Immigration Partnership Highlights | |
Immigration Partnership: Cultivating a Thriving Community
This morning, in collaboration with the KW Chamber of Commerce, we joined an important discussion on how immigration strengthens our communities and economy. Dan Tisch, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, emphasized its importance, stating, "Immigration has to be the foundation for our future."
Discussions focused on challenges in attracting and retaining skilled immigrants, the need for stronger regional programs, and concerns over a potential 20% reduction in permanent residents. A well-functioning, skills-based immigration system is more crucial than ever. Strengthening credential recognition, employer practices, and partnerships with post-secondary institutions can help newcomers integrate and contribute to economic growth.
Charlene Hofbauer from the Workforce Planning Board highlighted how provincial trends and policies directly impact Waterloo Region’s labour market. She emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to address these challenges locally, ensuring that immigration continues to support economic and community growth.
At the Immigration Partnership, we remain committed to creating opportunities for immigrants by fostering collaboration between businesses, policymakers, and post-secondary institutions, ensuring they have the support needed to succeed.
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SAVE THE DATE! - On March 5, the Immigration Partnership is hosting the 17th edition of the Global Skills Networking Event, connecting Waterloo Region employers with international talent. This event is part of the annual Global Skills Conference hosted by the KW Multicultural Centre.
About Global Skills
This is a free one-day conference for job-ready, Internationally-Trained Professionals (ITPs) living in Waterloo Region and the surrounding area. The conference provides ITPs with resources and information on credential recognition, skill development, professional associations, regulatory bodies, and related professions.
Join us at the Networking Event for international talent!
Are you an immigrant job seeker ready to connect with employers and explore career options?
Join us for a special networking event where you can meet local employers, learn about job openings from diverse industries across Waterloo Region, and expand your professional network.
Don’t miss this chance to take the next step in your career!
Bring your resume and readiness to connect!
This is a FREE event with light refreshments.
Learn more about the Global Skills Conference 2025
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March 26, 9 - 11:30 AM, 480 Charles Street East, Kitchener | Free
Building better business through belonging
A hands-on workshop designed for small and medium business owners and managers to equip you with immediately implementable strategies that enhance team performance and create workplaces where everyone can contribute their best.
Whether you are facing challenges with employee retention, communication or looking to strengthen your workplace culture, this workshop is for you!
Led by Curt Hammond & Lakhdeep Singh of Four Simple Words, this session offers practical, cost-effective solutions tailored for SMEs.
You will walk away with:
- Communication strategies that bridge cultural differences.
- Proven approaches to build employee loyalty and reduce costly turnover.
- A step-by-step onboarding guide tailored for resource-constrained teams.
Spots are limited— Get your tickets now!
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Upcoming Networking Breakfast Series events
The Immigration Partnership Speed Networking Series provides an opportunity for attendees to hear from engaging business leaders and speakers on hot topics that are informative and relevant to small and medium-sized businesses. Professionals from a variety of sectors and all career levels gather to network and hear the guest speakers on their specific areas of expertise.
Each event is a way to connect with your fellow Chamber members and gain a new understanding about a topic of great interest to the Waterloo Region business community.
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March 4, 8 - 10 AM
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo St. Jacobs | 55 Benjamin Road
Get your tickets now!
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May 6, 8 - 10 AM
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo St. Jacobs | 55 Benjamin Road
Get your tickets now!
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Immigrant Survey Results & Snapshots | |
The Immigration Partnership conducted the Waterloo Region Immigrant Survey in June 2023, providing almost 1,700 immigrants the opportunity to share their experiences of living, working or studying in Waterloo Region and impact organizational and community change. Check out the reports released to date to help guide your policy, program and investment decisions. | |
Immigration Partnership Resources | |
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Make your organization accessible to over 10,000 residents who don’t speak English or French by providing interpretation.
Use the "Interpretation Best Practices Checklist" here: Interpretation Checklist
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Explore antiracism resources and join our campaign at: www.racialequitywr.ca | |
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Get insights into recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and integrating the best immigrant talent with this resource created with World Education Services.
Explore the Playbook: Waterloo Region Employer Playbook
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New to Waterloo Region? Our partners can help! | |
Your Voice Matters: Voting as a New Citizen
Becoming a Canadian citizen is a milestone, and with it comes the right to vote! Whether you’ve just received your citizenship or have been eligible for a while but haven’t voted yet, now is the time to get involved. Elections in Canada might be different from those in your home country, but they are a vital way to shape the future of your community. Take the time to learn about the process, the candidates, and the issues that matter to you.
Your vote helps build a stronger, more inclusive Waterloo Region.
Get informed, get involved, and make your voice count!
