Waltzing Recollections and La Partida Venezolana
S.F. and Nuclear Free YEG-GA Begin Cognitive Journeys
A native of Venezuela and now a Canadian citizen, S.F. attended SCA (Strathcona Christian Academy) in Sherwood Park, Alberta. In Spring 2017, she obtained her Arts degree from the University of Alberta with a major in Linguistics and a minor in History. She recounted that her professional goal is to be a professional translator, and she has pondered teaching English abroad to help gain experience. Currently, she also interested in exploring research and writing projects that help illuminate socio-economic inequities found in our times.
As explained elsewhere for a few "sister carvings", the marble used for this piece was “upcycled” from a demolition or renovation of a house in Edmonton, although its actual origins remain unknown. The piece also is part of a growing legion of micro sculptures developed within the larger thematic context of a sustainability and literacy project which has emerged from Project Y150 YEG-GA as it has unfolded in 2017. This particular carving participated in a few "trial run journeys" throughout the Edmonton area which were documented on social media before it began its travels with S.F. in June, 2017. Nuclear Free is dedicated to to thoughtful female travelers who obtained their Liberal Arts degrees in 2017, especially those of them who value their Venezuelan heritage and antepasadas.
Accounts Received: June 5, 2017
Godfather for Convocation
Edmonton, June 5, 2017. 22.5 °C/10.9 °C.
Today, I was at the University of Alberta, and I talked to someone I met about my “work life” these days. I just graduated with a Bachelor of Arts. I had three jobs and just got laid off from one of them. My acquaintance said the future is always bright.
And I'm happy that my godfather is visiting me from Saudi Arabia to attend my convocation.
Rastro de la memoria venezolana
Sherwood Park, June 5, 2017. 22.5 °C/10.9 °C.
This was the first Alberta road that I remember which paved my way to new Canadian beginning in my life. I was born in Valencia and raised in Caracas, Venezuela. My childhood memories are filled with happy experiences with my family. Sadly, friends, acquaintances, and extended family began to leave the country due to the government. We followed in 2007. My world changed entirely. I was 15 years old and leaving my home, the greatest influence upon my identity at the time. I left behind my friends, family members, and the country where I was raised. But, eventually, I made Canada my home.
There's not a day that goes by when I don't miss those people I left behind and the little things -- like the beach, the hot breeze, the food, and the parrots flying above me. I wouldn't trade my life thus far for the World, though. Since I've been in Canada, I've graduated from high school in 2011. My parents and I became Canadian citizens in 2014. And, next week, I will graduate from university.
I was working three jobs by the time university ended. Unfortunately, I was laid off from one position, so I'm working only two jobs now! Still, life has been good to us since we moved. It was very hard at the beginning, but our experience is much better than the lives we would have had “back home” with the rapid deterioration of the country. I thank my parents every day for the sacrifice they made for me.
Account Received: June 14, 2017
Nuclear Free Convocation
Edmonton, 9:15PM June 14, 2017. 16 °C/ 13 °C
Today, I made my parents and my padrino proud. When I walked onto the stage and heard them cheer me on, I knew it was real. This has been such a happy day for me, because I know how hard it was to accomplish this achievement. Seeing my family so delighted and proud has brought me so much joy.
Despite our high spirits, however, I couldn't keep my country (Venezuela) out of my head. It's hard to believe that people my age and younger are dying there, and I learned that the government seems think future professionals are indispensable within its plans. Every country needs to have professionals and a future for them, which, right now, is not the case for Venezuela. The education system is declining. Classes get cancelled for safety reasons because of all of the rallies and riots on the streets. And students take to the streets to fight for a brighter future even though they risk their lives every time they leave their houses.
Even though these thoughts were running through my head as I walked across the stage, it was still an exciting day, nonetheless. With my degree, I hope and aspire to make a difference. To make a difference in this country that raised me and also for people around the World, including Venezuela. I'm excited for what the future holds for me!