AS preparations begin for Diwali, there is a feeling of unity and love throughout the community. Many members of the household – if not all – have begun to get excited about the upcoming festival of lights. An annual event, Diwali sees families and friends gather together to eat, pray, exchange gifts, and watch bright, beautiful fireworks displays.

If you’re new to Canada, celebrating Diwali away from home can come with challenges and even feelings of loneliness associated with starting a new life in a different part of the world. As a nation, Canada has a lot to offer, from its diverse scenery to its warm, inviting people. The country has a reputation for being a welcoming place for immigrants looking to establish new roots.

At TD, diversity and inclusion are part of our fundamental values, both of which guide us in supporting our customers and communities. We welcome those who are new to the country and look for opportunities to help customers gain knowledge and confidence when it comes to banking in Canada. Across our vast branch network, including telephone translation, TD offers services in more than 200 languages.

“TD prides itself on being ready to help newcomers,” said Gundeep Bedi, Branch Manager in Brampton, Ont. “We understand that people who haven’t been here very long and have little or no credit history – and little experience with the Canadian financial system – can benefit from added support. Getting started with our New to Canada Banking Package or our International Student Banking Package is easy, and comes with added benefits.”

One such advantage includes unlimited international money transfers with transfer fees rebated for up to 12 months, so individuals who are new to Canada can send money conveniently and securely to relatives back home – including over 200 countries and territories with TD Global Transfer.

Beyond special banking packages for newcomers, the bank also offers the TD Diwali Silver Round. A symbol of inclusivity, each round features an exquisitely designed elephant and bright lotus flower. This limited edition one-ounce, pure silver round is available to purchase annually in specific branches.

Right across the country, TD teams are equally prepared to assist those who are new to Canada by providing robust banking support – including in Surrey, B.C., where Branch Manager Sonia Bassi leads a team.

“These days, more than ever before, many of us are leading hectic lives in frenzied, fast-paced communities,” said Bassi. “Despite that pace, the upcoming Diwali celebrations will encourage us to slow down and take time to appreciate the joy in the occasion with relatives and friends, near and far.”

Bassi detailed how the same inclusive, warm and welcoming approach to the festival is not only a focus for TD customers, but also something that colleagues are encouraged to embrace.

“Within our branch network, many celebrate Diwali by dressing up in cultural attire and sharing delicious treats with colleagues,” Bassi explained. “Even something as simple as sharing samosas, pakoras and chai leaves us feeling proud of our culture and proud to work for a company that recognizes the importance of diversity and inclusion.”

In the Greater Toronto Area, Bedi describes a cultural shift and changes she has witnessed firsthand in her Brampton neighbourhood.

“Diwali in Canada was very different 10 years ago,” Bedi reflects. “These days, there’s improved awareness about the festival throughout our community and across the country. TD has been an integral part of that inclusivity for me. I’ve been working for TD for more than 12 years and have personally witnessed how genuine the bank is when it comes to embodying diversity and inclusion.”

By lighting diyas and covering the floors with rangolis – works of art composed of coloured rice, sand, and flower petals – members of the Hindu, Jain, Sikh, and Buddhist communities are preparing to bring luck and wealth to family members, friends, and visitors, while also commemorating the victory of light over darkness.

“Diwali really serves as a reminder of our shared ideals and the importance of inclusivity,” said Bedi. “Canada is a great place to light a candle or two this time of year, while joining others in celebrating good over evil, wisdom, and the triumph of light over darkness.”

To all those celebrating from coast to coast to coast in Canada, TD would like to wish you a healthy, happy, and safe Diwali!