annual report 2018 – 2019 mcaf amcf · 2019. 10. 21. · 2 mca annual report 2018 – 2019...

A M CA F A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 8 – 2 0 1 9

MULTI

CULTURAL ASSOCIATION OF FREDERICTON INC.

L’ASSOCIATION MULTICULTURELLE DE FREDERICTO

N IN

C.MCAFAMCF

A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 8 – 2 0 1 9

i M CA F A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 8 – 2 0 1 9

• to foster an environment in which individuals can attain economic self-sufficiency;

• to make a creative contribution to the community;

• to take a stand on issues of common concern.

To celebrate strength in diversity by enabling the meaningful exchange and full community participation among people of all backgrounds and circumstances.

VISION

MISSION

28 Saunders StreetFredericton New BrunswickCanada E3B 3N6506.454.8292

[email protected]

The MCAF’s principal aims are to:

• encourage and promote the concept of multiculturalism; • facilitate communication and understanding between persons of various

cultural backgrounds in Fredericton and surrounding areas; • foster harmonious relationships among all cultural groups and individuals; • disseminate and advance ethno-cultural education in the community; • assist newcomers to become established in the community.

PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

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MCAFAMCF

1M CA F A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 8 – 2 0 1 9

Page

President’s Message and MCAF Board of Directors 2

Staff Welcome 3

Overview of Clients Served 4

Exploratory Visits 5

Pre-Arrival Services 6

Atlantic Immigration Pilot Project (AIPP) 8

Resettlement Assistance Program 9

Programs for Newcomer Settlement 11

Newcomer Employment Services 20

Skills Launch Program 22

Newcomer Children and Youth Programs 24

Diversity and Inclusion in Schools 29

Cultural Expressions Festival 30

Multicultural Shared Space 32

Volunteers, Placement Students & Community Partners 33

Financial Report 41

Thanks to our Funders 42

Table of Contents


President’s Message

In June 2019, the Fredericton Region launched a 5-year Immigration Strategy supporting population increase of 1,000 people per year, with a target of 32,000 by 2043. MCAF, Ignite Fredericton and the Chamber of Commerce are key stakeholders in the Newcomer Partnership Council to implement the strategy.

Exceeding projected targets, MCAF served 2,245 newcomers last year; with a 200% increase in new clients; 1,458 from 54 countries. English language training was delivered to 574 newcomers. MCAF Employment Services provided newcomers with orientation to the Canadian labour market, employment coaching, Workplace Essential Skills, Portfolio Development, Cultural Competency Training, First Aid & CPR, Food Safety Certification, prior learning assessment, foreign qualification recognition pathways, Atlantic Immigrant Career Loan Fund, mentorship matches, networking and opportunities to build connections with employers. Over the past 3 years, through the Skills Launch Youth Bridging Program, 27 newcomer youth accessed training to overcome barriers and successfully enter the labour market. The MCAF computer lab Income Tax Clinics assisted 777 newcomers to file their income tax online with CRA. MCAF also delivered Pre-Arrival settlement and employment services to 325 immigrants from 21

countries prior to their arrival in New Brunswick.

In August 2019, the Province of New Brunswick launched a Population Growth Strategy and Action Plan to welcome by 2024 up to 7,500 newcomers annually and to increase French speaking immigrants by 2% annually reaching 33%. MCAF participates in le Comité atlantique sur l’immigration francophone (CAIF) to welcome and retain Francophone/Francophile newcomers in Atlantic Canada. Through the Programme de Liaison Francophone MCAF provided settlement services to 207 newcomers who chose to integrate into the francophone community and school system.

In July 2019, MCAF purchased a Reception House to provide temporary accommodations for Government Assisted Refugee (GAR) families in a welcoming, accessible two-unit space. The number of GARs MCAF welcomes will increase from 131 in the past year to over 170 in 2019.

There were 2,003 participants in MCAF Children and Youth Programs designed to enhance self-esteem, leadership skills and sense of belonging. Rainbow of Cultures Summer Camps hosted 164 children from 28 countries. MCAF Settlement Workers in Schools facilitated 456 sessions with 2,029 newcomer children, youth and parents and also delivered 162 Diversity and Inclusion in Schools presentations to

9,573 school students and school staff to facilitate diversity and cross-cultural education in schools and to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment.

In September 2019, 8 deserving newcomer students were awarded MCAF Newcomer Scholarships to assist with their post-secondary education. A total of 42 scholarships have been awarded since the fund was created in 2011.

The Multicultural Shared Space commenced last year to share resources with small and emerging ethno-cultural associations and to facilitate collaboration and joint programming. MCAF and local ethno-cultural associations once again exhibited the power of collaboration attracting 6,007 people to the 11th Cultural Expressions Festival Roots of

MCAF Board of Directors 2018-2019 Back row (L-R): Sandy Liu, Bo Miedema, Deborah Nobes, Dirk Deurloo, Scovasky Ramrattan-Needle, Anne Soucy, Jason Meng Zhao, Madhu Verma, Devansh Bavishi, Greg Fekner Front row (L-R): Theresa Bartlett-Chase, Bin Zhang, Sheila Natukunda

Harmony showcasing dance, music, art, displays, family activities and food from around the world.

I am extremely grateful for the continued support of our funders, donors and over 227 community partners, 38 Cultural Brokers speaking 24 languages, and 465 volunteers including tutors, mentors and First Fredericton Friends, who support newcomers to enhance and facilitate their settlement, integration and full participation in our community.

MCAF’s Board of Directors and staff demonstrate commitment, expertise and vision for our organization and inspire diversity and inclusion in our community. Together we are better!

Dr. Bin Zhang, MCAF President


Bienvenue

Welcome!

