Call the ad line 905.650.3499
Parent and Grandparent program re-opens January 2, 2014
Citizenship and Immigration Canada will re-open the Parent and Grandparent (PGP) program for new applications on January 2, 2014, by which time the backlog and wait times in the program are expected to have been cut in half. Read more..
The Niagara Folk Arts Festival has kicked off in St. Catharines. It will feature various cultural associations in the region displaying their dance, food and music.
Mosaic Edition captured some photos at the opening ceremony.
Canada gets Office of Religious Freedom
Prime Minister Stephen Harper is presented with a scarf from the Tibetan community after announcing the establishment of the Office of Religious Freedom as Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, looks on.
Vaughan, ONTARIO – Prime Minister Stephen Harper has announced the establishment of the Office of Religious Freedom within the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, which will be dedicated to promoting freedom of religion or belief around the world.
He also announced the appointment of Dr. Andrew Bennett as Ambassador to the Office.
The Office will promote freedom of religion or belief as a Canadian foreign policy priority. The Office will be an important vehicle through which Canada can advance fundamental Canadian values including freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law worldwide.
See www.international.gc.ca/religious_freedom-liberte_de_religion/index.aspx
New Designated Countries of Origin
Ottawa, February 14, 2013 – The Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, Jason Kenney, announced today that the list of Designated Countries of Origin is expanding to include an additional eight countries.
As part of the improvements to Canada’s new asylum system that came into effect on December 15, 2012, the Protecting Canada’s Immigration System Act included the authority to designate countries of origin¾democratic countries that offer state protection, have active human rights and civil society organizations, and do not normally produce refugees.
“Faster processing of asylum claims from generally safe countries is an essential feature of Canada’s new faster and fairer refugee system,” said Minister Kenney.
“Our new system provides protection more quickly to genuine refugees, while removing individuals whose claims are rejected from the country faster.”
The second list of designated countries includes: *Mexico
*Israel (which excludes Gaza and the West Bank)
*Japan
*Norway
*Iceland
*New Zealand
*Australia
*Switzerland
Including the designation of these eight countries, effective February 15, 2013, 35 countries appear on the designated countries list, which already includes most countries in the European Union (EU), Croatia and the United States.
see CIC
Drumming for kids
The African Association of Niagara has started a drumming lesson for young members of the association.
The lesson is one of the activities of the association to develop a cultural awareness for young ones born in Canada.
The program has been made possible by the City of St. Catharines.
Gavin Webb, a PhD in Ethno Musicology is the instructor for the program. During the first lesson attended by Mosaic Edition, the young drummers were told the basics of drumming and learned different styles of playing the 'djembe' drum.
Gavin Webb told Mosaic Edition that the first lesson was 'a good' start though the participants had no background in drumming.
He said the idea of the program was to make the participants eventually form a group to support the activities of the African association.
Gavin Webb went to the Volta Region, Ghana in 1996 for studies. He came back to Canada to attend the University of Toronto before returning to Ghana for his masters at the University of Ghana. He left for Ghana again in 2000, where he completed his PhD at the University of Ghana. He lived in Ghana for over 12 years during which period he travelled to some parts of The Africa continent to research African music.
The participants at the end of the first lesson were able to demonstrate their knowledge of drumming to the delight of their parents who also joined in learning the skills of African drumming.
The class is offered at no cost every Saturday between 9.00am and 10.45am. It takes place at the Multicultural Folk Arts Centre, 85 Church Street, St. Catharines.
Story and photo by Edward Akinwunmi
Designated Countries of Origin Announced
Ottawa, December 14, 2012 – The initial list of countries whose citizens will have their asylum claims expedited for processing because they do not normally produce refugees is out. Read more...
New Asylum System starts December 15, 2012
Ottawa, November 30, 2012 — Canada’s new asylum system, which was included in the Protecting Canada’s Immigration System Act, will come into force on December 15, 2012, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today.
“Our changes will make Canada’s asylum system faster and fairer,” said Minister Kenney.
“For too long, Canada’s generous asylum system has been vulnerable to abuse. Under the new asylum system, genuine refugees fleeing persecution will receive protection more quickly. At the same time, bogus asylum claimants and those who abuse our generous system at great expense to taxpayers, will be removed much faster.” Read more..
Publisher gets Queen's medal
Publisher of Mosaic Edition, Edward Akinwunmi receives medal from Member of Parliament for Welland Malcolm Allen.
The Publisher of Mosaic Edition Edward Akinwunmi has been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
He was among residents of Welland riding who received the medal in recognition of their contribution to the community.
Other recipients of the medal were Bunny Alexander, Betty Ann Baker, Stella Blanchard, Huguette Brauweiler, Grace-Ann Cambray, Marcel Castonguay, Ethan Chase, Helen Durley, Fred Farnham, Robert Jollife, John Kwekkeboom, Sharon Leavere, Dawna McArthur, Mark McMullen, John Murray, and Fred Neale.
