I’m Andrea, originally from Argentina. I arrived in Canada in late 2022, first settled in another province, and moved to Calgary in July 2025.
I’ve joined similar programs in other provinces, but none compares to this one. The CCIS program truly stands out; it delivers valuable, real, and practical information that every newcomer needs. The speakers are incredible; they explain everything with such clarity and empathy that you feel understood and supported.
I had never received guidance like this before. In the past, I had to figure everything out on my own, making both good and bad decisions along the way, simply because no one ever explained the important things newcomers need to know, from driver’s licenses, healthcare, banking, and laws to understanding our rights and the many helpful services offered by public libraries. These are things we may be familiar with in our home countries, but they work differently here, and it’s essential to understand them to feel confident and settled.
I’m so grateful I decided to attend this program. It opened my eyes and made me feel less alone in this journey.
I’ll recommend it to every newcomer who chooses Calgary as their new home, because everyone deserves to have a great settled experience.
I'm very grateful to CCIS for the opportunity to participate in the Calgary: A New Chapter information session on city governance. It was a valuable learning experience and provided me with a better understanding of how Calgary's government works.
Thank you for investing in newcomers and empowering us to become more engaged citizens.
Calgary: A New Chapter program helped me feel supported, build connections, and most importantly helped me be a part of the community, and I encourage every newcomer to take part in it.
I wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for the information sessions held from September 17 to 19. The valuable topics covered, such as Job Search Strategies, Banking in Canada, Overview of Calgary, You and The Law and Healthcare in Alberta, were incredibly informative and beneficial.
Thank you for your time, expertise, and dedication to making these sessions useful for us. I'm grateful for the knowledge gained and appreciate the effort you put into organizing such a valuable experience.
I'm very happy to have gained knowledge on these important topics, and we're looking forward to more sessions like this.
My name is Helina, I am from Ethiopia.
I joined CCIS at the end of August and I got this opportunity to learn more about life in Calgary, about driving license, how to find a job, how to write a resume and cover letter which is the most important thing to get a job and also about Alberta' s health care system. I didn't mention it all; as a new comer I got a lot of information.
Again, I would like to say thank you to CCIS for this opportunity and all the speakers for their unlimited knowledge sharing and also to Iuliana for motivating us. Thanks a lot.
I have participated and completed the CCIS "Calgary: A New Chapter" Orientation Session and I am thrilled with the experience.
This program provides incredible and crucial insights, on a number of aspects important for newcomers, based on their challenges & concerns. The coverage of topics, such as Stress Management and Health Insurance, Canadian Bank, You and the Law(s ), Cover Letter & Resume Writing, Driver Licence, Educational System in Calgary and Introduction to Canada, equipped me with the valuable information I was waiting, for a smooth transition into the community, job search strategies & job market.
The orientation session was instructive, informative, illustrative, descriptive, inclusive, identifying problems and engaging problem-solving strategies!
The orientation organizer(s), coordinators, presenters were awesome, experts and whole rounded! All-in-all beyond the words can express.
Besides, the program also offers an awesome opportunity for networking with job seekers, recruiters, experts and professionals with the business providers.
I highly recommend this orientation sessions.
It's the best way to welcome an Immigrant. I highly recommend to my friends, anyone looking to successfully integrate into the community, for all immigrants.
Well done, good job and keep it up!
As a recent participant in the CCIS Calgary: A New Chapter, I can unequivocally say it has been an invaluable resource for my smooth transition into settling in a new country. Regardless of one's background, the program offers comprehensive support and guidance that addresses the myriad of challenges and questions newcomers face.
From practical advice on navigating local systems to fostering a sense of community and belonging, every aspect of the program was thoughtfully designed and expertly delivered. I am incredibly grateful for the insights, connections, and confidence I gained through this program. It truly made a significant difference in my initial months here, transforming what could have been an overwhelming experience into a remarkably positive one.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire CCIS team for their exceptional dedication and unwavering support in helping newcomers like myself. Your understanding, expertise, and genuine commitment to our well-being are truly commendable.
I highly recommend the CCIS, Calgary: A New Chapter Program, to anyone embarking on the journey of settling in a new country. It's an essential investment in your future well-being and success, providing the tools and community you need to thrive.
The “Calgary: A New Chapter” program has been an incredible experience for me as a newcomer to Canada. I appreciate the structure and the opportunity to hear from the coordinator and guest speakers, who shared their inspiring personal experiences and stories as, once, newcomers themselves, which gave me hope and motivation to pursue my goals.
The program provided valuable resources, practical guidance, and a welcoming environment that supported and encouraged my journey. I’m so grateful for this opportunity and highly recommend it to other newcomers seeking a strong start in Canada!
Thank you for helping me integrate into this wonderful community.
Moving to a new country—let alone a new city—can feel overwhelming. From unfamiliar cultural norms to new systems, there’s a lot to navigate. Calgary: A New Chapter equipped me with exactly the information, direction, and support I needed to tackle this transition with confidence. Knowing what to do, whom to speak to, and what resources are available has made all the difference.
Iuliana was an outstanding facilitator—always keeping us engaged and encouraged—and every speaker brought valuable insights. I especially appreciated:
The healthcare session, which demystified Alberta’s medical system.
The presentation by the Calgary Police Service, which helped me understand local safety resources.
Cassandra’s session on employment and employability, which gave me actionable strategies for entering the Calgary job market.
Thank you for creating such a supportive learning environment.
The three-day program "Calgary: A New Chapter" was incredibly informative and truly eye-opening. Each speaker communicated their topics clearly, providing detailed explanations and patiently answering every question with enthusiasm and care.
I’m especially grateful to Iuliana for organizing these sessions. Her positivity, inspiration, and motivation made a real difference. I’m also very glad I reached out to CCIS. The resources and support they offer are invaluable for newcomers like me.
Thank you all so much for your dedication and generosity!
