In Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES), Pari Mokradi found herself in a small room in an SRO building, contemplating the stark reality of poverty surrounding her. Despite her initial hesitance, she embraced this new living situation, drawing on past experiences as an international student in Edmonton.
Having left India at 20 to pursue the Canadian dream of inclusivity and rewards for hard work, Mokradi faced challenges upon her arrival. Despite her dedication to academics, volunteering, and job hunting, she struggled to secure stable employment post-graduation, leading her to relocate to Vancouver.
In Vancouver, Mokradi found herself in a call center job, navigating cultural complexities and battling insecurities about her identity. Through encounters with adversity and shared experiences with fellow immigrants, Mokradi realized the importance of staying true to oneself despite societal pressures.
Living in the DTES shed light on a vibrant community advocating for various causes, offering Mokradi a sense of belonging and purpose. Engaging with the Downtown Eastside Writers’ Collective allowed her to reclaim her narrative and connect with others who had also been marginalized.
Reflecting on her journey, which culminated in becoming a Canadian citizen in 2025, Mokradi acknowledged that true support came from acts of kindness and understanding rather than conventional milestones. Encouraged by the warmth and camaraderie she found in Canada, Mokradi embraced his identity and shared his story through a published chapbook.
In a time when Canada may seem unwelcoming and unaffordable, Mokradi’s experience highlights the transformative power of compassion and community in finding solace and rediscovering oneself.