Community Profile: Gabriel
This week’s student spotlight features Gabriel from France, who is currently enrolled in an Advanced ESL class.
Thank you, Gabriel, for sharing your story with us!
Tell us about yourself
My name is Gabriel. I am a French designer originally from Bordeaux. I moved to Vancouver in June with an open work permit and I have been living in Kitsilano since then.
How do you spend your free time in Vancouver
I love exploring the region and discovering the beauty of British Columbia. I spend a lot of time outdoors and try to spot wildlife whenever I can. I also enjoy walking through different neighborhoods, visiting exhibitions and concerts, and tasting local food.
What are some challenges you’ve faced with moving to Canada
The hardest part has been communication—being perfectly understood. It can be difficult to express my personality, humor, and spontaneity because of pronunciation and language barriers. I’m learning to feel more confident when speaking and to adapt to a new work culture.
Which place would you recommend to someone visiting your country
I’m from the southwest of France, a region that isn’t always the first destination tourists think of, but it’s incredibly beautiful. I recommend visiting the Basque Country, Biarritz, Bayonne, Bordeaux, the Arcachon Basin, and the Dordogne. And of course, you should try the local cuisine—especially seafood, pastries, and traditional regional dishes.
What are you hoping to achieve during your time at MOSAIC
I want to feel more confident speaking English and take more initiative in conversations. I also want to develop my professional skills.