Story from October 20, 2010 of SNAP Ontario – Settlement News Across the Province 

NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN 

Businessman from Colombia Re-defines the Meaning of  ‘Mature Student’

Learning has no age limit for Manuel Maria Hernandez Jimenez.  Born in Colombia, he came to Canada with his family in 2003 to escape the daily environment of kidnappings, assissinations and extortion attempts in his home country.  He had to sell the family printing business that he operated in Colombia for 35 years.  Now, at age 85, he continues to enjoy learning English through LINC classes at Bradford Immigrant & Community Services. 

Manuel came to Canada unable to communicate in English but can now bank, shop and go to church with comfort and confidence.  He has learned to write in English and enjoys reading English newspapers.  He enjoys studying with students from many different countries and is very interested in their cultures.  His LINC classes give him English skills, frienship and an opportunity to socialize.  Manuel is an active member of his church choir and often entertains his classmates with songs from his youth and native country. 

Manuel says, “The support I have received through Bradford Immigrant & Community Services has reduced my isolation and supported my integration into Canada.”  Manuel is much-loved by his classmates and instructors.