Dobro došliДобре Дошли

Willkommen

स्वागतようこそ Kaze neza

Ikaze Ainte

환영합니다

Una KushehBoyeyi malamuKaribu

欢迎Tanamatelay Utz'ipetik

ki'kotemal'apetik Ar Biana

How you dey do o

Witamy

Добро пожаловать

Добро дошлиBienvenidos Ласкаво просимо

Jerejeff

ברוכים הבאים


Clients Served

2245Clients Served

Representing

54Countries

Overview of

Pre-Arrival 325

Permanent Residents 1451

AIPP 137

Exploratory Visits 193

Children born in Canada

45

65%

14%

9%

6%

4%

Work Permit Holders 90

2%


New Brunswick

Exploratory Visits

120Meetings held with

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Applicants in the following languages

French 41%

English 45%

Arabic 13%

193 Prospective Immigrants

from the following countries of origin

Other 1%

China 27%

Vietnam 9%

Other 25%

Morocco 22%

Algeria 12%

Iran 5%


325Pre-Arrival

Clients

Pre-Arrival Services

Pre-Arrival Services

To start the integration process before immigrants arrive in Canada, the Government of Canada funds pre-arrival services to prepare economic class immigrant families while still in their country of origin.

MCAF delivers pre-arrival services for immigrants destined to New Brunswick through partnerships with:

• S.U.C.C.E.S.S. – Active Engagement and Integration Project (AEIP)

• Planning for Canada (CIIP)

New Arrrival Clients – Destination cities:

Fredericton 29%

Moncton 37%

Other 2%Miramichi 1%

Saint John 22%

Bathurst 1%

Cap-Pelé 2%

Woodstock 6%

Pre-arrival clients destined to NB from:

Phillipines 38%

China 10%

UAE 6%

Nigeria 15%Ukraine 12%

India 6%

Bangladesh 5%

Saudi Arabia 2%Pakistan 2%

Vietnam 1%Other 3%

Pre-arrival clients by Occupation:

Sales, Marketing, PR, Hospitality & Customer service 37%

IT 23%

Administration 11%

Transportation, Manufacturing, Construction, Labour & Forest 3%

Unemployed 1%

Education 2%

Finance 12%

Engineering 8%

Health 3%

M CA F A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 6 – 2 0 1 7 7M CA F A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 8 – 2 0 1 9 7

My name is Anam Alam and I am currently living in Canada as an immigrant. I came to Toronto on 26th April 2019 and took a connecting flight to Fredericton which was my landing destination, and from there my journey started.

The immigration journey started in 2017 when I got an invitation to attend an information session for New Brunswick. When it came to Canada, I had been hearing the names ‘Toronto’, ‘Vancouver’ and ‘Montreal’; the province of New Brunswick was a new place for me. I attended the session and found that New Brunswick

Pre-Arrival Success Story, Anam Alam

is a wonderful place to live having the same facilities that every big city owns. In March 2018, I received an email from New Brunswick that they are interested in my application and I have to submit my documents in order to proceed.

My challenge was to look for jobs while sitting in my country because I have been hearing mixed reviews about jobs in Canada. I belonged to the Information Technology field and in my country, I have worked for some private IT companies holding a total experience of 8 years. I contacted many people who were living in Canada and inquired them about the working culture there. All of them responded saying that I need a Canadian resume as it is very essential. I was searching day and night, and suddenly I found the information about Planning for Canada and MCAF. I was relaxed after knowing that they both help newcomers settle in the country. I contacted them and took a two-day session. It was excellent as they provided every detail which is necessary for any settler in Canada despite their location. The session was held remotely and after that they prepared settlement plans for me. My fears started to fade away after attending the session and I became confident and hopeful again. I was then assigned to one of the mentors who will assist me with the

pre-arrival services.

I started applying for positions in Fredericton matching to my previous experience. During this time, I met my MCAF Employment Coach and Pre-arrival Settlement Worker through email.

My MCAF Employment Coach really helped me in making Canadian resume and also she reviewed and corrected the mistakes. She was the one who shared the existing jobs in my field.

My Pre-arrival Settlement Worker helped me in sharing settlement information such as, finding accommodation, NB Medicare card, SIN etc. With the support from both, I never thought I would be doing everything so perfect all by myself.

In the mid of March 2019, I received the final calls for face-to-face interview by two companies, Introhive in Fredericton and InteliSys Aviation in Saint John. IBM also took an interview and NPAT test during this time.

After landing in Fredericton, I visited MCAF and met my mentors. It was one of the best days of my life when I shared the news that I had been offered a job.

Now I am working as a Software Quality Engineer in Introhive in Fredericton.

This job has the same role and responsibilities which I used to do in my country. I am happy and excited to join this place. The people and the work culture in IT is amazing here. IT has really good scope in Fredericton and many people are getting on-board quickly.

I started searching for a job before my landing and I landed with an offer. I am living my dream life without any fear and the people here are down to earth.

I never felt alone all this time and I am really proud to become a part of Canada!! The best nation on Earth! Now I am planning to go on a solo road trip to explore different parts of Canada. In the future, I would like to opt for a PhD in one of Canadian prestigious universities. My parents and siblings will join me here later.

Thank you, Planning for Canada and MCAF for welcoming me and making me feel that I am home.

– Anam Alam


I have been the owner of Redmans Trucking Inc, which is located in Woodstock, New Brunswick, since 2015.

I have looked forward to expanding my company, purchasing more “long haul trucks”, and hiring more employees. However, in a very short time I have learned that the main issue was not acquiring trucks or dispatching freights, it was finding good and experienced drivers. 

The workforce demand in trucking business in Maritimes is very high, while the supply is very limited.

