Immigration Partnership Highlights | |
May 30, 5 - 7:30 PM, 67 Erb Street W, Waterloo - In-person - Free
Multicultural Connections 2024
Join us for an incredible evening to connect with others and foster a more inclusive community! This event is free and is designed for newcomers, immigrants, refugees, ethno-cultural organizations, and the community at large. It's a chance to meet and engage with remarkable ethno-cultural groups, gain insights into the rich history and culture of the Indigenous peoples, and participate in activities designed to inspire and connect youth.
5:00 - 7:30 PM - Meet and Greet with Ethnocultural Organizations
5:30 - 6:30 PM - Indigenous Learning
6:00 - 7:30 PM - Human Library
6:30 - 7:30 PM - Youth Led: Empowering Activity
Snacks & children’s activities provided. Interpretation offered in multiple languages!
Join us to celebrate diversity, foster understanding, and build bridges of belonging.
For more information, please contact Ana Lagos Suazo at ana.lagos@kwmulticultural.ca or by phone at 226-972-4836 or visit: Community Events - Immigration Waterloo Region
| |
Are you a business in Waterloo Region looking for diverse and international talent to fill your job openings?
The Waterloo Region Employer Playbook is here for you!
Get insights into recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and integrating the best immigrant talent with this new resource created with World Education Services.
Explore the Playbook here: Waterloo Region Employer Playbook
#hireimmigrants #immigrationmatters
| | |
|
Celebrating Citizenship Week!
During Citizenship Week, Canadians across the country and around the world show their pride in their history, culture, achievements, and shared citizenship. As part of this celebration, in collaboration with our friends from Idea Exchange, we are honoured to host a special Citizenship ceremony in Cambridge on Wednesday, May 15.
Here are some ways you can support new citizens in their journey and welcome them to the community: Citizenship Week: May 13 to 19, 2024 - Canada.ca
| | |
|
SAVE THE DATE - Session three of the Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series is coming up in June!
The topic of the next Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series session is "Access to Services in Waterloo Region Regardless of Immigration Status" scheduled on Wednesday, June 26th, 2024. Please share any topics or questions you specifically want addressed at this session here: feedback survey
Resources and recordings from past Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series sessions are available here: Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series
| | |
|
Introducing our new brand to partners, organizations and the community
We are excited to present you with some updates about the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership. In our constant drive to improve and evolve, we have recently undertaken a subtle but significant transformation of our brand. We believe that a fresh, contemporary look reflects the innovation and forward-thinking spirit that defines the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership.
Partners and organizations collaborating hand-in-hand with us, we're excited to offer you access to our refreshed branding. Please reach out to Diana Carrillo at djoya@regionofwaterloo.ca
| |
Immigrant Survey Results & Snapshots | |
The Immigration Partnership conducted the Waterloo Region Immigrant Survey in June 2023, providing almost 1,700 immigrants the opportunity to share their experiences of living, working or studying in Waterloo Region and impact organizational and community change. Check out the reports released to date. | |
Submissions to Federal & Provincial Government | |
|
The Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership recently contributed a submission to the Federal Government outlining recommended federal investments in Budget 2024 across ministerial portfolios to meet the needs of immigrants and address the pressing issues faced by a fast growing population.
Read here: Submission to Government of Canada’s 2024 Pre-Budget Consultation
| |
|
Waterloo Region faces pressing challenges that limit the wellbeing of immigrants and others in our community. In setting Budget 2024, the Immigration Partnership urged the Ontario Government to increase investment in programs and services that empower immigrants to reach their full potential and contribute to a thriving community for all.
Read here: Ontario_Budget_Consultation_2024
| |
|
Public perceptions of immigration vary widely and are subject to deep fluctuations. They influence the experiences and successes of immigrants, and their desire to stay and contribute to a thriving, prosperous community. While opinions about the impact of immigration in Waterloo Region tend to be fairly positive, less favourable perceptions are held by a significant minority of the population. This report provides the highlights from local data.
Read the full report here: Public Perceptions of Immigration 2023 - WR Matters Survey findings
| |
|
Waterloo Region is set to grow to almost 1 million residents in the next 20 years, largely through immigration. This regional immigration forecast up to 2030 is a tool to support strategic, investment and service decision making and planning, to proactively meet the needs of a growing and changing population.
Read the full report here: Forecast 2023 - 2030
| |
Immigration Partnership Resources | |
|
Make your organization accessible to over 10,000 residents who don’t speak English or French by providing interpretation.