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Learn more about Waterloo Region provincial candidates debates available on Rogers TV | |
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Waterloo
Thursday, Feb. 20 – 1:00pm
Friday, Feb. 21 – 3:00pm
Cambridge
Monday, Feb. 17 – 8:00pm
Tuesday, Feb. 18 – 1:00pm
Kitchener Centre
Friday, Feb. 21 – 10:30pm
Wednesday, Feb. 26 – 10:00pm
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Kitchener Conestoga
Saturday, Feb. 22 – 12:00pm
Sunday, Feb. 23 – 12:00pm
Kitchener South Hespeler
Saturday, Feb. 22- 3:00pm
Monday, Feb. 24 – 9:00pm
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March 13 - 15, The Westin Harbor Castle | Ticketed
The 27th Edition of Metropolis Canada
Canada's immigration ecosystem is undergoing significant changes, shaped by evolving public discourse, ongoing economic challenges, and social realities. As the nation's immigration planning now combines permanent residents and temporary workers, it is critical to revisit policies and practices that align with economic, social, and humanitarian goals.
This conference will provide a platform for exploring critical questions about the future of immigration in Canada, with a focus on best practices, research, and collaborative strategies for shaping a sustainable and inclusive immigration system. This conference invites proposals that offer recommendations, innovative insights and actionable solutions on several pressing issues.
Register now
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March 18 - 20, Toronto Metropolitan University, hybrid | Free
National Conference on Equity and Racial Justice Across Canada
Join local activists as well as leading provincial and national advocacy organizations, and front-line researchers in Toronto: Be part of a movement for advancing equity and racial justice across Canada! English + French with Spanish interpretation.
Register now
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Updates & News | |
Initiatives & Funding Opportunities | | |
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The Ontario trillium Foundation is now accepting applications for Capital Grants!
Through Capital grants, the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) helps non-profits undertake essential projects that directly benefit Ontarians by improving community facilities and spaces.
📅 Apply by March 5, 2025: Capital Grant | Ontario Trillium Foundation
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Waterloo Region Community Foundation is now accepting applications for various grants
Arts Grants
Supports small or medium sized arts organizations and collectives, as well as projects focused on the arts.
Community Grants
Supports organizations that are focused on initiatives linked to improving social infrastructure. The Trinity United Church Legacy Fund is partnering with WRCF again in 2025 and is providing additional funding
Racial Equity Grants
Supports organizations that are led-by and serve people across Waterloo Region who are Indigenous, Black, and people of colour.
Apply by March 31, 2025
Learn more: About Grants — Waterloo Region Community Foundation
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Nominations are now open for Kitchener and Waterloo Senior of the Year Award
You know them: caring, involved seniors who go out of their way to make a difference in our community. Maybe they’re a helpful neighbour or dedicated volunteer who supports you or your organization? Consider nominating that special person aged 65+ for a Kitchener or Waterloo Senior of the Year Award!
For details including how to nominate, visit:
Kitchener Resident Senior of the Year & Waterloo Resident Senior of the Year
The nomination deadline is March 31, 2025.
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Nominations open for Kitchener youth awards
Every year, the Kitchener Youth Action Council (KYAC) celebrates the talents and contributions of young people in our community. Nominate today and help generate awareness of the valuable contributions youth make in our community.
Nomination forms and details are available at KYAC Youth Awards
Nomination are open until April 4, 2025.
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Apply for the City of Waterloo's Neighbourhood Fund
Do you have an idea for bonding with your neighbours? Apply for the City of Waterloo's Neighbourhood Fund and get up to $7,500 for an idea that brings your neighbourhood together.
The 2025 deadlines are:
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Round 2: May 14
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Round 3: October 22
Learn more: Neighbourhood Fund Application - City of Waterloo
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Free tax clinics
You may be eligible for help at a free tax clinic if are a current client of the Region of Waterloo Community Services Department, you have a modest income and a simple tax situation.
Find a tax clinic in your area
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New to Canada? Learn about the benefits of doing your taxes
Tax season is fast approaching—get prepared with this interactive webinar hosted by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Discover how Canada’s tax system works, explore ways to file your taxes, learn about free tax help, and get an overview of other CRA services.
You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers during the event.
March 12, 2025 - Benefits and credits for newcomers to Canada
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What does it mean to be a host
WR Grassroots Response is always looking for people in Waterloo Region willing to open up their homes to Ukrainian fleeing the war. The number of Ukrainians seeking shelter is not slowing and there are new requests for help every day.
If you are interested in becoming a host, there are several ways you can help.
Learn more about how you can become a host and support the Ukrainian community: Provide Housing | WRGR (wrgrassrootsresponse.ca)
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La Communauté en Français | | |
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Le mardi 25 février à 18 h 30, 450 chemin Maple Grove, Cambridge
Soirée portes ouvertes à l’École secondaire catholique Père-René-de-Galinée
- Pour les élèves de la région de Waterloo et de Guelph/Wellington de la 7ème à la 12ème année
- Les élèves en immersion française sont les bienvenus !
