E97: Clint Boodram on what it was like immigrating to Canada 40 years ago

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In this episode, I'm speaking with Clint Boodram, Regional Manager, Business Development for Western Canada at TD Bank.

Clint moved to Canada from Trinidad when he was in Grade 9, over 40 years ago. On landing in Toronto, everything looked normal. But on the plane ride to Edmonton, “I found myself surrounded by people I saw on TV,” he says.

Immigrating to Alberta at that time meant Clint literally knew every Black person in his community. “I remember walking around going to different events, just going to the gym, hanging out. I kind of knew every Black person," he says. Fast forward to today, Clint struggles to keep up with the new faces he comes across daily.

While he's proud of the progress the Black community has made, Clint remains committed to building a welcoming support system for newcomers. His goal? “All I want people to remember is that if they need anything, they can call Clint.”

In this conversation, Clint and I explore the concept of systemic change as a marathon, not a sprint. We also chat about:

* Transitioning to high school in Canada

* Raising kids

* Community building and holding space for the next generation

* Why we can’t recreate the home we often miss

* Cultural adaptation without losing your identity

Official Links

✅ Connect with Clint Boodram on LinkedIn

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