Amea Wilbur believes everyone who comes to Canada from another country has an amazing story to tell. Some are sad, and some are joyful. Hearing them helps us understand and appreciate the courage it takes to uproot everything in search of a better life. 

That’s why Amea, an associate professor in Adult Education at UFV, is so excited about a new book she has co-edited. 

Geographies of the Heart (book launch Sept 27) is a collection of stories from people who’ve migrated to Canada. Eighteen writers from 10 different countries bravely share their experiences leaving old lives behind to come to a foreign land. From cover to cover, Amea says the book is emotional. There is sadness as the writers say goodbye to family and friends. There is anxiety and uncertainty as they arrive in Canada, not knowing what to expect. But there is also happiness, and humour, and so much humanity in the tales they tell. 

“The stories are very compelling,” Amea says with a big smile. 

Six of the contributors are former journalists who fled their countries because of their work. Akberet Beyene came from the African nation of Eritrea, where she started that country’s first television station. Escaping government persecution, she traveled first to Ethiopia, then Europe, and eventually Canada. 

Amea says another memorable story is told by Shanga Karim, a Kurdish woman and women’s rights activist. She vividly remembers fighting her way through prickly blackberry bushes, making her way across the United States-Canada border before claiming refugee status. 

“The book recognizes that people come to Canada in all kinds of different ways, and their journeys can be quite difficult,” Amea muses. “Each story is unique, and the resiliency in their stories is amazing. I believe stories are powerful, and I hope this book gets people thinking about refugees and immigrants.” 

Half of the writers are from Abbotsford, and three of them are UFV alumni, including Muhialdin (Muhi) Bakini. Originally from Sudan, Muhi completed a BA in Political Science and Teaching English as a Second Language from the UFV in 2018. He’s currently the Diversity Education and Resources Supervisor with Abbotsford’s Archway Community Services, providing education, resources, and support on diversity, anti-racism, hate, and bigotry. 

“Immigration is often instrumentalized as a source of economic growth. However, it’s time to shift this narrative,” he says. “Immigrants are not just economic contributors but individuals with unique stories and struggles. I have shared my story to inspire a shift in our collective gaze, away from economic contributions and towards a narrative that values human and communal connection and fosters belonging and inclusion, a crucial aspect of our society.” 

The official publishing date for Geographies of the Heart is September 18, but Amea recently received four physical copies of the book from UBC Press. As she held the finished version in her hands, she thought about what it took to get there. 

“It was a long process that started pre-COVID when we met with some of the writers at UFV,” she recalls. “I am amazed that the writers stuck with it through the pandemic. We were meeting through Zoom and supporting each other in whatever ways we could. The book is one thing, but there are also many lasting relationships that were built because of it.” 

There will be several events happening in September to promote the book, including one at UFV Abbotsford on the 27th.  

All proceeds from the books will go to Archway Community Services. Click here for more information.