Plus d'informations
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Le 12 mars 2025, virtuel | Gratuit
Vous venez d’arriver au Canada? Apprenez-en plus sur les avantages de faire vos impôts
L’Agence du revenu du Canada (ARC) organise un webinaire interactif qui portera sur :
- le régime fiscal canadien;
- l’allocation canadienne pour enfants;
- le crédit pour la taxe sur les produits et services/taxe de vente harmonisée;
- les différentes façons de faire ses impôts, l'aide fiscale gratuite et les autres services de l’ARC.
Vous pourrez poser vos questions et recevoir des réponses tout au long du webinaire. Nous avons hâte de discuter avec vous!
Inscrivez-vous
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Guide d'établissement pour les communautés francophones de l'Ontario
Ce guide se veut une source d'information pour le personnel de première ligne des prestataires de services de langue anglaise afin qu'il puisse plus facilement orienter les clients francophones vers les services de langue française dans leur zone géographique.
Plus d'informations : Settling-in-French-in-Ontario - Settlement-Guide.pdf
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February 26, 3:30 PM, 200 Christopher Drive, Cambridge | Free
Building Career Confidence: Employment Resource Fair
Build your confidence speaking with employers in a low-pressure setting. Learn essential job search skills, connect with HR and career development professionals for advice, ask questions, and practice your introductions.
Hosted by Kinbridge Community Association
Register now!
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WR Connectors
For many newcomers, the idea of building a network can feel overwhelming. WR Connectors is here to help! You’ll receive coaching on networking skills, guidance on developing an action plan, and a match with a Connector.
A Connector is a community volunteer from a similar industry or profession who will meet with you to share their knowledge and expertise, answer your questions, offer advice, and introduce you to people in their network.
Learn more at www.wrconnectors.com
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Behind the Business podcast - Season 2
The Behind the Business Podcast is a weekly podcast created by the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce that highlights the important people and issues in Waterloo region and in our community. Business and community leaders share their thoughts on the issues that affect the region and business community.
Checkout this week's special guest Jenna Petker, Director of Healthcare & Physician Recruitment at the KW Chamber of Commerce: Behind the Business Podcast
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Wednesdays, February, 6 - 8 PM, Waterloo Public Square Ice Rink, Waterloo | Free
Skate Night Date Night
Bring your skates and skate along to tunes spun live by DJ King Kadeem, while warming up with hot drinks from the Hissing Goose Coffee Roasters. Each week will feature a different music playlist theme.
Learn more
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March 7, 3 - 8 PM, CIGI Campus, 67 Erb St. W, Waterloo | Free
International Women's Day Market
This market will showcase a diverse selection of businesses led by talented women selling jewelry, food, beauty products, home goods and more. Presented in partnership with the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)
Learn more
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Tuesday to Friday, 10 AM - 4 PM | Free
City of Waterloo Museum presents Exhibitions Exploring Indigenous Histories and Resilience
The City of Waterloo Museum invites the community to engage with these critical histories, honour the resilience of Indigenous communities, and commit to the path of Truth and Reconciliation. The City of Waterloo Museum is opening two transformative exhibitions in partnership with the Legacy of Hope Foundation. These exhibitions delve into the lasting impacts of the Residential School system and the Sixties Scoop while amplifying Indigenous voices, resilience and the ongoing journey toward Reconciliation.
Exhibition Details:
- Killing the Indian in the Child: Generations Lost – now to mid-April 2025
- Bi-Giwen: Coming Home - Truth-Telling from the Sixties Scoop – mid-April to June 13, 2025
- Bead the Tract and Original Graphic Recordings by Dakota Brant – now to June 13, 2025
Learn more
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Thursdays, until March 13 , 1 - 2:30 PM, KW Multicultural Centre | Free
English Conversation Circle
Practice your English! No registration required, all are welcome.
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Thursdays, until June 19, 10 - 11:30 AM, Kitchener Public Library, 85 Queen St N, Kitchener | Free
Women's English Conversation Circle
Practice speaking English in a relaxed and comfortable environment with other women. Meet new friends, share stories, and learn about life in Canada. All newcomer and immigrant women are welcome.
Learn more
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Job Workshops
YMCA of Three Rivers Employment Services offers workshops designed and proven to help you with your job search and career decision making.
February 26, 1:30 – 2:30 PM
Interview Skills
Register now
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Strategic Resume Writing Workshop
This workshop is suitable for seasoned professionals, new immigrants, or if you already have a resume. It will dive deeper into systems used to shortlist resumes and tailor them to stand out. Parking passes are available on both locations.
February 27, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 150 Main Street, Cambridge | Free
Cambridge - Register now
March 6, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 20 Weber Street E, Kitchener | Free
Kitchener - Register now
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Send us any suggestions or information about relevant events and resources to include in the Immigration Waterloo Region Weekly by emailing
Diana Carrillo at djoya@regionofwaterloo.ca
We encourage you to add your own events to our Community Calendar
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