The International Conference on Refugee and Newcomer Well-Being 2026 officially opened with inspiring remarks from Mr. Festo Nduwayezu, BA, MAIR, Founder and Executive Director of Let’s Help International (LHI), who welcomed participants from across sectors to a day dedicated to advancing the well-being, inclusion, and success of refugees, newcomers, and displaced communities.
Addressing a diverse audience of community organizations, government representatives, academics, faith leaders, service providers, businesses, refugee-led organizations, and community members, Mr. Nduwayezu emphasized the importance of collective action in building stronger and more inclusive communities.
“Your presence demonstrates that together we can build stronger, more inclusive, and more welcoming communities,” he said.
The conference theme, “Seeing, Supporting, and Celebrating Newcomers, Refugees, and Displaced Communities,” reflects a fundamental truth: every newcomer has a story, every refugee has potential, and every displaced person deserves dignity, opportunity, and hope.
Mr. Nduwayezu highlighted the reality faced by millions of people around the world who are rebuilding their lives after experiencing conflict, displacement, persecution, and hardship. While many challenges continue after arrival—including language barriers, employment difficulties, housing insecurity, educational transitions, and social integration, he stressed that positive change becomes possible when communities come together with a shared commitment to inclusion.
“Today we gather not only to discuss challenges but also to share solutions, build partnerships, and celebrate the resilience and contributions of refugees and newcomers,” he noted.
The conference serves as a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders who play critical roles in supporting newcomer integration and community well-being. Through presentations, panel discussions, research findings, lived experiences, and networking opportunities, participants are exploring innovative approaches to creating more equitable and welcoming communities.
A central message of the opening remarks was the recognition that refugees and newcomers are far more than recipients of assistance.
“At Let’s Help International, we believe that refugees and newcomers are not simply recipients of support. They are leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, workers, volunteers, and valued members of our communities. Their success strengthens all of us,” Mr. Nduwayezu said.
He also expressed sincere appreciation to the speakers, sponsors, partners, volunteers, and organizing committee members whose dedication and contributions made the conference possible. Their collaboration reflects a shared commitment to improving outcomes for refugees and newcomers and fostering communities where everyone can thrive.
Special recognition was given to refugees and newcomers themselves, whose courage, determination, and resilience continue to inspire positive change.
“Your journeys inspire us. Your contributions enrich our communities, and your voices are essential in shaping a more inclusive future,” he stated.
As the conference began, participants were encouraged to engage actively, share experiences, learn from one another, and explore opportunities for meaningful collaboration. The goal is not only to exchange ideas but also to strengthen partnerships and build momentum for lasting impact.
The International Conference on Refugee and Newcomer Well-Being 2026 represents an important opportunity to advance dialogue, research, policy, and community action focused on improving the lives of refugees, newcomers, and displaced persons in Canada and beyond.
An Advocacy Call for Inclusion and Action
While much progress has been made in supporting newcomers and refugees, significant barriers remain. Too many individuals and families continue to face challenges in accessing employment opportunities, affordable housing, culturally responsive services, language supports, and pathways to full participation in society. Addressing these challenges requires more than goodwill, it requires sustained commitment, investment, and collaboration.
Governments, community organizations, employers, educational institutions, faith communities, and citizens all have a role to play in creating environments where newcomers can succeed. Policies and programs must be grounded in dignity, equity, and inclusion, while ensuring that refugee and newcomer voices are meaningfully represented in decision-making processes.
As we move forward, we must continue to advocate for welcoming communities that recognize the strengths, talents, and contributions of those who have been forced to leave their homes in search of safety and opportunity. By investing in newcomers, we invest in stronger economies, more vibrant communities, and a more compassionate society.
The message from this conference is clear: refugees and newcomers deserve not only protection and support but also opportunities to lead, contribute, and flourish. Together, we can build communities where every person is seen, supported, celebrated, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Together, let us continue to see, support, and celebrate newcomers, refugees, and displaced communities—not only during this conference, but every day.
