MOSAIC's Walkathon Highlights the Power of Community
Yesterday Sunday August 16th in Burnaby, BC, hundreds of newcomers, families, volunteers, and community supporters gathered at Swangard Stadium to celebrate an important milestone: MOSAIC's 50th anniversary.
For five decades, MOSAIC has helped immigrants, refugees, and newcomers build new lives in Canada. The organization's anniversary walkathon was more than a celebration. It was a reflection of the thousands of journeys, challenges, and successes that have shaped communities across British Columbia since 1976.
A Legacy of Supporting Newcomers
Originally established as the Multilingual Orientation Service Association for Immigrant Communities, M.O.S.A.I.C. has grown into one of Canada's leading settlement and community service organizations. Today, it supports approximately 33,000 immigrants, refugees, and newcomers every year.
Over the last 50 years, MOSAIC has helped an estimated half a million people navigate the challenges of settling in a new country.
From employment services and language support to housing assistance and community connections, the organization continues to play a vital role in helping newcomers build strong foundations for their future.
Every Journey Matters
One of the most meaningful features of the walkathon was a mock passport activity that allowed participants to collect stamps representing important newcomer milestones. These included finding a place to live, securing a first job, and making a first friend in Canada.
The activity served as a powerful reminder that settlement is not just about paperwork and processes. It is about building confidence, creating connections, and finding a sense of belonging in a new community.
For many attendees, each stamp represented a real-life achievement and a personal story of resilience.
From Client to Community Leader
Among the many inspiring stories shared during the event was that of Daisy Au, a member of MOSAIC's settlement team.
After arriving in Canada from Hong Kong, Au experienced firsthand the challenges of having her professional credentials recognized and adapting to a new environment. With determination and support, she successfully navigated those obstacles and joined MOSAIC in 2003.
Today, she helps newcomers facing many of the same challenges she once experienced.
Her story reflects a common theme within MOSAIC: people who receive support often go on to become mentors, advocates, and community builders themselves. In fact, approximately 80 percent of MOSAIC's workforce were once newcomers to Canada.
Strength in Diversity
MOSAIC's name reflects a vision that remains as relevant today as it was 50 years ago: a diverse society where people from different backgrounds come together to create something stronger and more vibrant.
With more than 600 employees speaking over 60 languages, the organization represents the rich diversity of Metro Vancouver and Canada's multicultural identity.
This multilingual and multicultural approach allows MOSAIC to provide culturally responsive services while helping newcomers feel understood, welcomed, and supported throughout their settlement journey.
Meeting Growing Needs
While the anniversary event was a celebration, it also highlighted ongoing challenges facing the settlement sector.
Demand for newcomer services continues to grow as more immigrants and refugees arrive in Canada each year. At the same time, many settlement organizations have experienced funding reductions that make it increasingly difficult to meet rising needs.
Despite these challenges, MOSAIC remains committed to helping individuals and families access the support they need to thrive in their new communities.
Looking Ahead
As MOSAIC celebrates 50 years of service, the organization is not only reflecting on its accomplishments but also looking toward the future.
The success stories shared at the walkathon demonstrate the lasting impact of community support, inclusion, and opportunity. Every newcomer who finds a home, secures employment, learns a new language, or builds meaningful relationships contributes to the vibrant social fabric of Canada.
The anniversary walkathon served as a reminder that behind every immigration statistic is a human story, and behind many of those stories is an organization dedicated to helping people feel at home.
Here's to the next 50 years of welcoming, supporting, and empowering newcomers across British Columbia and beyond.