Book A Speaker

The Living Library features newcomers with unique and compelling stories of transition, settlement, and belonging. Organizations and individuals can book a featured newcomer to share their story at a gathering, staff event, or classroom to learn more about the newcomer experience and different cultures.

Booking a speaker is free, however, donations to support the work of the New Canadians Centre is welcome.

This program is offered within the counties of Peterborough and Northumberland. Depending on location, organisations may be asked to cover the cost of transportation.

Ready to book a speaker?

Please contact Mauricio Interiano, Community Engagement Officer: [email protected]

We are available for virtual speaking engagements and in-person engagements on a case-by-case basis, dependent on public health guidelines.

Current Stories & Speakers

Aanya Singh - India

"Unfinished: I Am Not Done Yet"

Read Aanya's Bio

Aanya Singh’s journey began in Ghaziabad, India, and took her through Singapore before arriving in Canada three years ago. Now a grade 11 student at Adam Scott, Aanya has embraced every opportunity, developing a strong and diverse set of skills. Her mother and grandmother significantly influenced her, shaping her views, confidence, and sense of humor.

Despite challenges in Singapore, Aanya found solace in volunteering and connecting with others. Moving to Canada marked a turning point, where she became actively involved in community and school activities, including the Peterborough City Youth Council and the New Canadian Centre’s Young Leaders Council. Aanya also shares her experiences through her podcast, "The Random Podcast," on Spotify.

Her journey is a testament to resilience, embracing opportunities, and finding adventure in new experiences.

Themes: Youth; Education; Resilience; Community; Leadership

Story Available in: English

Aruasy Riera - Venezuela

"From Venezuela to Canada: Embracing a New Life"

Read Aruasy's Bio

Aruasy Riera, from Caracas, Venezuela, followed her daughters to Canada for their university education due to political and economic instability at home. Initially visiting during summers, she and her husband decided to stay permanently as conditions worsened in Venezuela. Adjusting to Canada’s cold winters and new customs was challenging, but the New Canadians Centre provided essential support. They attended English classes, community events, and an NCC potlucks, which made them feel welcome.

Aruasy’s family blended Venezuelan traditions with Canadian ones, such as wearing ugly Christmas sweaters and volunteering. Her story highlights resilience, adaptation, and the vital role of community support in creating a sense of belonging in a new country.

Themes: Immigrant Experience; Family; Resilience; Community; Adaptation

Story Available in: English; Spanish

Manal Agha - Syria

"From Syria to Lebanon to Canada"

Read Manal's Bio

Manal Agha’s journey began in Syria, where she and her family grew up. In December 2016 she initially relocated to Lebanon for a vacation, but her stay became more prolonged. In Lebanon, Manal found solace and strength in being with her family. Her time there was meaningful, providing a sense of normalcy and connection despite the challenges she faced as a Syrian.

Seeking a brighter future and stability, Manal eventually moved to Canada, settling in Peterborough. There, she found a welcoming community and the support she needed from the New Canadians Centre. Manal embraced her new life, learning English and building a strong sense of belonging while preserving her cultural heritage. Her story not only highlights resilience and adaptation but also showcases a different face of Syria, one of love, family, and hope.

Themes: Refugee Experience; Family; Resilience; Community; Language

Story Available in: English; Arabic

Margot Van Sluytman - Guyana

"Shared Humanity: A Story of Immigration, Justice, and Hope"

Read Margot's Bio

Margot Van Sluytman moved to Canada from Georgetown, Guyana, with her family when she was seven years old, just two months before her eighth birthday. Seeking better opportunities and a safer environment, her parents chose Scarborough, Ontario, as their new home. Nine years later, the safety her family sought was shattered by a tragic event that changed her life.

In the face of this unexpected hardship, Margot turned to writing, which became a lifeline and a source of healing. Her experiences led her to become an advocate within the criminal justice system, using her story to inspire others and demonstrate that hope can always be found, even in the darkest times. Margot's journey reflects new beginnings, the process of healing, the pursuit of justice, and the resilience needed to find eventual joy.

Themes: Immigration; Justice; Resilience; Healing; Advocacy

Story Available in: English

Mauricio Interiano - Honduras

"Looking for Change"

Read Mauricio's Bio

Mauricio was only 16 when he chose to leave Honduras Looking for Change, more opportunities, and a better education. He arrived in Canada in 2010 to finish his schooling in Victoria, British Columbia, and then moved two years later to Peterborough to attend Trent University. As a young student settling into a new country and then in a new province, Mauricio faced many challenges adapting to a new way of life away from family and home. In 2019, having established his life in Canada, Mauricio left to study a Master’s degree in Migration.
While he would learn much during his few years away, perhaps the most valuable lesson he would learn is that Peterborough and Canada were now also his home, too. In Looking for Change, Mauricio takes you on a journey of discovery, belonging, community, and ultimately endurance. Today, Mauricio proudly calls Peterborough home.

Themes: Language; Youth; Education; Community

Story Available in: English; Spanish

Sarai Arroyo - Mexico

“The Mexican Crew in Canada”

Read Sarai's Bio

Unexpectedly, the offer of "the Canadian dream" arrives as a Christmas present. Saraí and her family decided to risk their stability in Mexico and not miss the opportunity to live in Canada.
Since Saraí became a full-time mother, she believes that there is no better place than Peterborough to see her children grow up. She and her family have managed to overcome the intrinsic adversities of migration. Saraí considers it is important to help new immigrants and that is why she shares her experiences with us. Saraí is a woman who seeks to merge her Mexican
culture with the Canadian culture and teach her children to get the best of each one of them.

Themes: Family, Motherhood, Language, Community

Story Available in: English; Spanish