Learning Activity 3

Alisha Syed

Bow Valley College

COMM1101 Interpersonal Relationships And Communication Skills

Travis Moir

February 5, 2024
 My name is Alisha, a name that resonates deeply with my cultural heritage and familial

values. Originating from Arabic and Persian roots, "Alisha" embodies meanings of divine

protection and nobility, reflecting the hopes and aspirations my parents held for me when they

bestowed this name. It is a name that carries with it a sense of pride and responsibility, reminding

me of the enduring connections to my heritage and the values instilled within me from a young

age.

As a first-generation Canadian, my roots trace back to the bustling streets of Pakistan,

where my parents were fueled by dreams of a better future. Their decision to immigrate to

Canada was driven by a quest for opportunities and a desire to provide a brighter path for their

children. Settling in Calgary, Alberta, was a deliberate choice, influenced by the city's reputation

for economic prosperity, cultural diversity, and welcoming community. Growing up in Calgary

has been a transformative experience, shaping my identity and outlook on life in profound ways.

The decision to make Calgary our home was not without its challenges, as adapting to a new

culture and way of life presented its own set of hurdles. But the warmth and inclusivity of the

community soon enveloped us, making us feel welcomed and embraced. Over the years, Calgary

has become more than just a city for me and my family. It is a place where so much of our

identities have been nurtured, relationships have developed and grown, and memories are made.

​Bowness Park holds a special place in my memories. It is a timeless space of nature and

nostalgia. From the earliest days of my childhood, Bowness Park has been a cherished

destination for family outings and gatherings, etching its beauty into the backdrop of my

experiences. I recall countless weekends spent picnicking by the tranquil waters, the laughter of

children echoing across the water as we fed the ducks and geese that called the park home. One

particular memory that stands out is a crisp autumn afternoon spent wandering the park's
winding pathways with my cousins. The colours of fall foliage painted the landscape in a riot of

colours, creating a breathtaking backdrop for our adventures. We navigated our way through the

maze of trees, collecting fallen leaves to press into makeshift scrapbooks. It was a simple yet

profound ritual that bonded us together in shared moments of wonder and discovery. As the years

passed, my appreciation for Bowness Park only deepened, its timeless beauty serving as a source

of peace and renewal during life's inevitable ups and downs. It is a cherished oasis that I am

grateful to call my own in a special way.

Regarding Indigenous history, Bowness Park, situated in Calgary, Alberta, holds a

profound historical significance rooted in the indigenous heritage of the region. As per the

Glenbow Museum's Indigenous Studies Collection, the park's location lies within the traditional

territories of the Treaty 7 First Nations, including the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Piikani,

and Kainai), the Tsuut'ina First Nation and the Stoney Nakoda (Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Wesley).

These indigenous communities have inhabited and stewarded the land for thousands of years,

utilizing its resources for sustenance and spiritual practices. The Glenbow Museum's collection

show the presence and contributions of indigenous peoples in the area. According to Blackfoot

Crossing Historical Park, the Bow River which travels through the Bowness Park, holds

particular significance for indigenous peoples as a vital water source and a route for

transportation and trade. The park's development in the early 20th century coincided with the

settlement of European immigrants in the area leading to the establishment of recreational

facilities and green spaces along the riverbanks.

 References

Glenbow Museum. (n.d.). Indigenous Studies Collection. Retrieved from

https://www.glenbow.org/collections/indigenous-studies/

Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from

http://www.blackfootcrossing.ca/

Tsuut'ina Nation Cultural Museum. (n.d.). Welcome. Retrieved from

https://tsuutinanation.com/visitors/tsuutina-nation-cultural-museum/