Adam Garba - Entrepreneur

Adam Garba

Country of Origin: Nigeria

Date Arrived in London: 1985

Occupation: Business Entrepreneur – A & B Printing 

Why did you decide to settle in London? What do you like about London?

As a college student in Brockville, ON, I visited London a few times.  After graduating from college, I settled in Northern Ontario.  In 1985, I decided to go with my instinct and move my family here to London.  London is a great city.  It is safe, accommodating, and offers opportunities that I could not find where I was in Northern Ontario. It was a decision I was glad to have made. I have raised my four boys here, made a lot of friends, and get involved in the community in various capacities.  Best of all, I started my own business in 1986, just one year after I settled here. Yes, I’m glad I’m a Londoner!

How are you involved in the London community (employment, volunteering, community organizations, etc.)?

I have just been elected as the President of the African Canadian Federation of London and Area (ACFOLA). Before that I was the Treasurer of the Federation. I was a soccer coach and sponsor with South West Optimist Soccer Club for 12 years.  I was also a two term President of the Nigerian Association of London and a new immigrant mentor with Cross Cultural Learner Centre.  I am also involved in the Fugitive Slave Chapel Restoration Project.  I try to involve myself with any organizations that strive to give back to the community I live in.

What message would you like to share with newcomers to London?

My message to newcomers to London is to try as much as possible to get involved with many organizations as you can.  Reach out to service providers, like African Canadian Federation of London and Area (ACFOLA), Cross Cultural Learner Centre (CCLC), London Multicultural Community Association (LMCA), churches and mosques, and most of all volunteer your time and skills whenever you have an opportunity to. You will be amazed what volunteering can bring your way in terms of friends, skills, and even jobs!

Stretch out your hands.  When you take the chance and open up, you’ll be amazed how many doors open.

What message would you like to share with the broader London community?

My message to the broader London community is continue to be open and accommodating.  Keep an open mind when dealing or interaction with newcomers. Every person you meet has something to learn from you and to teach you. We are all connected in some way.  We all want to contribute and improve the community we live in to make life better for ourselves, our children, and our children’s children. Newcomers to London chose London for or reason or another.  We should affirm this choice. Let us all give everyone an opportunity to be: Included, Engaged and Integrated into the Society at Large.