Welcome to Edmonton the Sierra Leone way!
So how will you present your city to newcomers?
“…I want to eat potatoes leaves, I go to the shop, and they say they do not sell potatoes leaves. Linking up with someone who has been around, they will tell you to say yam leaves, and the shop will then sell you potatoes leaves…,” Dr. Conteh narrates the possible communication challenges that can be solved by connecting with one’s community when they’re newcomers to Edmonton.
It’s often said that when you go to Rome, do what the Romans do. But a Roman may need to help you out to do like they do. This is why the Sierra Leone Association of Alberta’s Newcomer and Settlement Committee organized their first welcome and introduction event for new newcomers to their community on September 5, 2020, at the Rundle Park in Edmonton.
“…it took me three weeks to realize that the same transfer that I got from the bus could have been used on the train…so having people to integrate you will do wonders…,” Dr. Abu Conteh, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Alberta, shared his own newcomer challenges as he welcomes newcomers to Edmonton in the Sierra Leone community.
Solomon Kanneh, from South Dakota in the USA came to Edmonton in search of opportunities in mining and oil and gas industry. He told Diversity Magazine, “…I’ve not had the opportunity to mix with Sierra Leonians…”
Dr. Conteh summarizes the importance of connecting with one’s community to the close to 200 community members who came out to welcome the newcomers, supported by Rachel Fallah, Chair of the Newcomers and Settlement Committee, “…Without having the right connections, it will take you ages to realize it…”.
“…you are welcome to a city that has a beautiful landscape, wonderful architecture, the best restaurants and that welcomes you…some of you are here in search of greener pastures, some on retirement, whatever your motives are, you have a community that welcomes you…,” Mohamed Jah, the chair of the event planning committee welcomes the newcomers to our fantastic Edmonton before the food, drinks, and music started flowing.
How will you present your city to a newcomer?
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