“When you have to go through a dark tunnel, in the end, you see the light.”
Mme Zambrano, born in Chili, embodies strength and resilience. After arriving in Canada in 1966 with her son, she was able to build a new life for herself here. Although her immigration journey was fraught with challenges, she feels deep gratitude for the opportunities she found in her host country.
Mme Zambrano had to leave her country of origin due to political repression. She overcame many obstacles, including the language barrier, adjusting to a new climate and adapting to a very different culture. She remembers her first days in Canada, when she was both fascinated by cultural differences and frightened by the unknown.
“Every step you take is one step closer to your dream,” she says, thinking back on her journey.
Despite the challenges, Mme Zambrano never lost sight of her goal to integrate and contribute to her new community. There were moments of great insecurity in her life, especially when she lived in social housing after losing her home.
She is still scarred by this experience during which she had to rebuild herself mentally and emotionally.
“When you have to go through a dark tunnel, in the end, you see the light,” she says, as she recalls her journey.
Today, Mme Zambrano doesn’t consider herself an elderly woman. “The day I won’t be able to walk anymore, or when I have to use a cane to move around, maybe I’ll realize I’ve taken a step down,” she says with a smirk.
She remains very active and engaged in her social life, thanks to Little Brothers, which offers her the opportunity to take part in regular activities and outings.
While acknowledging the values and opportunities that Québec has provided, Mme Zambrano considers it equally important to pass on her language and culture to her descendants. She values education and learning and, despite her years, remains eager to learn English to better communicate with her family and grandchildren.
“I really like learning English,” she says, showing her determination to continue growing intellectually.
“The most beautiful thing that has happened to me is here,” she says with a conviction that reflects her gratitude.
Mme Zambrano is deeply grateful to Canada and the province of Québec, and considers that her life here has been a gift:
She insists on the importance of mutual support to overcome the challenges of aging, and she strives to remain useful to the people around her, whether by providing small services or simply companionship.
Little Brothers allows Mme Zambrano to build new relationships and feel less lonely despite the distance that separates her from her home country and relatives.
Thanks to this caring community, she has regained a sense of belonging and a valuable support network.
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