Over 80 people attended the public forum hosted by MOSAIC that focused on how to promote and increase diverse immigrant and refugee engagement in civic and community leadership.
The event opened with remarks from MOSAIC CEO Olga Stachova and a song of welcome from Coast Salish artist Cease Wyss.
The Hon. Jinny Sims, BC Minister of Citizens’ Services, conveyed greetings on behalf of the provincial government and shared a few personal stories of her own journey as an immigrant in both the UK and Canada. The minister inspired the assembly with advice and concluded her remarks by noting “everyone here has chosen to make Canada their home, whatever the reason; let us all work together.”
Co-facilitators Ninu Kang (MOSAIC Director of Communications and Development) and Jorge Salaz (Director of Inner Activist) introduced guest panelists Regina Valverde, student activist with Fresh Voices of BC, Sharmarke Dubow, community advocate and councillor with the City of Victoria, and Kristi Pinderi, Albanian journalist and LGBT+ advocate.
The panelists shared information about their own immigrant journeys and how they became involved in community activism and advocacy.
“The personal stories shared by the panelists were inspiring and led to high energy discussions in small groups by all,” shared Ninu.
MOSAIC is working to increase community belonging by making civic and social engagement accessible and diverse. Our goal is to provide information, training, mentorship and assistance with applications and nominations for positions on tables, committees, boards etc. To learn more, please visit mosaicbc.org/engagement.
