What does it mean to belong?
This question inspired the North Shore Immigrant Inclusion Partnership’s Youth Photography Challenge, Belonging Through Our Eyes: Stories of Home, Hope, and Community. Im/migrant youth across the North Shore shared powerful images capturing connection, identity, and what makes them feel at home.
We are proud to celebrate the three winning submissions, which reflect creativity and lived experiences of youth in our community. From moments in nature to reflection on the migration experience, these photos remind us that belonging is something we build and share.
The Docked Ship of the Migrants
“It is sunset, and the travelers’ journey has come to an end. The migrant ship has docked. The weary migrants step onto their new land and move on to begin their hopeful tomorrow. This land is beautiful and radiant, and it is meant to gift these tired travelers a better life.” These were all the thoughts that came to my mind the moment I saw this magnificent ship.
– Alireza, photographer
What Does Belonging Mean to Me?
Belonging, to me, is not just one place. It’s a feeling that can travel with you. I was born in Canada and grew up in Montreal, a city full of familiar streets, languages, and memories. Montreal was home because it’s where my friends were, where my routines lived, and where I felt understood. Leaving it wasn’t easy. Moving across the country to Vancouver felt like starting over, and at first, that was scary. This photo reminds me that even when everything changes, some feelings stay the same. Standing above the city, surrounded by snow-covered trees and looking out over the water, I realized that belonging doesn’t disappear when you move. It grows. Vancouver feels different from Montreal, but the sense of community, nature, and calm has helped me find a new home here.
– benoud, photographer
New Beginnings
This photo captures spring blossoms resting on the Lions Gate Bridge from afar. I took it during a nightly walk with friends along the seawall, when the lighting created a warm, homey feeling. The glow of the bridge reflecting on the water adds comfort and calm. After a long winter, the blooming flowers symbolize the cycle of life and renewal. They remind me that darkness eventually gives way to beauty and hope. This familiar place and scenery also reflect my growing sense of belonging within the community I have joined here in Canada. It feels deeply peaceful and quietly inspiring.
– Rojina, photographer
At the same time, belonging is not something all youth experience equally.
Impact North Shore’s 2025 Youth Survey found that 7 out of 10 youth experienced discrimination in the past year, rising to nearly 8 out of 10 among im/migrant youth. These experiences often happen in everyday spaces like schools, online, and on public transit, and can affect young people’s mental health, sense of safety, and overall well-being.
This contrast between the desire for belonging and the reality of discrimination highlights why this work is so important.
To support youth and families, Impact North Shore has developed two new information sheets:
For youth, a resource that helps them understand discrimination and racism, validate their experiences, and explore ways to seek support and take action. The information sheets are available in English, Farsi, and Chinese.
For parents, a guide to recognizing signs of discrimination, starting conversations, and supporting their children through connection and care. The information sheets are available in English, Farsi, and Chinese.
Together, these resources aim to strengthen support systems and help create safer, more inclusive environments for all youth.
The stories shared through Belonging Through Our Eyes show us what is possible when youth feel connected and valued. By continuing to listen, learn, and take action, we can help build a North Shore where every young person feels they truly belong.
