I have had many messages from disheartened folks on here. Generally those of you who were about to apply and found that your NOC is no longer on the ministerial list. Guys don't give up.
First of all, forget your job title for a moment and look through the ministerial listing again and see if any of the 29 job's duties match your own. If they do, that is what counts. Be fair about how you look at it. Discuss it with other who are working in those listed NOCs and see if you can match your duties to the listed job duties.
Secondly, look through PNP, and even consider learning french and going through QSW.
Thirdly, for those of you who can afford it, perhaps consider going to study in Canada and then applying later through the CEC class (but rules can always change). Also there are some funding in Canadian universities for masters studies in certain fields. It is not as much as in the US but it does exist.
Fourth - look through websites for jobs in Canada. Remember, now that CIC is openly saying that less visas will be given for FSW1, perhaps more will be given for FSW2. Perhaps employers will see they can get qualified people from overseas more easy with the new rules. Keep on emailing potential employers about jobs. Look for relevant websites. I think Canadavisa even has a job website. A simple Google search might come up with more job sites. Talk to your friends in Canada already. Perhaps some of those who are online now and in Canada will help in finding a job especially if they are in the same field.
Fifth - Canada is not the only place for immigration. Consider other countries for immigration too. I heard Denmark, Australia, etc are good too. I am sure you would have seen how a developing country like South Africa has put on an amazing world cup with stadiums that even first world nations cannot compete with. There are developing countries that offers lots of opportunities too, don't discount them. The main point is that you are continually improving your life for you and your family. If an opportunity exists in a developing country that offers a lifestyle better than your current, think about moving there and later, you can always move to an even better country. It might not sound optimal but it might be better than where you are now. I know countries like Malaysia, Singapore, etc offers a great life.
Most importantly, don't lose hope. It is easy to feel disheartened when one's hopes are dashed by a rule change but remember, you are online on this forum only because you are determined to make your and your family's life better. Use that very determination to do what I have mentioned above. Moving to another country is not easy so those of you who are prepared to move are the ones who are willing to take the calculated risk to make your life better. Channel all that energy to immigrate using other legal means.
Take calculated risks, be on the lookout for opportunities and most of all, smile because you still have your health. I am sure you all will do well. Good luck.
