Sunday, December 28, 2025

Biography 320: Invitations


 From my childhood, I have always seen my parents invite a group of people to celebrate Eid, birthdays, and other occasions. But I didn't visit that much. I mean, we didn't get invited that much. Sometimes my parents would only go to visit some people's homes because the invitation was only for them. I am trying to remember what I was first invited to go to somebody's home.

Probably to my oldest aunt's house. My uncle was famous for his invitations to home-cooked meals. I heard people used to suggest he not do this too much. But I guess he didn't listen to anyone. He liked food and liked to enjoy it with people.

I have started inviting people on my son's birthday and Eid. It was limited to my family. Sometimes I used to invite my friends or colleagues for my engagement, birthdays, and other occasions. Then I realized I wasn't getting invited by them as much. So I made it more limited. I found people aren't interested in joining me anywhere. Some people told me that I don't realize they don't want to spend time with me, but with themselves. So I had to learn to travel, enjoy food, and be with my family only. I shouldn't bother people if they don't like me.

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

At home, speak in your native language only.


 I have seen a trend among Bangladeshi parents in Canada. They speak English at home to their children. The logic I heard from one parent was that this helps the child feel comfortable speaking outside, because in school they have to speak English.

This way, the new generation is not learning to speak Bangla. Even if they knew some Bangla from Bangladesh, they are now forgetting everything. If you notice, you will see that when Bangladeshi kids get together, they never speak in Bangla among themselves, only in English.

Your kid will learn English anyway. Even if you don't want to teach them. And if they learn from outside, they will speak with correct pronunciation, not with your native accent. It's actually the better way to teach them English.

My suggestion is that everyone should speak in their native language at home. No other language, ever. This way, kids will learn the language and will not forget their roots. Bangladeshi people died to keep this language alive. At least we should have some respect for that.

Some people write in Bangla on Facebook and think it's a very good way to show respect for their native language. I believe this will only give you comfort when communicating with people who speak the same language. That's it. Nothing wrong with it. But if you have friends and family from another country, they won't understand anything, neither will your kid or anyone else learn the language from your Facebook activity. People who speak other languages will feel left out of your posts.


Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Preparing some special Porota (Paratha)

 My preparation to make a special porota (paratha).


Made the porota (paratha)


Frying in oil

The final product

The whole system







Monday, December 22, 2025

Biography 319: Outside food vs homemade food.


 I believe outside food (the opposite of homemade food) from anywhere in the world is not healthy, no matter how expensive it is. Not even the street food, which is made fresh in front of you. Because they prepared the ingredients a long time ago, sometimes they don't clean thoroughly; sometimes workers may not handle it properly, mix it with old food, or don't take sufficient steps to preserve all nutrients, etc.

When I was a kid, my parents used to take us to big restaurants for special occasions. But as far as I remember, I never liked it.

Later, when I was in school, I started liking outside food because it was tasty. After starting my own life (separated from my parents), I have started liking outdoor food more. Because then I don't have to cook, and it is tastier and has more variety than mine.

In my dating era, I used to find different beautiful fast-food restaurants and enjoy various kinds of food. They were tasty.

Nowadays, my choices are changing again. I now prefer homemade food. Homemade food is tastier, more nutritious, and saves money than outside food. When someone offers food, I always want homemade. But I prefer to eat outdoors because I don't want to put any pressure on them. And I always bring leftovers home. The first reason is that I don't want to waste a single drop of food. The second reason is that, because of those leftovers, I don't have to cook at home for some time, because I will live on them. I need that break.

Sunday, December 21, 2025

An AVX movie


 Watched an AVX movie. It means enhanced visuals and sound with larger screens, 4K digital projection, and powerful surround sound (often Dolby Atmos).

For me, they didn't add any extra screen; they just used both side white (almost white) walls from the projector screen. So, when you are looking at the front, you can also see a bit more from the side walls.

It's a very new experience for me. It's a good one. But I won't pay more for this view. I didn't feel it was needed for the movie.

Saturday, December 20, 2025

Matijhil Government Girls High School

 


Matijhil Govt Girls High School. I have studied in this school from grades 5 to 10. It's in Bangladesh. I had to take a rickshaw to get to school every day. From grades 5 to 9, I had a partner from my neighbourhood who came to school with me. Her name was Chhobi. She was one year senior than me. So, when I started grade 10, she had already left the school.

