Immigration Partnership Highlights | |
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We want to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who joined us for Multicultural Connections 2024; your support and participation made it an incredible gathering, and we are truly thankful. We also want to thank the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre, the Balsillie School of International Affairs, and the International Migration Research Centre for their collaboration in hosting this event, and amazing team members, volunteers, and partners for bringing such a wonderful celebration of cultures to life. The afternoon was an exciting moment of cultural exchange, featuring Indigenous learning sessions, a human library, and youth engagement workshops. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with diverse ethnocultural groups and celebrate our community's rich diversity. Through events like these, we aim to share the important work that ethno-cultural groups and service providers are doing and provide a platform for all members of the Waterloo Region to network, learn, collaborate, and grow together.
Thank you for being part of this incredible experience!
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Welcome to the team Kelechi!
Meet Kelechi Kenneth Nwabeke, a student with Conestoga College’s Management in Community Service program, who will be in placement with the Immigration Partnership team until August. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations and Law Diplomacy, Kelechi is passionately committed to contributing to the growth and prosperity of Waterloo Region. We are excited to offer a dynamic, collaborative environment supporting his academic goals and meaningful community contributions. He has diverse skills and perspectives, which we know will enhance our work and impact. Welcome!
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SAVE THE DATE - Session three of the Brown Bag Lunch Learning Series is coming up this month!
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
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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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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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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 | |
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Get insights into recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and integrating the best immigrant talent with this new resource created with World Education Services.
Explore the Playbook: Waterloo Region Employer Playbook
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New to Waterloo Region? Our partners can help! | | |
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s online survey on immigration levels is now open!
Your input matters! Share your views before June 30, and help build a stronger, more inclusive Canada.
Find the survey here and please, share it with your network: IRCC survey on immigration levels / Sondage d’IRCC sur les niveaux d’immigration
Available in English and French
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June, different dates & locations - Free
Senior Month - Activities & Events
The City of Cambridge is offering different events and activities for Seniors Month. Join them and take part in the many FREE ways to stay active and stay healthy this June.
For more information visit: Recreation and Programs - 50+ - City of Cambridge
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June 5 & 27, 1:30 - 3:30 PM - Online - Free
Walking Together: Strengthening Indigenous - Newcomer Allyship
Join OCASI for the ARI Roundtable to explore Indigenous-Newcomer Allyship. In today's global context, many individuals seeking refuge are uprooted from their native lands for various reasons, and seek safety in Canada. However, newcomers may lack knowledge about the People who have cultivated this land for thousands of years. Settlement sector workers and sponsors could play a crucial role in decolonizing newcomers' perspectives of Indigenous Peoples. Explore successful initiatives within the sector that are already in motion.
Register Now
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June 8, 1 - 6 PM - 151 Charles St. W, Kitchener - In person - Free
2024 Youth Impact Project Pitch Party!!!
For the past few months, youth (supported by organizations in Waterloo region) have worked to come up with innovative solutions to youth challenges in the region based on the 2023 Youth Impact Survey data. At this event, youth will pitch their creative ideas and projects! Three winning pitches will receive funding to bring their ideas to life.
Register Now
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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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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
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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.
Deadlines to submit applications:
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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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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
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La Communauté en Français | | |
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22 Juin, 13 h - 18 h, 450 Maple Grove Rd, Cambridge - Gratuit
Franco-Fête /Franco-Foire de l’Association des Francophones de Kitchener - Waterloo
Vous êtes tous invités le 22 juin à célébrer la St Jean-Baptiste. Spectacles, Danses, Bricolages, jeux divers et exposants francophones, l'entrée est gratuite!
Vous offrez des services en français?
L’AFKW espère faire connaitre toutes les entreprises, organismes et les personnes qui offrent des services en français dans la région. Pour cela, nous vous offrons la possibilité d’avoir un espace (max. 3 m x 3 m) alloué rien que pour vous! Vous pourrez offrir et présenter vos services et vos produits* en toute simplicité.
Inscrivez-vous simplement en 1 clic ici avant le 10 juin 2024: Inscription Franco-Foire 2024
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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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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 Patti Berardi, Station Manager of Rogers TV covering Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Kitchener-Waterloo and Stratford: Behind the Business Podcast
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June 7, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Online - Free
Effective Employer Engagement
Employer engagement is crucial to the success of community stakeholders and partners who provide immigrants, refugees, and other newcomers with employment-related services. Yet knowledge about effectively engaging businesses and other employers—especially in long-term partnerships—remains scarce.
To address this gap, World Education Services (WES) and Hire Immigrants Ottawa are offering two interactive virtual sessions.
Register Now
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June 11 & 25, Online - Free
Startup Business Basics
Starting a new business venture? Learn the necessary steps to start your business! Learn how the Waterloo Region Small Business Centre can help you. The information in this webinar is focusing on starting a business in Waterloo Region and will be covering provincial and municipal regulations. You can still benefit from this webinar if you plan to start your business outside of the Waterloo Region.
