Dalhousie to Host Fundraising Event to Empower Newcomers through Education
Dalhousie’s partnership with the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) runs deep — and is about to get even deeper.
The university and newcomer-support agency are coming together later this month for “Education Empowers,” 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.
“We’re committed to the community as a whole, and ‘Education Empowers’ is part of our activities to support the refugee community in Halifax,” 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.
“ISANS is an important community connector, and Dalhousie value the ways in which the organization deepens our impact in community,” says Hann.
Power to grow
Attendees at this month’s event will be welcomed to a “pay what you can” reception in support of ISANS and the impactful work the organization does each day for refugees, immigrants, and newcomers to Nova Scotia.
Newcomers like Ayomide Cha0rles, 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.
“To 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,” she says. “ISANS 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.”
Ayomide’s connection with ISANS was instrumental in securing her first job as an estimator in the construction industry.
“ISANS landed me my first job, facilitating my integration into the community and allowing me to build meaningful relationships,” she says. “ISANS provided me with crucial information, clearing my doubts and misconceptions.”
Fostering deeper connections
Denise Scott, ISANS Manager of Community Integration Services, is excited about this partnership with Dalhousie.
“ISANS is thrilled to join forces with our valued partner, Dalhousie University, in celebrating refugees’ remarkable resilience and invaluable contributions to our community. Through the ‘Education Empowers’ 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.”
“Together, 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,” she says. “By 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.”