Last time I met her, she was on the road near our home. She said she got married and is now living in Narayanganj, studying ultrasonography.

Friday, December 19, 2025

Biography 318: Cars in my life.


 My parent bought their first car in Saudi Arabia. It's very common there for people to buy cars for personal use. They also bought their next car in Saudi Arabia. Then, when they settled in Bangladesh, my father had a motorcycle from the office. Later, he bought his own bike. When I started working, my dad bought a car for his own use. Later, I started using it and said I was ready to pay its expenses so I could use it like my own. But dad didn't want that. So I left it.

I bought my first car in Saskatchewan, Canada, and my second in the same province. Both vehicles had served very well. Later, I purchased my 3rd car from Ontario. This car has given me more trouble than I can imagine. So my 4th car has to be better.

Sunday, December 14, 2025

More money will be spent, and people are happy about it.


 People had issues with the speed detector cameras because they were charging money for those who broke the rules. As a result, it was removed. The city was earning some money to invest in its development, but now that has gone, especially since the city was already lacking money.

To address the high speeding problem, the Ontario government will now invest money from taxpayers who actually follow the rules. Their money will be used to make new signs, speed bumps, and fund the police. When police have a more difficult job to do, they still have to spend time dealing with car speeding. More money will be invested from innocent taxpayers, not just the culprits. But people are happy now.

Most happy persons are those who say that they can now speed up without any fear.


Friday, December 12, 2025

Basement culture in Canada


 In Canada, basements are very important. Most home buyers decide on a house depending on the basement. They rent out their basement, and the income they receive is used to pay their mortgage, bills, and other expenses if possible.

When I rented a whole house, I couldn't use the basement to live there because it was very cold. That cold actually made the whole house colder. Then rats came. When my landlord brought a pest controller, they told us the basement had lots of big holes or gaps through which the rats were getting inside. I also understood that that's why the basement, and consequently the whole house, became very cold.

Some basement floors stay cold like ice. They also get mold. The landlord needed to fix their floor due to the cold and mold.

But mostly, people don't want to invest in fixing it; they just make it look decent so they can secure a good amount of rent.

People who live in basements have no choice. Nobody lives there by choice. Just to save some money, people tolerate all kinds of problems, including bug infestations. They can't complain because the landlord might tell them, "If you don't like it, you can leave." 

Some basement kitchens don't have windows to let the cooking smells outside; this causes the whole apartment to smell like cooked food. Even the clothes become stinky. If the exhaust fan doesn't work properly, that causes another kind of problem.

Some basements don't have proper windows to open. If there is a fire and the only stairs catch fire, they have no way to rescue themselves.

I think the city should randomly inspect the basements of houses and warn landlords to fix issues within a given timeframe.

Thursday, December 11, 2025

AI result by Google.


I searched my name on Google, and the AI brought up this result. Liked it...
"Shahana Shafiuddin" is the name of a photographer and content creator who shares her work on various social media platforms. Her content often features travel, landscapes, and food. 
You can view her work and content on these platforms:

 

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

A memorable moment.


 This picture was taken in our living room. In Bangladesh, our parents rented an apartment before moving to their own. Our landlord was the brother of the famous Bangladeshi comedian Saifuddin. The landlord was a lawyer. We had a very good relationship with them. When my brother was born, the couple came to our house (where we had moved) to congratulate our parents. They were very happy that our parents finally had a son after four daughters.

This picture was taken before our brother was born. From left to right: Boro Khalu (maternal uncle), holding his granddaughter Moumita; then Lizi Apa (cousin and Moumita's mother); then me (the happiest person in this picture); then our maternal grandfather; my younger sister Sonia; and older sister Sharmin. My mom (I had to cover her because she is now wearing a hijab/headscarf) is standing behind the sofa, holding our youngest sister, Shekha.

In this picture, two people are no longer here: my uncle and grandfather.

The wall picture was bought from Saudi Arabia. The curtain is also from Saudi Arabia. Someone gifted this cloth to my younger sister Sonia when she was born. The chair where my uncle is sitting was the first piece of furniture my parents bought when they started their new life.

It was one of our sisters' birthdays. I don't remember which one.

Sunday, December 7, 2025

Biography 317: Weight control


 When I was a 10 or 11-year-old girl, I felt like my stomach was bigger than my body. I didn't know why, but I started thinking about controlling my food intake and eating proper meals. From that age, I learned to eat vegetables on my own.

