individuals on street corners served as a harsh reminder of life’s complexities. It was difficult to reconcile the city’s beauty with these stark realities, leaving me feeling even more unsettled. The cultural differences were both fascinating and disorienting.




As time went on, questions about my identity began to surface. Who was I in this new context? Did I still belong to Mauritius, or had I become something else entirely? Each day felt like an emotional rollercoaster—one moment filled with excitement about exploring new places, and the next steeped in sadness and nostalgia for home. It became increasingly clear that this journey was not just about finding a new place to live; it was about confronting my own sense of self. Ultimately, after much reflection, I realized that Montreal wasn’t where I belonged. The dream of migration had turned into a realization that sometimes home is not just a location but a feeling.

This journey taught me valuable lessons about resilience and self-acceptance. While Montreal may not have been my forever home, it played a crucial role in my story—a chapter filled with growth and introspection.