I did not want to apply for LMIA (Labor Market Impact Assessment) since it was expensive and took a lot of time. I was

Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP)

137AIPP needs assessments &

settlement plansApril 1 2018 to March 31, 2019

AIPP clients by Occupation:

Sales, Marketing, PR, Hospitality, & Customer service 40%

Business and Administration 22%

Transportation, Manufacturing, Construction, Labour & Forest 9%

Other 5%Health 1%

Finance 1%

Engineering and Technology 9%

very pleased to learn about the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. 

So last year, my family and I moved to Fredericton and I realized that it was time for my business to become a designated employer for the AIPP.

The process was much faster than I expected and the Population Growth Division (PGD) team was very effective, helpful, and friendly.

Shortly after, I found my first candidate under the AIPP, that was the first time I met a Pre-arrival Settlement Worker at the Multicultural Association of Fredericton (MCAF). Upon meeting, she explained everything to me, such as how MCAF helped newcomers, and how she can help my AIPP candidates to participate in the AIPP. She was amazingly helpful and coordinated everything promptly for me and my candidates.

A few days later, the endorsement application for my first candidate under the AIPP was ready to submit to PGD and now I am delighted to share my experience working with PGD and the MCAF Pre-arrival Settlement Worker who helped me build a brighter future for my company.

My employees are currently waiting to come to Canada and I hope to see them in New Brunswick soon.

– Dennis Tselichtchev, Redmans Trucking

Education 8%

IT 5%


Government Assisted Refugees (GARs) by Source Country

Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) for Government Assisted Refugees (GARs)

131

*Arrival by source country

Government Assisted Refugees

GARs*

75GARs received National GAR

Client Support Services (CSS)

The CSS Program delivered Case Management,

Community Capacity Building, Standardized

Professional Support and Program Advancement to

support GARs with specialized and complex needs

39 GAR families received a Holiday fruit basket &

105 of their children

received toys

How do RAP staff help Government Assisted Refugees?• Pick up GARs at the airport and transport to Reception Houses

• Introduce and connect to mandatory Federal and Provincial Programs

• Provide basic orientation, financial orientation and open bank accounts

• Provide assessment and referral to appropriate broader-based services including language assessments, public school, public health, community connections, volunteers/tutors and spiritual connection

• Assist in locating, setting up and moving to permanent accommodations

12Languages spoken by RAP staff

English, French, Arabic, Dzongkha, Hindi, Kinyarwanda, Kirundi, Lingala, Nepali, Russian, Swahili, Ukrainian

39 additional languages are provided by MCAF staff and Cultural Brokers.

Syria 34%

Congo DR 26%

Somalia 21%

Ethiopia 5%

Eritrea 1%

Centrafrique 4%

Iraq 8%

Iran 1%

M CA F A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 6 – 2 0 1 7 10M CA F A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 8 – 2 0 1 910

Success Story, Veronique RutisherekaMy name is Veronique Rutishereka, I came to Canada in March 2017 from Kampala, Uganda where I was a refugee with my family, including my sister, my niece and 2 nephews. Before knowing that I will be moving to Canada, I gave birth to my first daughter, Mia Ketia Agasaro.

After the birth of my daughter other refugees advised me to not reveal Mia’s birth to the organization in charge of refugees in Kampala, because this would delay or stop our family departure to Canada. They also told me to leave Mia in Kampala and declare her when I arrive in Canada and that will be the easy way for her to join me. Mia was just 9 months old when I had to leave her behind due to incorrect information.

Shortly after we arrived in Canada and got a warm welcome by MCAF staff at YFC airport, I discovered that everything I was told was not true and not what I expected. I started to become depressed.

I then decided to tell my story to the MCAF staff, they were touched as no mother should be separated from her baby daughter. They decided to help me and to be close to me during that hard time of my life.

RAP

MCAF helped connect me with the right people and right organization in the community which helped to bring my daughter, Mia, to Canada. This included Member of Parliament, the Canadian Council for Refugees, the Downtown Health Centre, Smythe Street Church and many more.

With all the support from MCAF staff, I went back to Africa in November 2018 to see Mia, my daughter, for the first time since arriving in Canada 19 months ago.

On May 31st, 2019, Mia arrived with me at YFC airport where the Fredericton community was waiting for us. I and Mia are now very well settled in our home in Fredericton. We thank the MCAF for all the efforts/supports that have helped us to be reunited and enjoy the joy of mother and daughter.

I recommend all other immigrants who may have similar issue to not be afraid to contact the MCAF for support or guidance.

–Veronique Rutishereka

“

”


Newcomer Settlement: Intake

Egypt 11%Other

57%

New Settlement Client Intakes

PV2 71%

The MCAF Settlement Intake, Needs Assessment and Referral (SINAR) worker provides information sessions for newcomers about MCAF services and programs as well as orientation to government and community resources, Canadian rights and responsibilities, healthcare, education system and more.

MCAF settlement workers meet with eligible newcomers to identify individual settlement goals and determine their immediate needs. SINAR services are offered in English, French, Arabic, Swahili and other languages through interpretation.

Iran 6%

China 11%

Syria 9%

India 6%

GAR 20%

FC 4%

Skilled worker 1%Other 5%

AIPP 17%

Pre-Arrival

41%

Exploratory Visits 24%

Children born in Canada 6% Other 1%

Permanent Residents (PRs) by Immigration Category

Non PRsTop 5 Source Countries

Work Permit Holder 11%


The MCAF Language Learning and Skills Development classes are designed to enhance adult newcomers’ English language skills and facilitate their integration and participation in Canadian society.

