Maryam participated in the Library Champions Project in 2013. Since then, she has worked her way up to Manager North Shore Immigrant Inclusion Partnership (NSIIP). She was kind enough to share her experience of the journey from Iran to the North Shore. Here she tells us of her experiences of settling into life in BC.
Maryam’s Story
I moved to Canada in July 2012 from Iran. What I love most about living on the North Shore is the perfect blend of natural beauty and community spirit. The coastal views, beaches, and green spaces are beautiful. There is always an opportunity for outdoor activities. Just a walk by the water or on a trail in your neighbourhood can be so rewarding.
Settling with Support
I found settlement services immediately when I came to Canada. The morning after our arrival, my family, including my spouse, our son and I visited Impact North Shore. They are formerly the North Shore Multicultural Society. Their support was incredibly helpful to us. They provided us with essential information about settling in Canada. They offered employment services, and introduced me to the Library Champions Project. This played a significant role in helping me gain Canadian work experience and integrate into the community.
Volunteering as a Library Champion
Impact North Shore’s Employment Services team introduced me to the Library Champions Project shortly after I arrived in Canada. I was eager to get involved and contribute to my new community. I began volunteering just a few months after moving here. This early engagement helped me connect with others, and gain valuable skills. I found a sense of belonging in my new home. Being one of the first participants in the Library Champions Project was an enriching experience . It played a crucial role in my settlement journey.
Finding Community and Confidence
I was struggling with finding my identity in settling into a new country. As an immigrant, I faced the usual challenges of adapting to a new culture. These included understanding the social norms, and finding a sense of belonging. The Library Champion group turned out to be an invaluable resource and support network. From the very beginning, the group welcomed me with open arms. The diversity within the group was a comforting reminder that I was not alone in my journey. Many members had similar stories of immigration. Sharing experiences with them helped me navigate the initial experience of living in a new country.
Building Connections and Skills
One of the most impactful experiences during this volunteer opportunity was engaging in community outreach. A Library Champion introduces other newcomers to the library’s resources and services. Not only did this give me practical skills and knowledge, but it also allowed me to meet other newcomers. It turned out they were facing the same challenges. We exchanged stories, offered support, and celebrated each other’s progress. Being a Library Champion boosted my confidence and helped my professional development. Ultimately, joining the Library Champion group helped me find a sense of purpose and belonging in Canada. It provided a supportive network, practical resources, and opportunities to contribute to my new community.
Surprises of Libraries in BC
One of the surprises of living in BC was discovering libraries, which have extensive range of services offering beyond just lending books. Libraries here are community hubs that provide various programs and resources, including language classes, job search assistance, cultural events, and technology access. The welcoming atmosphere and the commitment to inclusivity and education are astonishing. I was surprised by how libraries in BC serve as crucial support systems for newcomers, helping them integrate and find valuable information and connections within the community. My favourite thing about libraries is the cultural exchange and community events! These programs provide a platform to share and celebrate diverse cultures, which helps build a strong sense of community and belonging.
My Career Path in Canada: From Volunteering to Leadership
After my volunteering experience with the Library Champion Program, I was encouraged by project coordinator, Branka Vlasic, to apply for a Trustee Board position at the North Vancouver City Library (NVCL). I applied, was appointed, and served as a trustee member for four years before moving to the District of North Vancouver and resigning from my position.
Growing with Impact North Shore
During my volunteer service as a trustee, the chief librarian of NVCL referred me to apply for a volunteer position with the Impact North Shore as an Advisory Council Member with the North Shore Welcoming Action Committee (NSWAC). This role allowed me to merge deeper into the organization, and after serving as a volunteer for three years, I was recruited as a Settlement Worker in Schools (SWIS).
My journey with Impact North Shore did not stop there. I later transitioned to a position as a Volunteer Coordinator, where I managed volunteer programs. Eventually, I moved to the role of North Shore Immigrant Inclusion Partnership (NSIIP) Manager. This progression has been incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the community while developing my skills and expertise in various capacities.
About Impact North Shore
Impact North Shore is a for-purpose social impact organization dedicated to fostering equitable communities on North Shore. Through the service center, the organization provides a wide range of services including settlement support, employment assistance, English language learning, and community connections. Through collaborative projects and partnerships, we aim to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcome and has access to opportunities for success.
NSIIP is one of the 80+ Local Immigration Partnerships across Canada. NSIIP plays a crucial role in facilitating collaboration and partnership engagement to improve settlement outcomes of new immigrants and build an inclusive community on the North Shore. The partnership facilitates the local engagement of organizations that offer services, supports community-level research and planning, and enhances coordination of settlement and integration services. Membership in NSIIP spans a diverse range of organizations, including libraries, schools, health sector organizations, employment services, chambers of commerce, local government, municipalities, and social service providers.
Advice for My Past Self
Were I to talk to my past self, I would emphasize the importance of resilience and adaptability in the journey from Iran to the North Shore. I would encourage myself to embrace the challenges ahead with an open mind and a positive attitude, knowing that each obstacle is an opportunity for growth. I would also remind myself to be patient with the process of settling into a new country, understanding that it takes time to build a career and establish a sense of belonging. Above all, I would reassure myself that the journey will be rewarding, filled with new experiences, friendships, and personal achievements that contribute to a fulfilling life in Canada.
Advice for Newcomers
For newcomers to Canada looking to establish a successful career, I recommend taking a proactive approach, such as networking. This helped me discover opportunities and build relationships that opened doors. Seeking mentorship from experienced professionals and doing volunteering can help become more familiar with the Canadian workplace culture and working procedures. Continuous learning and skill development are also vital; staying updated and enhancing qualifications will increase competitiveness. My career path in Canada, from volunteering to managerial roles at organizations like Impact North Shore and the North Shore Immigrant Inclusion Partnership, could be an example of how embracing these strategies can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding career while contributing meaningfully to the community.
Pride in Overcoming Challenges
I am most proud of overcoming the challenges of immigration, breaking out of my comfort zone, and learning how to thrive in a new country. Moving to Canada required me to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings, navigate a new culture, and build a life from scratch. By embracing these challenges, taking steps into the unknown and the accomplishments that have followed because of pushing past my comfort zone, I have grown personally and professionally, developing resilience and a broader perspective.
Nostalgia for Iran
What I miss most about my home is the close-knit community and the sense of familiarity. I am lucky to live on the North Shore, which has a large Iranian community and allows me to continue enjoying cultural traditions, local cuisine, and speaking my native language. Yet, I still miss the memories of family gatherings, festivals, and the familiar faces of friends and neighbours. While I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences during the journey from Iran to the North Shore, those cherished moments and connections from home will always hold a special place in my heart.
Adapting to BC
Adapting to BC has been a journey filled with learning and growth. The diverse and inclusive communities in Vancouver have been welcoming, which helped me feel at home quickly. There were challenges, of course, such as adjusting to the culture and understanding the system, but the support from local organizations, like Impact North Shore, libraries, school communities, and friendly neighbors made a significant difference.
Gratitude for Settlement Services
I would like to express my deep appreciation for the dedicated individuals working with NewToBC and other settlement services. Their impact on the lives of newcomers is invaluable, providing support and guidance during a time of transition. I will never forget the impact that joining the Library Champion Program had on my immigration process during the journey from Iran to the North Shore and know myself as a Library Champion forever!