Welcome To NewToBC

NewToBC is all about making connections. Here, newcomer immigrants and refugees connect with essential settlement information, public libraries, and service provider organizations in their communities. NewToBC also plays a unique role in the settlement sector, serving as a connector and information hub for community agencies and BC communities as they welcome growing newcomer populations. 

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Blog

Embracing New Opportunities as a Newcomer in BC

January 20, 2025

My name is Brindha and I’m a software engineer who pivoted to data analytics. I have a total of seven years of experience in the tech industry in India. After moving to BC, I worked in Best Buy’s IT department for six months at their Burnaby office. However, I had…

BC Libraries Described in
29 Languages

Libraries in BC are open to everyone! Learn what BC libraries have to offer.

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Relevant library and settlement news is updated here each week.
Visit often to stay current!

Featured image for From far and wide
January 9, 2025

From far and wide

While grateful to be in Canada, many newcomers say there aren’t enough jobs or services for them to thrive. More than 80 per cent of newcomers to Canada feel the country is bringing in too many people through its immigration […] read more

January 21, 2025

Supporting BC Newcomers to Navigate the Changing Canadian Labour Market: The ADaPT for BC Newcomers Program

The Diversity Institute has launched a new training and work placement program supporting newcomers in British Columbia! The ADaPT for BC Newcomers Program supports… read more

January 18, 2025

Canada has a doctor shortage, but thousands of foreign-trained physicians already here still face barriers

Advocacy groups say thousands of internationally trained doctors are currently unable to practise medicineΒ Canada is in urgent need of doctors, but foreign-trained physicians can’t find… read more

January 16, 2025

One-third of Ontario newcomers say they felt safer in home countries, survey finds

While many newcomers immigrate to Canada in hopes of finding safety, a new survey finds one-third of Ontario newcomers felt safer in their home countries. read more

January 16, 2025

Protest held at Vancouver college after cuts to English language program for newcomers

More than 100 people  rallied at Vancouver Community College (VCC) on Tuesday to protest the looming closure of a program that offers English classes for immigrants and refugees,… read more

January 13, 2025

The cost of the Canadian dream

Immigrating to Canada, once a goal for many, is now seen as a costly and often futile endeavour. For decades, Canada was a top destination… read more

January 09, 2025

What newcomers think about Canada’s immigration challenge

As we begin a new year and the run-up to a federal election, we know there will be much debate over how Canada should best… read more

Public libraries and community agencies offer numerous free events.
This event listing is updated each week. Visit often to see what’s going on!

Jan 23 2025

English Practice Group – Beginners

Where: Port Moody Public Library
Date: January 23
When: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
CLICK HERE for more details

Jan 23 2025

Introduction to City Cycling

Where: Online with the Fraser Valley Regional Library
Date: January 23
When: 1:00 – 2:00 PM
CLICK HERE for more details

Jan 23 2025

Communication Skills in the Workplace

Where: Online with ISSofBC
Date: January 23
When: 12:00 – 1:00 PM
CLICK HERE for more details

Jan 25 2025

Family Board Game Jam for Family Literacy Week

Where: Powell River Public Library
Date: January 25
When: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
CLICK HERE for more details

Jan 29 2025

Introduction to Interview Skills

Where: Online with ISSofBC
Date: January 29
When: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
CLICK HERE for more details

Jan 29 2025

Creativity for Calmness

Where: ICA Victoria
Date: January 15
When: Wednesdays
CLICK HERE for more details

Jan 29 2025

English Corner at Nanaimo North Branch

Where: Vancouver Island Regional Library – Nanaimo Branch
Date: Wendesdays
When: 12:30 – 2:00 PM
CLICK HERE for more details