Building Lives: Inspiring Stories of Establishing A New Home in a New Country

When embarking on the life-changing journey of immigration, integration, and adapting to British Columbia, it is paramount to underscore the significance of this issue. Actively engaging with the narratives of newcomers becomes not only imperative but also a societal necessity. Establishing a platform for open dialogue, where new immigrants share their experiences, challenges, strengths, and adaptation strategies, is vital. It addresses the immediate concerns but also emphasizes the critical importance of fostering a collective understanding within our diverse communities.

Poran and Samira, volunteer hosts of Today TV engage their guest, Shirin in a conversation that begins with Poran explaining why sharing our stories is important and how it can help those arriving to our communities. Samira shares that we learn from one another’s success stories and find our ways.

Despite the initial culture shock, Shirin Sharifian displayed remarkable open-mindedness, eventually appreciating the differences in her new Canadian life. She went beyond judgment, embracing the learning opportunities presented by her new environment. Recognizing people's diverse backgrounds and experiences, she transitioned from being an engineer to pursuing a career as a social worker. This transformation allowed her to work with homeless individuals, altering her perspective on drug addiction.

Shirin realized the complexity of individuals' lives, acknowledging the impact of traumas and challenges. In one job interview, she was asked who she was, and the only thing she could come up with back then was to say, “I am a mother.” She learned how to present her skills. Shirin shared that since her arrival she had learned how respect for our differences was a talent; she learned in the Canadian workplaces where she could get her foot in the door. Now, as she has studied social work and community work, Shirin is working for a homeless shelter in downtown Vancouver.

Shirin is joyful and finds a great sense of meaning in her life by serving those in need, and she is hopeful to continue being in the helping profession.

Samira added that upon immigrating to Canada, it was as if she resisted adopting the Canadian calendar; She mentioned" I continued to use the Persian calendar. And "I would first check the Persian date before acknowledging the Canadian dates".

Poran talked about the phases of migration: the arrival, cultural shocks, the honeymoon period, times for regret and compassion, and a period of integration.

Shirin's journey, from overcoming cultural differences to embracing a new profession and pursuing diverse passions, reflects resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to personal growth. Her story highlights the richness of embracing change and valuing the diversity of experiences in civic life.

In summary, Poran and Samira appreciated the guest sharing her story of confusion, fear, challenges, and success in finding her own identity. In the end, Poran and Samira invited the community to join their program for more communication and story-sharing.

Volunteer Hosts:

Poran Poregbal MA, RSW, RCC Doctoral Candidate in Counselling and Psychotherapy

Samira Gholami, BA, MA Candidate Psychotherapist, Co-Founder, Director of Operations Member of (CCPA)

Producer and Journalist:

Sherry Soltani

Skyrise Media Society