ISSofBC

06/05/2026

Canada's Future: Have Your Say on Newcomer Growth and Inclusion

As the federal government develops the next Immigration Levels Plan, you have an opportunity to shape how our country welcomes and supports newcomers in the years ahead.

At ISSofBC, our CEO, Jonathan Oldman, has shared his perspective on the important role newcomers play in strengthening Canada's economy, communities, and future prosperity.

Now it's your turn.
✅ Takes just 10–15 minutes to complete
✅ Gives you a direct opportunity to share your views with the federal government
✅ Shapes policies that affect newcomers, employers, communities, and services across Canada.

Newcomers contribute skills, talent, entrepreneurship, and cultural richness that help Canada thrive. This consultation is an opportunity to ensure future decisions reflect the needs of both newcomers and the communities that welcome them.
📅 Survey deadline: June 14, 2026.

Read how Jonathan is responding and learn how you can participate:
https://issbc.org/news/canadas-immigration-levels-plan-2026-how-im-responding/

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) wants to hear from organizations and the public as it develops Canada’s next Immigration Levels Plan, to be released in the fall, and works to improve its programs and services.  

06/04/2026

Canada is better with refugees. World Refugee Day is June 20.

What do refugees bring to Canada?

Skills. Talent. Determination. Entrepreneurship. Community.

UNHCR Canada's new report, *Refugees Are Good for Canada*, highlights how refugees help strengthen Canada's workforce, economy, and communities.

At ISSofBC, we see these contributions every day. Refugees become business owners, healthcare workers, tradespeople, volunteers, neighbours, and future leaders.

When refugees have the opportunity to rebuild their lives, Canada benefits too.

Read the report and discover why Canada is stronger because of refugees. Discuss this.

Refugees come to Canada from around the world seeking safety from conflict, violence, and persecution.

What unites them? A powerful determination to rebuild their lives.

Many arrive with very little — yet they bring so much. Their skills, resilience, and ambition strengthen Canada’s workforce, enrich our communities, and help grow our economy.

We’re proud to share our latest report, Refugees Are Good For Canada, highlighting the social and economic impact of welcoming people forced to flee. Here’s what the data shows:

🔵 Refugees strengthen essential industries — they’re twice as likely as Canadian-born workers to work in manufacturing and utilities, and many contribute to health care and skilled trades.

🔵 Most arrive in their prime working years, ready and eager to contribute — supporting Canada’s aging population and long-term sustainability.

🔵 Within 10 years, refugees’ median employment earnings grow by 31.5%.

🔵 More than 80% become Canadian citizens within a decade — showing a deep commitment to Canada’s future.

But this story is about more than statistics. It’s about entrepreneurs, pilots, police officers, health workers, and young leaders who have transformed opportunity into impact.

Read the full report to learn more: https://www.unhcr.ca/in-canada/refugees-are-good-for-canada/

06/04/2026

Before finding safety in Vancouver, Yaser spent years helping 2SLGBTQI+ people in Yemen access support and escape persecution.

His advocacy came at a cost.

After being beaten by police and military officers and facing growing threats, he was forced to leave everything behind in search of safety.

Today, seven months after arriving in Canada, Yaser is building a new life. He volunteers with community organizations, including ISSofBC, studies healthcare, and dreams of creating an international organization supporting 2SLGBTQI+ refugees.

His story is one of resilience, courage, and hope—and a reminder that everyone deserves the chance to belong. “For the first time in my life, I knew I could breathe", he says.

As we celebrate Pride Month, we're proud to share Yaser's journey.

📖 Read the full story: https://buff.ly/4VXoKdS

06/01/2026

June is National Indigenous History Month — a time to listen, learn, and connect.
Across BC, communities are hosting events where people can experience Indigenous art, storytelling, music, dance, markets, workshops, and cultural learning.

For newcomers and community members, these events are a meaningful way to spend time in community, learn more about the lands we live on, and continue building understanding.

We’ve gathered a list of events and learning opportunities happening throughout the month.

Read the blog: https://bit.ly/4vmH5BC
www.issbc.org

05/30/2026

05/29/2026

Starting a career in Canada can feel overwhelming — but sometimes, all it takes is the right guidance and support to move forward.

In her first week of the B-Hired program, Nathiya learned how the Canadian job market works, how to define career goals, and how to research targeted job opportunities. Most importantly, she discovered tools and strategies she had never learned before.

B-Hired is a free employment and skills training program for newcomer youth in BC aged 16–29. Participants receive:

✔️ Job readiness workshops
✔️ Career coaching and action planning
✔️ Resume and interview support
✔️ Skills training leading to certificates
✔️ Job search support and employer connections
✔️ Follow-up support after the program

📅 The next cohort starts June 8
📍 Online program for eligible newcomer youth in BC

If you’re ready to build confidence and take the next step toward your career in Canada, apply today.

Learn more and apply: https://issbc.org/our-programs-service/b-hired/

05/29/2026

During National AccessAbility Week (May 31–June 6), we celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities and recognize the importance of creating inclusive communities for everyone.

Israel’s story reminds us that accessibility is not only about removing barriers — it is also about helping people feel respected, valued, and equal.

“They made me feel equal.”

As Canadians come together under this year’s theme, “Building a Strong, Accessible Canada,” we invite you to read Israel’s inspiring journey in Canada.

📖 Read the story here:
https://buff.ly/63gALFL

❤️ Don’t forget to wear red on June 3 for Red Shirt Day in support of accessibility and inclusion.

05/28/2026

As Vancouver prepares to welcome the FIFA World Cup 2026, UNHCR Canada’s story about Dacious Richardson reminds us how football can build connection, confidence, and belonging.

Dacious came to Vancouver as a refugee after fleeing civil war in Liberia. Through soccer, he found community — and later created opportunities for refugee and newcomer youth through sport, mentorship, and personal development.

Read the full story through UNHCR Canada:
https://buff.ly/LYrhkSK

What has football taught you?

www.issbc.org

05/27/2026

Thinking about becoming an English teacher?
Now is a great time to start.

LCC is offering 25% OFF on the Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program with practicum.

This program helps you build practical teaching skills and confidence through:
• Career-focused training
• Hands-on practicum
• Real preparation for teaching

You can also gain international recognition as a certified ESL teacher in Canada and worldwide.

Teach. Inspire. Grow.

Apply ASAP — limited-time offer.

To apply, fill the form- https://lcc.issbc.org/our-diploma-programs/tesol or contact - 604-684-2325.

Thinking about becoming an English teacher?
Now is a great time to start.
LCC is offering 25% OFF on the Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program with practicum.
This program helps you build practical teaching skills and confidence through:
• Career-focused training
• Hands-on practicum
• Real preparation for teaching
You can also gain international recognition as a certified ESL teacher in Canada and worldwide.
Teach. Inspire. Grow.
Apply ASAP — limited-time offer.
To apply fill the form- https://lcc.issbc.org/our-diploma-programs/tesol/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=lcc_summer_promotion&utm_content=tesol_25off_facebook

or contact - 604-684-2325

05/27/2026

📣 Eid al-Adha Mubarak! 🌙✨

To everyone celebrating, we wish you and your families peace, joy, and a meaningful time together.

Eid al-Adha is a time that reflects the values of generosity, compassion, and community — values that are also part of how we support newcomers as they build their lives in Canada.
Moments like this are an opportunity to learn from one another and appreciate the traditions that shape our diverse communities.

Together, we continue building a welcoming and inclusive community.

Learn more at issbc.org