Others were Robert Neill, Henry Nikitczuk, Henry O’Keefe, Jack O’Neil, Stephen Quesnelle, Edythe Phillips, Carol Rapelje, Anthony Romero, Tony Saltarelli, Robert Saracino, Arnold Steed, Francine Villeneuve and Peter Willetts. The Member of Parliament representing Welland Malcolm Allen presented the medals to the recipients. “The 30 recipients represent a mosaic of individual experiences and accomplishments.”
Residents of St. Catharines get Queen's Medal
Distinguished citizens of St. Catharines riding have been honored with the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal. The Member of Parliament for the riding, Rick Dykstra presented the medals.
Citizenship brings responsibility
Story and Photos By Edward Akinwunmi
Oct 17, 2012 - Brampton
Citizenship carries a lot of responsibility, says Citizenship Court Judge Harry Dhaliwal. “Becoming a Canadian does mean more than having a piece of paper,” Judge Dhaliwal remarked, while addressing 62 new Canadians at a citizenship ceremony hosted by Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the Brampton Library, in celebration of Citizenship Week.
A citizen of Canada should share a common set of Canadian values having rights and responsibilities such as being a full member of the Canadian family with responsibility to obey the Canadian laws. He hoped the new Canadians would serve as source of inspiration to others.
“Your future is going to shape the future of this country,” he noted.
Canadian Experience Class marks success
Minister Kenney congratulates Gaurav Gore , Canada ’s 20,000th permanent resident through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – Ottawa, Ontario
"And so, today, as part of that momentum, I’m pleased to announce that we have just admitted the 20,000th permanent resident to Canada through the Canadian Experience Class. And the 20,000th resident is Mr. Gaurav Gore of Toronto, originally of India, who came to Canada to do his Master’s at the Rotman School of Business here at the University of Toronto, was shortly thereafter employed, works for the Bank of Montreal." Read more...
Canada revokes citizenship
File photo Minister Jason Kenney. Photo by Edward Akinwunmi
Ottawa, September 10, 2012 — The Government of Canada’s investigation into residence fraud continues to grow, with nearly 11,000 individuals potentially implicated in lying to apply for citizenship or maintain permanent resident status. Citizenship and Immigration Canada ( CIC ) has begun the process to revoke the citizenship of up to 3,100 citizens who obtained it fraudulently. Read More...
39 persons charged by the RCMP for marriage fraud.
Montréal, August 28, 2012 – 39 persons have been charged by the RCMP for a total of 78 new counts of indictments for misrepresentation and procuring feigned marriage.
The initial part of this investigation by the RCMP Immigration and Passport Section had led last February to the dismantling of an alleged criminal organization involved in illegal immigration.
The purpose of the current part of the investigation was to lay charges against the individuals who allegedly took part in marriages of convenience. They are scheduled to appear in Court on October 16, 2012 stated the RCMP on their website.
In October 2009, the RCMP initiated an investigation dubbed Project CONJUGAL, the purpose of which was to address the legitimacy of hundreds of suspicious marriages. The investigation revealed that Mr. Niang, a bogus immigration consultant who is believed to be the mastermind behind this scheme, provided advice on how to submit misrepresented facts to Citizenship and Immigration Canada to individuals whose visas were due to expire.
The statement said he organized fake marriages with the assistance of accomplices to allow these individuals originating from North Africa to remain in Canada. The network recruited young Canadian women in the Montréal area and arranged for them to participate in marriages of convenience in exchange for money.
The RCMP investigates suspicious activity by criminal organizations offering fraudulent advice to circumvent Canadian immigration laws or illegal services to help obtain Canadian citizenship more quickly or facilitate entry into Canada.
Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, and Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, in a statement noted “We wish to commend the RCMP’s Immigration and Passport Section for their successful efforts in bringing charges not only against the alleged mastermind of the operation, Mr. Niang, but also against those individuals who allegedly chose to participate in a marriage fraud scheme designed to circumvent Canada’s immigration laws.”
“These charges underline that the Government of Canada takes immigration fraud very seriously and those involved in these acts will face serious consequences."
“Over the past 12 months, our Government has introduced a series of measures to fight marriage fraud. Canadians depend on an immigration system that is fair and secure. They don’t want us to allow phony marriages to discredit our entire immigration system. That is why we will protect the integrity of the immigration system and weed out those engaging in this type of fraud.”
see RCMP and CIC websites
Canadian Multiculturalism Day 2012
St. Catharines, June 27, 2012 - Canadian Multiculturalism Day was marked in front of the city hall, St Catharines with the creation of mosaic of international flags by newcomers.
Canadian Multiculturalism Day is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity and commitment to democracy, equality and mutual respect and to appreciate the contributions of the various multicultural groups and communities to Canadian society.
