Whether taking part in community decision-making, teaching about culture, or helping those in need, immigrant seniors have always played a vital role in Calgary’s history.
Two such seniors were recently honoured at the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society’s (CCIS) second annual Immigrant Seniors Awards.
“An award like this is very important because when you recognize somebody, you’re creating competition,” says one of the recipients, Abdul Makalai, who came to Canada from Uganda with his two children in 1972.
“You get people to try and exceed one another, and you get results.”
Makalai was honoured for his ongoing work with seniors’ committees, the Ismaili community, the CCIS and other endeavours.
“The manner in which we were received by Canada … it left a deep impact on me and my two kids,” he said. “When my daughter was very sick, she told me, ‘Dad, we owe a lot to this country and if you find time, please repay that.'”
Ismailimail 