Walking Together: The Impact Series

Recognition without Assumption: The Lighthouse called Be Embraced

Our Impact Series is a dedicated space where we celebrate the profound journeys of resilience and transformation within our community, and this month, we are honored to introduce Helen Evans. An international student from Lagos, Nigeria, currently at Adler University. Helen arrived in Vancouver to face not only the literal chill of a Canadian winter but the metaphorical freeze of isolation—a journey that led her from the "shell" of hiding her vitiligo to finding a "lighthouse" of belonging within the Be Embraced Foundation.

The Shell of Protection

Back home in Lagos, Helen had learned to navigate a specific kind of isolation. Living with vitiligo since the age of five, she had spent years perfecting the art of "shrinking." In a world of curious stares, whispered assumptions, and unsolicited advice disguised as concern, Helen’s shell was her sanctuary.

When she arrived in British Columbia on Christmas Day, 2025, the weight of intensive schoolwork and the complexity of a new culture only made that shell thicker. She found herself withdrawing further, shielding the vitiligo mark on her nose—which she describes as standing out like "the horn of a unicorn"—from the curious glances of strangers.

"I never knew settling in a new environment would be hard," Helen reflects. "I chose to withdraw into my shell to avoid the stares."

The Lighthouse Shines

The turning point came through a Social Justice Practicum (SJP) at her university. Among the list of community service sites, one name stood out: Be Embraced Foundation. Drawn to the warmth of Founder Birgit Geismayer’s smile on the website, Helen felt an intuitive pull. She didn't just want to complete a practicum; she wanted to belong.

Her first step into the community was the "Mastering Relationships" event. In a room filled with hugs and inviting faces, the atmosphere was a stark contrast to the whispered assumptions she had grown used to. Hannah Grosmith’s session on self-worth provided a renewed sense of confidence, marking the start of a deeply transformative process.

The Power of Being Seen

For Helen, the transformation was visceral. Through sessions on self-worth and the simple, grounding acts of storytelling and "making boxes" with Birgit, the hidden parts of her soul began to reclaim their space.

“This became the most transformative process because I finally felt seen,” Helen says. “I was embraced exactly as I am, no questions asked, and no assumptions.”

In the vast, often impersonal landscape of a new country, Helen found what she calls her "Lighthouse." Be Embraced provided the family structure she thought she had left behind in Nigeria. But more importantly, it gave her a new vocabulary for her experience. If she had to choose one word to describe her journey, it is Recognition.

Impacted to Positively Impact

“Being a part of the Be Embraced community made me reclaim a part of myself I have hidden for so many years.”

Today, Helen is no longer shrinking. The empathy she received has become a tool she uses to impact her own community. She has moved from the isolation of the "stare" to the empowerment of the "embrace." Helen’s story reminds us that when we see a woman for who she truly is—without assumptions or judgment—we don't just change her day; we give her the courage to shine her own light for others to follow.

What Is Your Story?

Helen’s journey reminds us that while we may feel the need to "shrink" or hide our vulnerabilities, we don't have to navigate our challenges in the shadows. Has Be Embraced helped you feel seen? Whether it was a moment of recognition at an event, the warmth of a "soul family" when you felt alone, or a new sense of self-worth that gave you strength, we want to hear from you.

Sharing your story helps other women realize they aren't walking alone either. Don't worry about "perfect" writing—just speak from the heart. We are here to help you shape your story to inspire others. Click here to share your experience with us, or share your story by email: hello@beembraced.org.