The event, which was organized by the Community Connections Department of the Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre, featured an interactive world map showing the country of origin of the newcomers and music by the PK Hummingbird Steel Band. The Executive Director of the Centre, Jeff Burch stated that it was the second time the organization was celebrating Canadian Multiculturalism Day. The celebration was intended to show, that St. Catharines was a diverse city. The City of St. Catharines has been running the oldest heritage cultural festival in Canada called the Niagara Folk Arts Festival. "We want people to know how diverse we are in St. Catharines", he noted.
Some of the newcomers turned up in their traditional dresses and proudly planted the flag of Canada and flags of their various countries on the lawn of the St. Catharines City Hall.
On November 13, 2002, the Government of Canada, by Royal Proclamation, designated June 27 of each year as Canadian Multiculturalism Day.
Story and Photo by Edward Akinwunmi
Removal of Foreign Criminals Act
Ottawa, June 20, 2012 — Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, introduced legislation today to expedite the removal of foreign criminals from Canada and to enhance the safety and security of Canadians.
“The Harper Government is putting a stop to foreign criminals relying on endless appeals in order to delay their removal from Canada during which time they continue to terrorize innocent Canadians,” said Kenney “Canadians are generous and welcoming people, but they have no tolerance for criminals and fraudsters abusing our generosity.”
The Faster Removal of Foreign Criminals Act focuses on three areas which would make it easier for the Government to remove dangerous foreign criminals from our country, make it harder for those who may pose a risk to Canada to enter the country in the first place and remove barriers for genuine visitors who want to come to Canada.
Through the Faster Removal of Foreign Criminals Act, the Government hopes to streamline the process to deport convicted criminals by limiting their access to the Immigration and Refugee Board’s Immigration Appeal Division. This will reduce the amount of time certain criminals may remain in Canada by up to 14 months, reducing their chances of committing more crime on Canadian soil.
Another change in the proposed legislation would ensure that foreign nationals who are inadmissible on the most serious grounds - security, human or international rights violations, or organized criminality - will no longer be able to delay their removal by applying for a program that is meant for cases deserving of humanitarian and compassionate consideration.
Ottawa, May 18, 2012 – More than 3,500 Parent and Grandparent Super Visa applications have now been approved since the Super Visa was introduced on December 1, 2011, with an overall approval rate of 83 percent, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today.
“The Parent and Grandparent Super Visa is a great success,” said Minister Kenney. “Our Government is committed to family reunification. I’m happy to see that the program is growing and that more and more eligible parents and grandparents are getting the opportunity to spend longer periods of time with their loved ones in Canada.”
The process for getting a Parent and Grandparent Super Visa is simple and straightforward. Applicants for the Super Visa must submit proof that the host child or grandchild meets a minimum income level, demonstrate that they have purchased comprehensive Canadian medical insurance and undergo the Immigration Medical Examination. Ninety-nine percent of Super Visa applicants who met these requirements also went on to meet all
Canada reforms refugee system
Ottawa, February 16, 2012 — Legislation to protect the integrity of Canada’s immigration system was introduced today by Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney.
The proposed measures include further reforms to the asylum system to make it faster and fairer, measures to address human smuggling, and the authority to make it mandatory to provide biometric data with a temporary resident visa application. Read more...
Criminals cannot Sponsor Family
OTTAWA, ONTARIO - The Government of Canada is making it much harder for people convicted of crimes that result in bodily harm against members of their family or other particularly violent offences to sponsor any family class member to come to Canada. Read more..
Canadian Experience Class brings the best
November 2, 2011
Following a substantial increase in the number of student visas issued in recent years, Canada has welcomed its 10,000th permanent resident through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) immigration stream, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today. Read more..
Merci Beaucoup Montreal
Friends of Publisher of Mosaic Edition, Edward Akinwunmi and Haitian born music sensation Nelo Chouloute came together recently for a business luncheon and networking at a reception in Montreal.
The event was to introduce Mosaic Edition multicultural newspaper and Mosaic Edition on-line to the Montreal audience. In addition, musical talent Nelo Chouloute used the occasion to inform of his project featuring remixing of his debut CD and video production to go with the music. Read more
Conservative MPs focus on new Canadians
October 22, 2011. Posted October 25, 2011
Chungsen Leung, MP for Willowdale and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration, and Multiculturalism, John Carmichael, Member of Parliament for Don Valley West, and Joe Daniel, MP for Don Valley East hosted a media reception in Toronto to build new relationships with the cultural media and to strengthen existing ones.
The parliamentarians talked on what the government hoped to do during the parliamentary session on welcoming new Canadians and making sure they are well integrated and settled in Canada.
MP John Carmichael said that during the electioneering campaign he heard from new Canadians who could not achieve their potentials because they could not work in their profession. He said it was incumbent to make sure that those who decided to come to Canada should be able to achieve their dreams.
MP Joe Daniel said that the Human Resources Committee of the House of Commons was looking into the issue of credential recognition to make sure that those who landed in Canada highly skilled and with professional qualification could practice in their field.
