Newcomer Welcome Fair in Winnipeg Fosters Community Connections

Winnipeg hosted a vibrant multicultural event on Saturday, aimed at embracing and supporting newcomers while providing them with essential resources to kickstart their new lives in Canada.

Organized by Immigration Partnership Winnipeg (IPW) and other organizations focused on newcomers, the annual Newcomer Welcome Fair has been running since 2016, initially born out of the need to assist Syrian refugees who arrived in large numbers.

“We wanted to support them, offer a space for socializing, and provide vital information for their settlement and integration,” explained Reuben Garang, director of IPW.

Over time, the fair expanded its reach to include all newcomer settlement agencies in Manitoba, such as Mosaic, the Winnipeg Newcomer Sport Academy, and the Manitoba Association of Newcomer Serving Organizations (MANSO).

Attendees had the opportunity to explore various booths and engage with representatives from different organizations to learn about the wide array of newcomer resources available in the city, including education, employment, and mental health services.

The fair also featured family-friendly activities, multicultural cuisine, and captivating live performances.

“With participants from diverse cultures and backgrounds, we have a range of shows and cultural dances taking place today. It’s a wonderful way to foster connections and understanding,” Garang emphasized.

The event’s primary focus is to build strong community bonds, as being a newcomer can present numerous challenges.

“Newcomers often experience feelings of isolation and homesickness, given their separation from their families. Navigating the immigration system, finding employment, and connecting with people can be overwhelming,” Garang acknowledged.

He expressed gratitude for the collective celebration and assistance offered to newcomers, stating, “It’s truly fantastic that we are all gathered here today to celebrate and extend a helping hand. It’s a positive development for Winnipeg!”

Manitoba continues to witness a surge in newcomers, with the first quarter of 2023 alone welcoming 8,835 individuals as permanent residents to the province.