Immigration Partnership Highlights | |
May 30, 5 - 7:30 PM, 67 Erb Street W, Waterloo - In-person - Free
SAVE THE DATE! - 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
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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 today: Waterloo Region Playbook - World Education Services
#hireimmigrants #immigrationmatters
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Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series session two for front-line colleagues was a huge success!
Last week more than 100 front-line staff of immigrant and community service organizations joined session two of our 2024 Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series. Focused on "Access to Basic Needs in Waterloo Region," speakers provided the latest information and resources to help newcomers get the housing, income, child care and other support they need. HUGE thanks to our amazing presenters, attendees, the fantastic team behind it all and our funders!
Session three is coming up in June. Share you feedback and help us understand the specific questions you need answered to make upcoming Brown Bag sessions more valuable for you: feedback survey
Resources and recordings from this and past Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series sessions are available here: Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series
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New Report on Addressing Systemic Racism and Digital Equity across the Settlement Journey
This collaborative research project aimed to understand the settlement journey of racialized newcomers, with a specific focus on the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs). The findings highlight mixed ICT experiences and challenges, prompting recommendations for flexible service provision and capacity building for the settlement sector. It was led by the Centre for Community Based Research (CCBR) in partnership with the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership and Peel Newcomer Strategy Group and funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Check out the report and recommendations for changes to make local services more effective for immigrants.
Access the report here: Equity in the Broader Settlement Sector | CCBR
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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
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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 | |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Immigration Partnership Resources | |
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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
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Explore antiracism resources and join our campaign at: www.racialequitywr.ca | |
Community Partner Highlights
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April 30, 5 - 7PM, 13 Water St. N, Cambridge - In person - Free
Pop-up Pap Test Clinic
This is a pop-up clinic for those who do not have a primary care provider and are due for a Pap Test. No appointment necessary, walk-ins are welcome.
Translation service available.
More information: Events - Cambridge North Dumfries OHT
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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
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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
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2024 Federal Budget: Fairness for every generation
The 2024 federal budget is the government’s plan to build more homes, faster, help make life cost less, and grow the economy in a way that helps every generation get ahead.
Learn more: Budget 2024 (canada.ca)
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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
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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
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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 | | |
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Apply for a Sports and Recreation Grant
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Call for proposals for Civil Society & Public Administration Fellowship Program is now open!
Professionals from civil society or government with international experience in migration or immigrant integration are invited to apply for a one-month residency at Toronto Metropolitan University. This program fosters international collaboration and learning exchange between practitioners and researchers. It offers a chance for professionals to share and enhance their field expertise, connect with Canadian and international researchers, and conduct their own research.
Apply by May 1, 2024
Learn more: CERC Civil Society & Public Administration Fellowship
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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)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) - Newcomer toolkit | |
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Are you new to Canada? Is this your first time navigating the Canadian tax system? Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is here to help make the process smoother for you.
CRA newcomer toolkit
The tax season can be overwhelming, especially when you're new to the country. Whether you're filing for the first time or need assistance understanding Canadian tax requirements, these resources are designed with you in mind.
Resources in a variety of languages
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Benefits and Credits for Newcomers to Canada - Available in Arabic, Cantonese, English, Farsi, French, Hindi, Mandarin, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Ukrainian, and Urdu.
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Factsheet: Newcomers - Available in Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Dari, English, French, Pashto, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, and Ukrainian.
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Canada Dental Benefit - Available in Arabic, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, English, French, Hindi, Michif-cree, Punjabi, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, and Ukrainian.
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Infographic – Benefits and Credits for Newcomers - Available in Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Dari, English, French, Pashto, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, and Ukrainian.
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Scams and fraud - Available in Arabic, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, English, Farsi, French, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Ukrainian.
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Warning for newcomers to Canada: Watch out for tax schemes targeting you! - Available in English and French.
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New to Canada? There are benefits to filing an income tax and benefit return - Available in Arabic, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, English, Farsi, French, Hindi, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Ukrainian, and Urdu.
