Op-eds
For more than 25 years, MOSAIC has worked with immigrants and refugees who have been impacted by gender-based violence – including sexual assault, sexual harassment, intimate partner violence, bullying and personal harassment – by offering wrap-around support and counselling services to those who are abused, and for those who use violence against their partners.
Continue reading this op-ed here: Sudbury Star
On the heels of IKEA Canada’s announcement today that it is committing to hire 250 refugees over the next three years, MOSAIC’s CEO Olga Stachova is calling upon governments and the employer community to work together to more rapidly integrate refugees into the workforce.
With the labour market projected to experience a severe worker shortage, and the proportion of refugees increasing to 14-17% of all newcomers over the next few years, it makes sense to invest in and support initiatives that will help both refugees and the communities they live in.
MOSAIC has piloted and participated in a few employer-refugee training initiatives over the past three years, which have met with great success. We hope to see more programs initiated by the key stakeholder groups who would benefit most.
MOSAIC CEO Olga Stachova wrote an Op-Ed about Google Translate that was distributed in publications across Canada. With Google Translate and other instant translation apps used so frequently and in in so many situations, the article sounds a caution that there are many instances where professional translators and interpreters are appropriate and necessary. Read the op-ed in any of the links here:
WestCoast Crossroads – Dec. 13, 2018
The Afro News – December 12, 2018
La Jornada– December 12, 2018:
Calgary’s Business – December 11, 2018
Kindersley Clarion – December 11, 2018
Niagra Falls Review – Jan. 1, 2019
Hamilton Spectator – Jan. 1, 2019
North Bay Nugget – Dec. 28, 2018
(Victoria) Times Colonist – Dec. 19, 2018
Slave Lake Lakeside Leader, Dec. 19, 2018
Winnipeg Free Press – Dec. 17, 2018
Red Deer Advocate – December 12, 2018
The Afro News – December 12, 2018
Hamilton Community News – Jan. 1, 2019
Waterloo Region Record – Jan. 1, 2019
On August 21st, the Angus Reid Institute released a poll indicating that 49% of Canadians favour a decrease in immigration levels, marking the first time that resistance to immigration levels is being expressed by almost half the population. Olga Stachova, Chief Executive Officer, has sounded an early alarm about the significance of this surprising poll result, stating that support for diversity can no longer be taken for granted, but that Canada still has the capacity to “inspire the world” if we can encourage a dialogue to promote greater cultural understanding.
Troy Media – August 31, 2018
Thunder Bay News – September 2, 2018
Manitoba Interfaith Immigration Council Inc. – August 29, 2018
Media mentions
For media mentions over the years, please click below.
MOSAIC staff members Rena and Arshdeep discuss the need and demand for the work MOSAIC is doing regarding sexual assault and its impact on international students in Canada. MOSAIC’s PEER CAFES initiative addresses and works to dismantle the various barriers (cultural, legal, language, etc.) international students face when disclosing/reporting sexual assault.
Daily Hive – February 26, 2020
MOSAIC has partnered with Traction for Good to identify and recruit participants for a new training program called Traction Access. This two-week course aims to accelerate professional development for newcomers to Canada and Indigenous peoples by providing access to in-demand Salesforce skills and employment opportunities.
Financial Post – February 24, 2020
Article spotlights MOSAIC’s Seniors Choir Group during one of their performances in November. Organized by Coordinator Daisy Au, of MOSAIC’s Senior Club, the Seniors Choir uses music and songs as a way to teach English to newcomers, in addition to creating a sense of connection for seniors.
The Globe and Mail – December 29, 2019
MOSAIC’s Men in Change program is highlighted in this CBC news story concerning services available for abusive men. Zarghoona Wakil, Senior Manager of Specialized and Innovative Programs talks about the program and need for expanded services.
CBC News – November 15, 2019
Nova Chamberlin, Manager of MOSAIC’s Equal Press project, has authored an op-ed, released from Equal Press, which shares statistics showing a notable lack of diversity in Canadian and American media. The article states that a culture of “editorial staff in North America skewing largely white and male” has contributed to an op-ed being published by the Vancouver Sun and the Province on September 6.
MOSAIC’s Equal Press project is a research and advocacy initiative that works to promote diversity and inclusion in news media. The project is in its third and final year.
The Afro News – September 13, 2019
Calgary’s Business – September 13, 2019
Nelson Voice – September 13 2019
Asian Pacific Post – September 17, 2019
Filippino Post – September 17, 2019
Ninu Kang, MOSAIC’s Director of Communications and Development, was on CBC’s Early Edition to discuss the controversial topic of the billboard message “Say No to Mass Immigration”, which began appearing in some Canadian cities late last week. The simple message is accompanied by the word “Vote” and the face of Maxime Bernier, leader of the People’s Party. The billboards have now been taken down as it sparked a public backlash. It’s interesting to note that even their removal was controversial as Pattison Outdoor Advertising initially sent out a statement saying that nothing in the message violates Canadian ad standards, and that any complaints should be taken up with the advertiser, before reversing course just hours later to say that the billboards were coming down.
