Visual artist Harem Tahir and journalist Diary Marif sit down to discuss their shared Iraqi Kurdish roots and the lifelong struggle for self-determination in a territory divided across four nations. Through a collaborative lens, they reflect on surviving the Halabja massacre and systemic corruption, explaining how these traumas fueled their respective journeys into advocacy and the arts. Now based in Canada, both creators use their platforms to transcend simple narratives of conflict, showcasing the rich cultural humanity of the Kurdish people while amplifying the voices of marginalized groups worldwide.

The migration stories of Soo Bing Jang and James Wong converge in Vancouver, weaving together a narrative of survival that spans from the labor-intensive construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway to the hardships of the Cultural Revolution in China. While James’s family history is marked by the dangerous "three deaths per mile" reality of railway work and the resilience of a burgeoning grocery business, Soo reflects on her transition from a rural farming village to finding "heaven" in the simple amenities of Canadian life. Today, the couple honors their heritage through community gardening and education, viewing their family’s past sacrifices as the essential foundation for the opportunities now available to the next generation.

Word Vancouver 2025 was a vibrant celebration of stories, culture, and community. PCHC-MoM shared our mission to preserve migration narratives, connecting with visitors, educators, and artists. With powerful readings from Board Director Tariq Malik and dedicated volunteers, we inspired meaningful conversations and forged new partnerships - proving the lasting impact of storytelling.

Vancouver’s Car Free Days on Commercial Drive and Main Street brought communities together in celebration of sustainability, culture, and storytelling. The Pacific Canada Heritage Centre – Museum of Migration (PCHC-MoM) made a vibrant impact, connecting with hundreds, sharing migration stories, and turning a surprise downpour into a joyful team bonding moment.

Kathy King’s journey from the cannery floor to leading procurement at Ocean Brands is a story of culture, resilience, and sustainability. Rooted in her multicultural heritage and shaped by years on the waterfront, she’s driving change in seafood sourcing, balancing tradition with innovation, and ensuring that oceans remain healthy for generations to come.

The Suzhou Alley Mural celebrates Chinese Canadian women’s unseen legacy in Vancouver’s Chinatown. Created over seven years by Janet Wang and Mengya Zhao, it blends resilience, humor, and bold symbolism—like imperial yellow—to reclaim history through personal stories. More than art: a living call to preserve fading narratives.

Bodwell High School, founded by Paul Yuen in 1991, is a global boarding school where students from 50+ countries learn through multiculturalism, community, and service. Rooted in empathy and open-mindedness, the school fosters global citizens through language diversity, cultural exchange, and connections with Indigenous communities, shaping not just minds, but character.

Brazilian musician Luciano Rigobelo's journey from São Paulo to Vancouver is a masterclass in adapting to a new environment while staying true to your roots. Through teaching, busking, and collaborating, he's found a way to not only share his musical gifts but also to build a new life, proving that even without words, music can tell the most profound stories.

Alex is a 17‑year‑old Nigerian‑Canadian from British Columbia who dreams of becoming a pediatric or psychiatric nurse. Balancing nursing school prep, digital content work at the Pacific Canada Heritage Centre, and tutoring kids with learning differences, he blends creativity, empathy and leadership to empower his community. When not studying or volunteering, Alex enjoys crocheting, music, fiction reading and close friendships that shape his growth.