Chungsen Leung, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism stated that his task was to look after new comers to Canada after arrival to make sure they are part of the diversity of Canada.
Story, photo and video by Edward Akinwunmi
Niagara Region Transit
Commuting between regional municipalities in Niagara Region is being improved with the launch of Niagara Region Transit. The new service aims to enhance transportation connection between municipalities and between existing transport services offering alternatives to travelers throughout the region. Read more...
Jack Layton 1950 - 2011
August 27, 2011 - Toronto
Jack Layton was honoured by Canadians from all walks of life during a memorial ceremony in Toronto to honour the life of the leader of the NDP.
Toronto, Ontario, August 18, 2011 — Today, the federal government expanded its “Wanted by the CBSA” list to include individuals who have failed to comply with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and have criminal convictions in Canada. Read more...
June 28, 2011
Crack down on crooked immigration consultants
Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, was joined by Bob Dechert, Member of Parliament (Mississauga-Erindale) and Phil Mooney, CEO for Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) at the announcement.
Legislation cracking down on crooked immigration consultants will come into force on June 30, 2011, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today. Read more...
PM Harper fetes media
June 25, 2011
Members of Asian Television Network International and Publisher Mosaic Edition Edward Akinwunmi at the garden party.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Mrs. Laureen Harper held a garden party today on the lawns of 24 Sussex, Ottawa. Read more..
Canada acts on human smuggling
June 16, 2011
OTTAWA, June 16, 2011 — Vic Toews, Canada's Minister of Public Safety, and Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, today re-introduced legislation to prevent human smugglers from abusing Canada 's immigration system. Read more...
June 15, 2011
MEDIA TELECONFERENCE WITH CANADA’S MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS JOHN BAIRD REGARDING LIBYA. Read more..
Niagara Folk Arts Festival 2011
May 14, 2011
Jason Kenney - Guru of Ethnic Voting
May 5, 2011
Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, Jason Kenney was photographed summer 2009 at the North Toronto Korean Festival. Photo/Edward Akinwunmi
Despite being credited with the strategy of the Conservative Party’s inroad into some ethnic communities of Canada, which resulted in a majority government for his party, Jason Kenney refused to gloat at his first cultural media national teleconference.
The minister opened the telephone conference with a gratitude to the ethno-cultural media outlets in Canada for their serious coverage of the election. Read more...
April 30, 2011
Conservative candidate Rick Dykstra opens Art Centre
April 21, 2011
TOWN HALL FORUM/DEBATE
Candidates for the 41st Federal Election in St. Catharines riding participated in a debate and town forum focusing on immigration, multiculturalism, and settlement of newcomers to Canada. Read more...
Caregivers want landed status on arrival
Caregivers deserve to be landed from day one, says the Member of Parliament for Welland in the 40th House of Commons, Malcolm Allen.
He was speaking to Mosaic Edition at a town forum in St. Catharines organized by Caregivers Niagara.
Malcolm Allen, Irish born, said his party will push for the enactment of parts of the immigration committee report which recommended landed status for caregivers upon arrival.
Malcom Allen is the NDP candidate for Welland in the 41st Federal election. Read more....
40th Federal Election Debate - Archives Sept-Oct 2008.
The public debate was sponsored by Mosaic Edition to bring issues affecting newcomers to the attention of the candidates.
It was also meant to introduce new Canadians to the civic responsibility of understanding the national political discourse before casting their vote. Look out for the 41st Parliamentary Election Debate 2011. Read More...
March 28, 2011
Conservatives will give $1300 family tax credit
Jason Kenney, former Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, who spoke to the Cultural Media through a teleconference today elaborated on the announcement made by Prime Minister Stephen Harper on the proposal to stop the punitive tax laws against working family members. Read more...
March 25,2011
The 40th Parliament was shut down today after a vote of no confidence by the opposition parties passed in the House of Commons.
Ethnic Voters Ethnic Media
March 7, 2011
The controversy Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism has found himself on the strategy of the Conservative Party (CP) to target ethnic voters has opened up a lot of discussion on the reality of the growing strength of the cultural media and their audience. Read more..
PM Harper meets Chen on Citizen's arrest act. Read more...
Filipino community in Niagara crowns queen 2011
February 12, 2011
Trisha Dela Cruz is the 2011 Queen of the Filipino Canadian Association of Niagara, FCAN. The new FCAN ambassador hopes to study criminology.
She told Mosaic Edition after her crowning in Niagara Falls that she looked forward to experiencing various diverse cultures of the region during the Niagara Folk Arts Festival in May.
Trisha Dela Cruz will represent the Filipino community as the 2011 Ambassador to the festival.
Fergie Jenkins launches stamp in St. Catharines
Fergie Jenkins, Canadian baseball hall of famer was in St. Catharines to launch his commemorative Canada Post stamp as part of activities celebrating the Black History Month.