Use the "Interpretation Best Practices Checklist" here: Interpretation Checklist
| |
Explore antiracism resources and join our campaign at: www.racialequitywr.ca | |
New to Waterloo Region? Our partners can help! | | |
|
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) launched the World Migration Report 2024 with the Latest Global Trends and Challenges in Human Mobility
This report reveals significant shifts in global migration patterns, including a record number of displaced people and a major increase in international remittances. The report highlights that international migration remains a driver of human development and economic growth.
Check the report here: World Migration Report | IOM
| | |
|
|
May 14, 7 - 9 PM, 200 Maple Grove Rd, Cambridge - In person
Recruitment Information Session by the Waterloo Regional Police
The Recruiting Outreach Team will be going over the application process and giving tips on how to prepare. There will also be a Q&A session. This is a great opportunity for individuals who want a career that makes a positive impact in the community.
Register Now
| | |
|
|
May 14, 7 - 9 PM, 67 Erb St. W, Waterloo - In person - Free
Democracy at a critical crossroads in an era of disinformation
Join the University of Waterloo in partnership with the Balsillie School of International Affairs, for a conversation on how disinformation and misinformation are leading to polarization, voter apathy and a lack of trust in science and our public institutions. Explore how we can earn trust to defend the future of democracy in an era of disinformation.
Register Now
| | |
|
The launch of uMetropolis is fast approaching
uMetropolis courses combine video lectures from experts in the field, interactive e-learning activities and supplementary reading to provide learners with a practical insight on subjects related to migration, diversity and inclusion.
Explore the courses: uMetropolis - ACS Metropolis
| | |
|
November 25 -27, Hyatt Regency Hotel Vancouver - Hybrid
Pathways to Prosperity 2024 National Conference
The Main Conference will include plenary sessions, workshops, roundtable discussions, poster presentations, and enhanced opportunities to network with colleagues.
Learn more: Pathways to Prosperity 2024 National Conference
| |
Refugee Integration Updates | |
Visit www.immigrationwaterlooregion.ca/ukraine to learn how residents of Waterloo Region can support the Ukrainians coming to Canada. In addition, visitors will find helpful information and tools shared by the federal government specifically for Ukrainian individuals and families such as service access instructions, welcome to Canada checklist, SIN for Newcomers, etc. | |
Initiatives & Funding Opportunities | | |
|
The Sports and Recreation Grant is closing tomorrow!
This program supports eligible not-for-profit and community organizations that encourage participation in a wide range of activities. If you are interested in applying reach out to sportsandrecreation@waterloo.ca
Apply by May 14, 2024.
Learn more: Sports and Recreation Grant - City of Waterloo
| | |
|
Ontario Learn and Stay Grant is now open for students starting in the 2024–2025 academic year
The Ontario Learn and Stay Grant provides funding for students studying in priority postsecondary programs in underserved and growing communities in Northern, Southwestern and Eastern Ontario.
Learn more: Ontario Learn and Stay Grant | ontario.ca
| | |
|
The Inclusive Community Grants is accepting now open!
The Inclusive Community Grants Program provides funding for projects to help ensure local government and community organizations consider Ontarians of all ages and abilities at every stage of community planning and development.
Apply by May 22, 2024.
Learn more: Inclusive Community Grants | ontario.ca
| | |
|
The Neighbourhood Fund is accepting applications
Neighbourhood Farmers Markets, outdoor movie nights and community gardens are just some examples of projects made possible through the Neighbourhood Fund.
This fund is available for projects that help neighbours develop connections, foster a sense of belonging and create opportunities for placemaking. Apply and get up to $7,500.
Apply by May 29, 2024.
Learn more: Neighbourhood Fund - City of Waterloo
| | |
|
Join the International Organization for Migration’s Refugee Advisory Committee for Canadian Orientation Abroad!
COA is seeking formerly resettled refugees to Canada to join its Refugee Advisory Council (RAC) as Refugee Advisors.
Apply by May 31, 2024.
Learn more: Join the Refugee Advisory Committee for Canadian Orientation | Canadian Orientation Abroad Programme (iom.int)
| | |
|
On the table WR is back! Come together, share some food and drink, and talk about what matters most to you!
On the Table is an event organized by Waterloo Region Community Foundation to encourage community connection. Bring together your friends, colleagues, neighbours and people in the community over some food to talk about what matters most to you.
