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Eleanora Buono

Educational Support Consultant

About Eleanora:

A Retired French Teacher – June 2019

Graduated from Glendon College of York University – B.A. French – 1985

Graduated from The University of Western Ontario – B.Ed. – 1986

I am so grateful that my parents immigrated to Canada from Italy.  Growing up in an Italo-Canadese home, I feel fortunate to have been immersed in a language and culture that is still so much a part of who I am today. I believe I was drawn towards the French language and culture because of my “Italian” experience.  Studying French became my passion and focus and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to study abroad in both Quebec and in France. It seemed fitting that I would became a French teacher with the hope that I would inspire others to appreciate the French language as much as I did.

What Inspired your Participation in this Project?

It is an honour and a privilege to be a part of “The Quiet Immigrant Project”! The women showcased in this exhibit represent many who courageously came to start a new life in Canada with so many unknowns. My mother is one such woman. Everyone and everything she knew and loved was left behind. In spite of the distance, the bonds of familial ties and her love for the “paese” remained strong.   She faced many challenges throughout her life, but with her faith, her resilience, and her strong devotion to family, she was able to re-create a new life, not only for herself, but also for her family here in Canada. My mother has been and always will be my most important teacher and role model.

When I reflect on our family history, culture and the immigrant experience, my mother’s journey laid the groundwork for my own journey. Her stories and my own travels to Italy have enabled me to understand her more deeply and to be a part of her story. I have developed a profound appreciation for my roots and connections to Italy and hope to always maintain my cultural identity. The Quiet Immigrant Project is an important event highlighting the women that played an instrumental role for so many of us. Grazie, Laura Libralato, for your vision, your dedication and your invitation to be a part of this enriching experience.