1225Accessed interpretation

and/or translation

501Accessed transportation

574Participants in

English Language Classes(incl. PRs and Work Permit holders)

Language Learning and Skills Development

149Newcomer children

6 mos - 5 yearscared for in MCAF

childcare

66Newcomer children attended the MCAF

After School Program

The Newcomer Computer Learning Centre provides newcomers with access to computers, internet, computer training, typing tutorials and regular practice.


First Aid Workshop

263Information Sessions

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

Information Sessions

6048*Participants

The Settlement Workers in School (SWIS) supported school staff and facilitated the integration of newcomer families and students into the education system and community.

25Newcomer youth participated in

homework clubs

First Aid • Food Safety • Computer Literacy • Interpretation Training Citizenship Preparation

SPARK

Workshops and Training

195*Participants

*Non-unique

16Programs in

schools

42+Partnerships with schools

and community

456Sessions with

2029 Newcomer children, youth and parents

Workshops and Training

*Non-unique

Healthy Food Preparation


26Active community

partners

Programme de Liaison Francophone

The Program Liaison Francophone (PLF) program offers settlement services to newcomer francophone and allophone families who choose to integrate into the francophone community and school system. The PLF team collaborates with newcomer students, parents, Francophone schools, organizations and partners to facilitate the successful settlement and integration of newcomers in francophone schools, culture and community.

207PLF Participants

58Participants

(ages 5-18) in Francophone

summer camps

Top 6 countries of new clients

Syria 9%

Other 47%

Uganda 18%

Tanzania 7%

Somalia 7%

Egypt 6%Ukraine 6%

35Newcomer Youth

participated in Francophone

homework support groups or francisation opportunities

97New Clients

18Countries

9Newcomer Youth

participated in Chantier

Jeunesse, an international volunteering

program

25Newcomer

Youth participated in Le Club de Francisation

familiale

50Newcomer

Youth participated in Club mosaique et les Vendredi

Culturelle


On February 3, 2016, I landed in Fredericton with my wife, Salwa, my 2 kids and my mother after being refugees in Lebanon for a while. We came through the blended sponsorship of the church and the government.

Neither I nor my wife had any knowledge of English, not even the alphabet. So we started to attend English classes at MCAF in the foundation level. When I felt like I could start communicating in English, I started looking for a job and worked part time, and was improving my English in MCAF classes at the same

SettlementSuccess Story, Aarfan Al Darwich

time. Although at that time I was still in level 2, I insisted to work because I was never used to staying home jobless. I won’t accept my dad giving me pocket money while I am an adult and a family man. I consider the Canadian government like my folks, so I couldn’t accept to stay jobless and receive social assistance as long as I could work. I had a background working as carpenter in my home country. I started working part time as housekeeping in a motel for around 5-6 months, and then I got in the flooring industry for about 4 months. 

I am now working full time in concrete carpentering, and my wife Salwa is in customer service. We bought a house and moved on July 10, 2019. We had the chance to apply to NB housing, but we abandoned it when we were able to afford our own house, leaving the spot for people in need. I got my class 5 driving license 1 year after being in Canada, so I can get to work, and now I have another car for my wife. Salwa never drove a car before coming to Canada, but she learned here, got class 7 and kept practicing till she was able to get class 5.

We came here with 2 kids and had a third baby here in Canada, the baby is now 3 years old while her older siblings are in grade 8 and 5. My elder son plays hockey in winter and soccer in summer while my daughter is more into swimming.

My main challenge was the language and of course being away from the rest of my family as one of my brothers was in Egypt, another 2 were in Lebanon, and the rest were in Syria. My father passed away in Syria and I hadn’t seen him for 5 years, and that was heartbreaking for me to not even have the chance to say goodbye. Same goes

to Salwa who hasn’t been able to see her own family for 7 years now and that also is tearing her apart.

Regarding the language, I am now in level 4 and Salwa is level 5, and now we can start the application for the Canadian Citizenship.

We acknowledge MCAF for all the support they have provided here and English classes that improved our language proficiency.

We are also affirming that, without the support from the church group who welcomed us and made us feel like we’re home, we would never have overcome the challenge of loneliness and home sickness. This group was like our family every step of the way, guiding and showing us around, and giving us the best advice. We also got amazing support from my mom, as she was our backbone in settling-in here and still is. For example, we leave our youngest baby in her care while both of us go to work.

For that we are forever grateful to them.

– Aarfan Al Darwich


Settlement Enhancement – Newcomer Support Groups

542*Women and girls participated

(419 Women, 123 Girls)

Supporting Settlement Through Healthy Living Programs for Newcomer Girls and Women

MCAF promoted and encouraged newcomer women’s and girls’ active life styles & participation in community, in partnership with the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS), through:

• facilitating newcomer girls’ and women’s participation in Fredericton recreational and social activities

• supporting various community partners to develop and implement culturally sensitive and inclusive programs and activities for culturally diverse groups

• participating in webinar trainings with community partners from across Canada, coordinated by CAAWS

• delivering workshops for community stakeholders.

58Sewing participants

*Non-unique


Newcomer Support Groups

Newcomer Men’s Group

MCAF facilitated the participation of newcomer seniors in community activities and programs such as Community Gardens and workshops, Wheels to Meals Fredericton, health and wellbeing and social activities, and St. Thomas University Third Age Centre membership.

Newcomer Senior’s Group523*Newcomer women, men, seniors

and parents participated in

190Parenting, recreational, health, well-being and social activities

*Non-unique


38 Cultural Brokers

24 Languages

Through funding from United Way Central NB, Cultural Brokers bridged newcomers with multiple barriers, including limited English or French, to appropriate services, programs and activities in the community.

MCAF cultural brokers supported 23 community and government service providers to offer culturally appropriate & inclusive services to 409 newcomers.