When I was 15, I started taking full control of my carbohydrate intake. My mom noticed that. When I visited my doctor, she also mentioned that I didn't eat much. The doctor said, If you tend to be big, you can't stop it; your body will store fluid and make you bigger.

I didn't believe him. And I never give up dieting. Still having trouble with my weight. But I hope someday I will have a good body with the perfect weight.

Saturday, December 6, 2025

Personal stylist


 Whenever a program comes up, I start planning in my mind. I think about how I will dress and how I will get ready. But then I don't know what happens; I can never find the time to do any of it. Most of the time, I just put on sunscreen and the dress from the front of my closet before going outside. I wish I had a personal stylist who would prepare me for every occasion.

Sunday, November 30, 2025

Mejo mama

 


Mejo Mama (uncle, mother's brother) and my mom. I took this picture at Litu bro's (uncle's older son) house in Bangladesh. I think this is the last time I met with him.

Friday, November 28, 2025

Biography 316: Dola Apa was talking about...


 One day, my Boro Khalu (uncle), Boro Khala (aunt), and Dola Apa (cousin) came to visit our house at noon. We had lunch together. During that time, I heard Dola Apa had some medical issues; I didn't know exactly what those were.

After lunch, everybody was enjoying tea at our dining table. Suddenly, Dola apa said, "I know what my disease is. You guys think I don't know about it, that is wrong." The way she said it made me smile. I looked at the uncle's face; he had a poker face. Couldn't guess what was going on. Nobody said anything to Dola apa. Uncle just said, "I see." Someone changed the topic, so nobody said anything more about it.

Later, I heard she had a tumour on her leg, which was cancer. She died in the hospital. Uncle is also no longer with us. Now, I understand how painful that moment was.

I asked my older sister if she knew about the cancer. My sister said, as far as she knew, she didn't.


Tuesday, November 25, 2025

2% DNA difference

World’s loneliest gorilla, Bua Noi, spending her 41st Christmas ALONE, still trapped in a mall cage for shoppers to gawp at.


 Gorillas are the animals most similar to humans. I heard we share only 2% DNA difference between humans and gorillas. But how are we behaving towards them?

Sunday, November 23, 2025

Song Hindi: Tere dil pe haq mera hai (I have right upon your heart)


 I didn't watch the movie, I just listened to the song, and I liked it very much. So, here I am sharing it with you. Lyrics and English translation are provided in this video.

Tere dil pe haq mera hai (Lyrics/English Translation)

Movie: Ek deewane ki deewaniyat

Lyrics:

Hindi Lyrics - English Translation

Tere dil pe haq mera hai - I have a right on your heart

Tu sanam beshaq mera - You, my belove,d are surely mine

Phir lakeerein ho ya na ho - Whether it is written in destiny or not

Tu mera hai, tu mera hai - You are mine, you are mine

Joh tu aag hai, haan toh phir mujhe jalne ka shauk hai - If you are fire, then yes, I would love to burn

Jalne ka shauk hai - I would love to burn

Marne se kahin zyada haan tujhe khone ka khauff hai - I am far more afraid of losing you than of dying

Khone ka khauff hai - I am so scared of losing you

Tu chahiye mujhe, chahe kahe isse mera junoon ya phir tu zid meri - I want you, call it my passion or simply my stubbornness.

Tu hi armaan, tu hi sach hai - You are my desire, you are the truth

Keh rahi deewaniyat hai - This is what my madness is saying

Main yeh dil pe likh chuka hoon - I have already written this on my heart

Tu mera hai, tu mera hai  - You are mine, you are mine

Tere aage zindagi ki khaakh jitni ahmiyat hai - My life means nothing in front of you

Faisla main kar chuka hoon - I have already made my decision

Tu mera main bhi hoon bas tera - You are mine and I am simply yours

Paane ki tujhko hasrat liye hi raaton ko main jaagta hoon - I stay awake in the nights with the longing to attain you

Kyun jane phir bhi dushman teri do aankhon ko main lagta hoon - Yet somehow I look like an enemy to your two eyes

Kahe na chahe tu mujhe - Whether you say it to me or not

Karunga tujhe ishq main  - I will be in love with you

Mujhe yeh parwah nahi joh bhi ho mera anjaam har haal mein - No matter what, I do not care about my outcome

Tu chahiye mujhe, joh bhi saza mile - I want you, and I am ready to bear any punishment

Parwah hai phir kise anjaam ki - Why should I care about my outcome then

Tu hi armaan, tu hi sach hai - You are my desire, you are the truth

Keh rahi deewaniyat hai - This is what my madness is saying

Main yeh dil pe likh chuka hoon - I have already written this on my heart

Tu mera hai, tu mera hai - You are mine, you are mine

Tere aage zindagi ki khaakh jitni ahmiyat hai - My life means nothing in front of you

Faisla main kar chuka hoon - I have already made my decision

Tu mera main bhi hoon bas tera - You are mine and I am simply yours

[Source: https://www.filmyquotes.com/songs/4359 ]

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Biography 315: Interviews in my life.


