United Way of Calgary and Area and the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society are pleased to host Canada’s largest annual gathering of immigration service providers, policy-makers, and researchers at this year’s Metropolis Conference March 22 to 24 at The Westin Calgary Hotel.
This year’s conference, called Immigration Futures, will deliberate models of governance best suited to address the challenges and opportunities arising from immigration, and what resources will be needed to achieve positive economic and social outcomes within Canada and beyond.
“Successful management of the migration process requires strong partnerships between governments, immigrant service providers, institutions, community organizations, and others,” says Calgary Catholic Immigration Society CEO and Conference Co-Chair Fariborz Birjandian. “As a welcoming country, Canada has an ambitious immigration plan that will see the number of immigrants and refugees climb from 265,000 in 2016 to 340,000 by 2020. To succeed, we must truly understand the complexities of settlement, integration, and adaptation so that high-quality services are available to those making Canada their home.”
Research findings show that settling in a new environment and integrating all aspects of community life is a complex and long-term process. Leveraging resources and involving a broad range of system players in response to a rapidly changing environment is key.
“In addition to discussing the complexities of immigration, settlement, and integration, recent research and best practices in welcoming newcomers will be shared,” says United Way CEO and Conference Co-chair Karen Young. “Meeting the challenge of diversity with inclusive policies and programs is critical to positive settlement and ensuring every immigrant and refugee is a vital part of our community.”
Speakers and respected thought leaders from across North America will share their experiences, insights, learnings, and respective visions for the future to more than 700 delegate attendees. The conference will also feature 75 workshops, 20 round tables, and 30 poster presentation tables. For the complete program, visit www.metropolisconference.ca.
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Media Inquiries
Paul Holley
Metropolis Secretariat
514-652-9977
Yvette Biggs
Vice President, Marketing & Communications
United Way of Calgary and Area
yvette.biggs@calgaryunitedway.org
Daisy Cheung
Public Relations Specialist
Calgary Catholic Immigration Society
403-708-6676