I’m More Than the Immigrant You Had in Mind- Podcast
A Podcast Celebrating Voices of Identity, Resilience, and Belonging
Welcome to I’m More Than the Immigrant You Had in Mind, an audio story series that invites you to see immigrants in Canada through a fuller lens. In this series, we explore the rich, multifaceted lives of people who have come to Canada from all corners of the world. Their stories are about more than just the journey to a new country—they are about who they truly are, beyond the labels of “immigrant” or “refugee.”
Hosted by Yannick Oho Bambe, I’m More Than the Immigrant You Had in Mind goes beyond the typical narratives of immigration, offering a more intimate and personal lens into what it means to build a life in a new country. Featuring the work of talented photographers Nathan Smith, Abadan Hamidulla, and Solomon Wu, this project shares the personal stories of immigrants from all walks of life, shedding light on their hopes, dreams, and pursuit of belonging in their new home.
In each episode, we hear from individuals who share their personal stories: their hopes, dreams, struggles, and triumphs. From caregivers and artists to engineers, mothers, and activists, these stories reveal the many roles that immigrants take on in their new communities. Through their voices, we learn that the immigrant experience is not a single narrative, but a collection of diverse, complex identities.
This podcast is produced and presented to you by the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria and powered by the Department of Canadian Heritage.
Canada’s history is one of settlement and immigration to Indigenous lands—territories that belong to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. The non-Indigenous people who now call Canada home, whether they’ve been here for generations or just arrived, are part of a collective immigration story. But as political tensions rise, and challenges like housing insecurity and rising costs create tension, anti-immigration sentiments often miss the deeper truth: these struggles are not the result of immigration itself. Hearing diverse stories from immigrants is essential because it reveals the truth about their struggles and contributions.
By recognizing people for the fullness of their identities, we can build a more inclusive, welcoming, and equitable society—one that sees the value in every individual, regardless of where they come from. From navigating cultural intersections and overcoming challenges, to celebrating the success of finding one’s “tribe” and making a difference, this series highlights the nuanced and dynamic identities of people who call Canada home.
Join us as we highlight the stories of immigrants who are much more than the label society might assign them. These are the stories of resilience, creativity, and hope—stories that remind us of the richness that diversity brings to Canada. Through each episode, we delve into the stories of individuals who are not defined solely by their immigrant status, but by their multifaceted lives. This is a space where the immigrant experience is shared with depth, respect, and authenticity.
Here is an invitation to hear, understand, and embrace the diverse voices that make up the fabric of our society.
Follow and subscribe now to start listening to the untold stories that go beyond the surface.
For access to auto-translations in other languages, listen on YouTube:
Episode 1.
Alejandra Lara: Getting to the Point of Calling Something Home
In this first episode of I’m More Than the Immigrant You Had in Mind, we meet Alejandra Lara, a woman whose journey from Mexico City to Canada has been one of perseverance, growth, and transformation. Born and raised in Mexico, Alejandra moved to Canada in 2009 and faced the dual challenge of pursuing education in a new language while adapting to a different academic and cultural environment.
Episode 2.
Baset Zaher: I Find Myself Lucky to Be Here
In this episode of I’m More Than the Immigrant You Had in Mind, we meet Baset Zaher, a passionate human rights activist and experienced professional from the west of Afghanistan. With over 15 years of work in Afghanistan’s public government and international organizations, Baset has always been committed to supporting his community and advocating for positive change.
Episode 3.
Célestin Shema: Family is Everything
On I’m More Than the Immigrant You Had in Mind, Célestin Shema shares his story of migration, resilience, and the deep connection he has to his family. Originally born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Célestin’s family returned to Rwanda in 1994, and he now calls Canada home. After two years in Canada, he opens up about the difficulties of adapting to a new country while being separated from his young children, emphasizing that “family is the future, family is the present.”
Episode 4.
Claudia García: A Proud Moment
Claudia García’s journey from Mexico to Canada has been one of persistence and resilience. Arriving in Canada ten years ago, she faced the challenge of breaking into the Canadian workforce. Despite many setbacks, she remained determined and eventually achieved her dream of working in human resources after earning her CPHR designation. In this episode, Claudia opens up about the obstacles she faced, her deep passion for human resources, and the powerful pride she feels in her accomplishments. Her story is a testament to the strength it takes to overcome challenges and find a sense of belonging in a new country.
Episode 5.
Dani Cardenas: Bringing a Little Spice
Dani Cárdenas, originally from Colombia, shares her two-year journey in Canada, filled with challenges, growth, and discovery. As a temporary foreign worker, Dani faced the duality of immigration—caught between what she came to do and the struggle for belonging. In this episode, Dani invites us to reflect on the power of inclusion and the value of welcoming newcomers, while also contributing to a more inclusive and diverse world through our daily interactions. Her journey is a reminder that, sometimes, belonging is about the flavors, perspectives, and conversations we invite into our lives.
Episode 6.
Edrissa Gassama: From the Smiling Coast of Africa
Edrissa Gassama, from The Gambia in West Africa, shares his story of adapting to life in Canada after arriving in 2016. The stark contrast between his warm homeland and the cold Canadian winter was one of his first challenges, but it was just the beginning of his transformative journey. Edrissa’s resilience and determination to overcome cultural and environmental differences led him to find support and build a new life in Duncan, BC. In this episode, Edrissa opens up about the struggles of adjusting to a new country, his path to finding belonging, and the powerful connections that helped shape his Canadian experience.
Episode 7.
