As the International Conference on Refugee & Newcomer Well-Being 2026 came to a close, the atmosphere was filled with gratitude, hope, and a renewed commitment to creating lasting pathways of inclusion for refugees, newcomers, and displaced communities.
After a full day of inspiring keynote presentations, engaging panel discussions, meaningful networking, and thought-provoking conversations, participants gathered for the conference’s final acknowledgment and vote of thanks.
The Master of Ceremonies reflected on the significance of the day, describing it as “a day of conversations, a day of speeches, and a day of paradigm shifting.” He expressed appreciation to everyone who attended, recognizing both those who remained until the closing session and those who had to leave earlier because of other commitments.
“You could have spent your day somewhere else, but you chose to spend it here because this truly matters.”
On behalf of the organizing committee, Mr. Festo Nduwayezu, Founder and Chairperson of Let’s Help International (LHI), delivered the official vote of thanks and extended heartfelt appreciation to everyone whose dedication made the conference a success.
Honouring Our Partners and Supporters
The organizing committee sincerely thanks the many organizations and community leaders whose partnership, encouragement, and contributions helped make this important gathering possible. Special appreciation goes to:
- Lord Minister Local Immigration Partnership (LMLIP)
- Alberta New Democratic Caucus
- Islamic Family
- All Nations Full Gospel Church
- African Canadian Civic Engagement Council (ACCEC)
- Let’s Help International (LHI)
- World System Builder
- The TASS
- Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR)
- Africa Centre
- Edmonton Free Methodist Church
- When African Women Talk
Their financial support, technical expertise, institutional collaboration, community leadership, and unwavering commitment strengthened the conference and demonstrated the power of working together to build welcoming and inclusive communities.
Appreciating Our Speakers and Volunteers
The conference organizing committee also extends sincere gratitude to all keynote speakers, panelists, moderators, facilitators, and workshop presenters who generously shared their knowledge, lived experiences, research, and professional expertise. Their contributions inspired meaningful dialogue and encouraged participants to think creatively about durable solutions for refugee and newcomer well-being.
Special thanks are also extended to the conference volunteers, organizing committee members, staff, and the Master of Ceremonies, whose dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts ensured the smooth planning and successful delivery of every aspect of the event.
Thank You to Every Participant
The success of this conference was made possible by every participant who chose to attend, contribute, ask questions, share experiences, and engage in thoughtful discussions throughout the day.
Your presence transformed the conference into a vibrant learning community where diverse voices were heard, new partnerships were formed, and innovative ideas emerged to advance refugee and newcomer inclusion.
Looking Ahead
Although the conference has officially concluded, the conversations and partnerships established during this gathering are only the beginning.
Let’s Help International remains committed to working alongside governments, community organizations, faith communities, educational institutions, researchers, service providers, refugee-led organizations, and community members to promote dignity, belonging, inclusion, and well-being for refugees and newcomers.
As the event concluded with a group photograph, participants left with renewed inspiration and a shared commitment to continue building stronger, more inclusive communities where every newcomer has the opportunity to thrive.
The organizing committee extends its deepest appreciation to everyone who contributed to making the International Conference on Refugee & Newcomer Well-Being an outstanding success.
Thank you for your partnership. Thank you for your participation. Thank you for believing in a future where every refugee and newcomer belongs.
