For the past 25 years, over 42,000 young individuals have taken part in initiatives offered by the non-profit organization Sharing Our Cultures. Lloydetta Quaicoe, the CEO and founder, established the program with the intention of positively impacting the lives of young newcomers in Newfoundland and Labrador. Reflecting on the journey, Quaicoe believes she has achieved her objective.
The primary aim of the organization is to assist youth in Newfoundland and Labrador in developing a sense of belonging and acceptance. Annually, high school students from various regions of the province collaborate to create presentations showcasing their cultural heritage, which are then showcased at a public event attended by elementary school students.
Sharing Our Cultures also administers an after-school program at its learning and resource center for newcomers attending high school in St. John’s. This program not only offers educational activities and learning opportunities but also serves as a platform for newcomers to connect and build friendships.
In celebration of Sharing Our Culture’s 25th anniversary, we caught up with six former participants to discuss their current endeavors and the impact of the program on their lives.
Margaret Beyere emphasized that the program not only enhanced her understanding of her family’s culture but also allowed her to explore her own identity. Being born and raised in Happy Valley-Goose Bay with immigrant parents from Ghana, Beyere delved into Ghanaian culture through presentations on farming practices, language lessons, and more during her three years in the program. This experience not only fueled her passion for learning but also helped her forge lasting friendships. Beyere is now a freshman at Mount Allison University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
Jacqueline Wong’s journey with Sharing Our Cultures began in 2014 when she arrived in St. John’s from Hong Kong. Over the next decade, Wong transitioned from a program participant to a mentor and eventually a staff member, aiding in the development of programs for young newcomers. Currently studying at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Wong aspires to become a speech language pathologist.
Joshua Wong, who grew up straddling two cultures, participated in Sharing Our Cultures at age 15 after moving back to St. John’s from Hong Kong. Wong cherished the opportunity to showcase diversity and explore more of the province through the program. Having continued his involvement as a mentor during his university years, Wong now teaches English part-time in Taiwan while exploring his passion for travel.
Mahsoud Badalbaev, with a multicultural background spanning Mongolia, Russia, Tatar, and Uzbek roots, found solace in Sharing Our Cultures after facing challenges due to his diverse heritage. Currently residing in Cyprus and working as an engineer, Badalbaev fondly recalls the connections he formed in Newfoundland, considering it a second home.
Shahin Labib and William Egli, friends who met in Canada and bonded over their participation in Sharing Our Cultures, highlighted the program’s role in fostering cultural awareness and inclusivity. Despite attending different schools post-elementary education, their shared experiences in the program have kept their friendship strong. Both are currently third-year students at Memorial University, spending a semester studying in France.
As Sharing Our Cultures commemorates 25 years of impactful work, Lloydetta Quaicoe finds inspiration in the resilience and gratitude of newcomer youth. She values the moments spent supporting them in navigating a new culture, providing safe spaces for them to belong and feel at home.