Learn more and become a host: On the Table — Waterloo Region Community Foundation
| | |
|
Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) announces 2024 funding application deadlines
OTF has published the 2024 deadlines for their Capital Grant and Youth Opportunities Fund, as well as their Seed and Grow grants.
The deadline to submit your application is July 10, 2024:
Youth Opportunities Fund | Ontario Trillium Foundation
The deadline to submit your application is June 26, 2024: Seed Grant | Ontario Trillium Foundation
The deadline to submit your application is November 6, 2024: Grow Grant | Ontario Trillium Foundation
| | |
|
|
What does it mean to be a host
WR Grassroots Response is always looking for people in Waterloo Region willing to open up their homes to Ukrainian fleeing the war. The number of Ukrainians seeking shelter is not slowing and there are new requests for help every day.
If you are interested in becoming a host, there are several ways you can help.
Learn more about how you can become a host and support the Ukrainian community:
Provide Housing | WRGR (wrgrassrootsresponse.ca)
| |
|
Front-end processes for
refugee claimants
Front-end processes for refugee claimants are rapidly changing as applications are digitized and government seeks new efficiencies. This infographic has been designed to assist service providers in
keeping up with these changes.
| |
|
Un Guide Pour Tous
GuideMoi est une application mobile gratuite dédiée spécifiquement aux immigrants francophones qui souhaitent ou viennent de s’installer en Ontario. Cette application est un guide intuitif qui accompagne l’immigrant et l’oriente tout au long de son parcours d’intégration.
| |
|
Find a mentor to help you become a licensed health professional in Canada
Mentor Me aims to assist internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs) in obtaining licensure in Canada. It provides a simple solution by connecting unlicensed IEHPs with licensed IEHPs for personalized peer mentorship.
| | |
|
Navigating the Ontario Healthcare System toolkit
The Navigating the Ontario Healthcare System toolkit is a youth-driven resource tailored for newcomers to Canada settling in Ontario. It is meant to help youth who have newly come to Canada and are living in Ontario understand how to get healthcare.
Explore the toolkit here: Navigating the Ontario Healthcare System Toolkit - N4 - National Newcomer Navigation Network
| | |
|
Guide for Service Providers working with Low German Speaking Mennonites
This guide offers valuable insights and recommendations for service providers aiming to better serve Low German Speaking Mennonite clients.
Explore the guide here: Working with Low German Speaking Mennonites
| |
La Communauté en Français | | |
|
|
30 mai de 17 h à 19h 30 h, 67 rue Erb ouest, Waterloo - Gratuit
Connexions Multiculturelles
Promouvoir la diversité : Récits d'appartenance des communautés ethnoculturelles de la région de Waterloo
Événement pour les personnes nouvellement arrivées, immigrants, réfugiés, organisations ethnoculturelles et ouvert à toute la communauté.
17 h à 19h 30 - Venez rencontrer des représentants du secteur ethnoculturel
17 h 30 à 18 h 30 - Apprentissage des Peuples Autochtones
18 h à 19 h 30 - Bibliothèque humaine
18 h 30 à 19 h 30 - Activités dirigées par des jeunes leaders
Collations et activités pour les enfants sont prévues. Service d’interprétation offert en plusieurs langues!
Pour plus d'informations : Community Events - Immigration Waterloo Region
| | |
|
Le lancement de uMetropolis approche à grands pas
uMetropolis est une plateforme d'apprentissage en ligne visant à relever les défis actuels et futurs liés à la migration, à l'intégration, à l'inclusion et à l'histoire du Canada. uMetropolis est accessible, permettant aux utilisateurs de s'engager dans la plateforme de n'importe où et à n'importe quel moment.
Découvrir le catalogue: uMetropolis FR - ACS Metropolis
| |
National Newcomer Navigation Network (N4) prochains webinaires
5 Juin, 13 h - Online - Free
Pratiques de recrutement et de rétention des infirmières formées à l’étranger
Présenté par Hôpital Monfort.
Inscrivez-vous ici
| | |
|
|
May 16, 12 - 2 PM, 151 Charles St. W, Kitchener - Free
Bridging Cultures, Building Futures: Integrating Immigrant Talent in Our Region
This in-person gathering at Communitech will feature a panel of experts discussing how integrating immigrant talent is critical to meeting current and future labour needs in the Waterloo Region.
Register Now
| | |
|
New episode! - Behind the Business podcast
The Behind the Business Podcast is a weekly podcast created by the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce that highlights the important people and issues in Waterloo region and in our community. Business and community leaders share their thoughts on the issues that affect the region and business community.
