Welcome
EXCHANGE
Providing connections to local culture, community and employment.
We recognize that all people thrive in a welcoming world – Connections to local culture, employment and community make a big difference.
With funding provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, participants of the Welcome Exchange will receive specialized services and can participate in events designed to help them build employment & community connections and develop an understanding of Canada’s First Nations cultures.
We do this in a variety of ways, from one-on-one interviews to group workshops and networking events.
You are eligible to participate in the Welcome Exchange FREE events, if you:
- are living on Vancouver Island
- are a permanent resident of Canada
- are a protected person as defined by section 95 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
- have been selected to become a permanent resident and have been informed by a letter from the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
- currently hold a CUAET Visa

Cultural Connection Workshops
The Welcome Exchange workshops are held in celebration of diversity and inclusion. With the spirit of reconciliation guiding us, we bring together people of all nationalities and cultures to share and learn about First Nations culture in Canada.

Employment Opportunity Exchange
Develop your professional network and engage with local employers! Learn about what jobs are available in the local market, make new connections and share your experience with an engaged group of professionals.

Personalized Connections
Access a variety of online tools, attend informational sessions, webinars, and workshops, and connect one-on-one with the Welcome Exchange team.

Join a Community of Support
The WELCOME EXCHANGE community is made up of people and organizations who are committed to helping Newcomers to build employment connections and adapt to their new community.
Meet The Team Leading This Project
Colleen McConnell
Allison Ainsley
Daria Lysenko
Feb
07
Indigenous Relations and Perspectives
- 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
A Welcoming Circle for Newcomers
When: Friday, February 7, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM PT
Where: Victoria Native Friendship Centre 231 Regina Ave, Victoria, BC
Language: English
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register early.
Register Here
A Welcoming Circle for Newcomers
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Feb
19
Workshop
- 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Professional Credential Recognition and Evaluation
When: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM PT
Where: online via Zoom
Language: Ukrainian
Register Here
Professional Credential Recognition and Evaluation
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Feb
25
Networking
- 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Immigrant Insights into the Canadian Job Market
When: Tuesday, February 25, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM PT
Where: Comfort Inn & Suites, 1351 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC V9W 2C9
Language: English
Register Here
Immigrant Insights into the Canadian Job Market
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Feb
26
Workshop
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Indigenous Cedar Weaving Workshop for Newcomers
When: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM PT
Where: Immigrant Welcome Centre of Campbell River, 1170 Shoppers Row #200, Campbell River, BC V9W 2C8
Language: English
Featured Artist: Homalco Elder Rita Pimlott
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register early.
Register Here
Indigenous Cultural Sharing Workshop for Newcomers
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Jan
15
Info Session
- 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Understanding Your PR Card
When: Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM PT
Where: online via Zoom
Language: English with Ukrainian interpretation, if needed
Speaker: Masoud Manzouri, RCIC
Register Here
Understanding Your PR Card
Meeting/Consultation
Registration
WE - Sign up for a meeting/consultation
News & Updates
Registration
WE - Sign up for News & Updates
Contact the Welcome Exchange Team
Whether you have a question or just want to chat, we’re here!
Partners, Funders & Donors
Welcome Exchange is made possible by:
