Earning Citizenship and Making Dreams Come True

Mae and Matt Luengo | High Level

Mae and Matt Luengo both grew up in the Philippines. After meeting by chance and forming an immediate connection, their whirlwind relationship led Mae to become a Canadian citizen. Now, the two of them call High Level home, and they have started their own family in Northern Alberta.

“High Level felt like a wonderful place for us because of the community, opportunities and lifestyle,” said Matt. “We were drawn to its small-town charm, and over time it has become more than just a place to live. It’s where we’ve built our lives and created a sense of belonging.”

Mae is a registered massage therapist and the owner and CEO of M Spa and Massage in High Level. Matt works as a telecommunications technician and is the co-owner of M Spa and Massage.

“Our journey together has been full of challenges, adventures and milestones,” said Matt. “Together we’ve raised a family, built a career and travelled. Every step has been an opportunity to support each other.”

Meeting through Matt’s parents in the Philippines, Mae was introduced to Matt over a video call in March of 2017. They immediately connected and started a long-distance relationship as Matt was in Canada.

In September of that year, Matt flew out to meet Mae in person and proposed shortly after. By December, they had a civil wedding surrounded by close family and soon began planning a larger church ceremony, which took place in March 2018.

“We married in the Philippines, and I applied for my Canadian Tourist Visa to accompany him right after the wedding, which was approved quickly,” said Mae. “I also applied for an Inland Spousal Visa in Canada, and then I applied for my Canadian Citizenship once I became eligible.”

The process of becoming a Canadian citizen often takes a lot of time, preparation and patience. Mae took the necessary exam, and on March 14, 2023, she was officially granted citizenship.

“Becoming a Canadian citizen is more than just a legal status. It’s the culmination of years of hard work, resilience and hope,” said Mae. “In that moment I realized this was a dream come true, a promise of stability that reflected all the challenges that led me here.”

The oath taking was done virtually afterward, which meant the Luengos had to get creative to make it feel like a true celebration.

To make the moment more special and memorable, they requested two of their RCMP friends to attend, who showed up without hesitation in their Red Serge ceremonial dress uniforms.

“During the ceremony there was an online Zoom meeting with other new citizens and Justin Trudeau did a welcome speech,” said Mae. “I wore a beautiful dress, and Matt was in a suit and tie. Even though we had to improvise, it turned out amazing.”

Balancing her cultural roots with life in Canada, Mae has carried forth her traditions, language and values—adapting to Canada’s diversity and inclusivity.

“It has been a journey of embracing the best of both worlds,” said Mae. “Whether celebrating my heritage through food, festivals or family connections—or embracing Canadian customs like Thanksgiving—I’ve found a way to honour both aspects of my identity.”

Throughout her experience, Mae has learned that being Canadian is less about where you come from and more about how you contribute to and embrace the community around you.

“Being Canadian means having the freedom to honour my roots while being a part of a larger, welcoming society,” said Mae. “It’s about kindness, inclusion and building a future where everyone belongs.”

Big changes rarely come without hurdles, and for Mae, the toughest parts were adapting to a completely different climate and feeling the distance from her loved ones.

“Experiencing the long and cold winters here was a shock, but I adapted quickly, and now our son loves to play in the snow,” said Mae. “Being away from family is never easy, but we stay connected through video calls and visit when we can. We also have a strong support system here in Alberta.”

The Luengos say High Level welcomed them with open arms and immediately made them feel like part of the community. They say the support came from every direction in the form of practical help, friendly advice and heartfelt encouragement.

“Whether it was neighbours offering guidance, co-workers helping Mae adjust or local organizations providing resources, we have always felt supported,” said Matt. “The kindness we received reassured us that we made the right choice to come here.”

Now deeply rooted in her new community, Mae spends her time supporting others who are beginning their journey in Canada, offering guidance to those navigating the immigration or citizenship process.

“There will be challenges, waiting periods and moments of uncertainty, but it will all be worth it,” said Mae. “Surround yourself with supportive people, seek out guidance and remember every step forward, no matter how small, is progress.”

Looking ahead, the Luengos’ want to grow their massage business into a trusted wellness centre, promote wellness in their community, support local health initiatives and inspire others to prioritize self care.

“Our long-term goal is to make massage therapy an integral part of people’s lives whether its through partnerships, education or outreach programs,” said Mae. “Giving back and helping others is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re excited for the path ahead.”

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Dani Wearden | Photography submitted