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The IPW Winnipeg Learning Conference 2023 focused on moving beyond mandates and fostering collaboration, coordination, and idea-sharing to support refugees and immigrants in their settlement and integration process. The conference was attended by over 80 participants from various sectors, including Settlement Sector Practitioners, Public Sector Representatives, Private Sector Representatives, Indigenous Leaders, and members of Winnipeg Ethno-cultural Communities.
The event program featured presentations and discussions on a range of relevant topics, including post-pandemic migration to Canada, the development of welcoming and inclusive communities, newcomer welcome and inclusion policies, collaborative community mental health services, holistic support for newcomer students, addressing poverty through credential recognition, and more.
Participants valued the conference and found it useful for networking, learning new strategies and tools, and gaining insights into cross-sectoral collaborations. The event was made possible through the support of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Assiniboine Credit Union, which provided funding and sponsorship.
Feedback from participants indicated that they appreciated the conference’s diverse content, but some felt that the event could have been extended to two days to allow for more networking and in-depth discussions. The participants highlighted the importance of redefining the definition of “Newcomer” to be more inclusive and fostering partnerships between different support agencies. They also suggested involving more sectors, including law enforcement and justice officials, in future conferences.
Overall, the IPW Winnipeg Learning Conference 2023 successfully facilitated valuable discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities among stakeholders committed to supporting newcomers in Winnipeg. The event aimed to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for immigrants and refugees and advance collaborative efforts in the settlement sector.