Cultural Brokers

11 Cultural Brokers

supported

777 Newcomers to e-file

their 2018 Income Tax in English, French or the following 10 additional

languages: Arabic, Chinese, Kirundi, Lingala,

Nepali, Persian/Farsi, Russian, Spanish, Swahili,

Ukrainian.

23 Service Providers


63 Catering events

2755 Individuals served

Social Enterprise

Immigrant Catering Group

86 Immigrant cooks and 3 immigrant owned

food businesses participated in the MCAF Immigrant Catering Group

Congratulations to Yusuf Mohamed & Godfroi Basubire of the MCAF Immigrant Catering Group for winning 3rd place at the United Way Soup Fest competition.


Newcomer

Employment ServicesMentorship and Coaching

104 Foreign Qualification

Recognition Participantsin 27 sessions

61 Prior Learning Assessment Recognition Participants

1271 Clients

204 Information

& Orientation sessions

delivered to

69 Mentorship matches

1234 Employment coaching

sessions

789Clients

Stantec staff delivering resume clinic


Newcomer

Employment ServicesSkills Training

16 Business Immigrant

Mentorship Program (BIMP) Participants (Fredericton

Chamber of Commerce) 409 Clients

130 Networking

Opportunities & Workplace Bridging

sessions with

8 Woodworking Class Participants

20 Cultural Competency Workshops

and Info Sessions

7 Cultural

Competency facilitators 423

Participants


Through the Skills Launch Program, 9 immigrant youth (aged 18-30) received training, explored career options and gained Canadian work experience through a 6 month paid work placement. All 9 participants successfully completed:

• Workplace Essential Skills (WES) program

• Safety training including Safety Start, First Aid & CPR, WHIMIS, Fire Safety & Food Safety

• Paid work placement

Early Childhood Educator, Kinderland Daycare Centre

Pharmacy Assistant, Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy

Skills Launch NB – Immigrant Youth Bridging Program

7 Working

4 GED

2 Attending College

9 Immigrant youth graduated from the 2018 Skills Launch Program

Hardware/Software Technician, PC Girls

Following Graduation


chance to work in a farm that really helped him to improve his English and get along with new people.

Then he decided to improve his skills so he attended the MCAF Bricklaying Bridging Program at the NB Community College, which opened doors for him to do more and learn more.

He did the first block of the program in Woodstock. Then we had to move to Fredericton because he got a job there.We rented an apartment temporarily and started to look for a house to buy.

Ahmad has completed his second year of college and he is working really hard to do his last year and get the red seal (the last diploma of the program).

Myself Saliha, I always wanted to go back to school but I did not have the chance to do it. One day, MCAF staff came to where we lived and told me that there is a new program called Skills Launch through MCAF. They asked if I would like to participate in the program. I was so exited but I could not do it because I was not quite ready for it. They said that I can participate the second year. From that time I started to prepare myself and my kids for the new style of life. In April 2018, I was a participant in the successful Skills Launch program.

Skills Launch was so helpful for me and my classmates. It opened education and employment doors for us. From there I learned how to see my future in a different way and follow my dreams and to never give up.

Bricklaying and Skills Launch Bridging ProgramsSuccess Story, Ahmad Hachalid and Saliha Muslum

We are a couple from Syria, we have two boys. We have been in Canada for three years. We used to live in Turkey before coming to Canada. The reason for coming to Canada was because of the war happening in Syria and it was no longer a safe place for our family.

We lived in Woodstock for two years when we first arrived. It was a hard time for us because we did not know any English. We found a really different community and culture ahead of us.

With some help from friends that offered to help us, we got to know some stuff and how to do our daily responsibilities. We started to go to school to learn English. It started to get easier with time. My husband, Ahmad Hachalid, started to search for jobs, he had the

I took a work placement at a pharmacy as a pharmacist technician. I would have never been able to take this position without education and without Skills Launch.

After I was done with the Skills Launch, I kept working part-time in the pharmacy. Because of MCAF staff’s and teachers’ encouragement, I went to an adult learning center and started to study for the GED. It took me less than four months to finish it and that really opened all the doors for me to achieve all my dreams. I am able now to go to the university and take whatever I want which I never thought I would be able to after I left school in Syria.

I am so happy that I was able to come to Canada and be able to achieve my dreams. One of them was that we bought our own house after being in Canada for three years. And we each own a vehicle. My husband and I worked really hard to get what we want and we are still working and achieving our dreams.

I would like to tell every newcomer in Canada like us, that you should never give up your dreams. If you don’t dream, you don’t have anything to achieve. In Canada you are able to achieve all your dreams, you just have to work for it.

– Ahmad Hachalid and Saliha Muslum


Programs for

Children and YouthNewcomer Children and Youth Programs create positive and engaging spaces for children and youth (ages 6 months to 29) to socialize, build connections and participate in community educational events while fostering self-esteem, leadership skills and developing their roles and a sense of belonging to their new community.

2003*Newcomer children and

youth participated in

621activities delivered

by MCAF with

Girls Rock

*Non-unique

90Community partners

40community partnersto support 45 youth

to navigate community programs, services andresources with the goal

of addressing their needs and to increase their

successful settlementin the community

Newcomer Child and Youth Case Manager

worked with over

20Newcomer youth were

matched with

20Student mentors/

friends

Buddy Up!


6 Week Program | Ages 5-12 | 12 Camp Counselors | 35 volunteers164 children | 28 countries

Activities for

Children and Youth

Rainbow of Cultures Summer Camps 2019


Newcomer YouthSuccess Story, Divine Niyera

Since our arrival in Canada, I have been participating in a lot of activities, like Girls Group, PLF Summer Camp, Rainbow of Cultures Summer Camps, Christmas break activities, March break activities, Making Africa Proud Dance Program with NB African Assocation, Sports Jam, Club du Diner and many more. I also try as much as I can to volunteer in the community. As volunteer, I have helped support programs and events like the Halloween party and PLF tutoring activities.

