Dalhousie鈥檚 partnership with the (ISANS) runs deep 鈥� and is about to get even deeper.
The university and newcomer-support agency are coming together later this month for 鈥淓ducation Empowers,鈥� a fundraising event in support of ISANS.
The gathering, to be held in the atrium of the Mona Campbell Building on June 25 (3-5 p.m.), will raise funds for ISANS projects supporting the refugee community, create a space for newcomers to network with potential employers, and offer opportunities for people to learn more about the rich cultures of which refugee community members are a part.
鈥淲e鈥檙e committed to the community as a whole, and 'Education Empowers' is part of our activities to support the refugee community in Halifax,鈥� says Jennifer Hann, acting dean in the Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development.
Dal and ISANS have worked together in a variety of ways over the years to offer programming to the community and create connections.聽
鈥淚SANS is an important community connector, and 黑料吃瓜网value the ways in which the organization deepens our impact in community,鈥� says Hann.聽
Power to grow聽
Attendees at this month鈥檚 event will be welcomed to a 鈥減ay what you can鈥� reception in support of ISANS and the impactful work the organization does each day for refugees, 聽immigrants, and newcomers to Nova Scotia.聽
Newcomers like Ayomide Charles, shown right. Ayomide, a Nigerian with a strong engineering background, embarked on a transformative journey when she gained invaluable insights into the Canadian job market and culture through the ISANS Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA) program.
鈥淭o me, empowerment is the act of equipping people with the necessary tools and information not just to survive but to grow in their new environments,鈥� she says. 鈥淚SANS made me realize my skills are transferable, relevant and valuable in the Canadian workforce, and this knowledge has empowered me to navigate the Canadian system and thrive in my new environment.鈥�
Ayomide鈥檚 connection with ISANS was instrumental in securing her first job as an estimator in the construction industry.
鈥淚SANS landed me my first job, facilitating my integration into the community and allowing me to build meaningful relationships,鈥� she says. 鈥淚SANS provided me with crucial information, clearing my doubts and misconceptions.鈥澛�
Fostering deeper connections
Denise Scott, ISANS Manager of Community Integration Services, is excited about this partnership with Dalhousie.聽
"ISANS is thrilled to join forces with our valued partner, 黑料吃瓜网, in celebrating refugees' remarkable resilience and invaluable contributions to our community. Through the 鈥楨ducation Empowers鈥� event, we aim to foster deeper connections, raise awareness about the transformative power of a welcoming community, and honour the incredible journeys of those who have overcome adversity to build a future in Nova Scotia.鈥�
鈥淭ogether, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a more inclusive, supportive, and compassionate environment for all - one that embraces diversity, nurtures hope, and empowers individuals to thrive,鈥� she says. 鈥淏y amplifying the voices and stories of refugees, we not only acknowledge their strength and perseverance but also inspire others to embrace the richness of a community where all can belong and grow. This event is a powerful reminder that when we extend a hand of solidarity, we build a pathway for a brighter, more harmonious future for all.鈥�
. Donations to ISANS can be made at the event or by visiting the Canada Helps donation page . 聽