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 Nunavut Chief Justice Beverley Brown, centre, swore in the David family from left, Erick, Jesusa, Teresita and Renato, as Canadian citizens earlier this month. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo |
Teresita left her family behind in Angeles, in the Philippines, in 1994 to look for a better life in Canada.
Her family had never been separated before and leaving them behind was the hardest part of her decision to seek a new beginning, she said.
"It was scary because you realize you're leaving your family thousands of miles behind and although you want to see them, you cannot," said Teresita.
"I cried every day because I wanted to see them so bad. But then I'd think this is for everybody's future and that would give me the strength to carry on.
"We realized we had to sacrifice for a few years and then the fruits of our sacrifice would be nice after that," she said.
A proud Canadian
Teresita said many people may not realize how desperate life can be in the Philippines, especially for parents who want a better future for their children.
"Although you are educated there, and are a professional, the salary you receive is minimal and not enough for a better life," she said. "I'm a Canadian now and that makes me very happy."
Teresita's daughter, Jesusa, was 19 when she came to Canada in 1999.
Jesusa has since graduated from Alaittuq high school. She is currently enroled in the management studies program at Nunavut Arctic College's Kivalliq campus.
"After I finish management studies, I'm going to take my nursing program at the University of Regina in Saskatchewan," said Jesusa. "I'd definitely be interested in coming back to Nunavut to work if there's opportunity here."
Jesusa said she was sad leaving her homeland, but her mom was in Canada and she was excited about the adventure awaiting her.
Now that the family's separation is behind her, she's proud to be a Canadian and excited about what her future may hold, Jesusa said.
"I still miss the Philippines, but this is my home now," she said.
"We actually went back to the Philippines last year and we got homesick for Rankin. It's a wonderful place and I'm proud to call it my home."