He was at the Distinguished Speaker Series special luncheon organized by the St. Catharines – Thorold Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Brock University.
He commended the role played by parents in making sure their kids play sports. Read more...
Kuumba Festival marks Black History Month
Warren Salmon was at the Kuumba Festival celebrating the Black History Month at Harbourfront Centre, Toronto with his son Shakari (8). His ancestors came to Canada from Jamaica in 1912.
He told Mosaic Edition he was at the exhibit to show his son some Black Canadians who have made significant contributions to the country. Read more...
Egyptians of all faiths should work together
January 13, 2011
Photo by Edward Akinwunmi
Egyptians of all faiths should work together, close ranks to end sectarian violence and confront terrorists, says the Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper.
The Prime Minister was speaking in Mississauga during a meeting with Coptic Christian leaders. Read more...
Celebrating the spiritual Festivals
Hamilton youths raise funds to save Globe Youth Services of SISO
Africans in the Niagara region should join hands to build their community
Pazapa Centre in Haiti Gets $50,000 donation
Happy Diwali
Archives
African Healers, AIDS and witchcraft (2008). Read More...
Kormos-political pugilist of the voiceless (2007). Read more..
Fort Erie pastor helps newcomers start own service in French and Creole (2008). Read more....
Top Stories
More Options for Ontario's Francophone Students
May 13, 2013- Ontario Government Offering More Support to Study and Train in French
Premier Kathleen Wynne visited the University of Ottawa today, where she announced new support that will help more Francophone students study in French in the field of their choice. Starting in 2013-14, Ontario's Francophone students who travel a minimum of 80 kilometres to attend full-time studies in French will qualify for the Ontario Distance Grant, no matter where they live in the province. The grant will expand opportunities for approximately 1,000 more Francophone students to study in French anywhere in Ontario. The government is committed to supporting a prosperous Francophone community in Ontario through initiatives in education, health and culture. Measures like this one will help give Francophone students more opportunities to succeed, helping them find great jobs and helping them with their everyday lives.
ALERT!! - APRIL 22, 2013. Our contact email editormosaicedition@yahoo.ca was briefly hijacked. We are resolving this issue. We advise that no money be sent to anyone soliciting on our behalf or in the name of Edward Akinwunmi. Ignore any spam letter asking for money to be wired. Thanks.Strengthening Canada’s Ties with Nigeria - October 8, 2012 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement as he concluded his first official visit to Nigeria: “I would like to thank Foreign Minister Olugbenga Ashiru and the Nigerian people for their warm hospitality.” “Our discussions were productive and brought home just how much our two governments have in common: both are focused on creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for our peoples; both understand that prosperity and security are inextricably linked; and both are committed to religious pluralism. “Sadly, Nigeria is dealing with a deadly insurgency by radical extremists in the North who are bent on using a warped reading of religion as a pretext for cowardly violence. I pledged Canada’s support in the struggle against the scourge of terrorism.” “I was honoured to inaugurate the Binational Commission, which is evidence of our cooperation as mature partners and friends. I’m confident that it will lead to real action and new opportunities for political, economic, security and development advances.” “We are prepared to announce today the start of exploratory talks toward a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement to encourage more Canadian businesses to come to Nigeria.” “In Lagos, I met with Canadian and Nigerian business leaders, including with representatives of the newly formed Canada-Nigeria Business Association. Canadian companies see the potential in the Nigerian market, and I was pleased to see the breadth and expansion of Canadian business interests in Nigeria, from oil and gas, to aeronautics, to electricity, to information technology.” “Our government recognizes the importance of forging deeper ties with countries like Nigeria, whose economies are booming and where Canadian companies can expand and succeed. Canada’s ties with Nigeria are strong and getting ever stronger, and that’s good news for both our countries.” http://www.international.gc.ca
English students gain skills for employment at IWC HAMILTON, ON September 2012 - Over 250 newcomers were welcomed back to English classes at Hamilton’s Immigrant Women’s Centre this September. Language learners increase their knowledge and skills for employment while developing crucial language skills, preparing them for the Canadian workplace. With 20 classes and three locations, newcomer men and women who have been in Hamilton as short as a few months gather for daily comprehensive lessons that aid in their integration into Canadian society. “There is plenty of research that states barrier number one for newcomers is the language barrier. We also hear about the determining factor to settling is employment. These things are the two top priorities for every immigrant: language, and employment. Having classes where both can be addressed is important,” said Radenka Lescesen, Settlement Manager. Silvia Reynaga, a Teacher’s Assistant at the IWC explained, “[The program] helps participants to gain confidence and develop professionalism.”