You can listen to the interview here:
CBC Early Edition – August 27, 2019
Ninu Kang, MOSAIC’s Director of Communications and Development, comments on a public transit incident where teenagers are subjected to racism. In the Breakfast Television interview, Kang gives advice on what do if you’re a witness to racist incidents. Her advice has been re-broadcast throughout the day on News 1130 as well.
City TV – July 24, 2019
Supporters of President Trump showed increasingly bold levels of division and intolerance at a recent rally when crowds began chanting “Send her back” regarding a congresswoman who arrived to the U.S. as a refugee child. Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, talked to BC Today’s host Michele Eliot about this incidence and about racism. The interview is available to hear in the link below and takes place at the beginning of the show, after the news.
BC Today on CBC – July 18, 2019
The lead story in the June edition of the BC Community Response Network newsletter “E-Connector” is the event co-hosted by MOSAIC on June 15 to commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The article offers tribute to MOSAIC’s senior leaders and praise for MOSAIC Seniors Coordinator Daisy Au, who is also quoted in the feature.
E-Connector, BCCRNS – June 2019
In partnership with Kamloops Immigrant Services, MOSAIC organized the first Migrant Worker Resource Fair in Kamloops on Sunday, July 7, 2019. Saleem Spindari, Senior Manager, Refugee and Migrant Workers Programs spoke with CBC’s Daybreak Kamloops show about the need for the event, and how lack of information about rights and resources can make them vulnerable to exploitation. Saleem speaks at just past the 1 minute mark and again at 5:16 mark in the attached link.
CBC Daybreak Kamloops – July 7, 2019
With polls indicating an increase in hate, discrimination and racism in Canada, Breakfast Television kicked off a week-long “Hate in Canada” series June 24th with a panel discussion including Director Ninu Kang.
Breakfast Television Vancouver – June 24, 2019
MOSAIC’s new South Surrey-White Rock WorkBC Centre hosted an Open House at the official launch on May 31st. The local White Rock community newspaper, Peace Arch News, attended the event which also featured special guest Minister Shane Simpson. MOSAIC Director of Employment and Language Services Michael Radano spoke at length regarding the new centre, which will provide employment assistance to local residents.
Peace Arch News – June 5, 2019
Sherman Chan, Director of Family and Settlement Services, spoke briefly with Global News about Arrival Advisor – a new app which launched on March 28. The free service provides newcomers with information and instructions regarding how to access essential services and community resources. Chan participated in the advisory panel that was consulted in the development of the new tool by the BC-based non-profit group PeaceGeeks. The link below features a video demonstrating usage of the Arrival Advisor app.
Global News – March 29, 2019
A new guide has been published to assist employers interested in hiring refugees in their workplaces. CEO Olga Stachova was one of the authorities quoted in the article:
Canadian HR Reporter – March 13, 2019
MOSAIC launched its new online service for trans newcomers on February 28th and the Tri-City News is promoting the new service in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody. The Trans Newcomers Online Resource Hub will assist newcomers with settlement-related but will also offer specific information that will be helpful for gender diverse folks. Dianna Lee, Marketing and Communications, and Darae Lee, Acting Senior Manager for Settlement Services, are quoted in the story.
Tri-City News – March 1, 2019
Etab Saad, Employment Services Manager, talked about MOSAIC’s work with refugees in an 8 minute interview with CBC’s On the Coast radio program, hosted by Gloria Macarenko. Saad was also asked to comment about the Marissa Shen murder, allegedly committed by a refugee and responded by articulating all the points previously released in a statement by MOSAIC. The interview begins at the 44:50 mark in the link below.
CBC On the Coast – February 15, 2019
CEO Olga Stachova’s op-ed More needs to be done to help refugees find work was released to coincide with IKEA Canada’s announcement that it will hire 250 refugees in 2019 with the assistance of settlement agencies, including MOSAIC. The op-ed received good circulation nationally and was also positively received by IRCC who also circulated it on our behalf. Below are the list of publications which have run the opinion piece.
Red Deer Advocate – Feb. 13
Waterloo Region Record – Feb. 11
Hamilton Spectator – February 11
NetNews Ledger – Feb. 11
Calgary’s Business – Feb. 8
The Truckers’ Report – Feb. 12
Times & Transcript – Feb. 13
The Whitehorse Daily Star – Feb. 12
Renfrew Collingwood Community News – March 2019 issue
Our news release discussing the greater likelihood that female international students are more likely to be assaulted and less likely to be helped, while simultaneously promoting our program to train college staffs with international student cohorts, has generated great media support.
