In a diverse and evolving community like Kawartha Lakes, belonging is more than just being present, it’s about being seen, valued, and accepted. Every day, newcomers and long-time residents walk the same streets, visit the same shops, and share the same dreams of a better future. Yet for many immigrants, the feeling of truly belonging can remain out of reach.

In her recent piece for The Lindsay Advocate, “Humanizing Our Neighbours: A Call for Belonging”, writer Ezinne Osahon-Ilobuno captured a powerful message from KLHIISA’s co-founder, Geraldine Silva, a message that continues to resonate across our community:

“We need to stop seeing newcomers as strangers. They are our neighbours, our future colleagues, and potential friends.”

Seeing People Beyond Labels

Too often, newcomers face invisible barriers,  from job search struggles to social isolation, not because of a lack of talent or motivation, but because of unfamiliar systems, limited networks, and unconscious bias.
When we label others as “foreigners” or “outsiders,” we build invisible walls. But when we choose to see each other as human first, we open the doors to empathy, collaboration, and shared growth.

Small Acts, Big Change

Belonging doesn’t always start with policies or programs, it starts with people.
A greeting from a neighbour, a smile from a co-worker, or a kind gesture from a community member can create ripples of connection. These small moments are the seeds of trust and inclusion.

At KLHIISA, we’ve seen firsthand how a simple welcome can change a newcomer’s story. Whether it’s through settlement support, employment assistance, or community events, each interaction is an opportunity to say: “You belong here.”

From Tolerance to True Inclusion

Diversity is a strength, but inclusion is a choice. It’s not enough to tolerate differences; we must actively create spaces where everyone can contribute and thrive.
That means listening to newcomer stories, challenging our assumptions, and building bridges across cultures.

As Geraldine Silva reminds us, “Belonging starts with how we choose to see each other.” When we look at one another not through the lens of difference but through the lens of shared humanity, our community becomes stronger, warmer, and more united.

Together, We Can Build Belonging

As part of our mission at KLHIISA, we continue to advocate for programs that foster inclusion, equity, and cultural understanding throughout Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton.
We invite every resident, newcomer or not, to take part in this journey. Because building belonging isn’t just an institutional effort; it’s a personal responsibility.

📖 Read the full feature in The Lindsay Advocate here:
👉 State of Well-Being of Kawartha Lakes – The Lindsay Advocate

Written by Mariama Ali Souley, inspired by Ezinne Osahon-Ilobuno’s article in The Lindsay Advocate.