A Newcomer Story: Finding Opportunities and Adapting for Success Armin’s journey with the YMCA began with the YMCA Pre-Arrival Settlement Services, Next Stop Canada. He learned about the program from the Government of Canada’s website and found out that they offer free services to help newcomers settle. “I was really nervous [about moving to a…
DetailsWelcoming Changes: Reflecting Your Journey and Growth in Canada The end of the year is a perfect time to reflect and think about what has happened over the past year and plan for a fresh start. For newcomers, settling into a new country comes with unique challenges but also opportunities to grow and learn. This…
DetailsExplore Winter Festivities in the Greater Toronto Area This blog was written in collaboration with the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. As winter settles in, the Greater Toronto Area comes alive with exciting festivals celebrating the season. Join the community to explore the winter festivities and make this winter memorable. Most…
DetailsCelebrating Your First Thanksgiving – Thanksgiving Culture in Canada How do Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving in Canada is a national holiday celebrated on the second Monday of October. It’s all about spending time with family and friends and being grateful for what we have. The traditional meal usually includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce,…
DetailsLife in Canada: Discover Toronto’s Fall Festivals and Events This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. As the vibrant city of Toronto celebrates the start of the fall season, newcomers have an opportunity to immerse themselves into the local culture through various exciting festivals and events. Each…
DetailsLife in Canada: Must-Visit Provincial Parks in Ontario This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Ontario’s provincial parks are a testament to the province’s rich natural beauty, waiting to be explored and enjoyed throughout the year. They offer outdoor activities that suit every interest and passion with…
DetailsBack-to-School Tips for Newcomer Families After enjoying the long summer break, it’s time for students in Ontario to return to the classroom in September. With the new academic year fast approaching, you and your kids might be filled with excitement and anxiety. To ease into the transition smoothly, here are some tips to help you…
DetailsSocializing in Canada: Newcomer Stories on English Learning Journeys This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Learning English can feel like a real adventure and often brings unforgettable stories of lighthearted and funny moments, as well as valuable lessons. We reached out to settled newcomers who learned…
DetailsNewcomer Guide to Canadian National Parks: Destinations and Essential Tips This blog was written by the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre Information and Referral Specialist, Lena Samoilichenko. Canada’s national parks are a natural beauty and adventure gold mine, both because of the breathtaking landscapes and a wide array of activities. Before exploring the beauty of these parks,…
DetailsJob Searching Tips – What are soft skills, and why are they important? Landing a job in Canada is not just about being good at technical stuff. Your soft skills, like communication and teamwork, also play an important role in job success and career growth. If you’re new to Canada, having strong soft skills can…
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