Wellness Seminar Highlights Civic Responsibility for Persian Newcomers

The seminar, held at the West Vancouver Library, highlighted wellness as a critical civic issue impacting both individual and community well-being. As the first part of a broader series aimed at Persian newcomers and Farsi-speaking residents of the North Shore—including North and West Vancouver—the event explored how wellness connects to public health, equity, and social responsibility. These issues are vital to address locally to build a healthier, more inclusive community for all.

Poran Poregbal and Samira Gholami opened the seminar with a land acknowledgment, setting a thoughtful tone for the event. They framed wellness as both a personal and communal concern, with Samira emphasizing, “Our health is not just our own—it shapes our families, neighbours, and community at large.” Her words resonated with many in the audience, who are navigating the challenges of settling into a new environment while maintaining their well-being.

Guest speaker Dr. Majid Pourmand, a health coaching expert, delivered a dynamic presentation that expanded the concept of wellness beyond individual habits. “It’s not enough to focus on personal choices,” he stressed. “We must address the systems that affect access to health resources, making wellness a right, not a privilege.” Dr. Pourmand highlighted structural barriers faced by newcomers, such as limited access to healthcare and the mental health toll of social isolation.

Using relatable examples from everyday life, Dr. Pourmand engaged the audience, encouraging them to share their experiences. This created an interactive space where attendees could voice concerns and discuss common challenges related to wellness in their new community. Samira Gholami and Poran Poregbal further invited participants to reflect on cultural and social barriers to health, emphasizing the importance of community support in overcoming these obstacles.

The seminar carried special significance for Persian newcomers, addressing not only individual wellness but also the role of collective health in fostering a thriving community. Poran underscored the need for equitable access to health resources, noting that such advocacy ensures all members—regardless of background—can contribute to and benefit from the community’s well-being.

The event concluded with a shared sense of purpose, as participants recognized the importance of continuing to engage with civic issues like wellness. By encouraging both personal action and collective involvement, the seminar reaffirmed wellness as a vital concern for the Persian community in North and West Vancouver.

Volunteer Hosts: Poran Poregbal, Samira Gholami

Guest Speaker: Dr. Majid Pourmand

Journalist & Producer: Sherry Soltani, Skyrise Media Society