New to Canada? Want to integrate into Canadian society and meet other citizens? It is certainly not easy to make new friends and you have to be bold when trying to connect with your fellow citizens. The good news is that there are many different ways to connect with others in Canada, from heading to your local library, volunteering and joining your community sports team, there is something for everyone.
Canada’s reputation as a progressive, diverse, and multicultural country has made it a sought-after destination for international workers, students, and immigrants, which can also assist you with your journey of connecting with others. This guide aims to give you inspiration to put yourself out there in your new community, so that you can connect with other Canadian Citizens.
Canadian Culture in Detail
Known for its approachable and relatively laid-back demeanor, Canadian culture mirrors the multicultural and diverse population it houses. In a pioneering move in 1971, Canada became the world’s first nation to adopt a national policy of multiculturalism, celebrating the rich tapestry of the country’s diversity. As a result, Canada’s governance is anchored in core values of fairness, equality, inclusivity, and social justice, garnering widespread public support.
Canada’s political and cultural beliefs are evident in some of the social priorities, such as publicly funded healthcare, progressive taxation, initiatives to combat poverty, and gun control. Legislative stances also reflect social liberalism on issues like women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, euthanasia, cannabis use, and more. Canada’s commitment to human rights is enshrined in laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or sexual orientation.
How Can I Contribute to Canadian Society?
There are great benefits for yourself and your community when you start to integrate yourself into your local community. Luckily, there are many different ways to be active in your community, including the following:
- Participating and voting in Canada’s democracy
- Volunteer your time or skills in local school or charity
- Protect the environment and local wildlife
- Have a hand ready to help your neighbours
- Contribute to reconciliation efforts with Canadian Indigenous
Places Where You Can Connect with Fellow Canadian Citizens
You will be able to have genuine connections with people in these places and might find strong connections with people who share similar interests to you.
A Place of Worship
A place of worship serves as a valuable support system as you adapt to life in Canada. These places often offer social services, aiding those in need and assisting newcomers in community integration. Connecting with people at a place of worship can help you discover:
- Sources for food aligned with your religious dietary requirements
- Individuals who speak your native language
- Fellow community members who share your cultural background and traditions
Head to Your Local Library
In many neighborhoods, you’ll find a library providing free resources for borrowing. It’s a hub for community events like workshops, talks, and family activities. Volunteering at your local library is a fantastic way to engage with fellow Canadians—don’t hesitate to inquire about potential opportunities to contribute your time!
Visit Your Local Sports Venue
Engaging in a sports league enables you to establish an initial connection that can evolve through weeks of practices, matches, and tournaments. Making new friends doesn’t exclusively require joining a sports team; you might discover family fun-days or other events hosted by your local sports club.
Stop By a Community Centre
You might be surprised to discover what your local community centre offers, from sports and recreational activities, to childcare facilities and cultural events. Across all urban areas in Canada, be it Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal, you’ll find numerous community centers!
As a new citizen in Canada, your local community center should be your first stop. These hubs are your go-to for organized sports, recreational activities, fitness classes, pools, and much more. The added bonus? Many cities have multiple community centers, making it highly likely that you’ll have one within walking distance! How convenient is that?
Connect Yourself Digitally
As we do live in a digitally-run world, it is not surprising that you should also consider getting yourself digitally involved in the community. You can opt to join local groups on Facebook, X, or other apps like “meet up” that help connect people. It is advisable to search for groups or events that align with your likes or beliefs, so that you find people that you can create genuine connections with.
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