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
Welcome Exchange Cultural Sharing

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.

Welcome Exchange Networking

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.

Welcome Exchange Personalized Support

Personalized Connections

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

welcome exchange community

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

Director of Marketing & Communications

Allison Ainsley

Community Engagement & Logistics Manager

Daria Lysenko

Community Catalyst

Feb

07

Indigenous Relations and Perspectives

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.

A Welcoming Circle for Newcomers

"*" indicates required fields

Gender*
Immigration status*
Would you like to receive information about upcoming events and important news?*

Feb

19

Workshop

Professional Credential Recognition and Evaluation

When: Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM PT

Where: online via Zoom

Language: Ukrainian

Professional Credential Recognition and Evaluation

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Gender*
Immigration status*
What is your current employment status?*
What is your intended employment status?*
Would you like to receive information about upcoming events and important news?*

Feb

25

Networking

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

Immigrant Insights into the Canadian Job Market

"*" indicates required fields

Gender
Immigration status*
What is your current employment status?
What is your intended employment status?
Would you like to receive information about upcoming events and important news?*

Feb

26

Workshop

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.

Indigenous Cultural Sharing Workshop for Newcomers

"*" indicates required fields

Gender
Immigration status*
Would you like to receive information about upcoming events and important news?*

Jan

15

Info Session

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

Understanding Your PR Card

Meeting/Consultation

WE - Sign up for a meeting/consultation

News & Updates

WE - Sign up for News & Updates

Contact the Welcome Exchange Team

Whether you have a question or just want to chat, we’re here!

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Partners, Funders & Donors

Welcome Exchange is made possible by: