Southwest Saskatchewan Immigration Partnership - SSIP

The energy, ideas, and skills of refugees and community members come together to contribute to our shared success.

In SW Saskatchewan, we are proud to be building welcoming, inclusive communities where newcomers and long-time residents can thrive together. Through collaboration and shared leadership, we are working to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to belong, contribute, and succeed.

On February 27, 2026, the Southwest Saskatchewan Immigration Partnership (SSIP) hosted a Black History Month Roundtable Discussion focused on lived experiences, belonging, identity, and life in Southwest Saskatchewan.

The discussion brought together youth, adults, and black community members, including guests from Ukrainian and Indian communities in the region, to share honest reflections on feelings of welcome and building community in the region. Participants highlighted the important role of churches, sports teams, the Southwest Newcomer Welcome Centre, and fellow members of the African community in helping newcomers feel connected and supported.

Youth participants spoke about the challenges of adjusting to a predominantly white environment and how involvement in sports helped them build friendships and a sense of belonging. Adult participants emphasized the value of growing African and Black community networks through cultural events, community spaces, and greater representation in local leadership and decision-making.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the importance of connections, visibility, and creating spaces where newcomers and black residents feel seen, valued, and included.

We thank all participants for sharing their experiences and insights to help build a more welcoming and inclusive region for everyone.

On March 26 and 27, 2026, the Southwest Saskatchewan Immigration Partnership (SSIP) proudly hosted the Cultural Mosaic Concert (CMC) in Swift Current and Shaunavon, respectively. The events featured Wilbur Sargunaraj and unfolded over two vibrant evenings to celebrate the rich cultural diversity in Southwest Saskatchewan.
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Through music, dance, storytelling and shared experiences, the concerts brought people together across cultures, creating meaningful moments of connection and deepening understanding of Cultural Intelligence (CQ). Community members showed incredible enthusiasm and support throughout both events.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our guest artist, Wilbur Sargunaraj, our funder, the Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), our sponsor, the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (MCoS), and our valued partners- the Swift Current Museum, the Town of Shaunavon, and the Grand Coteau Heritage and Cultural Centre.

Thank you to everyone who joined us from across the region. Your support continues to strengthen welcoming and inclusive communities in Southwest Saskatchewan.

The Southwest Saskatchewan Immigration Partnership (SSIP) recently hosted a dynamic Community Forum on Youth Inclusion, which brought together community leaders, educators, service providers and other stakeholders from across the Southwest Saskatchewan.

The forum created a valuable space to explore the experiences, aspirations, and challenges facing youth in the region, particularly around retention, inclusion, and access to opportunities. Participants engaged in meaningful discussion on how communities can better support young people to thrive, stay and contribute to local growth.

Key themes that emerge included the need for stronger youth engagement, mentorship opportunities, and more inclusive community programming. Participants also highlighted the importance of involving youth in community conversations to create inclusive environments where all youth, both newcomers and long-term residents, feel a sense of belonging.

Southwest Saskatchewan Immigration Partnership extends its sincere appreciation to the facilitator, Jade J. Mahon, all participants, and partners for their insights that made the forum a success.

Together, we are shaping communities where young people can see a future and build it right here in Southwest Saskatchewan.