With over 26 nationalities represented, BNP Paribas (Canada) can be proud to have a staff hailing from all the corners of the globe. We took advantage of the 21st of May, World Day for Cultural Diversity, to launch a series of “employee portraits” of some of our international co-workers. We wanted to pay tribute to the richness of culture and tradition that exists right here in the workplace.

The series began with Guadalupe Lepine from Client Services, representing Mexico. A week later, Youssef Jaafar of Accounting gave us a taste of Morocco. Here are some excerpts from the conversations that followed.

What impressed you the most when you first got to Quebec?
Guadalupe: A native of Mexico City, I was used to growing up in a big city. When I got to Montreal 30 years ago, I felt like I was living in a really small one.
Youssef: It was the love that Quebecois have for Quebec and even more so for the French language. I think it’s great.

Tell us about a custom from your country that doesn’t exist here.
Guadalupe: At school every Monday, the students of private and publics schools alike salute the national flag and sing the national anthem before going to class. The idea is to teach civic-mindedness, a love of our country and our flag, and to remind us of where we come from.
Youssef: Going to the Hammam baths. They represent a social venue where we relax and discuss. Even if we find spas and saunas here in Montreal, they don’t replace the Moroccan Hammams.

What binds your country and Canada together?
Guadalupe: In Mexico, family is of the utmost importance, and I was surprised and very happy to find that the same is true in Quebec. When I got here, married, my husband’s family really welcomed me, and the whole family circle took me in with open arms, accepted me, respected and loved me without trying to change me, and helped me to get acquainted with the customs here, in turn learned my country’s customs.
Youssef: I think it’s the French language and the passion for our local sports: here for hockey and in my country for football!

Thanks, Guadalupe and Youssef!

Traditional recipes, photos and advice about each featured country were presented and exchanged among colleagues throughout the respective weeks.

Following the success of the first two employee profiles, others are sure to follow…Stay tuned for Romania, Gabon, Italy and France!