 I shouldn't be scared of any interview. Whatever is meant to happen, it happens. I did very well in those interviews, where I didn't get scared at all because I knew they wouldn't select me. So, I just be myself.

Before the interview, the interviewer may say, "Just be yourself." But actually, they just want to get to know you better. They will judge everything they observe. They will speak to you as if their life is filled with happiness only because you have shown up for the interview. They are your best friend.

Never fall into this trap. They just want you to feel free to share everything about yourself so they can understand your negative side, too, and reject you.

The interview process is almost the same everywhere, and the questions are similar. Only a few new questions will be added by the interviewer.

I have given my first interview after passing grade 10. I didn't want to go alone, so I took my cousin Titu with me. When they called me into the room, I walked inside. I didn't know Titu would come with me too and sit beside me. But I didn't want to say anything in front of the company owner.

The owner was looking for a part-time teacher for his coaching company. He had other organizations, too. However, the salary they offered was very low. I told him it wouldn't cover my rickshaw fare to and from my home. Deep inside, I knew that if someone else got this opportunity, they would have accepted and made the journey by bus.

I have given many interviews in Bangladesh. I didn't have much hope, just kept trying. In Canada, the same things happen. When I tried for an entry-level job, I got it immediately. Things changed when I was looking for a better job. I have been living and working in Canada for 10 years. I should get something better. So now, the application and interview process has started. Here, in most cases, they select their already chosen candidate. They must have a corporate reason for conducting interviews without real intentions.

Maybe someday, some organization will feel like working with me. I am a sincere person. Wherever I work, I work sincerely. Every company did well after my joining. I hope to maintain my good record everywhere.

Saturday, November 15, 2025

What a day

 First, I got the flu shot. Then I heard I could get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. So, I asked to have that shot as well. They gave it to me.

Now the pain began. I can't use my hand to work. At first, I thought, what a day; I had planned to do so many things. But I can't do any of them. 

Now I am thinking, what a day—no work, just resting and enjoying my time.

Sunday, November 9, 2025

Biography 314: To live in the USA


 My Boro Khala (aunt, mom's older sister) asked me to come to the USA. She is living there now. We were in Bangladesh at that time. I said I have heard newcomers have to do odd jobs to survive. I don't want to do that. She replied, Educated people don't need to do odd jobs. Come and enjoy life in the USA.

I didn't feel like living over there, so I just smiled and said no. Khala didn't argue, and I like her attitude this way. I don't like being forced to do anything; nobody does. But people always pressure others to live the way they prescribe.

Saturday, November 8, 2025

Bike lane should be alongside the sidewalk.


 I believe that no vehicle should be driven on the road that doesn't exceed 30 km/h or doesn't meet the lowest speed limit of a road. I mean, all kinds of bicycles should have a separate lane with a sidewalk, not with the road. If there is no separate lane, then they might run on the sidewalk, except on community roads.

Because if any conflicts happen with a car, it could be deadly for the cyclist. If the conflict happens on the sidewalk, probably everyone will survive. We don't want conflicts, but we prioritize safety for all.

Roads should be reserved for fast vehicles only, to ensure everyone's safety.

Friday, November 7, 2025

Business English Course from the British Council



 

Biography 313: "Obhinondon" (অভিনন্দন)


 A kid was about three or four years old. His parent organized a birthday party. He doesn't have friends yet, so his parents invited their relatives and friends to be his companions. One of them brought a bouquet of flowers for him. After opening the door, the boy ran to his aunt, expecting a gift. But his aunt bought some flowers. She gave him those flowers, Tuberoses (in Bangla, Rajnigandha).

He took the flowers, threw them on the floor, and, while stamping on them, he was saying, "Obhinondon aanchhe, khelna anbe, chocolate anbe, ta na, obhinondon aanchhe!" (Translation: She brought Greetings/Congratulations, no toys, no chocolates, she brought Greetings/Congratulations). People couldn't understand what to do next. 

