Where connection leads to growth: Yao’s Journey

When Yao Mensah Mawusi Makpelassi and his wife, Albertine, arrived in Halifax, they came prepared. Through pre-arrival supports including ISANS’ Settlement Online Pre-Arrival (SOPA) program, IFNÉ (Immigration francophone de la Nouvelle-Écosse), and connections with CDÉNÉ (Conseil de Développement Économique de la Nouvelle-Écosse). They had already taken important first steps. However, like many newcomers, they quickly realized that settlement is about more than preparation, it’s about building meaningful human connections.

Arriving amid rising living costs, housing pressures, and increasingly complex public conversations around immigration, Yao and his Albertine faced the realities of starting over in a new country. Navigating systems in both English and French added another layer of challenge. In this context, Community Connections have become a vital source of support.

Through the program, they were matched with James King, a Canada Connects volunteer who helped transform their early experience. Together, they explored Halifax, shared meals, and practiced English in everyday settings turning unfamiliar surroundings into a place of belonging.

“James made a significant impact. His encouragement helped us improve our English and feel at home,” Yao recalls. “The program helped me transition from a newcomer to an active member of the community. It gave me the confidence to contribute.”

With this support, Yao gained both confidence and direction. Through ISANS’ Bridging Program, he earned a position as an agent with CDENE and Albertine won certification as a Long-Term Care and Disability Support Worker, opening pathways to meaningful employment for them both. Social activities and community engagement further helped them build a strong local network.

As their confidence grew, they transitioned from receiving support to giving back. they began volunteering with organizations such as the Salvation Army and the Blue Nose Marathon, becoming active contributors to their new community.

“I joined ISANS because I wanted to use my international experience to support immigrants to Canada,” James says. “I was especially drawn to Canada Connects for the opportunity to work with young Africans, after having visited much of the continent.”

Today, Yao and Albertine are thriving connected across both Francophone and Anglophone communities and continuing to build a life rooted in belonging.

At the same time, volunteers like James grow alongside newcomers, gaining cultural understanding and building lasting relationships. This reciprocal exchange strengthens not only individuals but the broader community, including connections with African Nova Scotian and wider Black communities.

“The most rewarding part of the past year has been seeing our new friends adapt to the country and the culture while steadily building a home in Canada,” James reflects. “It has broadened our perspective on the importance of immigrants and the challenges they face upon arrival.”

Helping newcomers overcome these challenges and feel at home has been deeply rewarding.

“This experience also teaches us about our own country its openness and acceptance of people from around the world,” James adds. “I would recommend this program to anyone who wants to better understand their country while supporting newcomers along the way.”

Yao’s and Albertine’s story reflect how we grow together by building relationships that go beyond support services. Newcomers bring resilience, skills, and diverse perspectives, while volunteers and community partners offer guidance, local knowledge, and connection. Their success was not achieved alone, it was shaped like his experiences whether practicing language, exploring the community, or giving back through volunteering both newcomers and long-time residents learn from one another.