Immigrant Women’s Peer Support Program (IWPSP) celebrated the Facilitation and Leadership Training graduation of 23 women from 14 different countries last weekend at ISSofBC Welcome Centre.
Each year the IWPSP, in collaboration with PeerNet of BC, trains 15 to 20 newcomer women to become Volunteer Peer Support Group Facilitators.
The training takes place over 14 weeks and is taught by leading experts from various fields who donate their time and expertise to build up the skills-base of women working towards becoming community leaders and role-models.
The women learn about mental and physical health, self-awareness, communication skills, violence against women, parenting, employment standards, and more.
Upon completion, the volunteer facilitators are placed into teams of three where they create session plans and deliver 10-week peer support groups for other immigrant and refugee women within their own communities.
Program participants have reported an increase in self-esteem and self-confidence, formed lasting friendships and became more aware of the various services and resources available to them as well as a better understanding of Canadian culture.
Congratulations to all graduates and best wishes on your new roles in the community!
IWPSP is funded by the Vancouver Coastal Health SMART Fund.
