For Ogweno Stephen, Montreal was more than a destination. It was an experience of contrasts, discovery, and perspective. Coming from Kenya, the first and most immediate impression was the cold. Not just a passing chill, but a deep, immersive cold, with snow covering the city in every direction. It was beautiful, unfamiliar, and at times overwhelming, a reminder of how differently people experience the world.

Through his lens, Montreal revealed itself as a city layered with history, culture, and innovation. One of the most striking moments was visiting Notre-Dame Basilica. The interior, with its intricate detailing and dramatic lighting, felt almost surreal. It is not just a place of worship, but a masterpiece of architecture that reflects the city’s deep historical roots.

A different kind of awe came from La Grande Roue de Montréal. Standing tall over the Old Port, the ferris wheel offers a panoramic view of the city. Even in the cold, it represents movement, perspective, and the scale of Montreal as a global city.

History continued at Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel, known as the oldest church in Montreal. Its quiet presence tells stories of early settlers and generations that shaped the city. In contrast, The Ring offered a modern expression, a bold piece of public art that symbolizes connection and continuity in an urban space.

At Montreal Biosphere, the focus shifted to the future. This environmental museum stands as a reminder of the urgent conversations around sustainability and climate, themes that resonate globally, including back home in Africa.

Perhaps one of the most fascinating discoveries was the Underground City. A vast network beneath the streets, it reflects how infrastructure adapts to extreme weather, allowing life to continue even in harsh winter conditions. For someone used to open, warm environments, this was both surprising and impressive.

Finally, Mary Queen of the World Cathedral stood as another architectural highlight. Its scale and design echo global influences, reinforcing Montreal’s place as a meeting point of cultures and histories.

Each of these places was more than a landmark. They were moments captured, experienced, and interpreted through a personal journey. For Ogweno Stephen, Montreal was not just about what he saw, but how it expanded his understanding of place, people, and possibility.