Volunteer Bridge Circle: Transitioning To Life In Canada

Volunteers gathered to discuss newcomer challenges and community resources for support. 

The fourth gathering of the Bridge Circle focused on immigration and the various challenges newcomers face when transitioning to life in Canada. The session explored not only the obstacles but also meaningful strategies and community resources that support successful integration. Selamawit* and Yevheniia** from the Outreach Team, both Youth Crisis Counsellors, presented this important topic. 

They delivered the session with remarkable insight, empathy, and clarity. Their presentation highlighted the major factors influencing newcomer experiences such as social adjustment, emotional well-being, access to services, and sources of empowerment that enable individuals to rebuild their lives with confidence.

Throughout the discussion, participants openly shared their personal experiences of arriving in Canada for the first time. 

Many spoke about the wide range of difficulties they encountered, including employment challenges, adapting to the climate, language barriers, homesickness, navigating immigration processing times, and adjusting to unfamiliar cultural expectations. 

The honesty and vulnerability expressed in the room fostered a deep sense of connection, reminding everyone of the empathy and shared understanding.  

Nearly 30 volunteers attended this session, many of whom recently joined our team and were attending their very first Bridge Circle gathering. Their presence added fresh energy and new perspectives, enriching the conversation and strengthening our growing sense of community. 

This continued growth is a testament to the hard work, compassion, and dedication of our Volunteer Coordinator, Arnida, who consistently strives to create a supportive environment that benefits every volunteer and aligns with our organization’s mission.

In addition to the discussions, we organized a variety of activities designed to build trust, encourage teamwork, and help volunteers reflect on the immigrant journey from different perspectives. These activities sparked meaningful conversations, encouraged creativity, and enabled volunteers to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse challenges newcomers face. 

The interactive nature of the session made it both engaging and memorable, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation of the complexities of immigration and the importance of community support.

After the formal session concluded, the conversation continued in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. The presenters bought pizza for everyone, turning the gathering into an informal community gathering. Volunteers stayed longer, discussing their experiences, exchanging advice, sharing cultural stories, and supporting one another. The extended interaction enriched the learning experience and strengthened the sense of belonging among the group.

The fourth gathering of the Bridge Circle in succeeded in bringing people together, deepening our collective understanding, and reinforcing the values of empathy, cooperation, and empowerment that guide our work.

Written by Basma Al-Azawi

*Selamawit Fsehaye is an Ethiopian refugee and immigrant who turned resilience into purpose. Selam is dedicated to uplifting her community and supporting newcomer youth in Canada. She guides hearts as a Youth Crisis Counsellor, nurtures love as a devoted wife, and shapes futures as a mother of three – each role a powerful chapter in her beautifully fulfilling life.

**Yevheniia Ternova is a Crisis Youth Counsellor at the Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth, supporting newcomer youth in Calgary. A trained psychologist from Ukraine, she arrived in Canada with her daughter in May 2022, bringing a wealth of empathy and lived experience. She provides non-therapeutic, client-centred support, helping newcomers build safety, resilience, and confidence as they settle in Canada.