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In this inspiring episode of #GaleForceWins, we sit down with Nevra Sener, an educator, counselor, and passionate advocate for newcomer mental health. Originally from Istanbul, Turkey, Nevra shares her remarkable journey from growing up in a multicultural family to settling in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. After completing her Master of Education at Memorial University, Nevra found her calling supporting newcomers through her work with the Association for New Canadians and now with the Canadian Mental Health Association.
Nevra opens up about the emotional and cultural challenges of immigration, the importance of mental health education, and how she blends her counseling background with project management to lead impactful initiatives like Steering Success. She offers personal insights into Turkish culture, collectivism, and how different communities approach mental health. Most powerfully, she encourages newcomers not to feel alone—and reminds us that self-care is not selfish, but essential.
This conversation is a heartfelt celebration of resilience, belonging, and what it means to build a new life while giving back to the community. Whether you're a newcomer, an employer, or simply someone who values compassion and cultural understanding, this is a must-watch.
Timestamps:
0:00 – Welcome and introduction to Nevra Sener
0:42 – Nevra's move from Turkey to St. John’s
1:01 – Growing up in Istanbul and cultural background
1:20 – The influence of Nevra’s immigrant roots
2:04 – Psychological insights from cultural upbringing
2:41 – Minimalism vs. collectivist habits
3:26 – Nevra's childhood interests and communication skills
4:08 – The importance of interpersonal communication
5:10 – Educational influences and her sister as a role model
5:51 – Meaning of her and her sister's names
6:53 – Nevra’s academic journey and love for school
7:54 – Working as a school counselor in Istanbul
9:00 – Helping students manage anxiety and choose careers
9:48 – How Nevra met her husband
10:30 – Marriage and family roles in Turkish culture
11:18 – Deciding to move to Canada during COVID-19
12:50 – Applying to universities and choosing Memorial
14:09 – First impressions of Newfoundland
15:00 – Community support and sense of belonging
15:45 – Her husband’s transition and love of cooking
17:30 – Nevra’s work post-graduation with ANC and CMHA
21:00 – Newcomer challenges: employment and housing
22:30 – Current project: Steering Success for mental health
25:00 – Importance of employers in newcomer integration
28:30 – Cultural differences in discussing mental health
31:00 – Mental health evolution in Turkey
33:00 – Collectivist vs. individualist approach to mental health
35:45 – Nevra’s future hopes professionally and personally
37:30 – Describing Newfoundland to her family in Turkey
39:00 – What makes Newfoundland’

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