“Volunteers at GGP Made My Experience Unforgettable”: Giving Back Following Time at GGP
For Ario Safaeian, volunteering with Global Gathering Place wasn’t a coincidence: “It was a callback from all the experiences I had as a newcomer in Canada,” he says. Ario and his family moved to Canada in 2019 and have called it home ever since. During that first summer in Saskatoon, he spent most of his time in GGP programs, like Computer Class, Coffee and Conversation, and Breaking Ground, and found his very first friends in Canada. “The volunteers at GGP made my experience unforgettable. Once I finished the program, I realized now it is my turn to give back.”
From Paris to the Paris of the Prairies: How this Volunteer Chose to Give Back
Samblo arrived in Canada in 2024, determined to become a part of his new community while improving his English and meeting people from a variety of cultures. To Samblo, Global Gathering Place seemed like the perfect place to build connections, learn from others, and give back by volunteering.
GGP’s Client Flourishing with her Family in their New Home
Nazli met her now-husband, Mehmet, in 2010 while he was vacationing in their shared home country, Türkiye. Nazli moved to Canada in 2011 to be with him, settling first in Toronto. This transition meant adjusting to a new culture, being away from her family, and learning a new language, her biggest struggle.
Global Gathering Place Scholarship Recipients of 2026
At our AGM in June, we were honoured to present our third round of Global Gathering Place Scholarships. This scholarship continues the legacy of New Community Credit Union with the support of Synergy Credit Union. Synergy Credit Union donated $50,000 to GGP as part of their commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for newcomers to Canada. In the years to come, GGP will disburse $5,000 in scholarships annually to help advance the careers of deserving refugees and immigrants.
Volunteer Finds Meaning by Giving Back to the Community That Supported Her
Laura Cuizara moved to Canada in 2024 from Bolivia, where she was met with support, kindness, and a community that welcomed her in. Just over a year later, she is the one offering that same welcome to others as a Global Gathering Place volunteer. “[GGP has] provided me with opportunities to learn, connect with the community, and better understand my new home. By volunteering, I hope to contribute to the well-being of others and help create positive experiences similar to those I have had,” Laura says.
From Santiago to Saskatoon: How Soccer Helped Our Client Connect to his New Home
In honour of Canada co-hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026, we’re happy to share a story from one of our clients on the power of soccer with its ability to unite people and offer a sense of belonging for those in new communities. Here, Victor reflects on the importance of soccer throughout his entire life and how that helped him adjust to life in Canada!