Introduction
Being young and new to Canada is hard. A new school, a new language, and a lot of change at once.
At CIWA, you do not have to do it alone. Our youth programs are a place to make friends, get help with school, and get ready for what comes next. You can work with a mentor, join a group, and meet other young people who know what it is like to start over.
Everything is free. If you are a parent, these are safe, welcoming programs run by trained staff who work with young newcomers.
Take a look and find the one that fits you.
Our youth programs
All four programs are free, and welcome immigrant and refugee youth.
iGLOW (Immigrant Girls Leading Our Way)
- Make new friends and build leadership skills
- Free homework support
- Group discussions, activities, and crafts
- Put your ideas into action in your community
- Learn how to volunteer and get involved
Funded By
Girls Coding Camp
What it is: Learn to code and build something of your own. Part of the iGLOW program.
Who it’s for: Immigrant girls.
Ages: Confirm age range.
Contact: youthprograms@ciwa.org
What you can gain:
- Learn coding basics in a supportive group
- Build your skills with technology
- Meet other girls who share your interests
Part of: iGLOW, Family Services
Learn more: Program flyer link, supplied by CIWA
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Funded By
Immigrant Girls, Boys and More (IGBM)
What it is: Support to build healthy relationships and confidence, with counselling, mentorship, and group activities. A place to talk things through.
Who it’s for: Immigrant youth. Open to girls, boys, and gender-diverse young people. Held at junior and senior high schools, community locations, and the CIWA office.
Ages: Youth 12 to 18.
How it runs: Group sessions, one-on-one counselling, and career mentorship.
Contact: ShatiqueT@ciwa.org
What you can gain:
- Healthy relationships group sessions
- Free one-on-one counselling
- Career mentorship
- Communication and conflict resolution skills
- Discussions on culture, values, self-esteem, consent, boundaries, and dating
Part of: Family Services
Learn more: Program flyer link, supplied by CIWA
Quote:
[No testimonial in the source. Add one, with consent, when available.]
Funded By
Pathways to Success
What it is: Get matched with a mentor, explore careers, make an education plan, and try out the working world through a 20-hour job shadow.
Who it’s for: Immigrant girls. Mentorship-based.
Ages: Girls 14 to 21.
How it runs: One-on-one mentorship, workshops, field trips, and a job shadow.
Contact: KatherineS@ciwa.org
What you can gain:
- Get matched with a mentor who shares your interests
- Explore different careers and meet new friends
- Build job skills through workshops and field trips
- Try out the workforce with a 20-hour job shadow
- Meet employers and learn from professionals
Part of: Family Services
Learn more: [Program flyer link, supplied by CIWA]
Funded By
What young women tell us
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are CIWA Settlement Services free?
Yes. All CIWA Settlement Services are provided free of charge to eligible newcomers and community members.
Who can access Settlement Services?
CIWA is a nonprofit organization that supports immigrant and refugee women, girls, and their families through a wide range of settlement, language, employment, and community programs.
Can I receive support in my own language?
CIWA is a nonprofit organization that supports immigrant and refugee women, girls, and their families through a wide range of settlement, language, employment, and community programs.
What kind of help can I receive?
CIWA is a nonprofit organization that supports immigrant and refugee women, girls, and their families through a wide range of settlement, language, employment, and community programs.
