Manvir Bhamra began volunteering at the Centre just over a year ago as a Cooking and Nutrition Class Assistant. She has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and an ability to engage with program participants, which has made her an invaluable addition to our volunteer team.
“Manvir is an exemplary individual and the kind of volunteer we love to see in our Cooking Matters program. She is a professional who is skilled at sharing nutrition knowledge, and her warmth and compassion made our newcomer clients feel comfortable. Her role as a leader in the Saturday classes enabled us to increase the delivery of valuable food and nutrition education to our clients. I am grateful for her time, energy, and dedication, as she truly contributed to the program’s success.”- Briana Henry, Nutrition Services Manager.
How did you first hear about the Immigrant Centre (IC)?
I heard about the Immigrant Centre through an opportunity that came through the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science at the University of Manitoba to help with the Cooking Matters program. But far beyond this, when my family first came to Canada, my mom recalls using the Immigrant Centre’s services – so there is a bit of history that I didn’t know my family had with the Immigrant Centre!
What attracted you to this organization in particular?
As a student I wanted to be involved with the community and learn facilitation skills and I was able to gain this through the Cooking Matters program. I also know through my own experience moving to Canada with my family when I was younger how difficult of a transition it can be. I was happy to connect with new people and help them build skills to succeed and thrive in Canada.
Why do you volunteer?
I have volunteered from a really young age, at first it was the only way that I was able to really gain skills and get involved outside of my bubble but then when I got to university, I started finding programs and organizations whose work I really liked. I have continued to volunteer, it has helped shape so much of my identity and even in my professional career, I will be continuing to volunteer. There is just a wealth of knowledge and connection that you gain from volunteering that I don’t believe comes from work or internships in the same capacity.
What motivates you to stay involved with the IC?
I really enjoyed making food with the clients that came to our class, I enjoyed talking about nutrition and learning about how other cultures saw food and nutrition. Although I am graduating this coming April 2023, I hope to return to the Immigrant Centre in the future in some way or another to help.
What has your volunteer experience been like at IC?
I have had a great time volunteering at the IC, I have felt safe and welcomed. Briana provided so much support and was always available if we had questions.