COVID-19 Newcomers Information Webinar held in Ontario

Saturday, November 7, 2020 – Ontario, Canada

The Kenyan Canadian Association hosted the COVID-19 Newcomers Information Webinar. This is the first in a series of webinars to address society issues related to COVID-19 pandemic. The webinar was streamed live on Facebook reaching over 1,400 people. 

Mr. Sunir Chandaria, Kenyan Honorary Council in Toronto who was the Special Guest Speaker outlined the consular services available through the Kenyan Mission in Canada. He urged newcomers to join communities, including virtual ones to help cope better with the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Mental health has been a great concern for Ontario residents as the COVID-19 pandemic presents various challenges for individuals and families. Dr. Florence Juma, a Registered Psychotherapist. And Ms. Eve Mpofu, a Therapeutic Counsellor provided information on how to self-identify mood changes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. They also provided practical guidance on how newcomer parents can support their children to integrate better in the society. 

Swaleh Abdallah, a Certified Public Accountant professional in Toronto provided practical personal finance management advice and steps newcomers can make to start building their credit and prepare themselves for home ownership. 

Joshua Makori, an Immigration Lawyer in Toronto, provided advice to help refugee claimants including information about legal aid and how to prepare for their hearings. 

The event kicked off with a presentation on KCA, its objectives, programs and initiatives by Ephraim Mwaura, the President of KCA. Mwaura also presented an overview and achievements so far under the Canadian Red Cross project which included distribution of grocery vouchers to 40 vulnerable families from marginalized groups across Ontario. The Newcomers and Settlement, Ms. Catherine Matimu provided an overview of her program and the upcoming Newcomers Fair in December 2020.

Kenya Canadian Association - KCA is a federal not-for-profit organization that seeks to address the issues affecting Black and underrepresented communities in Canada while assisting newcomers to settle and make a positive contribution in the society as they endeavor to achieve their goals.