Picture this: it’s your first day of school in Canada. You enter a class with students who look, dress, and speak differently. Your new friends know little to nothing about you; they don't really understand why you have arrived — even after you explain it — and no one in the classroom speaks your mother tongue. You remind yourself to be strong even if your peer networks are too far from home to assist.

Political science student Rachel Wabisera believes that “the new Canadian perspective of education is a critical aspect of welcoming people to Canada.”

That is why she is hosting a panel discussion exploring “New Canadian Perspectives on Canadian Education” via the Zoom videoconferencing platform on Monday, Aug. 17, at 6 p.m.

Wabisera has studied in Congo, Germany, the United States, and Canada. A mother of one, she sees Canada’s educational system from the perspectives of a student and a parent.

Panellists will include students and teachers who have lived experience as recent immigrants within the education system, as well as educators positioned to prepare future teachers to understand the new Canadian perspective.

The event is free and open to all. Join the free Zoom panel online by registering before the event.