YMCA Immigrant Settlement Services Opens in East-end Hamilton (March 19, 2012), HAMILTON -- A YMCA Immigrant Settlement Services office has opened in Hamilton’s east end, offering settlement and employment services for recent immigrants to Canada. This new centre – located at the corner of Barton Street and Centennial Parkway – is a satellite office of the main YMCA Immigrant Settlement Services in downtown Hamilton. “There’s a large population of newcomers to Canada settling in the east end, and we want to ensure that they have easy access to settlement and employment services,” says Lily Lumsden, Senior Regional Manager of YMCA Employment, Training and Settlement Services. The new east-end centre offers services including language assessments to help newcomers determine their level of English-language proficiency, and referrals to programs that can help with English language skills. Newcomers can also find orientation and information services aimed at helping them settle in Hamilton, including assistance in connecting with other local services that can help them with their settlement needs. These services are funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. In addition to settlement services, YMCA staff can also help clients find much-needed job training, and full-time and summer employment opportunities through services funded by the province of Ontario.
-Posted March 17, 2012 - Burial of mother and brother of the publisher of Mosaic Edition in Lagos. 
- Posted January 12, 2012 - Publisher of Mosaic Edition loses mother and brother. Read more
Hamilton, November 30, 2011 – Representatives of the City of Hamilton and the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) gathered today for the official opening of Collège Boréal’s new Employment Options Emploi centre. Located at 2 King West, (Bay & King) Lloyd D. Jackson Square, this one-stop service centre offers for free a full range of bilingual services available to all residents of Hamilton. Read more..
Sudbury, November 24, 2011 – Members of the Boards of Governors of Niagara College and Collège Boréal, their
senior staff and respective Presidents, met this weekend in Niagara to solidify the first year of their partnership. Read more.. 
October 29, 2011 St. Catharines, Niagara - Libya Free The Best is yet to come - Yasmine Mousa - This week the Libyan community in Niagara had more than one reason to rejoice. Besides Halloween and a week ahead of the Eid al Adha one of the most revered occasions on the Muslim calendar: the celebration of a Free Libya. Read more..
September 13, 2011 - Canadian-Teacher-At-Large #6 MEGA MALL WISHES AND STRATFORD DREAMS... I have been bad. Not bad in the traditional sense but bad in the sense that it has been ages since I have written anything. Mary Grace Betsayda writes from London, U.K. Read more...
HAMILTON, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 24, 2011) - University researchers and the automotive industry will now come together to develop "green" automotive technologies, thanks to a new investment by the Government of Canada. Read more...
Canada outlines support for drought-stricken East Africa August 17, 2011 Ottawa, Ontario―Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today announced further details of Canada's support to the more than 12 million people in East Africa affected by the worst drought and famine in more than a generation. "Canada is deeply concerned by the growing impact of the drought and famine. As I saw on my recent visit to the region, the international community is working to meet the challenges of severe hunger and malnutrition and rapidly growing numbers of refugees," said Minister Oda. The Government of Canada is working in partnership with Canadians through the East Africa Drought Relief Fund. Through this relief fund, the Government of Canada will match the generosity of Canadians. For every dollar an individual Canadian donates over a 10-week period (retroactive to July 6, 2011 and ending September 16, 2011) to a registered Canadian charity responding to the drought in East Africa, the government will contribute an equivalent amount to the relief fund. The Government of Canada will administer the relief fund separately, disbursing sums to organizations best suited to make an effective and real difference in the lives of people affected by the drought. As well, through CIDA, Canada has increased its financial contribution by $50 million. This pledge follows the $22.35 million provided by CIDA earlier this year for humanitarian assistance in the region, bringing Canada's total support to $72.35 million, in addition to the relief fund.
Ottawa, August 5, 2011 — Prospective immigrants and visitors to Canada now have a new interactive web tool at their fingertips to help them determine if they are eligible to come to Canada. Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today the launch of the Come to Canada Wizard. “We understand that our application processes can be complex, but this new tool is a major service improvement,” said Minister Kenney. “The Wizard will make it easier for potential immigrants and visitors to navigate the application process.”
Volunteer Awards - Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada has announced that the call for nominations to recognize outstanding Canadians who volunteer their time and energy to make stronger communities across Canada is now open. The period to nominate is now open until September 9th, 2011 either on-line or by submitting written nomination papers. The awards will recognize individuals or groups of volunteers, businesses and not-for-profit organizations in five regions across Canada , and will offer a national award in two categories: one for lifelong achievement and one for new volunteers.
July 10 2011 - Drunk driving ban under review By Guidy Mamann, J.D. It seems that the time has come for Canada to review its ban on foreigners convicted of impaired driving. Read moore....
April 7, 2011 - Hamilton
The Immigrant Women’s Centre is now providing services for newcomers in the East of Hamilton at its new temporary location of 2255 Barton Street East. Through funding from Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) for the 2011-12 fiscal year, the Immigrant Women’s Centre is taking on the Job Search Workshop services in Hamilton, in addition to Welcoming Communities programming. The Centre is also expanding its orientation services for newcomers. Located in a busy and accessible strip plaza, the Immigrant Women’s Centre on Barton Street will be staffed with three full-time and two part-time orientation and referral workers. The centre will complement other essential social services already available in this part of the city. Services will be available in Punjabi, Arabic, Pashto, Kurdish, Hindi, Bengali and Urdu.
