2024 Welcoming Week – Seniors Social Event

Truly Alive Youth and Family Foundation Inc., in partnership with Immigration Partnership Saskatoon and in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Association of Immigrant Settlement and Integration Agencies (SAISIA), hosted a unique initiative titled Seniors Social Event at Market Mall in Saskatoon.

Hosted on September 16, 2024, the Seniors Social Event was part of the annual Welcoming Week – a celebration of inclusivity, diversity, and collective strength that shapes our community. Each year, Welcoming Week brings together newcomers and long-time residents, highlighting the significance of creating a welcoming and dynamic environment for everyone.

The Seniors Social Event paid tribute to the wisdom, cultural heritage, and resilience of our seniors, providing them with a platform to connect, share stories, and be honored for their vital role in the community. With over 80 seniors in attendance, the day was an inspiring one, filled with meaningful connections, vibrant cultural performances, and powerful moments of healing.

One of the key highlights was an energizing chair yoga session. This accessible and gentle form of exercise, tailored for seniors, underscored the importance of physical activity for healthy aging. Chair yoga is proven to enhance mobility, flexibility, and balance—critical factors in maintaining independence and preventing injury as we age. By incorporating mindful movement and breathing techniques, participants were able to improve their physical health while also enjoying a calming, meditative experience.

Equally important was the insightful presentation on scam prevention. With seniors being frequent targets of fraud and financial abuse, this presentation provided critical information to help them recognize, avoid, and report potential scams. Attendees learned practical tips on safeguarding their personal information and protecting themselves from common fraud tactics, empowering them to make informed decisions and stay safe in an increasingly digital world.

Adding to the cultural richness of the event, the vibrant Chinese Dragon Dance enthralled attendees with its dynamic and colorful performance. A symbol of strength and good fortune, the dragon’s movements brought a sense of joy and festivity to the gathering. This performance was not only a source of entertainment but also a celebration of cultural diversity, highlighting the importance of preserving and sharing traditions across generations.

Perhaps the most poignant moment of the day was the Reconciliation Circle Gathering led by Dr. Jacqueline Maurice. This emotionally charged gathering provided a safe space for seniors to share their personal stories, many of which reflected experiences of trauma, displacement, and resilience. Members of the Afghan community, with the help of interpreters, shared their journeys, bringing a powerful sense of connection and understanding to the group. The Reconciliation Circle created a moment of collective healing, as seniors realized they were not alone in their struggles. Dr. Maurice, who shared her own process of healing, offered guidance and comfort, encouraging participants to reflect on their experiences and begin their own healing journeys.

The Senior Social Event was more than just a celebration—it was a testament to the strength of community and the importance of building spaces where people from all walks of life can come together, share stories, and support one another. It reinforced the idea that seniors, as guardians of cultural heritage and personal wisdom, are crucial to fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.

By combining physical activity, cultural celebration, and emotional support, the Senior Social Event left a lasting impact on everyone involved. It reminded us all of the power of community and the need to honor and support our seniors as they continue to enrich our lives with their stories, experiences, and wisdom.