Faeze Naderi: I Just Hope People Can Hear My Voice
Faeze Naderi shares her journey from Afghanistan to Canada, where she is now studying civil engineering at the University of Victoria. Having faced challenges in her early years due to a lack of support in Afghanistan and the difficulties of adjusting to new environments, Faeze reflects on her journey of self-discovery and growth. From making toys as a child to finding her passion for engineering, Faeze’s story is one of perseverance and determination. In this episode, Faeze reminds us all that, with time and support, we can overcome the challenges that come with change.
Episode 8.
Clarissa Cecillia ‘Issa’ Mijares: Dancing Through Life
Issa Mijares shares her journey of rebuilding her identity after moving from Manila, Philippines, to Canada in the middle of the pandemic. Facing the challenge of reestablishing both her personal and professional identity in a new country, Issa found strength in perseverance, adaptability, and her Filipino heritage. In this episode, Issa reflects on the difficulties of transitioning to a new career and the power of community. Her story is a beautiful reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of embracing one’s identity as we navigate life’s challenges.
Episode 9.
Liz Li: No Label Can Define me, I’m Just Liz
Liz Li, originally from Beijing, China, moved to Canada in 2017 with her family to escape pollution and provide her daughter with better educational opportunities. Despite language barriers and the challenges of adapting to a new culture, Liz reflects on how her perseverance and confidence helped her navigate life in Canada. In this episode, Liz talks about how embracing her unique identity and trusting in her own abilities have led her to greater confidence and a strong sense of belonging in her new community.
Episode 10.
Marilynn Quigley: Immigration is a Lot of Construction Work
Marilynn Quigley, known as Meyen to her family and friends, has lived in Canada for 17 years. As an immigrant from the Philippines, her greatest challenge has been adjusting to different parenting styles, the loss of language, and cultural shifts in her family. In this episode, Meyen reflects on the complexities of raising children in a new culture and how immigration often feels like “construction work.” She shares how she and others in the Filipino community have used storytelling and writing to keep their heritage alive, especially for younger generations, while also celebrating the contributions of Filipino Canadians to the wider society.
Episode 11.
Şansal Güngör Gümüşpala: Sparkle and Stitch, Rewriting the Narrative
Şansal Güngör Gümüşpala is originally from Turkey. As a master’s student in sociology and an upcoming PhD candidate, Şansal reflects on the challenges of being away from family and friends. In this episode, Şansal shares their journey of creating meaningful art through the exploration of LGBTQ and women’s rights issues. By using historical scrapbooks, they embroider over negative portrayals from the past, transforming them into powerful symbols of hope and inclusion. They emphasize the importance of creating spaces where marginalized voices are heard, and where the narrative is rewritten for a more inclusive future.
Episode 12.
Siavash Madani: Sparks are Flying When I Know I’m Going Somewhere New
Siavash Madani, originally from Iran, has spent the past few years navigating life in Canada. After moving frequently throughout his childhood, he shares his unique perspective on the excitement of exploring new places and the challenges of integrating into a new society. In this episode, Siavash reflects on his journey of personal and professional growth since arriving in Canada, overcoming obstacles to find a sense of home and belonging. Now settled in Victoria, he talks about the thrill of discovering new surroundings and the internal drive that fuels his constant reinvention.
Episode 13.
Yasmeen Barakat: Here I Am
Yasmeen Barakat, a Palestinian origin scholar, recently arrived in Canada, marking the beginning of a transformative journey as a racialized settler on Lekwungen, Songhees, and Esquimalt territories. Born and raised in Jordan, Yasmeen’s identity as both a Palestinian and a genderfluid lesbian has shaped her experiences, challenging stereotypes and preconceived notions about what it means to be a person of color, an Arab, a Palestinian, and queer. In this episode, speaks candidly about the guilt she feels as a Palestinian settler in Canada, and how an Indigenous leadership course helped her embrace the multiplicity of her own identity.
Episode 14.
Parker Johnson & Yannick Oho Bambe: Roots and Routes
In this episode, host Yannick Bumby and co-host Parker engage in a deep conversation about identity and belonging. Yannick shares his journey across continents, exploring the concept of cultural hybridity and the importance of legacy. Parker offers a unique perspective on race, belonging, and the ongoing search for his roots, illuminating the complexities of navigating societal perceptions. The discussion delves into themes of community, the power of names, and the need for stories and grace in our human experience. This episode is a powerful exploration of what it means to find “home” in a diverse and interconnected world.
Episode 15.
Suzanne Alexa Marie Penola ‘Sam’: For Today’s Lesson, I Will Teach You About Borders
In this season finale, we hear from Suzanne, known to friends and family as Sam, who shares her seven-year journey in Canada. Reflecting on the challenges she’s faced, Sam dives into the complexities of lateral violence—a reality many immigrants experience but seldom discuss. She also shares her triumph of completing a degree in political science, a personal achievement that helped shape her understanding of identity and migration. Through her poem, “Lessons in Borders,” Sam explores the power of borders—both physical and societal—on human identity.
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I'm More Than the Immigrant You Had in Mind
Through photographs, audio stories, and podcasts, this exhibit offers a glimpse into the diverse immigrant stories that shape Canada. While not comprehensive, these stories reveal our shared human experience of hopes, dreams, and the pursuit of belonging and contribution.
Immigrant Welcome Centre
From housing and education to employment services, ICA’s Settlement Services team can help newcomers navigate and connect with important resources and support.
Ways To Give
Your tax-deductible donation helps ICA welcome, support and provide much-needed services for immigrants and refugees as they settle into the community. There are many ways to give a gift that has a direct, positive impact on the lives of newcomers. Donate or volunteer today!