At a July 1 citizenship ceremony at Canada Place in Vancouver, 60 individuals from diverse backgrounds officially became Canadian citizens, celebrating with family and friends in a festive atmosphere.
A Family's Sacrifice and Reunion
Among the newest citizens was Krystyn Collado, a health support worker at Vancouver General Hospital's ortho-trauma unit. She arrived from the Philippines in 2017 as a caregiver, leaving behind her husband Jonalld and daughter Chlouie to build a better life in Canada. The separation, extended by the pandemic, lasted five years before the family reunited. "It was so hard to be separated. We had to sacrifice everything to do this for the family," said Krystyn. Her almost-three-year-old son, Lance Jordan, cheered loudly during the ceremony, dressed in a blue three-piece suit and polished shoes.
Diverse New Citizens Share Their Stories
Amanda Albuquerque, 32, a digital marketing manager from Brazil, painted her fingernails in the colors of the Brazilian flag and wore a scarlet dress. "I am very proud today. This is an honour," she said. "There were some very tough challenges coming here, especially during COVID, when I couldn't see my family for two years." Christie Jaensch, 32, a hair stylist from Australia, chose an in-person ceremony over a virtual option. "Zoom just didn't feel right. This is amazing," she said.
Ceremony Highlights and Community Support
The event featured a bagpiper, RCMP officers in red serge, and representatives from the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) nations. B.C.'s Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services Terry Yung and Wade Grant, parliamentary secretary to the minister of environment, also attended. Krystyn expressed gratitude to her colleagues at VGH, saying she could not have endured the long separation without their support. Her daughter Chlouie, now 15, who also received her citizenship certificate, said being in Vancouver made the moment even more special.
A Celebration of Canadian Diversity
The ceremony was one of dozens held across Canada on July 1, showcasing the country's multicultural fabric. New citizens waved flags and cheered, embodying the spirit of Canada Day. "This is an honour," echoed many participants, reflecting the pride and joy of becoming Canadian.
