04/03/2026
On Monday, community partners, leaders, and service providers came together for our Community Engagement Gathering, a space built for honest conversation about what newcomer integration actually looks like in Saskatoon.
The day opened with a land acknowledgement and welcome from Gary Beaudin, followed by a blessing from Language Speaker Fern Bear. Sheri Benson guided us through the day as MC, and Cynthia Hernandez shared program updates on where IPSK is heading.
Dr. Mahli Brindamour, co-founder of the Saskatoon Refugee Engagement and Community Health Clinic, spoke about the realities of newcomer health and community-based care. Dr. Judy White then led a workshop on working together in complexity, exploring how different sectors experience the same challenges differently and why no single sector sees the whole picture.
Through table reflections, cross-sector dialogue, and hands-on exercises, the room examined priorities, pressures, and contributions from multiple perspectives. The session closed with each group sharing one insight, one tension, and one opportunity for collaboration moving forward.
Settlement happens across systems. Everyone has a role. Connection is a resource.
Thank you to everyone who showed up, contributed, and helped move this work forward.
Thank you to IRCC (Canadian Immigration and Citizenship) and United Way Saskatoon & Area for making this gathering possible. And a special thank you to Anna Socha from and Drawing Change Consulting for bringing their creativity and care into the space.
The work continues and it's stronger because of every person in that room.
Photography by Ali from Nomadic Media.
📍 Learn more or get involved: ipsk.ca