Reflecting on the Impact: Skills for Change at Toronto's Newcomer Day
Toronto Newcomer Day 2024 Event PhotosOn May 23rd, Skills for Change had the pleasure of participating in the City of Toronto's Newcomer Day, an event that celebrates the contributions and successes of newcomers to our city.
This annual event has grown significantly over the years, with more newcomers attending each time, showcasing the importance of such gatherings in fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Our participation this year was particularly special as it included hosting a roundtable at the Institute for Canadian Citizenship / Institut pour la citoyenneté canadienne (ICC) Ceremony, held in conjunction with Newcomer Day.
This ceremony marked a pivotal moment for many new Canadians as they took their oath of citizenship, symbolizing their formal welcome into the Canadian family.
I had the pleasure of speaking at an ICC Citizenship Ceremony, and it was an amazingly heartfelt ceremony, filled with hope and new beginnings. Our long-standing support for Newcomer Day reflects our commitment to helping newcomers integrate smoothly into Canadian society as they help to shape Canada's future.
At Skills for Change, we believe that events like these are crucial in highlighting the diverse skills and perspectives that immigrants bring to our communities. They also provide a platform for newcomers to connect, share their experiences, and feel celebrated for their contributions. This aligns perfectly with our mission to support immigrants and refugees through various programs and services that facilitate their settlement and employment.
Why does this matter?
🏢 Economic Growth: Immigrants play a vital role in Canada's growth and cultural enrichment. They fill crucial gaps in the labour market, drive innovation, and contribute significantly to the economy.
🌍 Policy Shifts: As noted in a recent article by The Globe and Mail, the federal government is considering new pathways to citizenship for undocumented migrants, a move that could have substantial economic and social benefits.
🤝 Community Support: This policy shift underscores the importance of organizations like Skills for Change in providing support and resources to help newcomers succeed.
I believe that supporting newcomers is essential for building a stronger and more inclusive Canada. By helping new Canadians settle and succeed, we are investing in our country's future.
How do you think we can further enhance our efforts to welcome and integrate newcomers into our communities?
I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions.