Photo: Carolina and William (left and right) with their mentor, Josh (centre)
When people think of newcomers to Canada, they often picture students or professionals starting fresh in a new country. But many parents also begin this journey later in life: following their children, learning a new language, and rebuilding community from the ground up.
Carolina and William are among them. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, they moved to Vancouver through a family reunification program that brought them closer to their daughters.
Their story is one of openness, courage, and quiet determination. Adjusting to a new culture, climate, and pace of life has been full of challenges and moments of discovery.
“It’s a big challenge,” William says. “Every day is a new step. But it’s a process. You learn, and you discover new parts of yourself.”
Getting to Know a New Country
The transition wasn’t easy for them. In Colombia, life had one steady rhythm; here, every day brought something to figure out. From navigating public transit to practicing English in real conversations, even simple tasks took patience and courage.
But instead of seeing obstacles, they treated each moment as a chance to learn. Their willingness to adapt, to stay curious, and to keep learning became their greatest strength.
It was gentle perseverance, daily learning, and gratitude mixed with challenge. They didn’t describe their journey as hardship, but as discovery.
“In Colombia, we don’t have four seasons,” Carolina smiles. “Here, everything feels new… but it’s good. It helps you grow.”
During this time, Carolina began searching online for ways to connect with others and better understand life in Canada. That was when she found MOSAIC’s Culture Connections Social Mentoring Program (CCSMP), a program designed to help newcomers feel at home through one-on-one mentorship and cultural exchange.
A Mentor Who Became a Friend
Through CCSMP, Carolina and William were matched with Josh, a local volunteer mentor. Like them, Josh is also a pastor. This shared background helped their friendship grow naturally.
“Josh is amazing,” William says. “He meets with us every week. He’s patient, kind, and helps us understand Canadian culture, food, and everyday life.”
Their weekly meetings, whether in cafés, parks, or restaurants, became more than English practice. They became small windows into Canadian life. Josh introduced them to new foods, local history, and small traditions that don’t appear in books. He also listened to their stories and learned about their culture in return.
“He helped us feel part of this country,” Carolina says. “Inside the culture, inside the city. He made us feel welcome.”
When their daughter’s wedding in Vancouver was approaching, Josh offered an idea they hadn’t considered before: that they could officiate the ceremony themselves. His encouragement gave them confidence to take on a role that felt deeply personal.
“We hadn’t thought about it,” William says, “but when Josh suggested it, we said, why not? It became something very special for our family.”
Moments of Belonging
For Carolina and William, CCSMP didn’t just connect them with a mentor. It helped them build confidence, community, and a sense of belonging that grows stronger every day.
“When you enjoy the city, it becomes your city,” says Carolina.
Now, they are aiming to improve their English and continue to explore the country: “For many years, we focused on helping others,” William reflects. “Now it’s time to focus on our life, to enjoy this new life.”
When asked what advice they would give to others who come to Canada later in life, Carolina answers: “Don’t be afraid. There are people here who care.” It is amazing how sometimes the simplest words carry the deepest wisdom.
Carolina and William’s belief in kindness, openness to the world, and quiet courage to begin again touch everyone who meets them. We are grateful to witness how they are finding their place in Canada, and how, in time, they will add their own warmth and wisdom to this diverse community.
About the Program
MOSAIC’s Culture Connections Social Mentoring Program connects newcomers with local volunteer mentors for one-on-one support and group activities. Together, they share stories, exchange cultural values, and build friendships that make settling in Canada easier and more meaningful.
