The Moose Jaw Newcomer Welcome Centre is holding its next community café session on Thursday, Dec. 21. The aim of the workshop is to give newcomers to Moose Jaw a platform to meet new people, openly talk about what’s on their mind, and to share their story.
The cafés take place on the third Thursday of each month and begin at 7 p.m. at the welcome centre. Each café runs for a maximum of two hours and there’s no cost to join.
“They (newcomers) can meet new people, network, learn new things from the other people in the group as well, and Canadians can come and learn about different cultures too, and make new friends,” said Melissa Mitchell, the welcome centre’s manager.
“We’re here to support anybody who wants to come out and enjoy themselves for the evening, and have a wonderful time making a connection, working on their language, and networking within our community,” added Robyn Watson, the employment coordinator with the Moose Jaw Multicultural Council (MJMC) and the welcome centre.
The café is organized by the Moose Jaw Newcomer Welcome Centre, which is a branch of the MJMC. According to Watson, the collaboration took place because the MJMC saw the need for newcomers to have a chance to settle in and feel welcome in their new community.
A few additional benefits include a chance for newcomers to feel less isolated in their new home, find access to ethnic food suppliers, and to help find job opportunities.
“I’ve had the opportunity myself to be able to share my experiences and… my services, between resume writing, cover letter writing, connections to employers, interview skills, and just getting them ready to work. If they happen to get a job offer, I can offer to pay for a bit of training possibly as well,” said Watson.
Another focus of the meetings is to practice the English language.
“Every voice matters. Even if we do make mistakes, are they really mistakes? I think they are opportunities where we can grow and change, and we can grow together. I don’t have all the answers either,” added Watson.
There’s no requirement to register or call ahead to attend the community cafés. Any interested guests are asked to arrive early or call if they arrive late, as the doors will be locked once the event begins.
The Moose Jaw Newcomer Welcome Centre is located at 432 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-692-6892. To access the building, use the doors facing Main Street.
“That’s what I hope we can all gain from this – that we’re all here together. We’re here to grow and learn,” Watson said.
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