08/23/2026
A New Chapter Begins at Kalayaan Centre: 100 New Canadians Take the Oath of Citizenship - By Rose Cabrera
MISSISSAUGA, ON — August 19, 2026 —
History was made at the Kalayaan Cultural Community Centre (KCCC) in Mississauga as the Centre hosted, for the first time, a Canadian citizenship oath-taking ceremony, welcoming 100 new Canadian citizens representing 35 countries from around the world.
The ceremony was organized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), with KCCC serving as the host venue, with the International Association of Mapua Alumni – Ontario (IAMAO) as co-host.
Presiding over the ceremony was The Honourable Judge Albert Wong, who opened the proceedings with an inspirational message highlighting the importance of reconciliation with Indigenous First Nations. He encouraged the new Canadians to carry this understanding into their everyday lives as they begin their journey as citizens of Canada.
KCCC President Resty del Rosario delivered the welcome address on behalf of the Centre and its co-host, IAMAO. Both organizations, composed largely of immigrants from the Philippines, share a strong commitment to community service, multiculturalism and active citizenship.
In welcoming the citizenship candidates, del Rosario encouraged them to remain proud of their heritage while fully embracing the rights, responsibilities and opportunities that come with being Canadian. The ceremony reflected the shared belief of KCCC and IAMAO that diversity and cultural heritage enrich the Canadian experience.
Adding to the celebration, Natalie Hart, Mississauga Ward 5 Councillor, delivered a warm and vibrant congratulatory message, painting a hopeful picture of a future filled with opportunity, success and happiness for the new citizens and their families. Councillor Hart also reminded the new citizens that citizenship marks not only the culmination of their journey to Canada, but the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with opportunities to contribute, participate and help shape the communities they now call home.
The ceremony was more than the formal granting of Canadian citizenship, Judge Wong expressed. It was a celebration of belonging, diversity, heritage and the promise of a shared future.
As the new Canadians took their oath, Kalayaan Centre became a place where new beginnings were celebrated—and where different journeys, cultures and dreams came together as one Canadian story.
