On Sunday, MOSAIC, an organization in Metro Vancouver, marked its 50th anniversary of assisting immigrants and newcomers in settling in Canada with a walkathon at Swangard Stadium in Burnaby, B.C.
Established in 1976 as the Multilingual Orientation Service Association for Immigrant Communities , the event attracted hundreds of newcomers who celebrated their settlement achievements while enjoying food trucks and live entertainment.
Many of the staff and volunteers who organized the walkathon were once beneficiaries of MOSAIC’s support when they first came to Canada.
According to MOSAIC, the organization assists approximately 33,000 immigrants, refugees, and newcomers each year.
During the walkathon, participants stamped a mock passport with milestones achieved by newcomers in Canada, such as securing their first job or making their first friend. (Nav Rahi/CBC)
Daisy Au, one of the employees, recounted her experience of needing to have her credentials from Hong Kong recognized upon her arrival, which presented numerous challenges.
She has been part of MOSAIC’s settlement team since 2003.
“I work with many single mothers and families,” she shared about her clientele.
“My own experiences with similar challenges allow me to relate to their journeys … it’s truly remarkable.”
Daisy Au emphasizes the critical role of services like those provided by MOSAIC in aiding newcomers in their settlement process in Canada. (Nav Rahi/CBC)
During the walkathon, newcomers stamped a mock passport at various tents celebrating achievements like securing housing and finding their first job in Canada.
Sharon Butler, the director of strategic engagement at MOSAIC, mentioned that over the past five decades, the organization has supported around half a million individuals in entering B.C. and Canada.
She noted that 80 percent of the organization’s workforce were once newcomers themselves, and the more than 600 staff members collectively speak over 60 languages.
“Our name reflects the diversity of Canada, showcasing individuals from various corners of the globe coming together to create something truly exceptional,” she stated.
A large crowd enjoyed food trucks and live entertainment during the walkathon. (Nav Rahi/CBC)
Butler also mentioned that there have been significant budget cuts to funding for settlement organizations recently, even as demand continues to rise annually.
The main office of the organization is located in Burnaby near Swangard Stadium, with additional sites throughout the Lower Mainland.
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Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley remarked that the contributions of MOSAIC often go unrecognized, especially for a group that relies heavily on volunteers, and acknowledged the significant impact it has had.
He noted that 60 percent of Burnaby’s residents were not born in the city, and Sunday’s event exemplified the community spirit that unites the region.
“Seeing everyone together, walking arm in arm and embracing each other, enjoying themselves, and learning from one another’s cultures is truly the essence of how our country evolves,” he expressed.
“It’s incredibly valuable to witness.”
Burnaby Mayor Mike Hurley highlighted that the efforts of MOSAIC, often carried out by volunteers, frequently go unnoticed. (Nav Rahi/CBC)