If there is one thing Canada is known for, a rich cultural diversity would likely top the list.
Feb. 8, during a citizenship ceremony held at Fort Battleford, 52 people from 18 different countries became part of the cultural mosaic that is Canada.
New citizens included Muhammed Malik, who came to the Battlefords over two years ago, opening Day N Nite Deli in North Battleford.
"The plan was to move to Saskatoon, but somehow I ended up in Battleford," he said.
Malik, originally from Pakistan, said there were two main reasons for coming to the Battlefords; exploring business opportunities in Western Canada, and Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program, an alternate and quicker application for citizenship.
Malik explained his wife and one-year-old daughter still live in Pakistan, which is difficult for him.
"You can imagine," he said. "It's my first child."
Others, like Olena and Igor Ovad and their two daughters, came to Canada as a family.
Both Olena and Igor said they're happy to be citizens and to be living in a community like the Battlefords.
"People are friendly and we have everything we need," said Olena, adding she's pleased with the programs at Notre Dame School, where her daughters attend.
Igor said he's enjoyed experiencing new things, such as ice fishing.
"It's totally different," he said,
But although the Battlefords do have some unique offerings, Igor said there aren't many differences between Canada and Serbia.
New citizens, surrounded by family and friends, mingled to the music of Junice Hedley, who played a few songs on the piano.
Citizenship Court Judge Terrence O'Malley officiated the ceremony. In a lengthy speech, he spoke of the historical significance of the area and the Fort itself. He encouraged the new citizens and all present to take the time to learn and appreciate the history of our country.
O'Malley also spoke of Canada's reputation of providing opportunities for immigrants to build new lives.
"Once you get used to the cold weather in the northern hemisphere, you have the same chance of succeeding as anyone else," he said, pointing to Michaelle Jean, who came to Canada from Haiti in 1968 as a refugee and eventually rose to the post of governor general.
O'Malley talked about his grandfather emigrating from Ireland in 1842 and the struggles he must have faced as a pioneer.
"None of this would have happened if it had not been for the courage of my ancestors," said O'Malley, saying years from now, the descendants of today's new citizens will be able to say the same thing.
In conclusion, O'Malley shared a quote by Plato, saying, "Dream your dream. Make it a great dream and dream it greatly."
Speeches were also given by Battlefords MLA Len Taylor, who welcomed the immigrants and thanked them for choosing to live here; Battleford mayor Chris Odishaw, who said taking part in the ceremony was one of the greatest honours he's had as mayor; North Battleford mayor Ian Hamilton, who said the desire of people to live in Canada made him realize what he takes for granted; Chamber of Commerce president Scott Campbell, who spoke of the drive and ambition of immigrants; and Fort Battleford Historic Site manager Scott Whiting.
St. Vital School's Grade 7 and 8 class were also in attendance. Principal Don Buglas explained attending the ceremony is part of the curriculum and it reinforces what the students learn in the classroom.
"It's just such an honour to be able to witness and be a part of such an important event," said Buglas, adding he also attended a citizenship ceremony when he was a student.
