Employment

Years ago, I worked as the chauffeur of the Ambassador of Iraq. When I started working at the embassy, I used to wake up at 6 a.m., full of energy. My shift started at 9 a.m., but I used to go around 7 a.m.,so that I could have breakfast with my coworkers. My workday ended at 3 p.m., but many of us stayed until 6 p.m. just to joke around and spend time together.

I loved my job. I met many people at the embassy, including important people. I used to drive fancy cars, brand new cars, a Toyota, a Mercedes, and a Chevrolet. There were four drivers, but the ambassador and his family chose me because we shared the same Iraqi accent. They treated me like family and trusted me. Sometimes, they even took me on week- long vacations with them. They loved me and loved how I used to take took care of their cars: I cleaned them very carefully every day, kept them clean and made sure they smell good.I worked there until 2017, when I told them I was relocating. They were upset to see me go because we were close.

When I moved to Canada, things were different. I didn’t know English and answered questions in Spanish instead. I began working as an Uber driver, and I felt happy when passengers spoke Spanish, they were surprised to see how I was an Arab and spoke Spanish. Over time, I learned English and continued to enjoy driving.

Being an Uber driver is the job for me. I can choose my own hours, I don't have a boss, and I always keep my car clean and smelling fresh. Passengers often tell me on how clean it is. I’ve been driving for Uber since 2017, and with over 20 years of driving experience, I think I will always love driving.

That’s my story from the Embassy of Iraq to Uber.