Filipino family happy to be new Canadians

Learning about Indigenous peoples' history in Canada is something that newly recognized Canadian Shaira Oyando is excited to explore.

Oyando moved to Canada five years ago with her family and this week they officially became citizens.  

The ceremony took place at Government House on Thursday, when 20 new Canadians were welcomed to the country.

"It's very overwhelming at first. I can't really explain how I feel," said Oyando, a University of Regina student.  

"It's really a pleasure to be a Canadian citizen and to be getting all these rights and privileges from the country."

The Oyando family moved to Canada from the Philippines and Shaira said learning about Canadian history is helpful.

Learn about Canada, share your culture with them and have fun!- Ryan Oyando

Part of that history includes Canada's Indigenous people.

Oyando is eager to learn more about Indigenous culture, "especially how they preserved the country before the immigrants came and how they also preserve that culture in modern times."

Sixteen-year-old Ryan Oyando echoed his sister's thoughts about being a new Canadian.

"It's a new learning experience," he said.

When it comes to Indigenous culture, Ryan said it's important to learn how everyone can live together in Canada with its diverse culture and history.

He had one piece of advice to anyone who wants to become a Canadian citizen: "Learn about Canada, share your culture with them and have fun!"