If you ask me about my favourite summer activities in BC for newcomers, hiking is at the top of my list.
My name is Diana Levchenko, and I am a Grade 10 student at Richmond Secondary School. As a recent newcomer to Canada, I am still discovering everything British Columbia has to offer.
There are mountains, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, forests, beaches and parks. During the summer, my family and I try to spend as many weekends outside as possible. Hiking and camping have become meaningful ways for us to explore our new home and create memories together.
Discovering BC with international students
Last summer, I volunteered with Richmond School District 38. I supervised a group of international students who came to Canada to study English and visit local attractions.
Along with their English classes, we visited Lynn Canyon, Grouse Mountain, Stanley Park, Capilano River and the Suspension Bridge, VanDusen Botanical Garden, Granville Island and other local destinations.
I was there to support the students, but I was also discovering many of these places for the first time.
Our trips showed me how outdoor activities can bring people together. When people walk a trail, visit a park or share a beautiful view, they already have something to enjoy and talk about—even if they are still learning English or getting to know one another.
How I learned to love camping
My love of camping began before I came to Canada.
My mother enrolled me in a summer rafting camp in Europe. We stayed in tents in the woods, cooked food over a campfire, exercised at sunrise, rafted on mountain rivers, picked berries and played games near our tents in the evenings.
Our instructors also taught us how to enjoy nature safely and responsibly.
At first, camping felt challenging. By the end of the trip, I understood how exciting and enjoyable it could be. That experience stayed with me and made me want to camp again after moving to Canada.
Camping beside Lindeman Lake
My favourite camping trip in BC was an overnight stay at Lindeman Lake near Chilliwack.
Reaching the lake required a 3.5-kilometre hike. At the end of the trail, we found jewel-blue water surrounded by forest and tall mountain peaks.
My family and I set up our tent beside the shoreline. We prepared food outdoors, enjoyed the view and spent time together away from our regular routines.
The simplest moments became the most memorable: sharing a meal, sitting beside the lake and waking up near the water.
I took photos during our trip, but the memories will stay with me for many years.
Taking care of ourselves and each other
For me, spending time outdoors is also a way to slow down, step away from my daily routine and spend meaningful time with my family.
Self-care looks different for everyone. It may include going for a walk, resting, talking to someone you trust or spending time with people who make you feel supported.
As International Self-Care Day approaches, I hope my story encourages other newcomers to find simple activities that support their well-being and help them connect with their new communities.
Find resources and support
You do not have to manage difficult feelings or experiences alone.
ISSofBC’s Mental and Emotional Wellness Resources include information and services that can support newcomers in managing stress, anxiety and their well-being. The page also connects newcomers with culturally sensitive mental health support.
The BC Refugee Hub’s Mental Health Toolkit offers information about mental health, trauma and services for refugees and refugee claimants.
The Vancouver Association for Survivors of Torture (VAST) provides individual and group counselling, referrals and other support for refugees and newcomers affected by torture, trauma and political violence. Support is available in several languages, with interpretation available in additional languages.
