In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Communauté francophone accueillante de Yellowknife (CFA Yellowknife), in partnership with the NWT Literacy Council, organized a free visit to the city’s iconic Snow Castle last week.
The event, held from 10 a.m. to noon on March 13, was part of an initiative to integrate newcomers into the local culture and community.
“Every year, we book the snow festival for newcomers, permanent residents and new Canadians. We give them the opportunity to visit the Snow Castle, enjoy the offerings, and see the artwork, sculptures and everything else,” said Uma Sivakumar, community coordinator with the NWT Literacy Council.
She also emphasized the importance of socialization for newcomers.
“They get to know each other, let their kids play together, and have an opportunity to meet other parents and communicate,” she said.
The event attracted approximately 50 people from 15 families.
To eliminate some of the language barriers, CFA Yellowknife also joined the event to help francophone newcomers enjoy the Snow Castle.
“It was a fantastic opportunity for families, especially during the school break,” said Lisa Boisneault, the program coordinator with CFA Yellowknife.
She said the attendees represented a diverse group, with families from Ethiopia and individuals from South America, reflecting the global tapestry of the francophone community in Yellowknife.
“Our programs usually operate in French and English separately, but we decided to join forces for the greater good of the community,” said Boisneault.
She explained that the event was open to all, not just newcomers, fostering connections among new residents and established locals.
“Newcomers want to meet people who share their experiences and those who’ve been part of the community for longer. It’s about building bridges,” she said.
Funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the event went the extra mile by covering not only the entry fees but also the transportation costs for participants.
“We wanted to remove any barriers that might prevent newcomers from joining,” said Boisneault. “Transportation can often be a hurdle, so we ensured that was taken care of.”
Looking ahead, she mentioned upcoming events, including a game workshop on March 24, which is open to the entire community.
“It’s about more than just having fun. It’s about making connections, feeling welcomed, and starting to build a life here in Yellowknife,” she said.