I am proud of what I have accomplished so far in Canada. My first summer in Fredericton, I participated in programs and could not understand everything I was being asked to do, it has been four years and I can now confidently speak both of Canada’s official languages and have even started working. It wasn’t always easy though, school was one of the biggest difficulties for me in Canada, and multiple times I found myself asking “Why am I even here?” as I couldn’t help but to feel lost, the language was so difficult at first and that made everything harder. My teachers and tutors at MCAF never gave up on me. Due to their help and never giving up, I am doing good in school and after graduation I plan on going on to continue my post-secondary education in accounting.

I have had so many experiences in Canada and if I could give any advice to newcomer youth, I would offer 3 points:

Ask: Whenever there is something you do not understand fully, do not be afraid to ask for

Success is not a simple journey, but with support and continual effort anything can be done, I truly believe this as my friend Shadia and I are proof of this.

My family arrived in Canada on March 13, 2015 from Tanzania in East Africa. When we arrived, MCAF had people at the airport to meet us. Other people in MCAF started to reach out to us too, and ask us to come to participate in different programs and so we started meeting more and more people.

I really think that MCAF and the Youth team helping us participate in their programs made settling in to Canadian culture easier, as we had the opportunity to meet so many great people, practice our English and French, and learn so much.

clarification. Regardless if it takes a person 10 times for them to explain it. Always ask for clarifications in order to ensure you fully understand how to navigate your new environment.

Get involved: It is very easy for you to stay in your home and not get involved in your new community. Don’t be shy to participate in everything. The programs that settlement organizations like MCAF offer are a great starting point for you to make a few connections with other youth that will allow you to practice English and/or French. By getting involved, you’ll have many more opportunities to participate in your new community.

School will be difficult, but don’t give up: Often you will be given different school work than the rest of your classmates. Don’t be discouraged if this happens to you. The reason they give you different school work is to match it to your language level at first. Gradually, you will be getting the same work as your classmates. It takes time to learn a new language, so don’t give up. It is from this very advice that I thrived on.

I am very thankful for the support MCAF Youth program offered in my schools, it was a way to recognize a friendly face and know that it is ok to push onward. The support from the MCAF Youth program and all that I learned and did over the years through the MCAF Youth programming helped make this journey a success, and one to look back on with a smile.

– Divine Niyera


Newcomer YouthSuccess Story, Barakat Alabbas

simply surviving was not easy but not above my ability to manage. I studied during the day at a desk built by my own father and in the evenings I focused on activities like carry water for my family. It worked because I was determined, focused and resilient.

As fate would have it our family was selected to seek asylum in Canada.This wonderful opportunity to immigrate to a country, filled with peace, empathy and freedom meant that my family needed someone to learn English and help navigate a new culture. My limited English needed a kick start and so I set a goal of learning 500 new English words a week and I became my family’s translator. More than that, however, I became my family’s spokesperson for landlord agreements, while also negotiating major purchases such as cars and houses. I continue to advocate for my family with local representatives and politicians with the hope of reuniting my family with those who still remain in Syria.

When I arrived in Canada I entered into a high school curriculum that challenged me in many ways. First I had a gap in learning I was determined to overcome. In my first year I recognized the need for peer tutoring for myself and for similar students. My father and I with the help of the Multicultural Association of Fredericton enabled shared tutoring sessions using volunteer teachers (engineers, students, teachers). This project was so successful that it grew from the small beginnings in my living room to a larger space now organized by the Multicultural Association of Fredericton.

Finding my way as a student at Leo Hayes High School meant more than just pursuing academics. I enjoyed participating in extra curricular sports and the friendship of my soccer team. I also saw that it was important to help other students and by then I was able to volunteer as a peer tutor for those who were struggling. Several times the school administration relied on me to help newcomer students who needed translation and assistance. I demonstrated to teachers that I was respectful, conscientious, a valued communicator and a good role model.

My name is Barakat Alabbas. Three years ago my life was a day-to-day experience in a bleak and overcrowded refugee camp in Jordan. The safety and security of my home, education and culture was shaken by the instability and violence of the war in Syria. I wondered if my childhood dream of having education was still

achievable. My education was interrupted as my family had to flee our hometown of Homs and move to Aleppo. Then our family relocated from Syria to a Jordanian refugee camp. It became all too clear that I had to take on new and urgent responsibilities to not only pursue my dreams but to ensure the survival of both myself and my family.

During our three year struggle in the refugee camp, I was determined to learn quickly and be helpful to those around me. I volunteered to participate in community meetings set up by NGOs like Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE) and Mercy Corps through which I gained a variety of valuable skills such as organization, cooperation and leadership. I was soon able to assist in actively setting group priorities and agendas that targeted issues ranging from health, lost legal documents, interpersonal conflicts and camp living conditions.

Balancing my studies with the daily requirements of the life as a refugee was a continuous struggle. Daily obligations included retrieving the basics such as water and food. This was my responsibility. I studied during the daylight hours as there was no electricity in the camp. The balance between my dream of an education and

With the financial hardship of our family starting over in Canada, it was required that I contribute by securing afterschool work. My first ever job at Burger King was initially a challenge. Within a few months I became a valued and reliable member of the team. I always aimed to show up early for my shift and consistently work more than 30 hours a week while balancing my studies. My earnings are important to help our family cover day-to-day expenses and to supporting my other family members who still live under dire circumstances in Syria when there is some extra money. Sometimes I feel a certain amount of guilt for being chosen to come to Canada. Every day, I appreciate the opportunities that this country offers me.

