Don't worry. There is always a solution.
- Elvira Bonilla
The very first thing I noticed on the wall when I came here in 2001 was a phrase that said, “I was a stranger, and you made me welcome.”
I felt a sense of security and, at the same time, a sense of belonging as well. The first person that I met was Margaret (Styczynska), the then manager or Resettlement and Integration Services (RIS). She came and greeted me, and started describing, telling me what the services were. I was observing everything because it looked like a house and not an office. During my training in office administration, I had the opportunity to do my practicum in big petroleum and gas companies for a few months.
How does it feel being the face of MCRC for all these years?
First of all, when I see any person approaching here, I think of what image I am portraying for our organization. Most of the time they are newcomers, and immediately, what comes to my mind is my experience coming to Canada.
I immediately think of this person who looks scared and cannot trust anyone easily, right?
I feel the need to make them feel welcome. I try to keep a smile on my face, no matter what struggles I’m having.
I always go back to the first time, the first month or the first year that I was in here.
Once you make that connection, they do understand. During COVID, we were wearing masks, but we learned to smile through our eyes.
Sometimes, they’re agitated. Sometimes, they’re angry.
That’s when I try to be calm, speaking softly. I try to give them the message that they are being listened to. We all have gone through difficulties in the same way. And that helps. That helps because I tell them, with any problem or situation they are going through, “Don’t worry.”
We will try to find a way. There will be a solution. There is always a solution.
Maybe not momentarily, but we will try to find something. Don’t worry. It’s not only you.
Elvira Bonilla has been the face of MCRC since she joined CCIS in 2001. As a receptionist in the reception house, she has witnessed the emotional outbursts of many a client looking for service.