What Canada Means to Us

Canada means different things to different people. At Vision Learning Centre, we see that every day — in the learners walking through our doors, in the volunteers who show up week after week, and in the staff and board who give their time to this work.

For some, Canada is a new beginning. For others, it’s the first place they’ve ever felt they belonged.

This Canada Day, we asked our team: What does Canada mean to you?

Here’s what they shared.

Bryan Bramwell - ELL Instructor

"I'm proud of being Canadian as I can drive the Trans-Canada highway which connects our vast country, uniting people, and showcasing the beauty and diversity of our nation from coast to coast"

Alan A. Duncan - VLC Vice Chairperson

"We came to Canada for opportunity and that is what Canada gave us. Unlimited opportunities to create whatever life we wanted and could dream of.

For that I am forever grateful, and I owe a debt to this massive, open, and welcoming country."

Taiwo - Foundational Learning Instructor

“As a Nigerian, coming to Canada has been a life-changing opportunity. Canada represents hope, personal growth, and a sense of safety and security.

It is a place where my family and I can dream big, feel truly welcome, and know that everyone matters.”

Darry Kelly - VLC Board Member

"Even though I am a U.S. citizen with permanent resident status here, I truly consider Canada my home.

I never really had a sense of roots until I came here. This is where I feel I belong"

Rina Neufeld - Foundational Learning Instructor

"To me, being Canadian means living in a palce where everyone gets an opportunity to thrive."

From Our Learners

💬 “I’ve tried to make friends, but it’s not easy…”

“I’ve lived here for a year knowing no one but my husband and child. I’ve tried to make friends, but it’s not easy. I’m so excited for this program.” — A newcomer to Vision Learning Centre

For so many newcomers, Canada means a second chance at connection — a chance to rebuild the community they’ve left behind.

❤️ “It feels wonderful… but I don’t know how to respond.”

“I’ve never been given praise and encouragement in my life with learning. People just put me down. It feels wonderful — but it’s happened so little that I don’t know how to respond.”

— VLC Learner

At Vision Learning Centre, we hear stories like this every week.

Canada doesn’t just offer opportunity. It offers dignity.

🧭 What Canada Means to Us

It means having the freedom to build a life.

To find community.

To learn something new — even as an adult.

To matter.

To belong.

Happy Canada Day from all of us at Vision Learning Centre.

We’re proud to be part of what makes this country home.