Karla Gangotena - 50 Stories for 50 Years (Story # 6)
When Karla arrived in Vancouver from Ecuador two years ago, the transition was exciting and challenging. Karla enjoyed helping her husband and two sons settle into new jobs and university programs. But then, all at once, Karla realized it was time to take care of herself.
After working as a psychologist for several years, Karla knows that social isolation and loneliness can be harmful. She felt unsettled and worried about how she would overcome language barriers and cultural differences. When a friend introduced Karla to Vicky, an MPNH settlement worker who works with Spanish-speaking newcomers, Karla found the anchor she needed to establish a meaningful place in her community.
Vicky invited Karla into a WhatsApp group – a familiar entry point that immediately connected Karla with the local Latina community. From there, MPNH’s social opportunities just kept coming! Karla’s personal connections grew through MPNH cooking circles, craft sessions, and most importantly, Entre Mujeres, a program for newcomer women who speak Spanish.
“This space is necessary,” Karla says. “You can speak your language, share your experiences, and finally feel safe. It’s where I began to truly adapt.”
But MPNH had even more to offer. Karla specializes in psycho-oncology, which means she helps cancer patients with their social and mental health. She attended a BC Cancer Society workshop at MPNH and established meaningful connections with local professionals and organizations. She began working with a BC Cancer Nurse Educator to teach people about cancer prevention and screening. Later, Karla offered this same education to Spanish-speaking families in her community.
Karla did not just find a place to heal; she found a place where she could lead. MPNH Facilitators recognized her expertise and supported her transition from participant to facilitator. Karla now creates and leads workshops in Spanish about community mental health, building strength as a newcomer, and personal growth. What began as personal support quickly became a chance for Karla to use her professional skills.
In Latin cultures, the mother is often the emotional center of the family. As Karla found stability, professional recognition, and meaningful connections at MPNH, her whole family benefited.
“My family sees how I adapt better because of this place,” she says. “When I feel supported and guided, my whole family settles in.”
Karla loves sharing how MPNH shaped her settlement experience and hopes newcomers will find similar experiences for years to come.
Story written by Carrie Keen through an interview with the participant during her practicum placement at Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood House.
50 Stories for 50 Years at MPNH is a collection of meaningful stories that celebrate the lasting impact our Neighbourhood House has had over the years. These stories come from long-time participants, families, youth, volunteers, community members, and regular visitors whose lives have been touched, supported, or transformed through our programs, services, and connections at the House.