Moral of the story: Always think about age when giving a gift.

Monday, November 3, 2025

In the same neighbourhood.


 I think it's good if relatives, siblings, or friends live in the same neighbourhood. Then, whenever you cook something that turns out very well, you can send a sample cup to them just to enjoy together. They sometimes might share something with you, too. If you need to go anywhere, you can ask for a ride if available. You can keep your kids at their house, or they can keep their kids at yours if they need to go somewhere urgently. It's also good for mental health. However, they all need to have good terms with one another. Otherwise, this can be the most tremendous pain in life.

So, when you have good terms with someone, you can make a plan to rent or buy houses in the same neighbourhood.

Sunday, November 2, 2025

Phone a Buddy Training



 Here are some things to consider when volunteering as a Phone Buddy:

RESPONSIBILITIES

  •          Make regular phone visits to assigned clients
  •          Engage in meaningful conversations
  •          Try to find topics that interest both the client and the volunteer
  •          If the volunteer recognizes or hears that the client needs professional help, they will notify a staff member of the organization.
  •          Being punctual- set a time to phone and follow it
  •          Keep a record of who was phoned and the length of the conversation
  •          Being friendly and respectful
  •          Respect personal boundaries- don’t ask personal questions and avoid topics like politics and religion.

 

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

 

  •       You will receive the contact details of the client in need, which include their first name, age bracket, phone number and preferred time for you to call.
  •          Please remember to respect privacy and confidentiality (nothing that has been spoken can be shared, do not keep notes. Let the clients know.
  •          If you have any concerns, please report them to the Organization staff
  •          You won’t be a counsellor, just a friendly buddy to chat with
  •          Be an active listener and ask questions: ask about their pets, if they enjoy cooking, or if they enjoy gardening. Do they have hobbies         Ask how they are getting groceries and if they have enough food. If not, please notify the organization.
  • ·         When and how to end a conversation if it is getting too heated: Validate their point of view, ask if they want to continue the conversation, or should we change the topic?
  •          Validate their feelings.
  •          What to do if the person is not talking, again: ask if they want to continue the conversation.
  •          Block individuals if you feel the client is having inappropriate behaviour
  •          Set your own boundaries

Saturday, November 1, 2025

Generation of boredom.


 When I was a kid, our generation didn't have that flow of information. We didn't have the internet. To know something, we had to go to the library to check books or ask someone who had the knowledge. This generation has no idea how difficult it was for us to just find a recipe.

Nowadays, the new generation is overwhelmed with news. This not only brings them benefits but also some significant negatives. One is that this generation has become less emotional. When something good happens, they react with 'oh, it's nothing, what's next?' If something bad happens, they don't feel much sorrow; they think, 'it's ok, what's next?''

They are feeling less and less. They are neither happy nor unhappy. I don't think this is a good situation. We are human; we don't need to be like robots. We are different from other animals because of our emotions. This generation mostly feels boredom. We need to find its solution before it's too late.


Friday, October 31, 2025

Biography 312: How to Preserve a Lot of Laal Shaak.


 When my parents went to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj, my uncle, Mejo Mama, with his family, stayed with us in Dhaka for a month to take care of us. I always feel and show respect to them for this act. They put their careers and earnings aside to look after us and stay with us like our parents. Especially, my aunt, Mejo Mami, worked hard and did household duties like a mother during a very hot summer.

Actually, my mom asked both her brothers, Mejo Mama and Chhoto Mama, to stay with us; she thought they would split the time, each staying for 15 days. However, she didn't clearly communicate her plans to her brothers. That's why both of them assumed they would stay with us for the entire month.

My aunt/Majo Mami and uncle/Majo Mama took a one-month break from their office. In the middle, they had to go back to work for some reason, then they returned again. When my Chhoto Mama (my mom's youngest brother) found out about it, he said there was no point in staying with us with his family during this month since his brother was already taking care of us.

When they stayed with us, my uncle or Mejo mama used to do grocery shopping from the bazar. One day, he bought lots of "Laal shaak" (Red Amaranth or Red Spinach). I was thinking that we can't cook all of them, and we can't keep this leafy vegetable in the refrigerator for a long time, as it will go to waste. My uncle said he thought we could keep everything fresh in the refrigerator. My aunt said she would cook all of them. I replied, but we don't have a big pot to cook them all together. My aunt said she would cook one pot after another.

