When Aggrey Kaggwa arrived in Vancouver in January, he carried dreams for the future—but also uncertainty.
The cold winter, unfamiliar systems, and the reality of starting over in a new country left him wondering whether he could rebuild the life he had imagined.
Then he connected with ISSofBC’s Moving Ahead Program (MAP).
What made the difference wasn’t just information or referrals. It was something much more human.
“It was the first time I felt truly seen and heard,” Aggrey recalls.
His case manager, Jahangir, listened to his fears, shared his own newcomer journey, and reminded him of something Aggrey has never forgotten:
“You are not starting from zero. This is just a reset.”
Together, they worked through the practical challenges of settling in Canada—from obtaining identification and filing taxes to accessing health services, food supports, and employment programs.
Most importantly, Aggrey says, he gained confidence.
Today, he is working as an airside groomer at Vancouver International Airport while continuing to pursue his long-term career goals.
“It’s not my final destination,” he says. “But it is helping me build the future I came to Canada to create.”
Aggrey believes the support he received went beyond administrative assistance.
“These programs protect people from giving up. They restore confidence, purpose, and hope during one of the biggest transitions of a person’s life.”
As Canada celebrates its diversity and strength this Canada Day, stories like Aggrey’s remind us that welcoming newcomers benefits all of us.
When newcomers are supported to succeed, they become employees, neighbours, volunteers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. They contribute their talents, experiences, and energy to building stronger communities across Canada.
At ISSofBC, we see this every day.
With community support, we can continue helping newcomers build lives, careers, and connections that strengthen Canada for everyone.
Support New Beginnings
This Canada Day, consider donating to ISSofBC: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/the-immigrant-services-society-of-british-columbia/
Your support helps newcomers access the programs, guidance, and community connections they need to build successful lives in Canada.
Together, we can build a stronger Canada where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
