Newcomers often struggle with accessing health services, so when Ottawa-based Welcome Group Program volunteer and aspiring medical professional Danial Gheiasvand told us about his project, Newcomer Health Connect, we were eager to learn more.

• As an aspiring medical professional, what made you want to volunteer with Together Project?

Volunteering with Together Project felt like a natural fit for me because I’ve always been passionate about helping others, especially those facing challenges. Coming from a background where I’ve witnessed the struggles of newcomers firsthand, I wanted to make a difference in a meaningful way. Being an aspiring medical professional, I believe in the importance of community health, which goes beyond just physical well-being. It’s about emotional and social support too. Together Project offered a unique opportunity to contribute to that sense of belonging and support for newcomers which aligned closely with my values.

• You have volunteered in two Welcome Group matches. What was your experience like? Were there any challenges and highlights you would like to share?

Each Welcome Group match has been an enriching experience, both for me and the families I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. One of the highlights has been witnessing the growth in confidence of the newcomers as they start navigating their new life in Canada. Whether it’s helping them with practical tasks like filling out forms or simply being there to listen, it’s been incredibly rewarding to see their progress.

However, there have been challenges too. Sometimes, the language barrier can slow down communication, or cultural differences might create moments of hesitation. But these challenges have also been learning experiences for both sides which allowed us to grow more mutual patience and understanding. In the end, the sense of accomplishment and connection always outweighed the difficulties.

• As a former newcomer from Iran, what advice do you have for newcomers who are nervous about starting a match?

I completely understand how nerve-wracking it can be at first. When I first arrived in Canada, I remember feeling uncertain about where to start or who to trust. My advice is to take things one step at a time and to remember that the volunteers are there to support you, not judge you. Everyone involved in the program genuinely wants to help, and it’s okay to ask questions or share any concerns. The key is to be open to the experience and trust that things will get easier as time goes on.

• As someone who was matched with newcomers in Ottawa, what advice do you have for other Ottawa-based volunteers who are thinking of joining the Welcome Group Program?

For anyone in Ottawa considering joining the Welcome Group Program, I’d say don’t hesitate! It’s an incredibly fulfilling way to give back to your community. Not only will you be making a real difference in someone’s life, but you’ll also learn a lot about different cultures and perspectives. My advice would be to approach it with an open heart and mind, and be patient. Sometimes progress can seem slow, but every little bit of support you provide makes a huge impact in the long run.

• Through your non-profit organization, newcomers are being matched with volunteers who will help them find a family doctor. What inspired you to create Newcomer Health Connect?

The inspiration behind Newcomer Health Connect came from seeing how vital access to healthcare is, especially for the newcomers I was matched with through the Welcome Group Program at Together Project. I was very lucky to have a family doctor right off the get-go, but the families I matched with did not, nor did they have access to a specialized newcomer clinic. This gap in healthcare access made me realize how overwhelming it can be for newcomers to navigate the system. I wanted to create a platform that would help bridge that gap and ensure that newcomers have the support they need to find a family doctor and feel more at ease in managing their health needs. It’s a small initiative, but I hope it can make navigating the healthcare system a little less overwhelming for those who need it most.

Learn more about Newcomer Health Connect here: www.newcomerhealthconnect.ca