Celebrating Community, Culture, and Connection: A Look Back at TAYFFI’s Seniors Program

“Growing up, I never imagined I would one day find myself reliving the memories of my youth,” reflected Ecassa, a senior from Nigeria. –

Ecassa travelled to Saskatoon, Canada to spend time with his son, daughter-in-law, and one-month-old grandson during this year’s summer holidays. It was a meaningful family visit, but the routine of everyday life was a contrast from what he was used to back home in Nigeria. During the day, while the son went to work, he often found himself spending long, quiet hours at home with his daughter in-law, with few opportunities to meet people or experience the community around him. 

One day, a neighbour stopped by to check on him and see how he was settling into life in the new city. During their conversation, the neighbour mentioned a seniors’ program offered by the Truly Alive Youth and Family Foundation Inc. (TAYFFI) and shared information about an upcoming activity. That simple act opened the door for Ecassa to experience a new life in Canada during his short stay.

He decided to give it a try and registered using a link on his neighbour’s phone One event became two, and then three. With each gathering, Ecassa began meeting seniors from different countries, religious and cultural backgrounds. They shared conversations, prepared and enjoyed different meals together. He found himself building connections beyond his immediate family.

One experience that stood out for him was a visit to Wanuskewin Heritage Park, where he learnt about the cultural heritage and the rich history of indigenous peoples. What started as a neighbour checking in on him had grown into a meaningful part of his time in Saskatoon.

“Coming here for the past three events has kept me engaged and connected me with my fellow seniors from different countries. I have enjoyed cooking, learning about different cuisines, and visiting Wanuskewin. These are memories I will carry with me when I return home,” he remarked.

The experience was not just about more activities and outings but also about being seen, welcomed and included at a stage of life when social connection can easily be overlooked.

“Many times, seniors are forgotten,” he reflected. “Here, I felt welcomed,” he said reflectively.

Ecassa’s story began with something as simple as a knock on the door. But behind that small gesture was something much bigger, the power of community to ensure that seniors, whether longtime residents or newcomers to a city, have opportunities to connect, participate and continue creating meaningful memories.

The story reflects the experiences of many seniors who participated in TAYFFI’s Seniors Programs. Over the past few weeks, the organization brought ethnocultural seniors together through three enriching initiatives: the Seniors Wellness Program, the Seniors Cooking Program, and a memorable cultural excursion to Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Designed to promote healthy aging, reduce social isolation, and celebrate cultural diversity, these initiatives created meaningful opportunities for seniors to learn, connect, and build lasting friendships.

Empowering Seniors Through Wellness

The Seniors Wellness Program equipped participants with practical knowledge and encouragement to embrace healthy aging. Guided by Ashley Keckafunctional aging Specialist based in Saskatoon, the interactive session explored what it truly means to age well, emphasizing that wellness extends beyond physical health to include mental, emotional, and social well-being. 

Busting Myths and Building Confidence

One of the session’s most engaging discussions challenged common misconceptions about aging and physical activity. Participants learned that exercise is not only safe for older adults but is also essential for maintaining strength, mobility, flexibility, balance, and independence.

Practical demonstrations and expert guidance gave participants the confidence to incorporate gentle movement into their daily routines while exercising safely.

Nutrition for Healthy Aging

Healthy aging begins with good nutrition.

The seniors explored the importance of balanced diets, hydration, and appropriate supplements through practical, easy-to-understand discussions. They also gained valuable knowledge on making healthier food choices that support long-term wellness while reducing the risk of chronic illnesses.

The wellness session concluded with an energetic chair-based exercise demonstration that encouraged everyone to participate at their own pace. Soon, the room was filled with smiles, laughter, encouragement, and applause as participants discovered that staying active can also be enjoyable. Following the activities, everyone gathered over refreshments to continue conversations, strengthen friendships, and capture memorable photographs reflecting the welcoming spirit of the TAYFFI community.

A Feast of Flavours and Friendship

The Seniors Cooking Program transformed the welcoming kitchen at Mayfair United Church into a vibrant space of learning, laughter, and cultural exchange. Rather than simply preparing meals, the seniors shared treasured family recipes, cooking traditions, and stories from their lives. Every dish was an opportunity to learn from each other and celebrate culture.

They exchanged cooking techniques, sampled foods from different cultures, and discovered the simple joy of sharing a meal in good company. The gatherings became much more than cooking classes. They transformed into safe spaces where meaningful relationships were formed, laughter shared, and lasting memories were created.

A Journey to the Heart of Indigenous Culture

One of the highlights of the season was an unforgettable cultural excursion to Wanuskewin Heritage Park. The visit offered participants an opportunity to explore the rich history, traditions, and enduring legacy of the Plains Indigenous peoples while deepening their appreciation of Saskatchewan’s cultural heritage. It also encouraged meaningful conversations about reconciliation, respect, and the importance of learning from one another.

Guided by knowledgeable indigenous interpreters, participants enjoyed an immersive experience that included an orientation session, scenic walks through the prairie landscape, visits to the bison herd, and engaging cultural activities. Most of them reflected on the benefits of history preservation while celebrating the diverse cultures that Canada is known for. 

These initiatives would not have been possible without your participation. Your stories, experiences, resilience, and willingness to connect made every gathering meaningful. TAYFFI extends its appreciation to the facilitators, volunteers, interpreters, and staff members whose commitment ensured that everyone felt valued. 

A special thanks to the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program, whose generous support made these initiatives possible. We look forward to welcoming even more seniors to future wellness sessions, cooking classes, cultural outings, and other engaging activities that promote healthy aging, lifelong learning, and meaningful social connection.

If you or someone you know would like to participate in upcoming programs, we would love to hear from you.

Contact Us

Phone: 306-986-4180

Email: coordinator.healthprogram@trulyalivefoundation.org

Location: 3-320 Jessop Avenue, Saskatoon, SK