About the Women in Civic Engagement (WICE) Program
WICE, a program under the Syrian Canadian Foundation, empowers refugee and newcomer women to integrate into Canadian society through active political and civic engagement. This blog showcases the knowledge, experiences, and expertise of our participants on topics discussed within the program.
From Lebanon to the World: Documenting Feminist Histories Through Graphic Storytelling
The graphic novel by Bernadette Dauo, now available online at Where to, Marie?, draws on my own experiences, academic research, and years of activism within Lebanon’s civil society. It highlights key moments, movements, and figures that have shaped the feminist struggle in Lebanon, contextualizing them within the broader regional and global fights for gender justice.
Roadblocks in the Labour Market
What challenges do newcomer and refugee women face in attaining leadership positions in government and the public sector? Our latest report, Roadblocks in the Labour Market, uncovers the barriers at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels, highlighting systemic challenges and opportunities for change.
Read the full report to explore key insights and recommendations for creating a more inclusive and equitable workforce.
A New Home, A New Beginning
Leaving behind a thriving career and the life she built in Romania, she made the life-changing decision to immigrate to Canada—seven months pregnant and carrying nothing but hope and determination. The journey was filled with challenges, from starting over professionally to adapting to a new culture, but she embraced every obstacle with resilience. Looking back, would she change something?
Starting Over: Building a Life and a Legacy in Canada
Moving to Canada in 2020, Tehmina faced isolation, uncertainty, and the challenge of rebuilding from scratch—but through resilience and community, she found purpose. From that struggle, something fruitful was born, empowering immigrant entrepreneurs to break barriers and build success together.
From Kabul to Canada: A woman’s story of Loss and Resilience
Arzo fled Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover in 2021, leaving behind her family, dreams, and everything she knew. Adjusting to life in Canada was difficult, but through resilience, education, and community support, she learned English, pursued higher education, and became an advocate for immigrant rights.
Un-Belonging: Finding Strength in the In-Between
From navigating uncertainty in Canada to feeling foreign in her own homeland, she struggled with ‘un-belonging’. Through support, friendships, and advocacy, she found strength and now works to create a more inclusive future for all newcomers.
The Immigrant Experience in Politics: Stories of Inspiration and Perseverance
More than five influential voices, including four racialized women, shared their inspiring journeys through politics and civic action at the Syrian Canadian Foundation’s 'Government Discussion Panel' on August 10.
From Rights to Realities - Navigating Higher Education as a Refugee in Canada
Canada, renowned for its diversity, has long embraced individuals from diverse backgrounds, including refugees and newcomers with forcibly displaced persons. Yet, amid the rights afforded to all, have you ever found yourself questioning whether you truly feel their full effect?
Denial of Education: The Struggles of Women and Girls in Afghanistan Under Taliban Rule
After the Taliban took over Afghanistan, they implemented over 100 rules, significantly violating basic human and civil rights, especially for women and girls, according to a report from Radio Free.
Sudan in Crisis: The Urgent Call to End a Devastating War
On April 15, a devastating war broke out in Sudan between the army and the Rapid Support Forces militias, resulting in the death of tens of thousands and the displacement of millions of civilians.
The views and experiences expressed by WICE participants are their own and do not represent the views or positions of SCF.