News 1130 – January 30, 2019:
CBC – January 30, 2019
Vancouver Courier – January 29, 2019
Burnaby Now – January 29, 2019
New Westminster Record – January 20, 2019
Voice Online – January 29, 2019
Fairchild Radio – January 29, 2019
MOSAIC CEO Olga Stachova wrote an Op-Ed about Google Translate that was distributed in publications across Canada. With Google Translate and other instant translation apps used so frequently and in in so many situations, the article sounds a caution that there are many instances where professional translators and interpreters are appropriate and necessary. Read the op-ed in any of the links here:
WestCoast Crossroads – Dec. 13, 2018
The Afro News – December 12, 2018
La Jornada– December 12, 2018:
Calgary’s Business – December 11, 2018
Kindersley Clarion – December 11, 2018
Niagra Falls Review – Jan. 1, 2019
Hamilton Spectator – Jan. 1, 2019
North Bay Nugget – Dec. 28, 2018
(Victoria) Times Colonist – Dec. 19, 2018
Slave Lake Lakeside Leader, Dec. 19, 2018
Winnipeg Free Press – Dec. 17, 2018
Red Deer Advocate – December 12, 2018
The Afro News – December 12, 2018
Hamilton Community News – Jan. 1, 2019
Waterloo Region Record – Jan. 1, 2019
In this story focusing on the BC arrival of the Syrian refugee stranded at a Malaysian airport for 7 months, Saleem Spindari, Senior Manager of Refugees and Migrant Workers Programs, commented about the backlog for refugee applications and expressed appreciation for the private sponsorship program.
The Star – Nov. 29, 2018:
The French language publication La Source recently spoke with family and settlement services director Sherman Chan, and settlement worker Faustin Bilikano about a report released by AMSSA called Immigration for BC’s Future – A Call for Action to Strengthen Newcomer Integration. The La Source article is below.
La Source – November 20, 2018
A StatsCan report was just released showing the correlation between higher education and higher earnings for immigrants from various landing categories, including both government and privately sponsored refugees. Michael Radano, Director of Employment and Language Services, talked to The Star about unique challenges that can face refugees in their quest for higher education.
The Star – November 14, 2018:
Fairchild Television has aired a segment highlighting two MOSAIC employment services, in addition to interviews with CEO Olga Stachova and Employment coordinator Daisy Zhang.
The 12-minute feature focuses on employment challenges faced by newcomers and immigrants and features additional interviews with delegates at MOSAIC’s Immigrant Professionals Conference as well as footage from the fall event. MOSAIC’s Immigrant Women’s Employment Readiness Connections (IWERC) program is also profiled and includes interviews with program participants. The segment features Mandarin, English and Cantonese languages – see Olga’s interview at the 4 minutes mark and Daisy’s interview at 9:48 seconds.
Fairchild Television – Oct. 29, 2018
The mother of murder victim Marissa Shen has requested an interpreter in order to help her follow the court proceedings in the upcoming trial of the accused murderer. Ninu Kang, Director of Communications, talked to The Canadian Press about the importance of interpreters for victims of crime, and why professionally accredited interpreters are needed in that role.
Globe and Mail/Canadian Press – October 31, 2018
On October 27th, MOSAIC co-hosted a refugee forum to highlight the experiences of leaders in Metro Vancouver’s refugee community. The event received media coverage, including an interview with Saleem.
CBC – October 27, 2018
Ghada Tallia, Manager of SWIS, talked extensively to the New Westminister Record about the services provided to newcomer families in New Westminster.
New Westminster Record – October 2, 2018
At a news conference on September 24th, MOSAIC was named as the property manager for a proposed new project which would see 125 affordable rental units intended for low-income residents, as well as an 8,000 sq. ft. community centre that would be built in Chilliwack. MOSAIC directors Sherman Chan and Sue Trevor were on hand at the news conference to answer questions and sign a memorandum of understanding with the Lower Mainland Affordable Housing Foundation
Richmond News – September 24, 2018
Sing Tao News – September 25, 2018
On September 10, Burnaby RCMP named a suspect in the murder of Marissa Shen, a Burnaby resident who was reported missing in July 2017. The suspect is a newcomer to Canada, having arrived to Canada as a Syrian refugee only months before the murder occurred. Because of MOSAIC’s work with newcomers, media outlets were calling on the organization and asking whether services had been provided to the suspect. In response, MOSAIC issued this statement, excerpts of which were shared by the following media:
Vancouver Sun – September 11, 2018
CBC – September 11, 2018: Syrian community fears scapegoating after man new to Canada charged with murder of Marrisa Shen
Breakfast Television – September 11, 2018
CKNW
News 1130
On August 21st, the Angus Reid Institute released a poll indicating that 49% of Canadians favour a decrease in immigration levels, marking the first time that resistance to immigration levels is being expressed by almost half the population. Olga Stachova, Chief Executive Officer, has sounded an early alarm about the significance of this surprising poll result, stating that support for diversity can no longer be taken for granted, but that Canada still has the capacity to “inspire the world” if we can encourage a dialogue to promote greater cultural understanding.
