“I joined ISSofBC as an individual, but I became part of a supportive community with my friends. These skills have extended beyond the training room and become threads weaving a stronger and more compassionate society.”
— ISSofBC
Joudi Saffo began his new life in Canada in 2022, he brought a clear goal with him: to build a future in British Columbia.
Originally from Syria, Joudi had lived in Iraq and Kyrgyzstan after war forced him to leave home. Arriving in Canada offered safety and possibility, but it also meant learning a new language, understanding a new culture and finding his place in an unfamiliar community.
Joudi joined ISSofBC’s Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada program, known as LINC.
With support from his instructors and ISSofBC staff, Joudi worked towards Canadian Language Benchmark 4. As his English improved, he became better able to communicate, navigate daily life and pursue work.
Within two months, Joudi found a job.
When newcomers move forward, Canada benefits
On National Nonprofit Day, August 17, we recognize the organizations, staff, volunteers, donors and partners working to strengthen communities across Canada.
For ISSofBC, the day is also an opportunity to recognize the newcomers who bring their skills, knowledge, languages and experience to Canada.
Newcomers do not arrive without strengths or ambition. They arrive ready to learn, work, build relationships and contribute. However, unfamiliar systems, language barriers and the lack of Canadian professional connections can make it difficult for those strengths to be recognized.
According to Statistics Canada’s April 2026 release, Labour market experiences of recent immigrants, 2019 to 2025, 42.5% of recent working-age immigrants who were not employed when they arrived found a job or started a business in less than three months.
Joudi’s experience puts a person behind those findings.
Settlement services did not give Joudi his determination or ability. He brought those qualities with him. The LINC program gave him a practical way to strengthen his English, move towards his goal and apply his abilities in a new setting.
This reflects ISSofBC’s position: newcomer-serving organizations do not create newcomer potential. We create pathways for that potential to be recognized and shared.
BC needs the skills newcomers bring
According to the Government of British Columbia’s 2025 report, British Columbia Labour Market Outlook: 2025–2035 Forecast, the province expects 1,052,000 job openings between 2025 and 2035. Approximately 65% of these openings will result from people leaving the workforce, mainly through retirement.
Five industries are expected to account for 58% of these openings:
- health care and social assistance;
- professional, scientific and technical services;
- retail trade;
- construction;
- finance, insurance and real estate.
The report forecasts that labour demand will be greater than the expected supply of new workers over the next decade. Recognizing and developing the skills people already bring will therefore be important to BC’s workforce and economy. Contribution goes beyond paid workNon-profits strengthen Canada
Why donations matter
Government funding supports many essential settlement services. However, this funding is often connected to specific programs, eligibility requirements and immigration levels.
Donations give ISSofBC greater flexibility to respond to community needs and support opportunities that may not be fully covered by government funding.
Your donation can support newcomers in:
- improving their English and communication skills;
- preparing for meaningful work;
- connecting with employers and community networks;
- building confidence and leadership skills;
- developing friendships and a sense of belonging;
- sharing their knowledge, ideas and experience;
- accessing specialized support for newcomer youth, women, seniors and refugees.
For someone like Joudi, that opportunity can begin in an English class and lead to employment, new relationships and greater participation in community life.When newcomers thrive, communities thrive
Support newcomers today
Your donation can support newcomers as they settle, learn, connect and contribute across British Columbia.
Every contribution can support an important next step.
