Dreams Come True: Hard Work and Perseverance Pay Off for Immigrant Entrepreneur
For Sylvia Furlaga, becoming an entrepreneur has been a long journey.
As an immigrant to Canada, she encountered many challenges upon her arrival in a new country.
“Two weeks after my arrival to Canada, Poland went under martial law in the fall of 1981. The Canadian government gave the green light for Polish people to stay and start a new life. I took advantage of the opportunity and that’s when my adventure began,” she explained.
As a young mother with a family to support, she quickly enrolled in an ESL program and landed a waitress position at a Polish restaurant in Toronto. She then transitioned to work as a hairdresser, her chosen profession in her homeland. Aspiring to become a nail technician, she continued her education, enrolling in courses and receiving her diploma. Even as her family continued to grow, she kept working, eventually becoming a certified Canadian Professional Electrologist, and completing several courses in medical esthetics.
“It was hard work, but I knew that I eventually wanted to work for myself,” she continued. “So, I was striving to get more knowledge and experience, all while supporting my three kids.”
In 2012, she decided to relocate to Moncton, where one of her sons had already put down roots. It wasn’t until her first trip into Riverview when she decided to make this community her new home.
“My first drive to Riverview was to order my business cards at Andrez Printing shop. Andrzej and his wife Marzena were the first Polish friends I met, and we’re still close friends. I fell in love with the smaller community,” she explained. “Community is a big family where people from all different backgrounds and ethnicities come together. They are our neighbours and friends. We support each other by attending and cheering on our kids at sporting events, participating in school events and fundraisers as well as keeping the town clean and safe. I saw that happening in Riverview and I knew this would be my future home.”
She initially worked at Sharpe Impressions, as an esthetician. The business changed hands a couple times, and eventually closed. That’s when opportunity knocked.
“In 2017, the salon that I used to work at was closed and the space was available for rent. I jumped at the chance,” she explained. “A couple months later, with the help of my family and friends, we were able to transform the business and open our doors. We had our grand opening and a ribbon cutting with Mayor Ann Seamans in attendance. It was a dream come true.”
Fueled by service to others, Sylvia found her calling through helping people look and feel great. “My salon is not just a business; I’ve found a family because of it. My clients who have been with me for a long time are like family to me and we have grown together,” she explained. “The local residents continue to support local businesses like mine, and I am so grateful for it.”
Looking for electrolysis, medical esthetics, skin rejuvenation, facials, or a classic mani/pedi? Stop by Sylvia’s Natural Way Skin Care on 567 Coverdale Road. Their team will get you perfectly polished in no time. If you’re looking to treat your mom (and yourself) for Mother’s Day, they are offering a “buy one get one half price” on facials. Contact them today!
