GMS Human Library
Harmony Day Feature
Thursday, November 20th
This Harmony Day, our Jaguars are invited to step into a Human Library — a powerful experience where people are the “books,” and their lived stories become opportunities for learning, connection, and understanding.
We are incredibly grateful for our presenters, each offering a window into cultures, histories, and identities that shape our local and global communities. From stories of Italian and Chinese pioneers in the Okanagan, to lived experiences of immigration from Mexico, Bosnia, Rwanda, Hong Kong, India, and Serbia, to the cross-cultural journeys shared by our Kelowna–Kasugai Sister City Association and Denise Young, our guests represent resilience, heritage, and the beauty of diversity.
Our Human Library Presenters
- D. Rampone — sharing local pioneer histories and community-building stories passed down through generations.
- A. Marr — offering insight into family legacy, cultural identity, and the evolution of community life in the Okanagan.
- S. Gómez — speaking about the immigrant journey, starting over, belonging, and building community through storytelling.
- K. Trapara — reflecting on childhood migration, language, traditions, and growing up between two worlds.
- A. Hothi — exploring family traditions, cultural practices, and the experience of balancing multiple identities.
- D. Muhoza — sharing a personal journey of resilience, rebuilding, and navigating life in a new country.
- G. Poon — offering perspectives on major life transitions, global change, and building a life across continents.
- Kelowna–Kasugai Sister City Association — highlighting cultural connection, global friendship, and international partnership.
- D. Young — reflecting on growing up in a multi-heritage family, finding belonging, and embracing identity as a source of strength.
Students will have the chance to hear real stories, ask meaningful questions, and explore the diverse experiences that make our community so vibrant. We extend our appreciation to all presenters for sharing their time and perspectives with GMS — your voices help create understanding, empathy, and true celebration of Harmony Day.
We look forward to an incredible day of listening, learning, and connecting.