The Toronto Star – August 29, 2018
Troy Media – August 31, 2018
Thunder Bay News – September 2, 2018
Manitoba Interfaith Immigration Council Inc. – August 29, 2018
The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, is visiting Vancouver after taking up his new position in July. At a meet and greet at the South Hill Neighbourhood Centre on August 20, Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, met with him and shared a positive message which was captured by Broadcast Dialogue. Click here for the story and photos.
Broadcast Dialogue – August 20, 2018
Omaima Meski, who speaks fluent French as well as English and Arabic, shared the story of her arrival and her sons’ arrival in Vancouver with La Source, in an article discussing settlement services, newcomers and refugees in the Vancouver area. The article is in the French language edition of the online journal. The link is below:
La Source and CBC Radio Canada’s Boulevard du Pacifique – July 9, 2018
The Chinese daily Sing Tao featured a Canada Day article about a refugee family who have happily settled into a new life in Canada. MOSAIC’s Settlement team connected them with the Bawer family, Syrian refugees who were privately sponsored to Canada by the Temple Shalom, with assistance from MOSAIC. The article is in Chinese, but can be read in English if you click on the “translate” option at the top right corner of the web page.
Sing Tao Daily – July 1, 2018
On June 20th, MOSAIC joined several other organizations in celebrating World Refugee Day at the Vancouver Public Library in an event organized by Multi-Agency Partnership (MAP), a partnership of refugee claimant serving organizations for which Saleem Spindari, Manager of Community Outreach and Advocacy Programs, is co-chair.
The event received media coverage and Global TV’s footage shows MOSAIC banners and staff, and an interview with Saleem.
Global TV – June 20, 2018
MOSAIC and partners hosted more than 300 seniors at Central Park to commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
The June 15th event also served as the launch for the new Chinese Community Response Network, created to address the needs of the largest visible ethnic group in the province.
In addition to the announcement of the new network, events included the sharing of stories about elder abuse, lunch and cultural performances.
MOSAIC Settlement Worker Daisy Au said the event received very positive responses as the message for the new CRN for the Chinese community was widely spread through the Chinese media. Some Chinese media coverage can be viewed below:
http://www.mingpaocanada.com/van/htm/News/20180616/vaa1h_r.htm
http://www.mingpaocanada.com/van/htm/News/20180616/vaa2_r.htm
http://www.mingpaocanada.com/van/htm/News/20180616/vaa3_r.htm
http://www.iask.ca/news/canada/2018/06/488875.html
Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, joined in a 15-minute panel discussion on CBC’s Early Edition about race and racism. The panel took place on June 11th and coincided with the day Starbuck’s closed its stores for an afternoon of anti-bias training. Ninu and the panel discussed Starbuck’s corporate actions, their personal experiences and the impacts regarding issues about race and racism. The discussion can be heard on the link below and begins at the 2 hour 11 minute mark.
The Early Edition – CBC Radio – June 11, 2018
The new Rental Housing Task Force launched on June 6th and CBC Radio’s BC Today show featured this topic, discussing rental laws and regulations with a variety of guests and callers. John Dubé, Senior Manager of Settlement Programs, spoke with host Michelle Eliot about the challenges that MOSAIC clients and newcomers experience regarding rental housing and regulation. The segment featuring John is at the 41:10 mark.
BC TODAY – CBC Radio – June 6, 2018
Family and Settlement Services Director Sherman Chan is the volunteer co-chair of a dedicated team who advise Correctional Services Canada on services and interventions for ethnocultural offenders. Sherman puts his background and expertise to good use with the Regional Ethnocultural Advisory Committee and was featured in their May news bulletin, and their website – have a look here:
Correctional Services Canada webpage – May 2018
MOSAIC led the Surrey Organizing Against Racism and Hate (OARH) forum during the week which observed the International Day for the Elimination Against Racial Discrimination. Approximately 60 participants attended the March 23rd event at Surrey City Hall. The forum sought input from community leaders on ways to combat racism and discrimination and featured keynote speaker RCMP Inspector Baltej Dhillon and a panel who spoke about their own experiences.
Media attended the event, and below is the CBC online article and the evening news broadcast which shows clips from the event as well as interviews with Inspector Dhillon and Surrey OARH Chair, Ninu Kang (MOSAIC Director of Communications and Development). Also below is the OMNI News clip (Punjabi Edition).
CBC online – March 23, 2018
OMNI TV – Punjabi Edition – March 23, 2018
Michael Radano, MOSAIC Director of Employment & Language Services, was profiled in the Renfrew-Collingwood Community Newsletter (page 15).
