Meriem is a lovely older adult participant that I had the pleasure of meeting during one of our Digital Dividends programs at Monsignor Powers Apartments in South Boston. Every Wednesday, without fail, Meriem was seated with her computer open, ready to learn a new subject.
After the first class, I learned that we were both Ethiopian. Given the small community of Ethiopians in Boston, I had not expected to meet an Ethiopian older adult at any sites. Every class after that, we shared conversation, stories, and laughs in Amharic, a language I had felt I was slowly losing after being away from my family for college. With every conversation, I felt a stronger and stronger bond between the two of us, Meriem had welcomed me with warmth and kindness, making me feel like family, despite having no family nearby.
Meriem was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, my hometown. She was one of thirteen siblings. In hopes of fleeing war and political turmoil in Ethiopia, at age 18, Meriem and one of her brothers immigrated to Italy in search of a better life and education. Meriem lived in Italy for three years, where she quickly became fluent in Italian and got accustomed to the way of living. After three years, Meriem decided to move to Canada in search for higher education. She obtained a double degree in Fashion Merchandising and Business at Centennial College in Toronto. Her passion for merchandising brought her to Boston, MA, where she met her former husband and had a son.
I asked Meriem, “What has been your biggest accomplishment in life so far,” her answer was simply put, “being a mother.” Meriem raised her son as a single mom. She expressed how even through the difficulties her son was her greatest motivator, and motherhood gave her a newfound purpose in life. During her son’s early childhood, Meriem had unfortunately fallen sick, but her kindness and radiant positivity quickly drew a supportive community around her—even as a newcomer to Boston. Her gentle spirit inspired neighbors to step in and help raise her son, a true testament to the power of her presence.
Ironically, my favorite memory with her was on her last day in the program. Meriem was kind enough to make sambusas for the entire class – a snack I grew up eating. She told us it took her three days to prepare them, but she was motivated by how grateful she felt for LBFE Boston and the computer class. One bite of the pastry instantly took me back to Ethiopia. Meriem’s presence brought joy, comfort, and a sense of home that extended far beyond the classroom. Though the program ended, the bond we formed and the warmth she shared will stay with me for years to come. Meriem reminded me that even in unfamiliar places, we can find pieces of home through the people we meet.
Written by Elysia Wossen, LBFE Boston Program Coordinator and Northeastern University Co-Op Student, January – June 2025.