"Belonging" - VOBSS Burnaby Festival of Learning Event

On May 9 2023, VOBSS took part in the Burnaby Festival of Learning (BFOL).  This year the theme is "Belonging".  Several seniors through VOBSS put pen to paper and wrote about what Belonging means to them.  At this hybrid event, these seniors read out their writings.  Shauna Paull, the instructor for the Creative Writing class held by VOBSS earlier in the year acted as the facilitator.

Creative Writing Celebration

On March 21, 2023, VOBSS hosted a Creative Writing Celebration at the Lakeview Room, Bill Copeland Sports Centre, at the conclusion of classes. 

Fabian Williams George, Matriarchal Chief of the Tseil-Waututh Nation, graced our event with a traditional indigenous drumming and song to welcome us to the Celebration.

This was a hybrid gathering enabling Shauna Paull, our instructor, to attend even though she was not feeling well.  Many in the class, who had met only on ZOOM, had an opportunity to meet in person. 

Shauna shared three powerful poems from her book “Blue Gait”.   Many students shared a piece of personal writing before we enjoyed a catered lunch and social time. 

Chair Yoga Completion Celebration

To celebrate the completion of the Chair Yoga series, a gathering for all the participants was held on August 30, 2022 at the Bill Copeland Arena. The Mayor of Burnaby, Mike Hurley and the Chair Yoga instructor Christine were the invited guests of honour at the event. Christine led those present through a short Chair Yoga session, after which lunch and refreshments were served.