All posts by stella mozin

Should I apologize on behalf of my country?

January 29, 2016 stella mozin Leave a comment

In today’s society one can not ignore the fact that there is still constant generalization amongst all types of different nationalities. More often than not I witness individuals having to prove themselves innocent despite not being accused of anything. On countless occasions I have witnessed students saddened by their country and feeling a need to apologize to people. I have witnessed students feeling a need to explain themselves for actions their country proceeded in.

“There was a terrorist engagement in Turkey, and now everyone thinks Turkey is involved in terrorism”

I’m sorry for my country

“Even 70 years later, the Holocaust is still a very real ordeal for older citizens ”

I’m sorry for my country

“I was in a discussion last week, where my Nepalese classmate told the group that people from India were randomly shooting Nepali citizens at the border”

I’m sorry for my country

“Donald Trump is making a huge appearance in the media today about his racist remarks, and now again America is being looked at as a racist and belittling country.”

I’m sorry for my country

“Rape is a serious widespread issue in India still.”

I’m sorry for my country

“I took my very first indigenous studies course at UBCO and didn’t know any basic knowledge about indigenous peoples prior to the class.”

I’m sorry for my country

“Britain launched airstrikes in Syria, now everyone thinks it was the country’s decision, when indeed in was just the government’s decision.”

I’m sorry for my country

These are just very few examples of students expressing their apologies about the nation they are from or consider home.

Do we need to apologize?

There is a difference between apologizing for your country and being aware of what they have done – and whether it was right or wrong.

When one apologizes it gives the impression of guilt – as if the person were a part of the act committed.

However, in saying that, I am not one that is down playing any apology. It’s still a step in the right direction. But words are powerful and can alter opinions and interpretations.

Initially, I was looking through a certain lens going into this post but after turning this topic into a debate it really fostered my understanding in terms of why people say the things you they do.

In talking with other students, I’ve learned that the impulse to apologize is not only an internal struggle but an external one as well.

Perhaps people are what they are through their country’s or community’s actions as well as through their own individualism, which is why people are driven to apologize – or, perhaps, to take action against injustice. That could even mean to participate in a healing or recovery process.

We are shaped by our environment, which includes where we are from, the events or people impacts us, and the societal beliefs and decisions made around us. We are in some ways tied to what happens – even if we are not directly responsible.

Canada Across the Map, Your Voice

Human being versus human doing

November 20, 2015 stella mozin Leave a comment

When you look at the image featured above what do you see? Despite it being a world map, does it feel off putting to you? Does it seem like you know what you see, however the feeling you receive is somewhat irregular?

Is it because Europe isn’t lined up in the center of the map?

Is it because the dimensions of Africa are for once accurate?

Is it because North America doesn’t seem as expanded or as intimidating anymore?

You need to be in charge of they way you choose to see things rather than accepting to be fed a false reality. It doesn’t just apply to this map, but to your everyday life as well.

Why does an uncomfortable feeling arise when I watch the Hunger Games, Divergent and Maze Runner? Is it because it’s actually in mirror mode of what our potential future will look like? Moreover, that someday we are all divided into a bunch of districts of the wealthy and the poor, the skilled and the unskilled, and those with status and the status-less.

Why has the human race become organisms of doing, pacing, waiting, and rushing instead of just being? Why have the tables turned in the sense that we are not working to live anymore but rather living to work? Despite some us loving our jobs, we have a tendency to rush home just to stare at an electronic screen. It’s something you can’t feel; it’s simply robotic involvement.

Why does it seem like our natural environment has to adapt to us rather than us adapting to it? Rainforests that were once fresh and lushes are now desserts that are dry and dull. Fields that were once crisp and full of green are now landfills that resemble a spoiled child’s room, where there are too many toys and garbage lying about.

Why are likes, followers, and large friend lists an ego booster? Society needs to recognize you cannot auto-correct life. Moments, interactions and embraces should be your ego booster, because that is real. The record player that spins in your life seems to be broken, because all you keep hearing are the same lyrics over and over again: “Could have, would have and should have”. Yes life is tough, but guess what, you are stronger!

Why is it that the majority of people don’t know that 10% of the entire world population is illiterate? Second, 795 million people are undernourished around the globe. Third, women spend nearly one year of their lives deciding what to wear. Forth, only 2% of women describe themselves as beautiful. Fifth, on average a person spends 4 years of its life looking down at its cellphone. This list goes on and on. Now is it because every time you turn on the news you see events taking place involving celebrities like The Kardashins? Where having “a lot” on their plate involves them going to a photo shoot or not having any cell reception.

Why is racism, labels and religious conflicts such a huge topic still? It is 2015! We weren’t born instantly knowing or caring that we are yellow, brown, white, black or speckled. No baby is born racist. We grow up in these shells called labels and overtime we unfortunately start to believe that that is what defines us. “My god is all loving, but if you have a different belief I’ll make your life a living hell”. – There is so much wrong with that sentence. Yet it is repeated again and again in on going religious arguments. Why does it seem like we are arguing to death? I have a heart, a brain and I am human. The person across you on the outside may appear in complete contrast to what you look like, but on the greater scale of things they have a heart, a brain and are human too, just like you.

