A 21-year-old Sarnia resident is marking a major milestone this month by graduating from college and giving back to the community organization that helped her find her footing. Zeina, a Syrian refugee who arrived in Canada nearly nine years ago, is finishing her final student placement with the Newcomer Settlement Program at the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario.
When she first arrived in Canada, Zeina did not speak English and faced challenges navigating her new surroundings. Through various local programs, including after-school support and language training, she gained the confidence and skills needed to integrate into the community. Reflecting on her transition, Zeina noted that when she first moved to the country, she did not know how to be involved in the community. She is now a Canadian citizen and is graduating this April from the Child and Youth Care program at Lambton College.
Zeina is now using her own experiences to support others as they navigate the settlement process. The Newcomer Settlement Program operates as a hub for people including refugee claimants, work permit holders, international students, and migrant workers. Located at the YMCA Learning and Career Centre at 660 Oakdale Ave, the program provides essential assistance with housing, health, legal services, finances, and employment.
Roxanne Gilroy-Machado, the Supervisor of Newcomer Services for the organization, oversees these efforts in Sarnia-Lambton. She emphasizes that the goal of the program is to create a safe environment where newcomers feel welcome as they build their lives in the region. The initiative is funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.
The local YMCA remains a central fixture for community engagement in Sarnia. In addition to newcomer services, the organization continues to update its facilities, including the recent completion of a new outdoor pavilion at the Jerry McCaw Family Centre at 1015 Finch Drive. This project was made possible through funding from The Judith & Norman Alix Foundation.