Register Now
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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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June 5, 10 -11 AM - Online - Free
Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada: What Entrepreneurs Must Know
IRCC will be providing information regarding federal requirements, support programs, and more for small business owners and entrepreneurs.
Register Now
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Learn with the experts. Grow with Google Career Certificates.
Scholarships are now available for Google Career Certificates! No experience required – just your passion and ambition!
Scholarships are available upon application – first-come, first serve – until 30 September 2024.
Learn more: Grow with Google - First Work
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Thursdays until 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!
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June 6, 7 & 8, different locations - in-person - Free
Afrovibes Festival
AfroVibes Festival is a dynamic cultural event that celebrates and elevates African heritage in Canada. This is an inclusive platform that bridges cultures, embracing diversity and unity.
Learn more
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June 8 & 9, Waterloo Public Square, Waterloo - In-person - Free
Indian Food Carnival 2024
Mark your calendars and join us for a celebration of India's rich culture and delicious cuisine!
Register Now
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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.
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June 14, 9:15 AM - 12PM, 1145 Concession Rd, Cambridge - In-person - Free
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Event. bOLD: Age with Attitude
All are welcome to join the Elder Abuse Prevention Council in collaboration with the City of Cambridge for this free event featuring great speakers, an open Q&A, and a low impact fitness activity by Community Support Connections.
For more information visit: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Event
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June 19, 1 PM - Online - Free
"All My Relations" Teachings: Relationships and Connections between Indigenous Peoples and Newcomers
MCC Elders and staff will discuss how they have been working to bridge relationship and connection between Indigenous and Newcomer relatives.
Register Now
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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 1st, 4 - 10 PM, Waterloo Park West (near the bandshell) - In-person - Free
Community Picnic
Spend the afternoon on the west side of Waterloo Park with local artists, food trucks, giant games and more at the July 1 Community Picnic. At 10 p.m. a spectacular LED drone show will light up the sky to finish off the night.
Learn More
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July 12 - 14 - Waterloo Park
Kultrun World Music Festival
This festival is a free, family-friendly event that attracts both visitors and residents alike. The purpose of the festival is to bring together top talent from around the world to help celebrate diversity.
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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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June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, a time to recognize the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Learn more about National Indigenous History Month by supporting and attending local events. Here are some events happening in the region through the month:
June 10 & 11, 9 AM - 4 PM & 6 - 8 PM, 425 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener - in-person - Ticketed
Ga'nigqhi:yo-Gbe Ìfọkànbalè "Carry The Peace"
Healing of the Seven Generations and Kind Mind Family Wellness is excited to announce the “Carry the Peace” Youth Conference, all youth inspired.
Register Now
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June 17, 6 - 9 PM, 200 University Avenue, Federation Hall, University of Waterloo - in-person - Free
Indigenous Community Concert Sultans of String "Walking Through the Fire"
In celebration of National Indigenous History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Office of Indigenous Relations is excited to host an Indigenous Community Concert featuring Walking Through the Fire. Light refreshments will be provided.
Register Now
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June 20, 6:30 - 8:30 PM, Crow Shield Lodge, 10 Huron Rd, Kitchener - in-person
Full moon ceremony with Kelly Welch
All women and 2S folks are welcome to join us to give honour to Grandmother Moon with Kelly Welch.
Learn More
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June 21, 11 AM - 4 PM, 466 Queen St. S, Kitchener - in-person
National Indigenous Peoples Day
Support, celebrate and learn at Schneider Haus' outdoor community-based event showcasing Spirit Nation Youth Drumming, a talk about drums with Scott Norton, an Indigenous Community vendor market, and Indigenous Organizations information fair where you can learn about vital Indigenous organizations in our community.
Learn More
Learn more about National Indigenous History Month here: National Indigenous History Month
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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
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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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June 10, 2 - 3 PM, Online - Free
Get Hired! Interview Skills Workshop
Explore how to change your interview style for a successful online or in-person interview. This presentation is provided and delivered by a staff member from the YMCA of Three Rivers Employment Services
Register Now
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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
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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
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June 24, 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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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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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
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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
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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
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From September - October - In-person - Free
We Belong – Introduction to Photography for Newcomer Seniors
In this introductory photography program, newcomers 55+ will learn basic photography skills and capture what belonging means to them through a camera lens.
For more information visit: Central Library: Introduction to Photography for Newcomer Seniors
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Canada opening more visa application centres in Mexico from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, May 31, 2024
Waterloo Region grew faster last year than any urban area in Canada from The Record, May 31, 2024
Waterloo region preparing for 1 million residents by 2050 — Redman from CBC News, May 29, 2024
Temporary measures to support family members affected by the crisis in Haiti from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, May 23, 2024
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