Event Report: Meeting on Socio-Cultural Integration of Youth in Canada

Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Location: RAFIO Offices – 235 chemin Montréal, Ottawa

Theme: Facilitating the socio-cultural integration of youth in Canada

Activity Overview

On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, RAFIO organized a meeting in partnership with Mosaïque interculturelle as part of a project aimed at facilitating the socio-cultural integration of youth in Canada.

The activity was facilitated by Ms. Aïssatou, Mr. Apollinaire, and Ms. Antoinette Irarera, Executive Director of RAFIO. The purpose of this meeting was to create a space for dialogue where youth could discuss their experiences, the challenges they face during their integration into Canada, and possible solutions to support their personal, social, and professional success.

The evening took place in a warm, dynamic, and participatory atmosphere. The young participants, coming from diverse cultural backgrounds, demonstrated strong interest, openness, and engagement throughout the discussions and activities.

Activities Conducted

Several activities and moments of exchange were held during the meeting, including:

• An icebreaker activity designed to encourage interaction and build connections among participants;

• Advice and discussions on discipline, career choices, and the preservation of cultural identity;

• Inspiring testimonies from youth who have overcome various challenges related to their integration in Canada;

• A networking session allowing participants to share their experiences, achievements, and build new connections.

During the discussions, several youth shared the difficulties they face, including:

• language barriers;

• career reorientation;

• challenges related to cultural adaptation;

• experiences of discrimination.

Facilitators and interveners provided advice and encouragement to help the youth move forward confidently in their integration journey. Promising fields such as information technology, sciences, and medicine were also presented as sectors offering numerous opportunities for young people.

Participation and Feedback

Participants actively engaged in the discussions and activities. The exchanges were enriching, inspiring, and constructive.

The youth expressed appreciation for the safe and supportive environment provided to share their experiences and concerns. The diversity of backgrounds and testimonies helped create a strong sense of solidarity and mutual encouragement among participants.

Closing of the Activity

The activity ended in a friendly and positive atmosphere. Participants continued informal discussions during the networking period, further strengthening connections between youth and facilitators.

The organizers also announced the continuation of the meetings every Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at RAFIO offices to further support youth in their integration process.

Conclusion

This meeting on the socio-cultural integration of youth in Canada created a space for listening, sharing, and support that promotes inclusion and personal development among immigrant youth.

The engagement of participants, as well as the richness of the exchanges, demonstrates the importance of continuing such community-based initiatives to support young people in their social, cultural, and professional integration in Canada.