Don't miss the latest episode with Ajoa Mintah, Founder & owner of Four All Ice Cream: Behind the Business Podcast
| | |
|
|
May 27, 9 - 11:30 AM, 50 Sportsworld Crossing Rd, Kitchener - Free
Navigating Global Englishes
This is an interactive workshop designed to enhance your communication skills in today's multilingual workplace. Gain insights into the concept of Global Englishes and learn practical strategies for effective communication with colleagues or candidates from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Don't miss out on this opportunity to expand your communication toolkit and empower your organization to thrive in a diverse region!
This event is a collaboration of Workplace & Immigrant Network and Kinbridge Community Association's Newcomer Employment Outreach.
Register Now
| | |
|
The Southwestern Ontario development Fund is now accepting applications!
The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to existing businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in southwestern Ontario. The objective of the program is to provide financial support and services to help growing companies in eastern and southwestern Ontario.
Apply by May 30, 2024.
Learn more: Southwestern Ontario Development Fund | ontario.ca
| | |
|
Enabling Fund for Official Language Minority Communities - Employment Assistance Services is now open!
This funding opportunity aims to support Official Language Minority Communities (OLMC) organizations to deliver Employment Assistance Services (EAS) to English-speaking communities in Quebec and Francophone communities outside Quebec in their first official language.
Apply by June 20, 2024.
Learn more: Fund for Official Language Minority Communities – Employment Assistance Services
| | |
|
A new way to settle abroad is coming: Say hello to the Learning Marketplace powered by World Education Services (WES)
The Learning Marketplace is an online learning platform designed for immigrants who need help settling in a new country. Find a variety of affordable classes, workshops, and coaching sessions taught by experts who've been through it themselves.
Learn more and join the waiting list: The Learning Marketplace by World Education Services
| |
|
May 28, 11 AM - 1 PM - 151 Charles Street West, Suite 100, Kitchener - In- person - Free
Communitech Open House
Join the Communitech Open House to explore the historic Tannery building, learn about Communitech programs and meet the awesome people in the community of Waterloo Region!
Register Now
| |
|
Thursdays from May 16 to August 29, 7 - 11 PM, 75 King St S, Waterloo - Free
Salsa in the Square
Enjoy free lessons, live music and dancing. All ages and ability levels are welcome, no partner or experience needed!
| |
|
May 23, 6 - 8 PM, New Hamburg Library - Free
Ask the Rabbi: Everything you wanted to know about Judaism but were afraid to ask
Ask your questions, enjoy traditional Jewish food and learn as a community.
Register Now
| |
|
May 25, 11 AM, Victoria Park, Kitchener - Free
NIROW Children's Day
This year’s Children’s Day celebration will be lit as NIROW's Young Party Planners are organizing it! The Committee of Children, by the Children, and for the Children! So, expect premium fun!
Register Now
| |
|
May 31, 5 - 9 PM, Public Square, Waterloo - Free
Art Market
Shop from a variety of handmade goods by local artists, crafters and makers while listening to live music.
| |
|
Tuesdays to Fridays, open until May 31, 10 AM - 4 PM, 550 King Street North, Waterloo - Free
Waterloo from Above: 200 Years of Change
The new exhibit features historic maps, aerial images and photographs showing Waterloo's remarkable transformation throughout the decades, from early indigenous communities to our present-day.
| |
|
June 13 & 27, July 10 & 25 & August 8 & 15, at sunset, Waterloo Park Bandshell - in-person - Free
Movies in the park
Movies in the Park return to Waterloo Park for summer 2024! Bring a blanket and your favourite snacks and join these fun and free outdoor movie nights.
| |
|
June 19, 5 PM - Online & in-person - Free
Understanding Conflict & Communication
Become more aware of your preferred conflict style, identify situations where each conflict style can be used most effectively, and practice communication that clears up conflict and improves empathy in relationships.
Register Now
| |
|
June 26, 5 - 8 PM, 466 Queen St S, Kitchener - Free Event
Eid Mubarak
Celebrate Eid at Region of Waterloo Museums! Join in fun activities like henna, a live Oud performance, light refreshments, and so much more!
Learn more
| |
|
July 12 - 14 - Waterloo Park
Kultrun World Music Festival
It is a free outdoor festival, made to celebrate the music of the world and bring the community together.
| |
|
SAVE THE DATE - August 23 & 24
Caribana Ignite
Join the Caribbean Canadian Association of WR (CCAWR) to experience the tradition and rick tapestry of the Caribbean heritage right in the heart of Kitchener.
