Supporting Newcomers in Our Community

Location: Online (link to be shared upon registration)

Region(s): North, West Central, East Central, Central, South, Edmonton (ECALA funded), Calgary (Calgary Learns funded), Red Deer (Lifelong Learning Council of Red Deer funded)

This special webinar hosted by Alberta Routes and NorQuest College aims to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to assist immigrants settling into Canada. All are invited to join -- community members, volunteers, educators, employers, service providers, and anyone wishing to effectively support newcomers in their community.

Our guest facilitator, Zhenya Tretiakova, Associate Chair of Settlement Studies at NorQuest College, has a robust background in the non-profit sector and post-secondary institutions. She has worked extensively with international students, permanent residents, and refugees. Zhenya has filled roles as an instructor, volunteer manager, frontline service provider, and cultural events organizer, always fostering inclusive environments and promoting community engagement.

The webinar will cover key objectives in the following areas:

• Understanding Immigration in Canada. Gain insight into the diverse immigrant population of Canada and the various categories of immigration, from economic migrants to refugees. 
• Adjustment Stages. Explore the stages of adjustment experienced by newcomers, including initial settlement, cultural adaptation, and integration into Canadian society. 
• Factors Influencing Adjustment. Learn about the factors that impact newcomers’ ability to navigate each adjustment stage successfully, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and employment challenges. 
• Post-Migration Challenges. Identify the most common challenges faced by newcomers after migration, including housing issues, healthcare access, and social integration. 
• Community Resources. Discover valuable resources and contact information for services that support newcomers, including settlement agencies, language classes, employment programs, and cultural organizations. 
• Tips for Effective Support. Acquire practical tips and strategies for effectively working with newcomers, fostering a welcoming environment, and promoting inclusivity within your community. 

Date: Oct 16 Wed
Time: 10:00AM – 12:00PM 
Location: Online (link to be provided to registered participants) 
To register: https://forms.office.com/r/aANB32SDE9  

About the facilitator: Originally from Russia, Zhenya Tretiakova began her journey in Canada as an international student, an experience that gave her a unique perspective and deep empathy for the challenges newcomers face. She navigated the complexities of immigration processes, job searches, and community integration firsthand, and this shaped her practical approach to supporting others in similar situations. 

Zhenya holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Russia, a Master's Degree in Modern Languages and Cultural Studies from the University of Alberta, and a Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) Canada Certificate. As a Fulbright Scholar, she has demonstrated dedication to academic achievement and cultural exchange, contributing to both her academic field and community outreach efforts.