The week of September 8^th to September 15^th is Welcoming Week. This is an annual opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, places and values that help everyone feel welcome and give them a sense of belonging in their local community. Students at the Centre for Newcomer Integration were asked to reflect on the ways that they were welcomed since arriving in Canada, and to share stories about the people who have helped them along the way. Keep reading to see what they said: 

“After I arrived at the Winnipeg airport, my friend came to pick me up and bring me to his house, and then helped with everything I could need.” Eyob 

“I want to talk about my teacher Maxine. She is a professional and her main characteristic is patience. She is very patient and helps all of us.” Oleksandr 

“I am currently studying English and Math as well as computers. I would like to thank you for opportunity.” Yonas    

“I was welcomed by a church who was like my family when I was here.” Herve 

“Actually, we didn’t have any friends here before we came to Winnipeg.  Then, we joined a chat group and rented a room in a house where two other families were living. They helped me a lot. They made me feel warm and I want to say thank you.” Xiangxian 

“I am grateful to the government of Canada for having established a special CUAET [Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel] program, thanks to which I was able to come to Canada.”  Sofiia  

“One woman drove me from the Canadian border to Winnipeg. She was very kind.” Simon 

“At this time, Red River College Polytechnic is helping me to learn.”  Samuel 

“I want to thank everyone who helped me. When I came to the airport, my sponsor came to get me and take me to her house. I stayed there for two weeks before renting an apartment with my friends. Also, the people at Manitoba Start helped me to come to learn at RRC Polytechnic. I am so proud to be here with my teacher.” Yahya 

“I am grateful to all employees of organizations and institutions and ordinary Canadians, who show understanding, tact, calmness and kind attitude towards us. This is the biggest and brightest impression of Canada. Ukrainians are very grateful to Canada for financial and material assistance for Ukraine and refugees from Ukraine. I hope that through our work, we will help Canadians in the development and prosperity of their beautiful country.”   Oleksii 

Through these stories, we see that everyone has an important role to play in helping others to feel welcome.  

Continue to check the LTC News for more messages about Welcoming Week.