In this episode, Building Inclusive Communities in Canada, host Charles Oulton explores the topic of building inclusive communities within Canada, with a focus on his home community of Kingston, Ontario. This episode features two guests who are making significant strides in fostering inclusivity and support for diverse populations in the Kingston community by breaking down barriers for marginalized youth and supporting newcomers to thrive and feel supported in Canada.

Meet the Speakers:

Yu Jier Kou, the program coordinator for the Kingston Immigration Partnership (KIP). Yu Jier brings a wealth of experience and insight into the challenges faced by newcomers to Canada. She will discuss the various barriers to inclusion that immigrants and refugees encounter, and how KIP is working to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for all. From language training and job placement to community engagement and cultural integration, Yu Jier’s work is pivotal in ensuring that newcomers can thrive and contribute to the richness of the community.

Roger Romero, is the manager of youth services at Kingston Community Health Centres and the leader of the Pathways to Education Program. Roger’s work is instrumental in breaking down barriers that prevent marginalized youth from attending and graduating secondary school. Through innovative programs and dedicated support, Roger and the team at Pathways are creating opportunities and empowering young people to achieve their full potential, working to break the cycle of poverty.

About the Podcast:

Through the third season of the Tapestry 2030 Podcast: Global Voices, a few members of the Ontario Council for International Cooperation (OCIC) Youth Policy-Makers Hub (YPH) are aiming to amplify key global issues from the perspective of voices often unheard or excluded from policy and international development conversations. 

Learn more about the work of OCIC.