Renfrew-Collingwood Community News – February 2018
Etab Saad, Manager, Case Management & Customized Employment Services, talked to OMNI TV – Cantonese at the job fair about some of the challenges refugees face when considering employment. The newcast is in Cantonese, but Etab speaks in English:
OMNI TV – BC Cantonese – November 30, 2017
During the Surrey NEW initiative (Newcomer Employment Week), specialty channel Zee TV came out to MOSAIC’s Surrey office October 23rd, a day which was focused on “Supporting Refugee Integration”. Joanna Habdank, Manager of Community Outreach and Advocacy Settlement Programs and Etab Saad, Manager, Case Management and Customized Employment Services, spoke with the Hindi-language channel about MOSAIC’s activities and programs for refugees. To see the feature, click on the link below and advance to 5:44.
Zee TV – October 27, 2017
Stats Can has just released information from the last census regarding immigration to various parts of Canada and it shows that the rate of newcomers arriving to BC is continuing to decline. The Globe and Mail has prepared an article about this, with contributing remarks from Sherman Chan, Director of Family and Settlement Services. Read the article here:
Globe and Mail – October 26, 2017
Saleem Spindari, MOSAIC’s Manager of Refugee Settlement Support Projects, helped to organize a forum taking place this week called “After the Flight: Community, University, Refugee and Migration Symposium. Saleem talks to CBC’s Gloria Macarenko on the BC Almanac about the symposium and its aim to reframe public discourse around refugee and migrant issues through community engagement with centres of learning and research. Callers also contribute with stories of their experiences with Syrian refugees. Click on the link below to listen – the interview begins near the 27 minute mark.
BC Almanac, CBC Radio – October 10, 2017
Etab Saad, Coordinator, Refugee Employment Support Services, was interviewed by CBC Radio to talk about newcomer barriers to employment, how they can overcome these barriers. Also she discussed what MOSAIC is doing to help newcomers bridge the gap.
CBC Evening News – October 5, 2017 (Her interview starts at around 52 min mark.)
On September 30, the Business Association of Richmond hosted a Halal-inspired Chinese banquet for 500 guests, including 250 Syrian, and other refugee newcomers who are clients of MOSAIC. The association is partnering with MOSAIC in the hopes that the chronic labour shortage faced by many of its 1000+ members can be alleviated through the hiring of refugee newcomers. Etab Saad, Coordinator for the Refugee Employment Services, spoke to CBC at the Newcomers’ Welcome Dinner about some of the challenges facing refugees in their quest for employment, and also acts as interpreter for an interview with a client in MOSAIC’s Refugee Training and Employment Program. See the interview below at the 12:32 mark.
CBC Evening News – September 30, 2017
Larry Chan, Senior Manager of Employment Programs, contributed to an article about employment services for newcomers in British Columbia.
La Source – September 26, 2017
The ribbon cutting ceremony, and images of MOSAIC’s new HQ were featured in media coverage of MOSAIC’s Grand Opening Celebration on September 26. Links to most of the mainstream media coverage is below; a report on Fairchild Television is unavailable. For some event highlights, and pictures, please click here.
CBC Evening News (@ 12:45 mark) – September 26, 2017
CTV – BC Evening News (@ 16:25 mark) – September 26, 2017
Breakfast Television Vancouver – Septermber 27, 2017
News 1130 – September 26, 2017
BCIT News – September 26, 2017
Sing Tao (Chinese) – September 26, 2017
Sherman Chan, Director of Family and Settlement Services, talked to Stephen Quinn about MOSAIC’s services as well as the role of the organization in the Welcome Dinner Gala being hosted by the Business Association of Richmond. The September 30th event, for 250 Syrian and other refugees, is intended as both a gesture of welcome and a networking opportunity to help fill a chronic labour shortage experience by Association members. Click on the link below to hear the interview, which begins just after the 1:15 mark.
CBC On the Coast – September 25, 2017
The Canadian Press has featured a special project which MOSAIC was awarded funding for in an article announcing federal funding for seven gender-equality programs in BC. “Equal Press: Promoting Gender Equality in News Media” is a three-year project which began in April 2017 and is led by Chany Chea, Coordinator of Innovative Projects with MOSAIC’s Specialized Services. The article has been published in The Vancouver Sun, The National Post and BC –CTV News online site. Read the article in any of the links below.
Vancouver Sun – September 8, 2017
National Post – September 8, 2017
CTV News – September 8, 2017
MOSAIC’s move to the Collingwood community, and a summary of the organizations’ services is featured in the July issue of the Renfrew Collingwood Community News. Click on the link below, and keep scrolling to see the online version of the article.
Renfrew Collingwood Community News – July 18, 2017
Ninu Kang, Director of Development and Communications, has a thoughtful discussion with CBC’s Vivian Luk about discrimination and racism in our communities. Click on the link below to listen to the feature – Ninu begins speaking at the 3:28 mark.