Canada has been so generous to me, and to my family, that I want to use my education to give back to others here in Canada and throughout the world. To me, education is power, potential and possibility. It helped me to secure our freedom from a Jordanian refugee camp and find peace in Canada.

My dream of becoming an engineer depends not only upon my successful acceptance into the University of New Brunswick, but also on the generous support of the Currie Undergraduate Scholarship. I am willing to work harder than I have ever worked before. I recognize the power of education, it has already started to give me new possibilities. Education is transformative and its benefits will extend not only to my life and to the lives of my family, but to all those whom I might eventually come into contact with through my future work and studies. The scholarship I got provided me with the chance to make my dream a reality and provided hope for those whose lives rely upon my ability to believe, to succeed and to dream. It’s very important to keep the hope that you will get your dreams one day to become reality.

– Barakat Alabbas


Success Story, Newcomer Scholarship Recipients 2019Newcomer Youth

The MCAF Newcomer Scholarship Fund assists newcomers to Canada with their post-secondary education. Funding for the scholarship is obtained by charitable donations and fundraising events operated by MCAF and partners. The Multicultural Trust Fund Board oversees the fund which is invested in an approved financial institution. Since its inception in 2011, 42 scholarships have been awarded.

2019 Scholarship recipients include: Anas Khaled, Abu Khashreef, Didier Irankunda, Firas Alobaid, Mohammad Albrdan, Mon Bahadhur Adhikari, Nour Alkassab, Oleksandra Hunchyk and Samsom Munguasifiwe.

Through this annual fundraiser and generous donations from the community, the MCAF Charitable Education Fund is over $193,000.World Dance & World Food


Diversity and Inclusion in Schools

9573 Participants

MCAF, in partnership with Fredericton area schools and ethno-cultural groups, coordinated Diversity and Inclusion in Schools to enhance awareness and understanding of diversity and to promote an inclusive and welcoming environment in schools and the broader community. Special activities were organized to recognize:

• Black History Month (February)

• United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (March 21)

• World Refugee Day (June 20)

• Canadian Multiculturalism Day (June 27)

• Canada Day (July 1)

162Sessions

Diversity & Inclusion in Schools presentations:

1047 Participants

25Sessions

Meetings and events:



In celebration of Canadian Multiculturalism Day, MCAF coordinated the 11th annual Cultural Expressions Festival in partnership with local ethno-cultural groups and community organizations. This year’s theme Roots of Harmony showcased dance, music, art, displays, family activities and food from diverse cultures represented by Fredericton’s ethno-cultural associations.

6,007Participants

47Countries

19Ethno-cultural groups

and organizations

Multicultural Performances

Family Activities


Vendors


Lebanese Flag Raising at City Hall Garrison Night Market Performances

Living Library


Multicultural Shared Space

MSS members:

• Bangladeshi Canadian Association of NB

• Chinese Cultural Association of NB

• Filipino Canadian CommUNITY of NB

• Indo-Canadian Association of Fredericton

• Iranian Canadian Association of NB

• Nepali Cultural Association of NB

• NB African Association

• NB Latino Association 1

Session

43 Participants

Large event space and licensed commercial

kitchen

39 Sessions

502 Participants

MCAF Classroom

Space

2 Sessions

16Participants

Training: First aid, Cultural

Competency

Multicultural Shared Space (MSS) shares resources to support the integration and full participation of small and emerging ethno-cultural associations in our community and brings together ethno-cultural associations to design activities and events sharing their culture.

Shared Office Space (accessed by 3 associations) Multicultural Dance Troupe, Drumming Circle & Choir Group

Gym Time

35 Sessions

665 Participants


Thank YouVolunteers

35 Rainbow of Cultures

Summer Camp volunteers

First Fredericton Friends 36

Tutors:

For Adults 15

For Children and Youth 47

Language Café 4

Volunteers:

Summer Camps 35

Community Food Smart 90

Board of Directors 13

Diversity & Inclusion in Schools 52


Seasonal & Special Events 80

465Volunteers registered and active

in the following roles:

274Newcomer youth contributed over

5708Volunteer hours to

MCAF & the community


Thank YouFirst Fredericton Friends

3744Volunteer hours provided by

First Fredericton Friends

25 Newcomer families

matched with

36 First Fredericton

Friends


Community Connections Success Story, Marie Turley

first learned of their FFF Program. Having shared this information with my mother, she became interested as well.

We were introduced to a family of three from Somalia. These women were very welcoming to Mom and I. We were so new to each other but soon warmed up, and through gestures and facial expressions, and support from our interpreter, we were able to communicate.

I and my Mom soon learned that other members of the family were to arrive, a son and his wife and their 10 children. Our hearts were open to all of them. Though I was offered additional FFF support, I declined. I remembers the special day of everyone arriving at the airport saying it was hard to control emotions around this reunification. They are amazed at how safe Canada is. To be able to play outside and not worry about being harmed is such a novelty.

Being a part of this family has opened up my life, and has given me a new sense of purpose.  But it also made me more aware of the struggles newcomers face. Not only must they adapt to our colder climate, our language, and Canadian Culture, but it is also the day to day minor things that I take for granted having been born and raised Canadian, that can be difficult for them at first. Imagine being new to a country, having to learn everything from scratch, having little or no English, while still having to care for and support a large family. Sometimes, just being there as a friend who listens can be a great support. Answering their call when they have

a question, or offering a timely hug is taken as such as valuable gift. Coming from different continents and cultures, we are constantly learning from each other.

The connection we feel is that of a genuine family. I now have a second mother, a supportive brother, two new sisters and eleven children. They always remind me of this when we spend time together. They constantly acknowledge and show appreciation for the support my mother and I happily provide. I’ve got new family photos on my phone and wall, and family stories to share when I bump into friends and neighbours. My experience as a FFF may seem like an exceptional case, but I am sure that if you take this opportunity to interact with a newcomer family, you will build your own version of a special bond.  

