Tatay Guido: A Senior's Immigration Story to Canada

Moving to a new country is never easy, but senior immigrants go through additional unique challenges. Adjusting to new ways of living, learning new cultures and languages, facing mobility and technology barriers, and losing the support of longtime friends and community can make this shift feel overwhelming.

At Kababayan Multicultural Centre (KMC), our programs offer more than just events and activities, but also connections, friendships, and a community you can depend on. 

We’re honoured to share again the immigration story of Aguido dela Cruz, or more fondly known as "Tatay Guido," a longtime volunteer and a seniors’ group member who moved to Canada in 1998. At 84 years old, Tatay Guido carries a lifetime of stories, lessons and wisdom.

Before immigrating, Tatay Guido served as the City Agriculturist in Lipa City, Batangas, Philippines. After leaving a stable career and close-knit community in the Philippines to be closer to his family, he transitioned to a sales role where he thrived for more than 12 years. A hurdle he found himself in during this time was facing isolation in an unfamiliar environment. Determined to combat this, he participated in multiple communities such as Kababayan Multicultural Centre, where he found the support, friendships, and a sense of purpose he was searching for.

Today, he gives back by being an active member and the president of the seniors’ group, uplifting fellow seniors, and helping in continuing to build the community that once helped him. 

"What truly matters to me is sharing what I know, and helping others has always been one of my passions. That's something I will carry with me for as long as I live." 

Watch the full video to hear more about Tatay Guido’s story.

About the Project 

This is a part of the "Seniors’ Voices through Digital Stories" project, a Kababayan Multicultural Centre's 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. 

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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.