In my grade 12 yearbook of my last high school year, I quoted beside my graduation picture “The biggest challenge in life is trying to be yourself in a world that is trying to make you like everyone else: Be you.” Sometimes you need to stop and think if you are doing something for you, or that you are indeed being fed a false realization.

Campus Corner, Events

Tournaments Galore

October 18, 2015 stella mozin Leave a comment

The month of October has been filled with endless games of football, soccer, fútbol or fussball – whichever way you like to say it. Participants were able to listen to the crisp sound of the ball being pierced against the net. They were able to witness their sweat dripping from forehead to chin. However, most importantly, they were able to play an international love or rather, an international language adored by many.

On October 3rd began the World Cup tournament. Nine in the morning, bright and early, teams were able to start some of their first games. The tournament was ongoing until the final game took place at five o’clock. Eventually the Russian Federation team took first place! Lots of teams were thirsty for more soccer, especially after some of the losses. (Hosted by the Model United Nations Club and helped by the International football Club)

On October 13th, students were able to bounce, spin and even 360-flip all around the field in a goofy game of bubble ball. Being in the bubble itself was quite the experience. Participants were tackled left and right and were thrown from one end of the field to the other, still retaining the biggest smiles on their faces. (Hosted by the Social Club, the Biochemistry Course Union and International Football Club)

On October 16th, music was blaring, soccer boots were tighten and the IFC NepSA Tournament began! Each team was able to participate in a minimum of three games. Afterwards, the scores were calculated to see which teams made it to the finals. Eventually, Kings FC were successful in taking first place by the end of the tournament. In addition, over $250 was raised for the school building project in Nepal! (Hosted by International Football Club and the Nepalese Scholars Association )

More events like these to come in the near future!

Stay tuned.

Campus Corner, Events

The Nepalese Scholars Association

September 30, 2015 stella mozin Leave a comment

Nepal is a place of utmost hospitality and grace.

The freedom flags sway elegantly in company with the wind’s chase.

Since a number of ever-changing moons the ground in the once peaceful place has been tragically shifted.

It’s our responsibility to help this beautiful country and have the people uplifted.

Please take a moment to think about what you acquire.

Think about what is in your heart and what does one really require.

The Nepalese Scholars Association

This association is fairly new and yet it has already made it’s mark in showing students what the group is all about. They have been determined and courageous in everything they have done. The association started up a “Nepalese Earthquake Relief Support” Facebook page and started building momentum in bringing awareness to students and the city of Kelowna. It has risen an effort towards supporting the earthquake victims in Nepal.

Shortly after, they hosted a Candlelight Vigil to recognize those who had been impacted by the earthquake in Nepal.

Next, the association started a bottle drive for the Shree Bashukee School in Nepal. Moreover, they currently have a GoFundMe page as well. –> https://www.gofundme.com/NepSA-UBCO

On October 2nd there is an event taking place called Harmony UBCO. It is 1st annual Harmony banquet and it happens to be hosted by Jus Reign’s right hand Babbulicious. Harmony UBCO is a multi-club collaboration including performances and food from 10 of our cultural clubs around campus. It’s goal is to expand intercultural relations and to celebrate unity.

Harmony will include performances and food by the following clubs:

South Asian Alliance
Association of Bangladeshi Students
African Caribbean Student Club
Asian Student Association
Sikh Student Association
Indigenous Student Association
European Student Association
Russian Speakers Association
Arab Student Association

and….
The Nepalese Scholars Association!

Harmony Facebook event page –> https://www.facebook.com/events/159293914414954/

Lastly, this brings us to the Nepsa tournament!

It is a fundraiser for building a school in Nepal. This tournament is in collaboration with International Programs and Services, International Football club, Student Union.

DATE: October 16th
TIME: 4:00pm -9:00pm
AMOUNT: 10 – 12 team (approx. 8 players)
PRICE: $5 individual / $35 team
INFO: This event is to raise money to build a school in Nepal from the devastating earthquake a few months ago. Registration booth also up next week for sign ups. Extra: Included BBQ by donation Contact: Nepsa.ubco@gmail.com or ubcosoccerifc@gmail.com

—-> NepSA tournment facebook page

To conclude, having traveled to Nepal a couple years ago and having friends and family over there, makes this association really hit ‘home’ for me. They are such an inspiration to me and to all students at UBCO.

Uncategorized

The Hidden Gems of Kelowna!

August 20, 2015 stella mozin Leave a comment

Are you lusting for some adventure?

Is your stomach grumbling uncontrollably?

Are you just searching for a peaceful setting to study in?

Let us help you out with some of these exceptional opportunities that are just waiting for you!

———-> Hiking hidden gems

Dilworth mountain : Easy; 1 – 3 km
Access from Hwy 97 heading north by turning left on Spall Road; this turns into Glenmore Drive. You will turn right at the lights for Summit Drive, climb the steep hill and turn right on Chilcotin Court, you will see a parking lot on your right hand side. Dilworth mountain can be seen from almost any location in Kelowna and offers some of the best views of the city.

