Finding Home again: Colombian immigrant youth experience

In this episode of Almost 107, host Daniel Monroy explores the emotional and often challenging journey of South American youth immigrating to Canada through the personal story of Tomás, a 21-year-old Colombian who has lived in Canada for nearly six years. Tomás opens up about his life in Colombia, growing up in a humble neighborhood, attending a makeshift school, and watching his family struggle with unstable, unfair working conditions. He recalls how economic pressure and his mother’s health pushed his family to take a risk and start over in Canada. He describes the painful process of leaving home at just 15. Tomás reflects on the reality of adapting to a new culture: the loneliness, the fear of being bullied, struggling with English. As he looks to the future, Tomás is honest about his uncertainty. Though he appreciates Canada’s safety and stability, he dreams of eventually living elsewhere. This episode highlights resilience, cultural identity, and the quiet sacrifices young immigrants make as they rebuild their lives far from where they were born.