The organization MOSAIC, based in Metro Vancouver, marked its 50th anniversary of aiding immigrants and newcomers in Canada with a walkathon held at Swangard Stadium in Burnaby, B.C., on Sunday.
Initially established as the Multilingual Orientation Service Association for Immigrant Communities in 1976, the event attracted hundreds of newcomers who came together to celebrate their settlement achievements while enjoying food trucks and live performances.
Numerous employees and volunteers from MOSAIC, who organized the walkathon, were once beneficiaries of the organization’s support upon their arrival in Canada.
MOSAIC reports that it assists 33,000 immigrants, refugees, and newcomers on an annual basis.
Participants of the walkathon stamped a mock passport with milestones recognized by newcomers in Canada, such as securing their first job and making new friends. (Nav Rahi/CBC)
Daisy Au, one of the employees, shared that she encountered various challenges when trying to have her credentials from Hong Kong acknowledged in Canada after her arrival.
She has been part of MOSAIC’s settlement team since 2003.
“I work with many single mothers and families,” she mentioned regarding her clientele.
“My personal experience with such challenges makes me feel like I’m walking the same path as them… It’s truly remarkable.”
Daisy Au emphasizes the vital role of services like those offered by MOSAIC in assisting newcomers in their settlement journey in Canada. (Nav Rahi/CBC)
During the walkathon, newcomers had the opportunity to stamp a mock passport at tents that celebrated achievements such as securing housing and finding their first job in Canada.
Sharon Butler, the director of strategic engagement at MOSAIC, stated that the organization has supported approximately half a million individuals in entering B.C. and Canada over the past five decades.
She noted that 80 percent of MOSAIC’s staff were once newcomers themselves, and the organization boasts over 600 employees who collectively speak more than 60 languages.
“Our name reflects the mosaic of Canada, representing diverse people from various parts of the world coming together to create something truly special,” she explained.
A large turnout at the walkathon enjoyed food trucks and live entertainment. (Nav Rahi/CBC)
Butler mentioned that there have been significant reductions in government funding for settlement organizations recently, even as demand continues to grow each year.
The main office of the organization is located in Burnaby near Swangard Stadium, but they also operate various locations throughout the Lower Mainland.
-
Richmond, B.C., man teaches English for free to over 1,000 students while federal lessons are cut
-
Additional stories from Vancouver-South Coast
Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley remarked that the contributions of MOSAIC often go unnoticed, particularly since much of the work is conducted by volunteers, and acknowledged the organization’s significant role in the community.
He highlighted that 60 percent of Burnaby’s population were not born in the city, and the event on Sunday showcased the unity that binds the region together.
“Seeing everyone out here together, walking side by side and embracing one another, enjoying each other’s cultures — that’s how our country evolves,” he stated.
“It’s tremendously valuable to witness.”
Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley emphasized that the efforts of MOSAIC, often supported by volunteers, frequently go unrecognized. (Nav Rahi/CBC)