There’s something uniquely fulfilling about building a connection with your kids, it doesn’t matter when, where, or how those moments happen. I’ve already shared my experience attending college alongside Leo; now it’s Luccas’s turn. My two boys shine in completely different ways, each with his own spark.

Whether we’re sharing a Clarice Lispector poem, trying to import a Radiohead vinyl, or listening to Justin Timberlake on an old iPod; hanging out in a “crumbling charm” of a basement on the Plateau; enjoying one more U2 concert; absorbing the Montreal tan-tan drums; wandering around the Pinacoteca; laughing our way through revisions of my first (kind of crappy) film script; or working side by side in a shared space in Moncton, these experiences deepen our bond.

For Luccas, Canada was a dream long before it became reality. He struggled for years to make it happen, the snow-covered landscapes, the multicultural cities, the idea of starting fresh in a place that values diversity and inclusion. Canada was more than just a place on a map for him; it represented a new chapter, a life built on purpose and possibility. Watching him finally arrive and work toward his vision has been nothing short of inspiring.

These days, I’m working alongside him at a multicultural agency, where he teaches English. Seeing him interact with his students, witnessing his passion for helping newcomers adapt and feel at home, it fills me with pride. There’s a unique satisfaction in watching your child not only build a path for himself but do so in a way that makes a real difference. Being in the same environment lets me see a side of him I might not otherwise experience up close.

Working in the same building has created an unexpected bond between us. We share ideas, discuss projects, and even offer each other advice throughout the day. I love these casual work-related chats that can suddenly veer into family stories, laughter, or debates over the best way to teach English idioms. We’re both committed to helping newcomers feel confident and supported as they navigate life in a new country, and sharing that purpose deepens our connection, both professionally and personally.

It’s also just plain fun to bump into each other in the hallways or grab a coffee together during a break. Seeing Luccas around the building, chatting about colleagues or preparing for his classes, I’m reminded of how proud I am of the person he’s become. Working together feels like a shared adventure, a chance to support each other’s growth and learn from one another. It’s a privilege I never expected but am deeply grateful for.

Image: Personal Archive 2018