Finding Family: Nanay Gloria’s Immigration Story to Canada

Kathleen Clarete
Sep 16
2 min read

Continuing our "Seniors’ Voices through Digital Stories" project, is the story of Gloria Toriella, or more lovingly called as “Nanay Gloria” within our community. She moved from Mindoro, Philippines, to Canada in 1991 with her mother after being sponsored by her sibling.

What began as a joyful immigration story of family reunion soon turned into a chapter marked by continuous challenges that left her feeling isolated and alone in Canada.

After joining Kababayan's Seniors’ Group, she found herself surrounded by warm smiles. She began attending the events and making new friends, and the problems seemed to have faded away. The community that supported her became the same people who filled the gap left by her family.

Today, Nanay Gloria continues to be an active part of Kababayan’s community, holding onto the hope of someday having a place she can call her own. Her story continues to inspire us and reminds us why we do the work we do, and that is to build spaces where newcomers feel seen, supported, and at home. Because at Kababayan, you’re not just part of a community, you’re part of a family.

Watch Nanay Gloria’s story in the video below.

About the Project

This is a part of the "Seniors’ Voices through Digital Stories" project, a Kababayan Multicultural Centre initiative and funded by the New Horizons for Seniors Program. This initiative promotes social inclusion and aligns with celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion.

Through short, compelling videos, seniors share their settlement journeys and experiences, highlighting their contributions and perspectives. These stories reflect qualities like resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning. By widely sharing these videos on our website and social media platforms, we aim to ensure that these impactful stories reach a broader audience.

Watch the first part of this series featuring Tatay Guido.

If you or someone you know is interested to join our Seniors' community, reach out to our counsellor, Jassleen Cruz, at jcruz@kababayan.org or 437-779-6173.