Navigating Civic Challenges and Hopes in Immigration, particularly those from Iran

Immigration and integration into Canadian communities, particular those in the Vancouver area, are significant civic concerns discussed in this video. Arriving as a new immigrant involves a multifaceted mix of emotions for many newcomers.

Depending on how long they have waited to come here to Canada, many immigrants have lived with uncertainties, ambiguities, hope for a better future, and sometimes a severe disconnection from loved ones. Some individuals may have support from loved ones or friends who have arrived earlier, while others have had to face a total set of anxiety-provoking experiences. Settlement can be about physical adjustment and psychological integration with a new society and community.

Poran Poregbal and Samira Gholami, volunteer hosts for this program, talk to Shazia Safi, a newcomer from Afghanistan. Shazia talks about her hopes, desires, and plans to adjust herself to life here in Canada.

Shazia wants to share how she has found the migration process and her new life here in British Columbia. Shazia talks about the severe struggles back in her home country and the chaos after US troops left Afghanistan abruptly. She tells stories of her personal struggles, including the loss of personal resources and her feelings of helplessness. Shazia talks about the systematic barriers for Afghan women in her home country and their exclusion from civilian life during the past 20 years of trauma.

Host Samira Gholami asks Shazia to discuss her hopes and desires for life in British Columbia. Shazia explains how she managed to become a TV host despite all the barriers for women. She says that she hopes to find employment and and also to play a part in building communities for Afghan women here and in her home country.

In summary, this program explores the challenges of immigration and integration, focusing on the experiences of newcomer Shazia Safi from Afghanistan. Despite facing struggles and barriers, Shazia expresses hopes for a better life in British Columbia, emphasizing the resilience of Afghan women. The hosts highlight the common civic challenges for women— the imperative need for recognition and the pursuit of social justice.

Volunteer Hosts:

Poran Poregbal MA, RSW, RCC Doctoral Candidate in Counselling and Psychotherapy

Samira Gholami, BA, MA Candidate Psychotherapist, Co-Founder, Director of Operations Member of (CCPA)

Producer and Journalist:

Sherry Soltani

Skyrise Media Society