The Fernandes Family Make Lasting Family Memories in Their New Community
The Fernandes family began the long process of immigrating to Canada in 2018 from India in hopes of increasing family time and in search of new opportunities. Simon and Viona Fernandes, along with their three daughters —Meave, Ciann, and Sansa—were thrilled to land in Canada in August of 2022.
Upon arrival in Canada, they encountered challenges and uncertainty that many newcomers face: uncertain job prospects, the search for affordable housing, and the complexity of adapting to a new culture. Simon initially took on an outdoor job in a landscaping position but quickly realized he was not well prepared for working outdoors during Canadian winters. The Fernandes family was quick to join GGP within a month of being in Canada and were thrilled to expand their knowledge about the country and its culture and gain valuable skills in their settlement journey.
The Fernandes family quickly became active participants in GGP’s diverse programming, embracing both indoor and outdoor events. These experiences have allowed them to connect with other community members, explore the local area, improve their professional skills, and spend time together as a family.
Simon has experience in the hospitality industry as a Maintenance Engineer and as an Integrated Facilities Planning Supervisor for Disney Entertainment. Currently, Simon is working in hospitality again on the maintenance team and is excited to work his way up to a management position. Viona has previously worked as a Quality Assurance Manager for a pharmaceutical company for fifteen years and dealt with clients from all over the world. She is currently employed as a Quality Assurance Manager at a plasma centre while looking for opportunities in the pharmaceutical field.
GGP was excited to offer an overnight stay at Wanuskewin for our Family, Fun & Fit program where our clients experienced the beauty and tradition of Plains Cree culture by staying in 18-foot tipis. The Fernandes family were thrilled to join this program after having first seen it on our calendar. They could not resist signing up because of their love of nature, spending time outdoors, and interest in the historical site.
On arrival at Wanuskewin, the Family, Fun & Fit group was warmly welcomed and introduced to the prominence and history of Wanuskewin. “We learned about the calf runner and the waving lady and their role in Bison hunting, consumption of meat and its preservation, and the uses of bison hides and horns,” Simon says, recounting the stay at Wanuskewin. Clients learned about Plains Cree teachings, how tipis are made, and the responsibility of tipi occupants prior to their night in the tipis.
The Fernandes family’s favourite experiences at Wanuskewin include savouring hot chocolate and Bannock, participating in a scavenger hunt, and the exposure to Plains Cree life. They learned the importance of our role in protecting wildlife and nature and “how to be grateful to what nature provides and being in harmony with nature.” They were thrilled to experience the chilly night in the tipi as they were able to relive the stories they were welcomed with and then have a morning walk to see the Bison.
The overnight stay at Wanuskewin was an extraordinary experience for the family to connect with Canadian culture and community. “GGP helps engage newcomers in various activities and learning thus providing career opportunities,” Simon states. He stresses the importance of GGP and the difficulties his family would have faced settling in a new location without the help of friendly faces at GGP. He is grateful for the chance to share these experiences with his family, making their transition to Canada even more meaningful.