March 29, 2011 - Ethnic voters and election promises. Read more..
March 24, 2011 -- YMCA Immigrant Settlement Services will now be the first point of contact for newcomers to Hamilton. Read more....
Living in concern over loved ones in Libya - Yasmine Mousa. Read more...
Conservative party’s immigration record misses the mark. Read more..
The year 2010 witnessed the highest number of legal immigrants in more than 50 years to Canada. Read more...
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in Halifax—Canada’s sixth national museum has been opened officially. Read more..._Home.jpg)
Canada has announced changes to airport screening that will increase convenience for the travelling public while maintaining a consistently high level of security. Read more...
30 Appointees have been named to Ontario's highest honour
Canada will not recognize the expulsion of her Ambassador to Ivory Coast by the defeated President Laurent Gbagbo. The order itself is illegitimate since Canada views the regime of Laurent Gbagbo as illegitimate. Read More....
Indo-Canadian business leaders asked for input on Canada's economic growth. Read more...
Volunteers to receive Prime Minister's Award. Prime Minister Harper pays a visit to Welland.Read more...
Newcomers in the Hamilton area will continue to have access to the settlement services they need. Read more...
Liberals call for security infrastructure funding for Coptic Christian churches that may be at risk. Read more..
"Massive Conservative cuts to settlement agencies shred services for new Canadians at Christmas" - Liberals call for reversal of decision. Read More...
Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Jason Kenney held a teleconference to respond to recent criticisms of the federal government's cut of funding of some immigrant settlement groups. Read more....
The Immigrant Women’s Centre (IWC) has received a total of $300,000 in additional funding by Citizenship and Immigration Canada on an emergency basis to take over SISO’s integration and settlement assistance program.
In a statement, the IWC noted that since the recent withdrawal of funding from SISO by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, there had been confusion in both the media and the public as to how the resulting gap in essential services for newcomers in Hamilton will be filled.
"The IWC’s concern is that Hamilton’s newcomer families have the information they need to find the agencies that will enable them to access services essential to their settlement. The IWC is working hard to lessen the impact on the most vulnerable stakeholders, having their doors wide open for newcomers and their families."
The centre has five different locations in Hamilton, combined with 27 member team, supporting in 24 different languages as of November 22, 2010. Out of these, thirteen were recently hired with the funding, many of whom were previously employed at SISO.
The IWC’s settlement services include assistance with forms and immigration, trauma support and employment counseling,
referrals to community services, workshops and sessions as well as information on housing, healthcare, the labour market and
credential evaluation. Also offered are various workplace skill courses, language training and childminding.
Along with the Immigrant Women’s Centre, other Hamilton agencies have received emergency funding. Niagara Folk Arts
Multicultural Centre is now handling the Host program, and the YMCA is adding newcomer youth services such as homework
club, drop-in, and conversational circles. The Francophone Centre also offers settlement services for French-speaking
newcomers.
"Each agency is well-equipped and ready to serve the immigrant and refugee population in Hamilton."
The Burgoyne Bridge in St. Catharines will on completion enhance the prosperity of the downtown and the city of St. Catharines. Read More...
The Southern Ontario French Immigrant Women Association of Niagara, SOFIFRAN has expanded its original mandate to deliver services on women issues.
Hamilton –
An interim chief executive officer (CEO) has been hired for Settlement and Integration Services
Organization (SISO) of Hamilton.
Sandra Mlekuz, of Hamilton,assummed her new post December 6, 2010. She is currently the
vice-principal at St. Charles Adult Education Centres in Hamilton and has a long history of community
involvement.
“We are very pleased to announce that Sandra Mlekuz is joining SISO,” says SISO board chair Hussein
Hamdani. “We are in a time of transition at the agency and Sandra has a very strong background in
leadership and management.”
“I look forward to joining SISO as interim CEO,” Ms. Mlekuz says. “While SISO currently has big challenges,
I believe it also has much strength, and the services provided are vital to our community. We will work with
our partners and funders to rebuild and refocus the agency.”
Ms. Mlekuz says she is sensitive to the newcomer experience because she grew up in an immigrant family
and has worked extensively with immigrants and refugees throughout her career.
PM Stephen Harper at Sheridan College's Campus in Mississauga
The Mississauga campus of Sheridan College will help Canadians and new Canadians in getting the skills they need for new jobs in the years ahead, says Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Read more...
Canadians urged to test home for radon
Lifting of visas on Taiwanese good move for Canada. Read more...
Collège Boréal has officially launched its new Culinary Arts program (Arts culinaires – cuisinier). Read more..
Songs of the Underground Railroad have meanings far beyond their spiritual usage.
