With a population of over 500,000, approximately 1,000 new residents every month, and the largest number of Government Assisted Refugees (GARs) than any other community in British Columbia, Surrey is consistently demonstrating leadership through various initiatives to welcome and integrate newcomers to Canada.
On September 20, we celebrated the City’s employees who have served as Connectors – generously helping skilled new immigrants build professional networks in Surrey.
“The Connector Program supports our commitment to creating a welcome and inclusive city for all its residents,” said Councillor Judy Villeneuve at the event. “Sometimes a simple gesture can make a big difference in the career path of skilled immigrants.”
The City of Surrey has made great strides implementing its Sustainability Charter, which aims to create an inclusive, prosperous, and resilient city. One of the key goals of the Charter is to ensure continued prosperity and thriving livelihoods, and a strong, equitable and diverse economy.
Since February 2015, 30 skilled new Canadians have benefited from the talents, expertise and professional referrals of the City’s staff in the framework of the program, and some 70% have found employment commensurate with their qualifications.