2023 Welcoming Ottawa Ambassadors

Most people spend their golden years taking up hobbies. But one Ottawa couple in their 70s chooses to spend their free time supporting newcomers, like Tamim Ansar’s family.

Tamim left Afghanistan in February 2021. His parents and eight siblings joined him a few months later, shortly after NATO forces pulled out of the country.

Don Cullen and Marie-Thérèse O’Sullivan initially heard from neighbours that there was “a large family at the end of the street who needed help.” They jumped into action, introducing themselves to the Ansars during one of their daily walks.

They have a long history of extending a helping hand to many refugees, as well as newcomers from numerous countries. More than 40 years ago, as part of Project 4000, they opened their home to Vietnamese refugees.

“Don and Marie-Thérèse are full of patience, kindness and energy,” says Tamim. He doesn’t know how his family would have managed without them. “They have been there for my family to help with many details of resettlement and navigating the system, from countless drives to appointments, to providing food assistance, tutoring, clothing, gardening and funding opportunities.”

They helped Tamim and his father learn to drive, lending them their car. “Because of their efforts I got my G level driver’s license,” says Tamim. Tamim works at a credit union and is in the Environmental Studies program at Carleton University. He also gives back by volunteering as a Pashto and Dari interpreter with the Catholic Centre for Immigrants and helping other newcomers to resettle.

“They provide advice on how to navigate the culture of Canada and how to succeed in different aspects of life. Don and Marie-Thérese make us feel that Canada is a heaven for immigrants and refugees. They have taught us life lessons and how to be kind to people without any expectation.”

“When one door closes, another opens with opportunities to help newcomers and young people,” remarks Don. “If you can brighten someone’s day for a few moments, that’s great. When you help newcomers, you also can learn about other cultures and religions. You find a common thread and learn from each other.”

“Our community, which includes the Queensway Terrace North neighbourhood and Britannia United Church, have been very supportive of Tamim and his family and even funded their food for a while,” explains Marie-Thérese. “It’s been a gradual process, with people reaching out and offering assistance.”

“Lots of refugees are separated from their extended family back home,” adds Marie-Thérese. Although they don’t have children of their own, Don and Marie-Thérese have become like an uncle and aunt to the Ansar children. The two families recently celebrated the birthday of Don and one of Tamim’s sisters. They shared an Afghan feast, lots of laughter and even learned a traditional Afghan dance.

Tamim explains that Don is closest to his father. The two men have even been known to share an occasional “dad joke.”

Don and Marie-Thérese feel privileged to receive this award. “We are just two sets of hands. There are hundreds of other sets of hands. We will do what we can to help in the future. Through this award, we honour everyone who has been welcoming to newcomers.”

“Tamim’s family showed up the other day at our house,” concludes Don. “They were dressed beautifully and introduced us to their friend. It was so nice to see their smiling faces and share in their love, joy and hope.”