Kaitlyn Fung has lived in Vancouver all her life — it's the city she and her family and many friends call home. But despite her deep roots, she often wonders why she doesn't have a stronger sense of belonging to the people who share it. But she's not alone in feeling alone in the city.
In this series, Fung interviews people who have dedicated their lives to building the Vancouver of their dreams: one where people can rely on each other, where deep friendships form the basis of communities, and where seeing a familiar face in the streets is an everyday occurrence instead of a happy accident. In her own words:
"This work has given me hope in a time when I have, in these pandemic years, most felt the strain of social isolation and the dark-hearted questions it raises for me. I've talked to people who are working towards solutions to what can often feel like an intractable yet widely felt problem of social isolation in Vancouver; unlikely allies across two highly charged neighbourhoods; and the ordinary people at the heart of vital mutual aid efforts in the city.
"The American organizer and educator Mariame Kaba is an inspiration to me. She is known for coining the phrase 'Hope is a discipline.' I see this clearly in the people I’ve interviewed for this series, who are trying to practice hope and realize their dreams for a better city every day. I hope you’ll find inspiration from their actions, too."
In This Series
‘Small Care’ Happens Every Day
Across the Downtown Eastside and Chinatown, unlikely friendships form a broad network of support. Second in a series.
Lonely City? Meet People Making Profound Connections
A rising tide of mutual aid has emerged in Vancouver during the pandemic. Last in a series.