RDA organizes Newcomer Social event

By Carolyn Sloan

The Spectator

NovaNewsNow.com

The Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency is organizing a Newcomer Social for people from around the world who have settled in Nova Scotia.

On May 6, newcomers to the area will have the opportunity to network, as well as provide ADEDA staff with feedback on the immigration process.

“It’s so we can get feedback as to what has worked, what wasn’t done right, and what we can do to help,” explains economic development officer Joy O’Neill. “We’re concerned about what’s worked locally, and what we can do locally.”

In addition to socializing and providing feedback, participants will also have an opportunity to learn about traditional culture within the local area. Jean Augistine McIsaac, a Mi’kmaq guide at Kejimkujik National Park, will be the special guest for the evening. Outfitted in traditional dress, she will be singing and drumming, as well as speaking about Mi’kmaq culture, traditions, and language.

“We thought it would be fun for our newcomers to learn a little bit more about our ancient culture we have here,” says O’Neill. “To those from other areas, it tends to be something very different and exotic.”

The social is an extension of the economic development agency’s role as a mandated organization for the Community Identified stream of Nova Scotia Nominee Program, under the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration. The EDA’s Wanda Cole assists with applications for the program, which is geared toward employable people who have long established connections to the Nova Scotia community, and who have been recognized by the community as valuable contributors. The Community Identified stream is an avenue for those who do not fit within the Skilled Worker stream, Family Business Worker stream, or the International Graduate stream.

For Cole, the Newcomer Social will be an opportunity for her to meet applicants in person.

“I’ve enjoyed meeting all these different people,” she explains, noting that this is the first year the agency has taken on this responsibility.

“We seem to attract a wonderful type of person,” adds O’Neill, “people who are friendly and who want this type of lifestyle.”

Admission to the social is free. The event begins at 7 p.m., though the location is still to be announced. For more information, or to register in advance, call Wanda Cole at 638-3490.