J
ianwei learned English and to love her new country
When Jianwei came to Canada, she left everything behind: her family, her friends, her culture. “I didn’t know any English. I couldn’t even say ‘Have a good day.’”
The problem came to a head when Jianwei could not understand how to apply for a birth certificate for her son, Jack. “Someone told me about Newcomer Services at The Neighbourhood Group. I was so happy to find staff who speak Mandarin and could help me.”
Jianwei also found affordable child care at 91 Bellevue and started learning English with our free LINC (Language Instruction for New Canadians) classes. “Getting to the level three wasn’t easy. I’m proud of my progress and I can even help other people with simple interpretation.”
Perhaps more important were the friendships that developed between Jianwei and her classmates. “Together we learn, play, share our experiences. It helps me stay positive. That influenced Jack too. He likes learning and making new friends.”
Jianwei and her son are settled now. Jack will start Kindergarten in September, Jianwei’s command of English is growing and she is planning her future. “I want to become a hairstylist and open my own salon. We are very happy living here. It’s beautiful!”