In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Communaut茅 francophone accueillante de Yellowknife (CFA Yellowknife), in partnership with the NWT Literacy Council, organized a free visit to the citySA国际影视传媒檚 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.

SA国际影视传媒淓very 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,SA国际影视传媒� said Uma Sivakumar, community coordinator with the NWT Literacy Council.

She also emphasized the importance of socialization for newcomers.

SA国际影视传媒淭hey get to know each other, let their kids play together, and have an opportunity to meet other parents and communicate,SA国际影视传媒� 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.

SA国际影视传媒淚t was a fantastic opportunity for families, especially during the school break,SA国际影视传媒� 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.

SA国际影视传媒淥ur programs usually operate in French and English separately, but we decided to join forces for the greater good of the community,SA国际影视传媒� said Boisneault.

She explained that the event was open to all, not just newcomers, fostering connections among new residents and established locals.

SA国际影视传媒淣ewcomers want to meet people who share their experiences and those whoSA国际影视传媒檝e been part of the community for longer. ItSA国际影视传媒檚 about building bridges,SA国际影视传媒� 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.

SA国际影视传媒淲e wanted to remove any barriers that might prevent newcomers from joining,SA国际影视传媒� said Boisneault. SA国际影视传媒淭ransportation can often be a hurdle, so we ensured that was taken care of.SA国际影视传媒�

Looking ahead, she mentioned upcoming events, including a game workshop on March 24, which is open to the entire community.

SA国际影视传媒淚tSA国际影视传媒檚 about more than just having fun. ItSA国际影视传媒檚 about making connections, feeling welcomed, and starting to build a life here in Yellowknife,SA国际影视传媒� she said.