Suzanne Alexa Marie Penola “Sam”
I’m More Than The Immigrant You Had In Mind is a powerful project that highlights the diverse and multifaceted identities of immigrants in Canada. The project aims to challenge the stereotypes often associated with newcomers, offering a richer and more nuanced view of their lives, passions, and contributions. Join us as we share the personal stories of immigrants from all walks of life, shedding light on their hopes, dreams, and pursuit of belonging in their new home.
For today’s lesson, I will teach you about our borders… Our borders are a language that cannot even pronounce my last name… Sometimes our borders are you. Lessons in Borders, poem by Sam
Name: Suzanne Alexa Marie Penola “Sam”
Originally From: Philippines
Photographs by Nathan Smith
In this powerful interview, Suzanne “Sam” Penola, a political science graduate, opens up about her seven-year journey in Canada. She shares the challenges she’s faced as an immigrant, including the often-overlooked issue of lateral violence—an experience that many immigrants silently endure. Sam also discusses one of her proudest accomplishments: completing her degree and using her voice to advocate for the immigrant experience.
Sam reflects on the concept of borders, drawing from her personal experiences and the narratives of refugees and migrants. In a moving poem titled *”Lessons in Borders,”* she captures the complex and painful reality of the invisible lines that divide us, questioning how identity and culture are often reduced to judgments and assumptions.
Tune in to hear Sam’s reflections on borders, belonging, and the power of embracing one’s true self in the face of adversity.
This project is produced and presented to you by the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria and powered by the Department of Canadian Heritage.
