At ISSofBC, volunteers are more than just supporters; they are mentors, connectors, storytellers, and companions during one of the most transformative and challenging periods of a newcomer’s life.
On this Volunteer Day, we celebrate the generosity, courage, and deep humanity of our volunteers and the staff who guide them. Their stories remind us of what community looks like when people show up for one another.
“Volunteering wasn’t just an activity — it was a way back to myself.”
– Minoo, issofbc volunteer in tri-cities (Coquitlam)
Choosing hope and the courage to begin again
Many of our volunteers understand the newcomer journey personally. Some were new to Canada themselves and have rebuilt careers, confidence, and community from the ground up, and now offer that same support to others.
For Minoo, a former university professor from Iran, immigrating to Canada meant stepping into the unknown: “On my first day in BC, I felt as if I was standing between two worlds: the one I had left behind and the new one inviting me in”. Gradually, “the smiles from strangers… the warmth in everyday interactions” all helped her to feel like she belonged.
Rebuilding her career came with challenges: learning new systems, navigating an unfamiliar landscape, and starting again. “At times, it felt like I had to start from zero.” But step by step, she moved forward, learning, asking questions, volunteering, and growing a new support network in Canada.
And then something shifted: “Volunteering wasn’t just an activity — it was a way back to myself.”
Today, she uses her experience in education and community work to uplift others: “Hope may begin as a small light in the distance… but if you keep going, it will illuminate your entire path.”
“Volunteering helped me feel part of the community”
For Mahnaz, also from Iran, the dream of stability and opportunity brought her to Canada. But the early days felt overwhelming: “Everything was new, and I had to adjust to a different culture and way of life.”
Finding a job and understanding local systems were among her most significant challenges. But volunteering opened a door: “Volunteering helped me feel part of the community. I met new people, improved my skills, and was able to support other newcomers.”
ISSofBC’s programs gave her confidence and direction. Now, her goals are rooted in supporting newcomers in her local community and her family.
Her message to people arriving today as refugees or immigrants is simple: “Be patient, stay positive, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Finding a meaningful way to give back
Another volunteer, who first arrived from Korea at age 10, remembers the culture shock of moving to Prince George — from the “extremely cold winters” to the warm openness of the people. Later, Vancouver’s multicultural community helped her discover new friendships and new possibilities.
But one of the most complicated challenges was navigating life without her family, “I missed them often, especially when I was younger.”
Yet, volunteering became a source of connection and purpose: “It has been a meaningful way to give back while learning about the diverse people who make up our society.”
As a mentor with ISSofBC, she now supports newcomers through the same language and cultural barriers she once faced. Meeting weekly with her mentee has shown her the power of shared experience: “It helped us empathize and appreciate how important supportive relationships can be.”
She hopes to continue helping people by becoming a doctor one day. Her advice to newcomers reflects that spirit of persistence and community: “Keep working hard and reach out for support… some challenges are too big to face alone.”
Discovering “a wonderful environment to be part of”
Behind every volunteer experience is the thoughtful guidance of staff like Hala Helmy, a Community Engagement Coordinator based in the Tri-Cities. Her own immigration journey fuels her compassion and understanding for people new to British Columbia: “Canada has always been built by the hope and hard work of people who arrived from many different parts of the world.”
She also points out that the ISSofBC is unique in the variety of roles available to volunteers, from facilitating English Conversation Circles, to mentoring newcomers, to helping with office support or interpretation. “ISSofBC is a great place to learn and grow, both professionally and personally.”
She also says that when volunteers bring their own ideas for improving a process or doing something different, volunteering becomes truly special. “When they can bring their own ideas into their roles, it turns into something they truly feel part of.”
“Our volunteers surprise and inspire me every day. Their dedication, empathy, warmth, and genuine care seem endless. They lift each other, encourage one another, and real friendships grow.”
Some volunteers even join multiple programs to stay connected.
“For anyone thinking about volunteering, that sense of connection and belonging is one of the best parts. It’s not something you find everywhere.”
A community strengthened by generosity
The stories of our volunteers and staff share a common thread: hope, connection, and the belief that kindness transforms lives.
Volunteers help newcomers navigate a new country, but they also rediscover themselves, form lasting friendships, and build the kind of community where everyone feels they belong.
On this Volunteer Day, we celebrate their courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to supporting others.
Their stories remind us that when one person reaches out, the whole community grows stronger.
If their words inspire you, we invite you to join us and help light the path for someone starting their life in Canada.