CBC On The Coast – May 31, 2017
Taslim Damji, Manager of MOSAIC Works and Intercultural Specialist, talked to The Source about intercultural competency, cultural intelligence, and how and why it is beneficial to understanding and communicating with diverse cultures.
The Source – May 30, 2017
Chany Chea, Coordinator of Innovative Projects, talked to The Source at length about MOSAIC’s three-year project to promote gender equality and reduce violence against women. Read the article here:
The Source – March 7, 2017
Etab Saad, Employment Counsellor, comments about the experience of refugee clients to the National Observer in this story focusing on Syrian refugees who have found work through the Refugee Training and Employment Program operated by MOSAIC, in conjunction with BC Alliance for Manufacturing.
National Observer – March 9, 2017
Eyob Naizghi, Executive Director, has written an op-ed that was featured in the February 28, 2017 issue of the Vancouver Sun. This article is one of a series promoting SFU Public Square’s 2017 Community Summit, which seeks to engage the public in a discussion regarding Canada’s role on the world stage. Eyob focuses on the settlement of newcomers to Canada, pointing out that newcomers are successfully integrated through policy and governance, with the result that Canada is seen as “a beacon in a world of growing “protectionism” and “nationalism”, a world that pits one group against another on the basis of country of origin or faith.”
Vancouver Sun – February 28, 2017
John Dube, Senior Manager of Settlement Programs, is quoted in a Langara Voice feature about the use of theatre to promote positive messages for children. Read the article here:
Langara Voice – February 10, 2017
Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, joined a panel discussion on CBC’s Early Edition regarding the U.S. immigration ban imposed by President Donald Trump on January 27. Ninu talks about inclusion and racism and shares views gleaned from Syrian refugee clients. Other panel members were: Sara Eftekhar, co-founder and former president of the Youth Civic Association of Iranian Canadians and Josh Paterson, Executive Director of the BC Civil Liberties Association. Listen to the interview at the 1 hour and 41 minute mark:
CBC’s Early Edition – January 31, 2017
Eyob Naizghi, Executive Director, was interviewed by City TV’s Breakfast Television regarding the United States travel ban.
Breakfast Television via Twitter – January 31, 2017
Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, spoke with Post Media reporter Nick Eagland during the chaotic weekend when US airports began implementing the new immigration ban. The story was published in Vancouver Sun, The Province and The Montreal Gazette.
Vancouver Sun – January 28, 2017
Globe and Mail – December 28, 2016
Vian Saed, MOSAIC Settlement Outreach Worker, provided the interpretations for clients who were interviewed by The Province as part of the Empty Stocking Fund series. The Aljabawi family – including six children – talk about their transition to Canada as Syrian refugees, their thoughts about home and their new life, and express their gratitude to Canadians. To hear Vian, click on the video.
The Province – December 22, 2016
Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, shared her personal journey in finding her cultural identity with Roundhouse Radio. It contains messages of integration and compassion – perfect for this time of year! The link should open directly onto the interview, but if not, you can locate it by clicking “On-Demand”, under Program “Sense of Place” and the interview is with Minelle Mahtani on Dec 20,2016.
Roundhouse Radio – December 20, 2016
Some families in BC hoping to sponsor Syrian family members currently in Iraq have been waiting close to a year. Saleem Spindari, Manager of Refugee Settlement Support Projects, spoke to Metro News about likely causes for the delay in processing Syrian refugee applications in Iraqi Kurdistan. Click on the link to the Metro News article here to read the story:
Metro News – December 14, 2016
CBC’s national radio program, The Current, aired a segment today to commemorate the first year since Canada brought in 25,000 Syrian refugees. Settlement stories and experiences of the refugees in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary and Vancouver are featured through interviews with the Syrians. In Vancouver, former MOSAIC client Aya Hilani speaks articulately about her journey, and finding “heaven” despite the challenges. Taslim Damji, Manager of MOSAIC Works, can also be heard chatting in the recorded segment. Read highlights from the link below, or click on the “Listen” feature on the page and hear the interview, beginning at 7 minutes 5 seconds.
CBC’s The Current – December 14, 2016
Angel Khazoum is a recent graduate of the Hope To Work program administered by MOSAIC. The Syrian refugee speaks fluent French and spoke to ICI Radio (French CBC) about the challenges she has faced and the support she has received regarding integration into Canadian society. She talks about her participation in the program and how it has helped her to create a plan for moving forward. Angel mentioned that she would like to help newcomers and return the help she has received from Canadians – she might even volunteer at MOSAIC!
ICI Radio – December 7, 2016
Michelle Stillwell, BC’s Minister for Social Development and Social Innovation, visited MOSAIC on December 7th to announce funding for two MOSAIC projects (Hope to Work and Fast Track to IT) totalling $443,000, as well as a third project administered by the Immigrant Employment Council of BC. The event was emceed by Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour. In addition to the TV coverage by Global News, and CTV News, the announcement was in the Vancouver Sun. CKNW aired the announcement, and CBC French Radio interviewed Hope To Work program assistant Omaima Meski. Please click on any of the links below to see the feature.
