“I wanted to give back and support other newcomers who might be experiencing the same challenges I did”
I was inspired to volunteer with Together Project because of the positive impact the Welcome Group Program had on my own journey as a newcomer. When I first arrived in Canada, I felt lost, uncertain, and overwhelmed about where to go and what to do next. Being matched with a group of volunteers gave me not only guidance but also hope. They helped me navigate my new environment, introduced me to valuable resources, and provided emotional support. Because of the encouragement and knowledge I gained from the program, I wanted to give back and support other newcomers who might be experiencing the same challenges I did.
As a newcomer participant, my Welcome Group volunteers helped me in many ways. They provided me with information on settlement services, and social integration. They also helped me understand Canadian culture and lifestyle, which made my transition smoother. One of the highlights of my match was the opportunity to connect with professionals in my field who gave me career advice and guidance. Another memorable moment was having casual coffee meetups and visiting different places in the city together, which helped me feel more at home. My Welcome Group included volunteers from diverse backgrounds, and one of them was from my home country, Ethiopia. This mix of perspectives made my experience even more enriching.
As a volunteer, one of the key highlights was working together with a newcomer to set realistic goals and connecting her with valuable resources to support her settlement journey. My match is from Uganda, and we had an enriching experience exploring different ways to help her find employment, integrate safely into Canadian life, and build a strong support network. Beyond practical support, we also developed a meaningful friendship, sharing experiences and learning from each other. Seeing her take steps toward stability and belonging was incredibly fulfilling.
My advice for potential Welcome Group volunteers is to be patient, open-minded, and empathetic. Every newcomer has a different story and different needs, so it’s important to listen and provide support in ways that are meaningful to them. You don’t need to have all the answers—sometimes, just being there and offering encouragement makes a huge difference. Also, volunteering is a two-way experience—you will learn just as much from the newcomer as they learn from you.
To newcomers who are nervous about joining the program, I would say: you are not alone. It’s completely normal to feel uncertain at first, but the Welcome Group Program is a safe and supportive space where you can ask questions, make connections, and gain confidence in your new environment. The volunteers are there to help and genuinely care about your success. Taking that first step might feel difficult, but it will open doors to new opportunities and friendships.
I just want to emphasize how valuable programs like Together Project are. They create strong connections between newcomers and volunteers, making the settlement process easier and less isolating. I encourage both newcomers and volunteers to get involved—you never know how much of a difference you can make in someone’s life, or how much you can learn from the experience yourself.
My first professional internship in Canada at COSTI Employment Services was a transformative experience. I worked closely with newcomers, assisting with job searches, resume building, and access to settlement resources. This role deepened my understanding of the challenges immigrants face and strengthened my skills in client service and resource navigation.
Seeing the impact of tailored support on newcomers’ confidence and independence was incredibly rewarding. This experience not only prepared me for a career in social services but also reinforced my passion for helping others integrate successfully into Canadian society.
