Canada’s Commitment to Afghan Refugee Resettlement: A Collaborative Effort

May 13, 2022 — Ottawa, Ontario

In a concerted effort to resettle at least 40,000 Afghan nationals, the Government of Canada has already welcomed 13,050 Afghan refugees, with numbers steadily increasing each week. This initiative highlights Canada's dedication to providing a safe haven for those affected by the turmoil in Afghanistan while addressing domestic economic needs.

The Role of Employment in Resettlement

Securing meaningful employment is a critical milestone for newcomers, pivotal not only for their financial independence but also for integrating into Canadian society. Employment provides stability and contributes significantly to alleviating Canada's labor shortages, thereby bolstering the nation’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

Small businesses across Canada have emerged as leaders in integrating newcomers into the workforce.

On Prince Edward Island, the Immigrant & Refugee Services Association Prince Edward Island (IRSA PEI) facilitates the settlement of refugees in smaller communities. A testament to their success is Mr. Khaled Salar, an Afghan newcomer who, shortly after arriving in Canada, secured a position as a project manager with SpryPoint, a Charlottetown-based firm specializing in cloud-based software. This success story underscores the impact of aligning job opportunities with the skills of Afghan refugees.

Corporate Canada's Contribution

Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of refugees, larger Canadian employers have reinforced their commitment to integrating Afghan newcomers into the workforce. These employers are not only offering jobs but are also equipping refugees with the necessary skills and experience for success. Here’s a closer look at their initiatives:

• McCain Foods/Day & Ross: Aiming to hire over 125 refugees by 2024, offering roles in corporate and manufacturing sectors across Canada.
• Maple Leaf Foods: Providing more than 700 job opportunities nationwide, particularly in farming, processing, and production.
• Commissionaires: This not-for-profit organization, the largest private employer of Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP veterans, has opened various positions for Afghan refugees, ranging from security guards to network cabling technicians.
• Amazon/Amazon Web Services: Extending opportunities to Afghan refugees in 12 cities, including Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, and Halifax, with additional support for skill enhancement.

A Collective Endeavor

The wave of support from Canadian citizens and businesses is a testament to the country's welcoming spirit. Business owners interested in joining this initiative can learn how engaging with newcomers can be mutually beneficial.

As Canada progresses in its mission to welcome Afghan refugees, the collaboration between government, businesses, and communities remains vital. This collective effort not only strengthens Canada's workforce but also enriches the multicultural fabric of the nation.

For media, photos of previous arrivals are available on Dropbox, and updates on Canada's progress in welcoming Afghan refugees can be monitored through official channels.