CBC French Radio – Dec. 7 2016
Vancouver Sun – Dec. 8, 2016 (this was also in the Province)
CKNW – December 7, 2016
CTV Vancouver – December 7 2016 – 11:58 second mark
Global News Vancouver – Dec. 7, 2016 – 8:47 second mark
CTV Vancouver Island News – December 7, 2016 – 30:30 second mark (This is the whole show, but it’s covered in there)
Diana Ospina, acting senior manager for Language Programs, talked to Vancouver Sun reporter Tara Carmen, who wrote about the wait period for English language classes. The story’s focus is about Syrian refugees who are still waiting to learn the language so they can find work amid concerns that their government income assistance will end after their first year in Canada. This story ran in the Vancouver Sun, Calgary Herald and the Canada.com news site.
Vancouver Sun – December 4, 2016
Global News interviews Najah Hage, Manager of Employment Programs, talks to reporter Tanja Beja about the MOSAIC-operated pilot program Refugee Training and Employment Program. The provincially-funded project provides language, culture and employment training for Syrian refugees while also assisting the manufacturing sector with a ready labour pool to draw from. The feature also shows a clip of employment counsellor Etab Saad, as she works with the Syrian clients. Click on the link below for the feature:
Global News – November 8, 2016
Abraham Asrat talked to reporter Brian Morton, whose story ran in the Vancouver Sun, The Province and 24HRS, about MOSAIC’s upcoming Immigrant Professionals Conference and the challenges faced by immigrant professionals in finding work that is relevant to their training. The Weekly Voice, Philippine Asian Chronicle and the Philippine – Canadian Inquirer also reprinted the news release about the IPC. See articles below.
The Province – October 30, 2016
Vancouver Sun – October 29, 2016
24HRS – October 30, 2016
Weekly Voice – Oct. 27 2016
Ninu Kang, Director of Communications & Development participated in a discussion about racism on CBC’s Early Edition. The conversation was sparked by a video – which has gone viral – showing an enraged, racist verbal assault which took place in an Abbotsford parking lot. Click below and advance to the 1:41 minute mark to hear the interview.
CBC Early Edition – October 26, 2016
Fred Lee, the MC for Festival MOSAIC since 2014, is also a columnist with the Province Newspaper. Below is a link to his column, which ran on Sunday. Click on the link for the writeup and some pictures!
The Province – October 23, 2016
Festival MOSAIC’s emcee, Fred Lee, included a short summary and some pictures of the October 14 gala fundraising event in this week’s edition of the Vancouver Courier. Have a look here and scroll through the photos!
Vancouver Courier – October 20, 2016
News 1130 posted an article about the September 30th visit from Their Excellencies, Governor General David Johnston and Mrs. Sharon Johnston. The article features His Excellency lauding the work of MOSAIC, and quotes regarding immigrants and immigration. Click here for the article:
News 1130 – September 30, 2016
Ninu Kang discusses Angus Reid’s October 3rd poll regarding Canadian values and attitudes towards multiculturalism. MOSAIC’s Director of Communications and Development joins former BC Premier Ujjal Dosanjh in a panel discussion on CBC’s Early Edition to talk about the results which indicate that Canadians may not be as welcoming of multiculturalism and diversity as previously believed. Listen to the discussion here, just past the 2 hour and 19 minute mark:
CBC Early Edition – October 6, 2016
Pulse FM host Kash Heed speaks with Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development at MOSAIC, about the e-Petition calling on the federal government to scrap the refugee loan program for all refugees as it has done for Syrian refugees. Kang speaks about the challenges faced by refugees – listen here:
107.7 Pulse FM – October 3, 2016
An e-petition calling on the federal government to scrap the loan program for refugees is in the news, and Ninu Kang, MOSAIC’s Director of Communications and Development, talked to radio station CKNW about the burden that this loan places on newly-arrived refugees. Read the article here:
CKNW – October 2, 2016
Click here to sign the e-petition.
Their Excellencies David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Mrs. Sharon Johnston visited MOSAIC’s main site on September 30th, during the organization’s 40th anniversary celebrations. The dignitaries were greeted by clients and their children, took pictures with MOSAIC board members and the executive leadership team, participated in a round table with community leaders, partners, clients and management and afterwards greeted staff and guests at a casual reception.