She must be thinking, What a low IQ girl I am. I have no idea about cooking. Actually, I didn't have much knowledge of cooking, but I always try to help or work with our guests; I just didn't let them work all alone.

Thursday, October 30, 2025

MULTICULTURAL LEADERSHIP COUNCIL (MLC)


 MULTICULTURAL LEADERSHIP COUNCIL (MLC)

What Is MLC?

The MLC is an advisory group designed to bring a more diverse cultural perspective to the community. 

The Saskatoon Open Door Society is committed to enhancing the experience of newcomers to Saskatoon, and strives to create an environment that reflects the multicultural nature of the city’s demographic with a positive and effective tool.

The MLC consists of graduates from the LACE (Leadership and Community Engagement) program. These participants have received specialized training focused on community leadership and engagement and have a strong commitment to representing the multicultural voice in the community.

The Vision: 

The MLC will be a strong voice in the growth, development, support and education of the community.

The Mission:

The MLC is a diverse team dedicated to sharing the immigrant/refugee perspective with the community to advocate and promote diversity and cultural awareness.

The Role:

The Multicultural Leadership Council will serve as an advisory board for the community. Members will be able to provide a cultural perspective on civic matters including those that focus on police, housing, transportation, education and others. They will also be available to attend meetings and provide presentations to those groups interested in learning more about the immigrant experience. 

The Multicultural Leadership Council will also work to strengthen their leadership skills by way of continued learning, and expand their network by attending community events and forums.

The Values:

Respect: MLC will be sensitive to the diversity of cultures and traditions as it builds relationships through recognition, acceptance, open-mindedness and equality.

Innovation: MLC aims to find new ideas and progressive approaches in establishing and building relationships with our stakeholders to foster growth.

Commitment: MLC will honor and respect the cultures and traditions of our diverse community.

Professionalism: MLC will conduct itself with trust, integrity and responsible leadership.

Teamwork: MLC will collaborate and work together to achieve common goals through flexibility, sensitivity, and tolerance.

MLC Mottos and Meetings:

The MLC will determine a motto annually to inspire and motivate their work. They will meet on a regular basis to plan activities and learning opportunities. The Saskatoon Open Door Society’s Cultural Bridging and Community Engagement team will collaborate with the MLC to ensure that these goals are achieved.

What are the differences between LACE Alumni and MLC? 

LACE Alumni vs MLC

Lace Alumni have completed a 6 month training series that focused on skill development and education MLC is a continuous process with a solid work plan, hands-on learning and community representation 

LACE alumni do more social projects focusing on networking, community events    MLC represents the immigrant community and gets involved in various community and civic events, forums, “think tanks”  

LACE alumni meets about every 3 months Meets on a regular basis (possibly monthly)

Participation in LACE alumni activities is voluntary. Commitment is necessary part of MLC program and activities

LACE Alumni creates activities based on Alumni interests. MLC bases activities on the needs of community. 

LACE is open to any newcomer to apply MLC members must be graduates of LACE and completed all sessions. 

We are very interested in your opinion, thoughts and feedback. Please take a few minutes to answer the following questions:

1. Are you interested in being a member of the Multicultural Leadership Council (MLC)?

Ans: Yes.

 

2. Part of the MLC requires some collaboration with local NGOs and government committees. Do you feel this is important? Would you welcome this involvement? 

Ans: Yes, It is important, and I welcome this involvement.


3. MLC will serve as an advisory board for the community. You may be asked to attend meetings and provide presentations to groups interested in learning more about the immigrant experience. Do you think you can provide a cultural perspective on a variety of topics? (Obviously not everyone is comfortable with public speaking. Research and support are also important aspects of the MLC.)

Ans: If I have anything to add, yes, of course. I’d like to contribute.


4. Are you willing to engage with the community to build awareness about the benefits of cultural diversity and the dangers of racism and xenophobia?

Ans: Yes.


5. What resources would help you fulfill your role as a member of the MLC? (ie., webinars, training, practice)

Ans: All, according to its needs.


6. Do you have any suggestions for a “starting point” or organization you would like to look into for sharing a cultural perspective on an issue?

Ans:  One issue might be securing a job in Canada based on their education and experience. Almost all immigrants face this challenge.


7. Do you have any suggestions or thoughts you would like to share at this time?

Ans: Right now, only online communication is safe for all.