Stay tuned!
| |
National Newcomer navigation Network (N4) upcoming webinars
May 15, 1 PM - Online - Free
Empowering Refugee Claimant Youth to Navigate Healthcare in Canada
In this webinar, participants will learn about the experiences of refugee claimant youth and their families with navigating healthcare in Canada and hear about how participatory research methods and co-design can be used to collaboratively develop tools that are designed by youth, for youth, to improve access to care.
Register Now
| |
|
May 15, 1:30 - 2:30 PM - Online - Free
What do Employers Want?
In this session, learn what it takes to make the best impression on employers as you start a new job. What to expect during your first few days, things you can do to ensure success in your new job, understanding workplace cultures, and what skills employers look for in new employees.
Register Now
| |
|
May 22, 12 - 1 PM - Online - Free
ELCC Navigators: Connecting Families to Early Learning & Child Care
Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Navigators help remove barriers to accessing child care for equity-deserving groups in Waterloo Region. Learn more about the partnership between the YMCA of Three Rivers, EarlyON Waterloo Region, and the Region of Waterloo.
Register Now
| |
|
May 22, 1:30 - 2:30 PM - Online - Free
Career Planning
Explore a few tools to help you understand yourself, your potential career, and the local labour market. Learn how to use all that research to set a well-defined career goal.
Register Now
| |
|
May 23 & June 27, 10AM - 1 PM - 150 Main St., Cambridge - In-person - Free
Strategic Resume Writing Workshop
Suitable for seasoned professionals, new immigrants, or if you already have a resume. This workshop will dive deeper into systems used to shortlist resumes and tailor them to stand out.
Register Now
| |
|
Mon, Wed & Fri, from June 3 - 21, 9:30 - 12:30 AM - 200 Christopher Dr., Cambridge - In-person - Free
Newcomer Employment Outreach Program: Get certified in soft skills
Kinbridge Newcomer Employment is running the Soft Skills Solutions. Build essential skills for the workplace and earn a recognized certificate. Limited space available.
Register Now
| |
|
May 27, 2 - 3 PM - Online - Free
Get Hired! Effective Resume Writing
Learn how to create an effective resume or improve the one you already have. This presentation is provided and delivered by a staff member from the YMCA of Three Rivers Employment Services.
Register Now
| |
|
Thursdays until June 6, 4 -5 PM, 200 Christopher Dr., Cambridge - In person - Free
Youth Employment Program
Get ready for the job market! Through workshops, training sessions, and job search assistance.
Register Now
| |
|
June 13, 10AM - 1 PM - 20 Weber St. East, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Strategic Resume Writing Workshop
Suitable for seasoned professionals, new immigrants, or if you already have a resume. This workshop will dive deeper into systems used to shortlist resumes and tailor them to stand out.
Register Now
| |
|
Tuesdays, until June 18, 5 -7 PM, 12 Water St. S, Cambridge - In person - Free
Let's Talk
A free program for newcomer youth ages 14 - 21 focused on career guidance.
Register Now
| |
|
May 9 & 23, June 13 & 27, Cambridge & Kitchener - In person - Free
Strategic Resume Writing
Ideal for everyone from students to seasoned professionals who have a resume, but are not getting the results they would like.
Register now for Kitchener or Cambridge
| |
|
Tuesdays, until June 25, 5:30 - 7:30 PM - 1700 Queen's Boulevard, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Healing through Art for Parents
Muslim Social Services of KW is offering this program which provides a safe and supportive environment for parents to engage in therapeutic art activities that can help in emotional healing and bonding.
Register Now
| |
|
Tuesdays, until June 25, 5:30 - 7:30 PM - 1700 Queen's Boulevard, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Healing through Art for Kids
Muslim Social Services of KW is offering this program which provides a safe and supportive environment for children to engage in therapeutic art activities that can help in emotional healing and bonding.
Register Now
| |
|
July 15 - 18, 4 - 7 PM, 85 Queen St. North, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Let's Talk Summer Camp
Free program for newcomer youth ages 14 -21 focused on career guidance.
For more information contact: letstalk@kwmulticultural.ca
| |
|
August 12 - 16, 1 - 5 PM, 85 Queen St. North, Kitchener - In-person - Free
Let's Talk Summer Camp
Free program for newcomer youth ages 14 -21 focused on career guidance.
For more information contact: letstalk@kwmulticultural.ca
| | | | |