Knox mountain: Easy; 1 – 3 km Access from Hwy 97 heading north by turning left on Spall Road; this turns into Glenmore Drive. You will turn right at the lights for Summit Drive, climb the steep hill and turn right on Chilcotin Court, you will see a parking lot on your right hand side. Dilworth mountain can be seen from almost any location in Kelowna and offers some of the best views of the city.

Glacier Glades: Moderate to Difficult; various distances
Kalamalka Provincial park is located at the north end of Kalamalka lake which is a beautiful lake. There are several walks you can take through bunchgrass meadow, along cliffs and through the Douglas firs overlooking Kal Lake. There are also a few beaches in the area, perfect to dip into on a sunny day.

Mill Creek: Mill Creek Regional Park is 15.3 hectares in the Ellison area, east of the Kelowna Airport. Take Old Vernon Road off Highway 97 N and turn onto Spencer Road, the parking lot is on the right hand side.

Crawford Falls / Canyon Falls Park: Difficult; 1 – 2 km
Crawford Falls is located on Bellevue Creek. It can be reached by the following: Gordon Drive to Dehart Road; Dehart Road to Crawford Road; Crawford road to Westridge Road. Turn on to Canyon Ridge Crescent and finally to Canyon Falls Court, which is a dead end. You will see a Kelowna City Parks trail that you can follow to a beautiful waterfall.To get to the lower falls takes about 20 minutes but is quite difficult. Once there you will see 20 foot falls. If you continue about 10 more minutes you will see the larger falls (40 feet). *Before you go, be advised that this is a very steep, advanced level hike. Staff are currently working to establish a safer trail to the bottom. Hikers should also be aware that parking is limited in Canyon Falls Court. Cars parked less than 3 metres from driveways will be ticketed and/or towed. There is additional parking on Westridge Drive and Stewart Road West.

Kelowna Mountain (suspension bridges and vineyards): Take Chute Lake Rd to Upper Mission Drive, Turn left on Gillard Forestry Rd at Upper Mission Drive, Turn left at Kettle Valley Stone, Turn right into the Kelowna Mountain gates off of Gillard forestry Rd.

———-> Eating hidden gems

Jammery: Breakfast, brunch, and lunch only.
Menchies: Dessert
Bluetail: Japanese / Sushi
Grand 88: Buffet / Western Chinese / Japanese / All you can eat
Packing house / Tonics / Brans Creek: $3 wings! (on specific days)
Latin Fiesta: Mexican / Salvadorian
Naked Cafe: Vegan / Vegetarian
Pakora Palace: Indian food

Study hidden gems

Pulp fiction
Starbucks
Bean Scene
Bliss bakery
Kelowna Library
Blenz Coffee

– Stella Mozin

Canada Across the Map

Canada’s recognition

August 13, 2015 stella mozin Leave a comment

Kanada, カナダ, कनाडा, Canadá

No matter how you say or spell it, Canada is recognized differently all around the world.

These are just a few examples…

Irene Salverda, president of the Associations for Canada Studies in the Netherlands works at Wageningen University and Research Centre in the Netherlands.

Says…

“Many of my non-Canadianist friends refer to Canada as “the European version of America.” Canada resembles Europe the way it wishes it had stayed: full of natural beauty.

The Dutch are attracted to the down-to-earth Canadian spirit. In Amsterdam, many locals will play dumb if an American asks for the way. But state you’re Canadian, and doors will open instantly.

Nowadays, my friends remark, with surprise, “Canada has an American president, only interested in the economy and ignorant of anything else, and America has a Canadian president.” So images are definitely changing; some Dutch people fear that this beautiful Canada will soon be one big oil field.”

Wang Bing teaches at the Liaoning Normal University in Dalian, China. He is a past president of the Association for Canadian Studies of China.

Says..

“Canada definitely conjures up a very positive image in our Chinese mind. We usually find Canada wherever in the world justice should be done, abuses of human rights criticized, refugees assisted, or wrongs redressed.

Canada’s image as a dull “wheat exporter” decades ago has now changed into a much more dynamic, diverse country. The curriculum about Canada focuses on Chinese immigrants, bilingualism and multiculturalism, which is perceived as the best, if not perfect, choice to solve problems of ethnic conflicts and social harmony.”

Emperatriz Arreaza teaches at the University of Zulia inVenezuela and is president of the Venezuelan Association of Canadian Studies.

Says..

“Canada is so important in Latin America and especially in Venezuela, in order to recuperate democracy and freedom. We are so grateful for the attention that Canada’s Parliament has given to the political prisoners’ wives and their testimonies about the violence and lack of human rights in Venezuela. Canada has a role as a peacemaker in Latin America in general, particularly in Venezuela.”

Samira Omar is a postgraduate student at Saint Paul’s University in Ottawa.

Says…

“It is one of those known and widely accepted truisms that Tanzanians love and respect Canada and that Canadians, through their goodness and generosity to Tanzania over the past 60 years and more, have shown in a clearly measurable way, their affection for my country, Tanzania.”

Article info from…

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/how-canada-is-perceived-around-the-world-1.3132343

– Stella Mozin