Ana Alvarez and her two sons, originally from Cuba, arrived in Stellarton, Nova Scotia bringing with them a deep sense of curiosity and a desire to connect with their new community. While still learning English, Ana was excited to explore Canadian culture, build friendships, and create a strong foundation for her family’s life in Pictou County.
Ana was referred to the Pictou County Partnership by the YMCA Centre for Immigrant Programs after expressing interest in participating in “Stories Across Generations”, a collaborative initiative with Creative Pictou County designed to foster connections between generations and cultures that will result in the creation of artwork.
Sarah Santos, the Partnership’s Community Connections Coordinator, describes her role as one that fosters meaningful relationships — pairing newcomers with local volunteers who are eager to share time, experiences, and perspectives. “It’s really about creating space for connection and mutual cultural exchange,” Sarah explained. Sarah was happy to facilitate Ana’s connection to the new community art project and recognized the opportunity to further support her and her family’s community integration through the Community Connections program.
“When Sarah told me about the program and what they do, I was very interested,” said Ana. “I have two boys, and I wanted to learn more about Canada and meet people.”
Through Community Connections, Ana was matched with Wanda Davies, a retired English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, and Sumeet Kumar, a newcomer originally from India who had arrived in Pictou County the year before. Both Wanda and Sumeet were eager to participate in the program to build community and expand their own experiences. “We wanted to give back and also learn about different cultures,” they shared.
The connection was instant. Ana and her sons, Alejandro and Alexey, quickly bonded with Wanda and Sumeet, creating a circle of friendship built on respect, learning, and joy. “I pray to meet good people,” said Ana, smiling at her new friends. “Sarah made a great match.”
Over the recent Easter weekend, the group shared a traditional Nova Scotian dinner together — an opportunity to try new foods like scalloped potatoes, practice English, and create memories. “We had so much fun,” Ana said. “It was a beautiful experience.”
Sarah added, “Every match in Community Connections is unique, created to meet the needs and interests of each participant. The program is designed to be flexible — there is no one-size-fits-all. It allows everyone to be part of this community-building experience. It’s amazing to watch how these connections evolve and grow into lasting friendships.”
For Ana and her family, the program has fostered a strong sense of belonging. “In the future, I want to become a nurse,” she shared. “This program is helping me with my English, and when you learn about the culture where you live, you feel more confident and connected.”
Alejandro, Ana’s son, added, “We feel like we can participate more in our community. My brother is working on getting his license, and I’ve joined a baseball team.” His enthusiasm for the sport has already opened doors for deeper engagement with their new community.
For the volunteers, the experience has been equally fulfilling. “When you have diversity, your life is enriched,” Wanda said, smiling as she looked at Ana and her new friends.
Together, these community members are showing how inclusion, friendship, and shared learning can create a stronger, more vibrant Pictou County.