I had no idea how wonderfully different my life would be when I started my journey as a FFF. My life has become so enriched by the kindness, love, and support my newcomer family generously gives me. In supporting them, I have gained a new sense of purpose and satisfaction in my life. We have only just begun to make memories and share in successes. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for our united families.

– Marie Turley

May I suggest that you look into becoming a First Fredericton Friend (FFF) through the Multicultural Association of Fredericton (MCAF)?

I did this, and I continue to be amazed at how one seemingly simple decision to volunteer brought about such a large and wonderful change in my life.  

In January of 2019, I found myself with both some free time and the desire to do some volunteer work. So I approached MCAF. There, I received a warm welcome and was presented with some volunteering options. This is how I


Thank YouPlacement Students

Nursing Students

123Students contributed

9680Hours

Thank you also to our:Nursing, Eastern College and

Social Work Students

Summer camp students


Thank YouCommunity Partners

Cultural Expressions Festival Steering Committee 2019

MCAF works with over

227Community partners

The MCAF Community Connections program facilitates newcomer participation & contribution in the larger community. Community partners play a vital role in helping newcomers adapt, settle and integrate into Canadian life. Community Connections programs enhance cultural diversity and inclusive culturally competent services in Fredericton.

Global Minds Initiative students from George Street School assisted MCAF to facilitate Diversity and Inclusion presentations for Summerhill Elementary School students.


Students, teachers

and staff at Devon

Middle School

and the broader

community raised

over $2100 (incl.

cash and gift cards)

for the Hassan

family of eight who

tragically lost their

home in a fire in

February 2019.

Thank YouCommunity

2nd grade students and teachers of l’École des Bâtisseurs donated over $280 for the MCAF Francophone Summer Camp.

United Way Day of Caring: Bell Aliant and Kognitive Spark staff volunteered to prepare the garden.

Multicultural Family Garden

Home Depot Canada Foundation: donated $5000 to our Multicultural Family Garden


Thank YouCommunity

Fredericton City Police offered community policing on site at MCAF, information and orientation, bike donations and sponsored 6 newcomer children for Kids and Kops Summer Day Camp 2019.

Fredericton Fire Department delivered fire prevention awareness sessions and conducted home fire prevention inspections for every newly arrived Government Assisted Refugee family.

Community Food Smart

151Participants

Community Food Smart provided fresh, affordable bags of produce.

Moores Clothing for Men donated hundreds of suits, jackets, dress shirts, ties and other business wear for newcomers entering the Canadian labour market.

Santa Drop-in Party

300Participants

Halloween Party

295Participants


The MCAF community is deeply saddened with the passing of two individuals who have and shared a great deal with our organisation through their involvement and contribution.

In Memorium

Graeme Smith

Graeme Smith was a nurse manager at the Fredericton Downtown Community Health Clinic. He was a champion community partner who worked closely with MCAF on committees and on the ground to ensure that newcomers in the community were able to access essential primary health care supports and resources. He was a tireless advocate for newcomer rights and supported the creation of several initiatives that led to increased positive health outcomes for newcomers in the community. We will miss Graeme and will always be grateful for his support, contribution and partnership, which continues to leave a lasting impact on MCAF and our members.

Getachew Osoli

Getachew Osoli came to Fredericton 12 years ago from Ethiopia. He participated in many programs at MCAF and quickly grew to be one of the organizations most valued volunteers. He gave of his time and energy tirelessly and could always be relied on to show up earliest and leave last. He was awarded the MCAF Volunteer Appreciation pin in 2012 for his contribution to programs and events. Getachew was the embodiment of generosity, always giving of himself to support his community. He will be greatly missed.


Financial Report Revenue 2018-19

78%

Government of Canada 3,421,093Province of New Brunswick 538,998 NB Multicultural Council 126,711Services provided 48,806 Amortization related to Capital Assets 142,087 Colleges & Institutes Canada 13,951 ISANS 12,634S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Foundation 22,794United Way 24,996 City of Fredericton 7,000Other Grants 15,000Other Funding Sources & Membership 16,455Total $ 4,390,525

Wages & Employee Benefits 3,175,992 Rent 334,179Program materials & supplies 236,416Professional services 43,793 Amortization 163,129 RAP Hotel / Meals / Transportation 52,654 Repairs & maintenance 55,181Professional development 55,056Non-recoverable HST 55,604Telephone & utilities 39,395Office supplies & postage 27,880Insurance 22,821Special events 37,788Transportation, travel & vehicle operating 38,607Printing & photocopying 14,620Advertising, promotion & website 12,594Accomodations / Honorariums / Meetings 37,704Interest & bank charges 1,759Security 19,378Total $4,424,550

Expenses 2018-19

72%

8%

5%

1%

86%

12%

3%3%

1%

under 1% each 4%

1%1%1%

under 1% each1%


Federal: Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Department of Canadian Heritage Employment and Social Development Canada Municipal: City of Fredericton

Provincial: Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Population Growth DivisionDepartment of Tourism, Heritage and Culture

Others Accenture Canadian Assoc. for the Advancement of Women & Sport & Physical Activity Canadian Council for Refugees Colleges and Institutes Canada, Planning for Canada Credit Canada Debt Solutions Downtown Fredericton Inc. Equitas New Brunswick Multicultural Council Inc. S.U.C.C.E.S.S. United Way Central NB University of New Brunswick YMCA of Greater Toronto

Thanks to Our Funders

43 M CA F A N N UA L R E P O R T 2 0 1 8 – 2 0 1 9

www.mcaf.nb.ca

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