Hello, everyone! Today, we’re excited to share the story of Toni, a seasoned truck driver from Finland who has found his dream job and a new life in Canada. With over 24 years of experience, Toni’s journey to Agri-Fresh is a testament to his passion for trucking and his adventurous spirit.
From Finland to Southern Europe
Toni’s trucking career began in Finland, where he spent a decade driving domestically. His quest for new experiences then took him to Southern Europe, where he spent 12 and a half years navigating the diverse and often challenging roads of countries like Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands.
“In Europe, driving can be quite hectic,” Toni recalls. “In France, for example, communication was tough because many people didn’t want to speak English. Here in Canada, it’s much easier because everyone speaks English, making pickups, deliveries, and overall communication smoother.”
A Long-Held Dream
Since he was a child, Toni dreamt of driving an American truck. This dream was fuelled by stories from friends who had made the move to Canada. “Probably 17 or 18 years ago, a friend of mine moved to Alberta and became an owner-operator. He told me all about life and work there, and it kept my dream alive,” Toni shares.
Despite initial setbacks and the daunting paperwork involved in the immigration process, Toni remained determined. “I first applied about eight years ago but was overwhelmed by the paperwork. Then, just before COVID-19, I tried again but faced similar challenges. It wasn’t until a friend in Winnipeg told me about Agri-Fresh that things started to fall into place.”
The Journey to Canada
Toni’s persistence paid off. He submitted his application to Agri-Fresh, and within seven to eight months, he was on his way to Canada. His journey took him from Helsinki to Amsterdam, then to Minneapolis, and finally to Winnipeg.
“I arrived in November and was pleasantly surprised by the mild weather. It was between 7 and 11 degrees Celsius, which was warmer than I expected for that time of year. But come January, I experienced the true Canadian winter, with temperatures dropping to minus 35 with wind chills making it feel like minus 51.”
Living the Dream
For Toni, driving in North America has been a dream come true. “The first time I saw my truck in the US, it was a surreal moment. I really am here, driving an American truck,” he says with a smile.
The vast, open roads of Canada and the US offer a stark contrast to the busy highways of Europe. “Here, you can drive for miles without seeing another vehicle. It’s peaceful and relaxing, unlike Europe, where there’s constant traffic.”
Advice for Aspiring Drivers
Toni’s journey wasn’t without its challenges, but he has no regrets. His advice to others considering a similar move is simple: manage your expectations. “Don’t come with high hopes of making big money instantly or living a life like in the movies. Take one day at a time, and you’ll find your rhythm.”
For Toni, trucking is more than just a job; it’s a lifestyle. “I’ve wanted to be a truck driver since I was in the first grade. This is more than a career for me—it’s a way of life. And Agri-Fresh has been the perfect place for me to live out this dream.”
Embracing the Canadian Life
Toni appreciates the supportive environment at Agri-Fresh. “Kevin, the owner, is a cool person. I enjoy our occasional chats when I visit the office. The team here is great, always ready to help, and that makes a big difference.”
Today, Toni continues to enjoy his time on the road, exploring the beautiful landscapes of Canada and the US, and living a dream he has cherished since childhood. His story is a reminder that with determination and the right support, dreams really can come true.
If you’re inspired by Toni’s journey and are considering a career in trucking, Agri-Fresh might just be the place for you. As Toni says, “For some, this is a dream come true. For me, it’s exactly that. And I couldn’t be happier.”
Thank you for reading Toni’s story. Stay tuned for more inspiring tales from our drivers at Agri-Fresh!
Learn more and apply today at AgriFresh.ca/Drivers