The Government of Canada has introduced the Preventing Trafficking, Abuse and Exploitation of Vulnerable Immigrants Act. The reintroduction of these important legislative amendments to Canada 's immigration laws will help protect vulnerable foreign workers such as exotic dancers who could be victims of exploitation or human trafficking.
Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for the Status of Women, and Joy Smith, Member of Parliament for Kildonan-St. Paul, made the announcement. Read more..
Kevin Johnson, Consul General US Consulate in Toronto speaks on U.S - Canada relations in the 21st century. Read more...
Canada’s Immigrant Investor Program should be treated like the crown jewel of our annual immigration plan… but it’s not. By Guidy Mamann. Read more....
Bishop Gerard Paul Bergie is the new Bishop of St. Catharines Diocese. Read more...
Immigrants and newcomers were provided an opportunity by the Canada Border Services Agency, CBSA to familiarize themselves with various services offered by government agencies at a one-day exhibition and workshop. Read more..
The respected community leader and Late President of Hamilton’s Afro-Canadian Caribbean Association, (ACCA) Beatrice McLean has been laid to rest in Hamilton
HAMILTON’S AFRO-CANADIAN CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY LOSES A LEADER. Ms Mclean passes on
FCAN Memorial Sports Awards Night. Read more...
Employers should hire more newcomers says Minister Kenney. Read more...
Minister Oda dismisses criticism on neglect of Africa. Read more...
Canada proposes law on human smuggling. Read more....
Niagara Welcomes Newcomers - Bruce Timms. Read More...
Anti-Smuggling Legislation Violates Refugee Rights - Amnesty International. Read More..
Attack the criminals, the traffickers and smugglers, not the victims. Read more..
Migrant Farm Workers need to be empowered. Read more...
Child Advocacy Centre get $5.25m. Read more...
Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney has announced a new program to help newcomers gain valuable Canadian work experience, a significant hurdle for many immigrants. Read more...
Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff has announced the Liberal Party’s plan to help family caregivers with the cost of caring for sick or aging loved ones at home. Read more...
There are no cultural boundaries to Bollywood. Read more
PM Harper launches Mississauga BRT. Read more.....
“Diversity Works” program of the Hamilton Chambers of Commerce will help newcomers wishing to go into business. Read more....
Harriet Tubman gets Sculpture. Read more...
Mosaic Edition Webcast
Ottawa - 25 June 2011 – Prime Minister Stephen Harper met Edward Akinwunmi, the Publisher of Mosaic Edition at a garden party hosted by PM Harper and Mrs. Laureen Harper at their 24 Sussex residence
Prime Minister Stephen Harper at Eid on the Hill 
The St. Catharines Chinese School marked its 30th Anniversary June 18th 2011.
Mosaic Edition was at the event.
March 30, 2011 - Collège Boréal opens a new Francophone childminding centre
for immigrant students in Hamilton
Jewish and Iranian communities of Thornhill and Richmond Hill, Toronto came together to celebrate the harmony and diversity of the area by celebrating Purim and Nowruz.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo thrills audience in St. Catharines.
Ladysmith Black Mambazo speaks with Mosaic Edition
Dr. Zoo performed recently at the Sean O'Sullivan Theatre, Brock University.
FESTIV'ÉBÈNE 2011 - Project Co-ordinator SOFIFRAN Fete Kimpiobi with MP and Mrs Malcolm Allen of Welland
Orchestra La Tipica Hispana treated fans to Latin rhythms during the Family Day weekend. The number 1 Latin band in Southern Ontario played before a
full house at the Taco N Tequila, Niagara Falls.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper inspects an Honour Guard at the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V
The Annual Christmas Dinner of the British Methodist Episcopal Church, B.M.E Salem Chapel took place in St. Catharines.
CIDA unveils economic strategy for developing countries
Minister Kenney speaks on reform of Live-in care giver program
Halton meets Latin America
Mayor Brian McMullan speaks with Mosaic Edition
FCAN Seniors celebrate 20th Anniversary
Remembrance Day St. Catharines Mosaic Edition photos (Mephoto)
SEOUL, KOREA - Prime Minister Stephen Harper is joined by Barack Obama, President of the United States , and Lee Myung-bak, President of Korea, as the winners of the SME Finance Challenge are announced.
PMO photo by Jason Ransom
Prime Minister Stephen Harper meets with Barack Obama, President of the United States, and David Cameron, Prime Minister of United Kingdom, to discuss the progress of negotiations at the G-20 Summit(PMO Photo)
Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, announce the launch of free trade negotiations between their two countries (PMO Photo)
Prime Minister Stephen Harper chats with Hu Jintao, President of China, prior to the start of the opening session at the G-20 Summit(PMO Photo)
Column
Ling Wang |
Sports news
Coptic Orthodox Church soccer tournament |
Music Francisco "Nacho" Velasquez |
Mosaic Edtion Photos CAW Labour Day Parade |
|---|
