Get To Know Our Interpreters

The Power of Language and Belonging

When I immigrated to Canada in 1990, I brought more than just a few belongings with me.  I brought my Somali language, my culture, and the values that shaped who I am.  At first, living in a new country was overwhelming.  Everything felt different - the weather, the language, and even the way people greeted one another.  I often felt caught between two worlds: the one I left behind and the one I was trying to understand.

Over the years, I realized that preserving my language and culture is not only about remembering where I came from, but also about strengthening my identity in this diverse country.  Somali is more than just a language to me.  It carries the stories, humor, and wisdom of my people.  It reminds me of home and connects me with others who share the same background.

One moment that truly deepened my belief in the power of communication happened when I was asked to interpret for a Somali family who had just arrived in Halifax.  They were nervous and unsure about how to communicate with teachers and community workers.  As I translated their questions and explained what was being said, I could see the relief in their faces.  In that moment, I felt proud - proud that my language could be a bridge between two worlds.  It reminded me that language is not just a tool for speaking; it’s a way of connecting hearts and understanding one another.

My heritage influences my work every day.  It reminds me to be patient, compassionate, and open-minded with people from all walks of life.  Being Canadian, to me, means embracing diversity while keeping my own roots alive.  Canada’s strength lies in its people - in the mix of cultures, languages, and traditions that make us who we are.

Preserving language and culture keeps our roots strong, even as we grow and adapt.  It’s how we honour our past, celebrate our present, and shape a future where everyone feels they belong.

And that is what being Canadian truly means to me.