The May Issue: The Londombia Project

I attended the Londombia exhibit this past weekend, a photo project celebrating London's vibrant Colombian community. The project was spearheaded by Juan Andres Bello, a documentary producer and professor at Western University. Stepping foot into the Satellite Project Space, you are met with enlarged photos of many Colombians' first moments in Canada: at the airport with their suitcases, their first Canadian winters, BBQs and other family gatherings. The images perfectly captured moments of uncertainty filled with hopes for the future and better opportunities. Feelings of nostalgia were unavoidable and I was forced to reflect on my own family’s story so deeply intertwined with the vibrant Colombian community that found refuge in Forest City.

Stepping foot into the Satellite Project Space, you’re met with enlarged photos of many Colombian’s first moments in Canada: at the airport with their suitcases, their first Canadian winters, BBQs and other family gatherings.

Colombians first made their journey towards Canada as far back as the 90s, and there are currently 4,500 Londoners part of the Colombian community, making it the largest Spanish-speaking community in London, according to Statistics Canada from the 2021 census. The iconic nickname “Londombia” is believed to be coined by José Briceño Medina, who published “Colombia en London,” an online newsletter for the Colombian community in the city. Andrea Briceño, José Briseño’s daughter, succinctly broke down in her speech how Londombia is more than just a physical space - it’s an experience many newcomers can relate to.

My family migrated to Canada in February 2002 right in the middle of winter. I vividly remember hiking up the hill to Blessed Sacrament Elementary School struggling to move under all the layers of clothing Canadian winters demand. Adjusting to life in Canada was challenging, but we were lucky to start our journey in the company of other Colombian families going through the same experience. During our first year, we celebrated birthdays together, cared for each other’s children when needed, and offered mutual support during the hard days. Being an immigrant can be an isolating experience, and we were fortunate to go through that experience in community. One of the most touching moments of the exhibit was a celebration of Holman Garavito and Joyce Bruhn de Garavito's contributions to the Colombian community. My parents met Holman at one of CCLC's Conversation Circles, where he supported many non-English speakers as they adapted to their new life. Holman and Joyce were crucial to my family's integration in Canada.

Being an immigrant can be an isolating experience, and we were fortunate to go through that experience in community.

When I think about my life in London, I am grateful for the people I've met who have become like family and the opportunities I've had. I continue to rely on my community for various needs, whether I need help moving, advice on passing my G test, or recommendations for a reliable mechanic when I have car issues. Most importantly, they provide me with a sense of belonging. I know I will always have my fellow Londombians’ support. That's why I proudly identify myself as someone born in Cali, Colombia and raised in London, Ontario.