The Portage Learning and Literacy Centre's Newcomer Summer Festival was held yesterday afternoon at the Fort la Reine Museum.

PLLC Settlement Coordinator Miriam Turyamwijuka explains one element of the festival is celebrating what newcomers to the country have gone through to be here.

"Everybody has their own unique journey. It's hard in different ways; the ups and downs of immigration. It's incredible hearing the stories and it's incredible being a part of it. We play a very small part of it but for that part, we're very proud."

The festival featured activities such as beading, bubbles, and music from Suzanne Bird. Turyamwijuka notes they also explored the different exhibits at the museum and held a scavenger hunt.

"People can go around and answer questions as they go through so they can learn more as they go," she says of the scavenger hunt.

Mayor Irvine Ferris, MLA Ian Wishart, and Portage-Lisgar MP Candice Bergen all spoke at the event; welcoming the newcomers to the city and commenting on the importance of cultural diversity while acknowledging we all have shared values.

"One of the strengths of Canada certainly is our diversity, certainly it is the many things that we bring; our uniqueness." Bergen addressed those in attendance, "all of you that are here, as brand new Canadians, bring that. But I think it is just as important to focus on our similarities and what brings us together. Things like justice, equality [...], everybody having an opportunity."

Mohammed making his speech.One of the newcomers also took the opportunity to speak at the festival. Mohammed recently came to Canada from Syria and shared a message of thanks during the opening remarks.

Miriam Turyamwijuka says the festival was a lot of fun and they had many people helping out to make it happen. This year's Newcomer Festival saw a larger turnout than last year, notes Turyamwijuka, however she says it wasn't quite as large of a crowd as they were hoping for.