Celebrating Asian Heritage Month, the Saint John Newcomers Centre highlights the invaluable contributions of Asian community partners, businesses, organizations, and dedicated volunteers who enrich the local tapestry. This initiative spotlights the inspiring stories, achievements, cultural heritage, and profound social impact of Asians in Greater Saint John.
Susan Chen, originally from China, embarked on a transformative journey at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) to expand her horizons and challenge herself. Embracing diversity and fueled by curiosity, she thrived in UNB’s multicultural environment. Beyond academics, Susan finds joy in drawing, yoga, ice skating, skiing, and travel. Committed to giving back, she volunteers at the Saint John Newcomer Center, where she finds fulfillment in assisting and supporting others as they navigate their own journeys of adaptation and discovery. Susan’s dedication to self-improvement, love for adventure, and passion for service serve as guiding lights, inspiring those around her to embrace new experiences and pursue personal growth alongside her.
Can you tell us about your role as a volunteer at the Saint John Newcomers Centre?
My role at the Saint John Newcomers Centre involves assisting newcomers in settling into the community. This includes providing language support, navigating local services, organizing cultural events, and facilitating workshops to promote integration and understanding.
What inspired you to get involved with the Newcomers Centre?
I was inspired to get involved with the Newcomers Centre by my own experiences as an immigrant. Having faced the challenges of adapting to a new environment, I wanted to give back to the community that welcomed me and support others going through similar experiences.
What aspects of your Asian heritage are you most proud of and enjoy celebrating?
I am most proud of and enjoy celebrating the rich cultural traditions, strong sense of community, and emphasis on family values that are central to my Asian heritage.
How do you celebrate and share your Asian heritage within the community?
I celebrate and share my Asian heritage within the community through various avenues such as cultural showcases, cooking classes featuring traditional dishes, language exchange programs, and storytelling sessions about Asian history and folklore.
What are some of your favorite Asian traditions, holidays or cultural practices that you enjoy sharing with others?
Some of my favorite Asian traditions include Lunar New Year celebrations with dragon dances, lantern festivals, and delicious feasts; Diwali festivities filled with lights, music, and sweets; and cultural practices like martial arts demonstrations, tea ceremonies, and traditional performances.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments in your volunteer work?
Some of the most rewarding moments in my volunteer work include seeing the positive impact we have on newcomers’ lives, such as helping someone find employment, overcome language barriers, or feel a sense of belonging in their new home.
How do you hope to continue supporting the Newcomers Centre and the Asian community in the future?
In the future, I hope to continue supporting the Newcomers Centre and the Asian community by expanding outreach efforts, creating tailored programs to meet diverse needs, and advocating for inclusive policies that promote cultural diversity and integration. This will help build stronger, more vibrant communities where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.
