Empowering newcomers: ISANS opens innovative Youth and Family Centre

Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) has launched its new Youth and Family Centre, a transformative initiative aimed at supporting and empowering newcomer and refugee youth and families.
The Honourable Mike Savage, ONS, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, attended the opening ceremony, emphasizing the critical role that immigration plays in fostering vibrant and prosperous communities across the province.
“I have long had great admiration for the outstanding work undertaken by ISANS in supporting newcomers to our Province. The organization does much to enhance the social fabric of Nova Scotia and I am honoured to play a part in the opening of the new Family and Youth Centre,” says the Honourable Mike Savage, ONS, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia.
This initiative aligns with ISANS’ mission to help newcomers build a future in Nova Scotia, providing a hub for education, career development, and interpersonal skill-building, supporting more than 4,800youth immigrants in the last year.
“This Centre reflects ISANS’ commitment to welcoming newcomers and creating opportunities to build great lives here,” says Paula Knight, ISANS CEO. “By investing in newcomer youth, we are investing in the future by promoting the province’s economic, cultural, and social prosperity.”
The Centre offers a diverse range of programs tailored to the unique needs of newcomer youth and families, ensuring that new generations can navigate their settlement journey effectively.
“The welcoming atmosphere our clients experience during sessions and appointments helps them build trust with our team and one another as they share significant aspects of their lives,” shares Gina Moynan, Manager of Family, Children, and Specialized Settlement Services (FCSSS).
One key program is the Youth Orientation Program, a monthly initiative covering essential topics such as Canadian cultural norms, teen rights and responsibilities, workplace norms, child protection laws, and family violence prevention.
“The ISANS Youth and Family Centre provides a supportive environment where youth can explore their identities, build skills, and gain confidence,” says Kelly Frame, Coordinator of the Immigrant Youth Career Exploration Project.
The Centre also holds programs to address intergenerational challenges through targeted sessions for both youth and parents to help them bridge generational gaps in newcomer families.
“We understand the importance of families maintaining their cultural values and routines as they settle into their new Canadian home,” adds Gina. “To support this, our certified professionals deliver programs for parents of children aged 0–12 like Handle with Care and Incredible Years to empower them with strategies to foster children’s emotional and social development.”
Launched during a time of increased social isolation and anxiety exacerbated by the global pandemic, the centre aims to foster inclusion and integration within a warm and supportive environment. Programs like Immigrant Youth Employability Exploration and Immigrant Youth Career Exploration further enhance this mission by helping youth connect with peers, learn about Canadian culture, develop leadership skills, and plan their future careers.
“The teenage years are a critical period for brain development, identity building, and self-esteem. When youth immigrate during this time, they face immense changes—grieving the loss of familiar foundations while navigating the excitement and fear of a new environment,” explains Carmen Celina Moncayo, FCSSS Supervisor. “It is crucial to provide a safe space, foster resilience, and address their well-being, as this sets the foundation for their future confidence and success.”
This new centre represents a significant step forward in creating inclusive spaces for newcomers in Nova Scotia. It reflects ISANS’ ongoing commitment to helping immigrants find pathways to success while contributing meaningfully to the province’s economy and communities.
“This centre will not only help transform their (youth) lives but will also strengthen the communities they are part of by nurturing their talents and aspirations,” says Kelly.
For more information about ISANS and its programs, visit isans.ca.