My Mom's Necklace

My name is Laura Molina, and I am from Mexico. Two and a half years ago, my family and I embarked on the journey of emigrating to Canada. While this has been an enriching experience, a deep sense of nostalgia for Mexico still lingers in my heart.

When we moved, we packed light, bringing only the essentials. But among the few objects I couldn’t leave behind was my mom’s necklace. It’s more than just a piece of jewelry—it’s a lifeline to my past, connecting me to her, our family home, and my life in Mexico.

The necklace, also a rosary, is delicately crafted with a warm glow that reminds me of the light by which my mother used to sit, rosary in hand. Each bead carries a memory. I recall seeing it often—draped around her neck or clasped in her hands—hands that lovingly shaped our world. That necklace evokes traditions, customs, and countless memories of home: a place filled with laughter, sibling conversations, and moments that shaped who I am. It will always be a cherished reminder of where I come from, symbolizing my pride in my roots.

Our time in Vancouver has been very positive for the most part. The past two years have been wonderful for our entire family, blending treasured memories from Mexico with our new experiences in Canada. Thanks to Flavours of Hope*, I’ve had the opportunity to start a family business specializing in Yucatecan cuisine. Sharing the rich flavours of Mexican culinary culture with the local community brings me immense pride. Every dish tells a story, and seeing people discover and appreciate our traditions through food is deeply rewarding.

*Flavours of Hope is a non-profit social enterprise that envisions newcomer women flourishing and experiencing belonging through cooking, storytelling, community-building, and entrepreneurship.