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Monday to Friday, until April 30, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Free tax clinics
If you were employed or received income (including Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support in 2023) you need to file your taxes before April 30th, 2024. The locations listed below will provide assistance to e-file your tax return.
- 150 Main Street, Cambridge
- 20 Weber Street E., Kitchener
- 99 Regina Street S., Waterloo
Learn more
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La Communauté en Français | | |
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Behind the Business podcast - Business Expo Special
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 part 1 and 2 of the Business Expo Special with amazing guests who speak on a multitude of interesting topics including their career journey's, business advice, and MUCH MORE!
Behind the Business Podcast
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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
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National Learning Series for Employers
Hosted by IRCC, each 30 minute information session will allow employers from the construction, health care, hospitality and agri-food sectors to learn more about Canada’s economic immigration programs, as well as the CAN Work Philippines Pilot. During these sessions, we will discuss a multitude of programs and offer resources to employers.
Choose one or more webinars to attend: Register Now
April 30 - Online - Free
National Learning Series for Employers - Hospitality sector
May 1 - Online - Free
National Learning Series for Employers - Health Care sector
April May 2 - Online - Free
National Learning Series for Employers - Agri-food sector
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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
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May 4 & 5, Modern Languages Building Room 110, University of Waterloo, Waterloo - In person
Take Me Home /خدني على بلادي
Levant Community Dabke Group is excited to present Take me home/خدني على بلادي. a light-hearted folkloric story that is presented with cultural Dabke, traditional wedding ceremony and dances from various cultures.
Register Now - May 4 & Register Now - May 5
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May 5, 5 - 6:30 PM, 285 Benjamin Rd., Waterloo
Steps for Kids' Mental Health
Lace up your shoes and walk to support kids’ mental health in Waterloo Region! Your participation ensures children and youth have access to the vital mental health treatment and care they need, supporting their journey to brighter, healthier futures.
Register Now
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May 7, 5 - 7 PM, 200 King St. w, Kitchener - In person - Free
Art exhibition: "Finding Our Place: A Journey Home"
Discover a captivating showcase of artwork created by former and current youth clients in Reception House WR. This exhibition serves as a powerful platform for newcomer youth to express themselves through art.
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May 7, 5 - 6:30 PM, Sears Atrium, Toronto Metropolitan University - In person - Free
How will Technological Transformation Change the Future of Migration in Canada?
Panelists will discuss the impact of digital transformation, exploring questions on remote work, diaspora connections, algorithmic processing, and equitable services.
Register Now
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May 7 - 9, Toronto Metropolitan University - In person and virtual options
Migration Disrupted: How Technological Transformation is Reshaping Human Mobility
This conference brings together an interdisciplinary and inter-sectoral group of researchers and leaders from Canadian and international civil society, business and government to reflect on the implications of the rapid development of advanced digital technologies for migrant integration in Canada and around the world.
Register Now
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May 7 - 12 - Different locations - Free & ticketed events
Grand River Film Festival (GRFF)
The GRFF has an amazing lineup of films screening across the Region. 5 feature films and 26 shorts. Special guests and Q&As
Full schedule and details
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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!
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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
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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
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Tuesdays, starting April 30 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
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May 6, 2 - 3 PM - Online - Free
Get Hired! Mastering your Online Job Search
Explore effective online job search strategies by using the most popular websites, managing your professional identity with LinkedIn and making your resume Applicant Tracking Systems compatible. This presentation is provided and delivered by a staff member from the YMCA of Three Rivers Employment Services.
Register Now
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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
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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
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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
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Changes to the Start-up Visa and Self-Employed Persons programs to help reduce backlogs and improve processing times from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada newsroom, April 29, 2024
International students will be allowed to work 24 hours a week starting in September from CTV News, April 29, 2024
Waterloo looking to develop land supporting hundreds of affordable units from CityNews, April 29, 2024
First-of-its-kind Black music festival coming to Kitchener from CityNews, April 28, 2024
Why are many Canadians deciding to live abroad? from CTV News, April 28, 2024
Canada must be more audacious with efforts to attract global talent from Policy Options, April 18, 2024
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