Let’s end racism in Red Deer.

Sister Mary

How did you come to Red Deer?

I was born in Onitsha, Anambra State in Nigeria. I studied Philosophy and Theology at John Lateran University Rome, before being sent to Canada from Italy on a missionary trip to St. Paul’s Catholic Diocese in Alberta. I moved to Red Deer for further studies and missions in September of 2012.

What do you do in life?

I am a Catholic Religious Missionary (Nun) with St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Red Deer, as well as a social worker. I work with Central Alberta Immigrant Women Association (CAIWA) and Catholic Social Services (CSS) in Red Deer, providing opportunities for growth and self empowerment to immigrants, families and the less privileged people in our community. 

Tell us about your neighbour Mayor Ken.

I first met Ken when he visited CAIWA. In my experience, he is down to earth, honest and respectful. He listens non-judgmentally and approaches issues collaboratively, following through to help us achieve desirable outcomes.

Martha

How did you come to Red Deer?

I am originally from Colombia, a beautiful South American country. Although it’s a marvelous place with an amazing variety of people, climates and foods, I had to leave my country because I suffered a traumatic and life-threatening personal situation.

What do you do in life?

I am a Support Community Worker as well as an acting Social Worker. I’ve been gaining a ton of community resource knowledge. I love to help others in any possible way. I feel a big reward when I am able to lend a hand. 

Tell us about your neighbour Monica.

I met Monica when she interviewed me for a position at Golden Circle, a senior resource centre in Red Deer. She was very welcoming and offered me a big smile which made me feel comfortable and accepted. 

She is always there for me, no matter the situation, time, location, or anything. Furthermore, she gets involved with my family as well as letting me be part of hers; they treat me as one of their own.

Ayaa

How did you come to Red Deer?

I’m originally from Uganda in east Africa and moved to Red Deer just a few months ago, in the winter. I’d never seen so much snow in my life, and had to get used to the sun going down in mid-afternoon. There were so many differences that took lots of getting used to. 

What do you do in life?

My job is in community and social support, working to help vulnerable people in Red Deer.

Tell us about your neighbour Samantha.

Well, I have met many friendly and positive people since I came, from my colleagues at work, to my new neighbours in Red Deer.

One of the first neighbours to invite me over to her home for a chat was Samantha, an Indigeous mum of one beautiful son. She made me feel a sense of community right away, and I knew she and I would watch out for each other. 

Other neighbours have helped by receiving my packages while I waited for my mailbox key to be sent to me, and have given me insight into Red Deer about where I could find things, and have even offered to pick up items I couldn’t find.

Lea

How did you come to Red Deer?

I was born in Cameroon, and my husband and I came to Canada in 2012 searching for a better career. We lived in Montreal for six years because our first language is French.  My husband came to Alberta in 2017 and fell in love with the beautiful landscapes. After visiting Calgary and Edmonton we chose Red Deer for its lovely parks, no traffic and the friendly people.

What do you do in life?

I’m a Fashion Designer and Health Care Aide, so I work in home care and have my small business here in Red Deer.

Tell us about your neighbour Amanda.

I met Amanda through a friend who put us in touch because we were both designers. Amanda gave me such a warm welcome, and we shared our experiences with so much humor and joy. Amanda is very friendly, and has a lot of empathy and is always ready to help. We share the struggle of being a wife, a mother and an entrepreneur.