Community Profile : Esteban
Tell us about yourself
My name is Esteban, and I am from Colombia. I swam for about 23 years and had the opportunity to represent my country in multiple international events. I have a deep love for sports, and after living in Canada for three years, I have discovered new sports that we don’t have in Colombia, which I find amazing. I also enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes, but what I love the most is seeing people’s smiles when they try my food.
How do you spend your free time in Vancouver?
I love sports, and living in Vancouver has given me the chance to try new activities that come with the different seasons. Summer is incredible because of the variety of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, hiking, and swimming in the ocean or lakes.
During winter, I enjoy skiing—both downhill and cross-country. Downhill skiing is perfect if you love adrenaline, while cross-country skiing is a great full-body workout. Both require a lot of practice, but once you get the hang of them, they are extremely fun and rewarding.
What are some challenges you have faced with moving to Canada?
For me, the biggest challenge has been finding a job. To be honest, it’s difficult to leave your profession behind and start from scratch. However, I see it as part of the immigration process, and it has taught me to be grateful for what I have and for everything I achieve each day.
Which place would you recommend to someone visiting your country?
Colombia is a country full of amazing places to visit. One of the most interesting things is that you can experience different types of weather all year round. If you love warm weather, I highly recommend visiting Cartagena. It is a beautiful city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. You can explore the colonial streets, walk along the historic castle walls that surround the city, and enjoy delicious seafood. Of course, a trip to Cartagena wouldn’t be complete without a fun day at the beach!
What are you hoping to achieve during your time at MOSAIC?
For me, the most important goal is to improve my speaking skills. In my current job, I don’t have many opportunities to interact with people, which has made it challenging to practice my English.
By attending classes at MOSAIC and speaking with people from different nationalities, I have gained more confidence and fluency in everyday conversations. I hope to continue improving and becoming more comfortable speaking English in different situations.