CBC – September 30, 2016
In response to the news that Canada will be sharing its model for the Syrian refugee program with many other countries, CBC has posted this article about some of the issues and shortcomings related to the settlement of the Syrians. Saleem Spindari, manager of refugee settlement support projects, talked to reporter Nicole Ireland about the impact of delays in sponsorship. Have a read here:
CBC – September 28, 2016
Saleem Spindari, Manager of Refugee Settlement Support Projects, gave a thoughtful interview to PANA (Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans), a non-profit public charity based in US that lifts up refugee voices and builds leadership in communities to increase civic engagement and create an inclusive civil society. It’s an excellent summary of the support of Syrian refugees by both MOSAIC and the community.
PANA – August 22, 2016
A Syrian family, clients of MOSAIC’s Surrey Project for Refugee Families, was featured on Global News as the four children prepare for their first day of school in Canada. Joanna Habdank, MOSAIC’s Manager of Community Outreach and Advocacy, is shown with the family and speaks with reporter Tanya Beja.
Global News – September 6, 2016
MOSAIC turns 40 this year! It’s a milestone achieved by few organizations and we’re celebrating by sharing 40 pieces of history and nostalgia over 40 days in the form of vintage videos, photos and fun facts that will be released from September 5 – October 14. During this period, the organization is also hosting nine Open Houses at various MOSAIC locations as well as its Annual General Meeting on September 22nd. The 40 Days of Celebration will conclude on October 14th at Festival MOSAIC, the annual signature fundraising gala for the organization.
Read the full Media Advisory (PDF) – August 31, 2016
Saleem Spindari was quoted in the National Observer in a story which featured a Syrian refugee family and their settlement experience. The article also discusses family reunification and touches on “survivor guilt”. Saleem, MOSAIC’s Manager of Refugee Settlement Support Projects, recalls working with a former client who had to be convinced to remain in Canada rather than return to Lebanon to help care for her parents.
The National Observer – August 30, 2016
MOSAIC’s Employment Programs linked a Syrian refugee client with a great internship opportunity from a Vancouver tech company. Stephen Quinn from The Early Edition speaks with the tech company about their desire to help the Syrian refugee newcomers. Click on the story below to read the highlights and listen to the interview.
CBC Early Edition – August 15, 2016
Darae Lee, Manager of Settlement Programs, spoke to the Burnaby Now community newspaper about I Belong, MOSAIC’s unique program for LGBTQ immigrants and newcomers.
Burnaby Now – August 12, 2016
Iris Challoner, MOSAIC Refugee Information and Referral Specialist talked to Gloria Macarenko today about MOSAIC, and the settlement challenges of Syrian refugees. The show addressed the fire which broke out at the apartment building in Coquitlam, displacing approximately 10 Syrian refugee families. Iris is introduced at the 5 minute, 45 second mark.
CBC Early Edition – BC Almanac, July 29, 2016:
Farooq Al-Sajee, MOSAIC assistant language instructor and settlement worker was interviewed on CBC’s Early Edition on Canada Day. Farooq talks about his background, and experience settling in Canada since arriving one year ago as a Syrian refugee.
CBC Early Edition – July 1, 2016
Many private institutions across the country have offered free language classes to Syrian refugees but very few spots have been taken up, particularly in Metro Vancouver. Nina Miller, MOSAIC’s Senior Manager of Language Programs, comments on the story. Below is the link to the May 2nd newscast (story begins at approximately 7:45 mark) and the second link is the online version of the story.
CBC News Hours, May 2, 2016
CBC Online, May 2, 2016
City TV came by the Croatian Cultural Centre during the last hour of the job fair on April 12. See some footage and an interview with Abraham Asrat just past the 5 minute mark in the link below.
City TV, April 13, 2016
A recent study emerged citing the disproportionate number of male to female births amongst some immigrant communities. Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, speaks to CBC News Anchor Andrew Chang about this phenomenon. Click on the segment below to catch this thoughtful interview – the segment begins at 40:20 seconds and Ninu is introduced near the 42 minute mark.
CBC TV, April 12, 2016
Abraham Asrat, Manager of Employer Relations, talked to CKNW about the upcoming job fair.
MP3 audio file, April 9, 2016
Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, commented to the Globe and Mail about some new research showing indications of gender selection amongst the South Asian community (comments are near the end of the article).
Globe and Mail, April 11, 2016
Saleem Spindari, Manager of Refugee Settlement Support Projects, sat down for an interview (this morning!) with Global’s Steve Darling to talk about the settlement status of Syrian refugees since they began arriving late last fall. Click here to see!
Global News, April 8, 2016
MOSAIC’s 5th Annual Job and Career Fair is on April 12 and Abraham Asrat, Manager of Employer Relations, talks about a changing job market and how workshops are being introduced to help jobseekers learn about opportunities and options in banking, IT, manufacturing and certification.
Asian Pacific Post, April 6, 2016
MOSAIC Employment Programs organized and hosted a Welcome to the Workplace in Canada Tour for Syrian Refugees on March 22. It was a great success, with 25 attendees who toured pre-arranged job sites where they were able to observe various settings and ask questions about working in Canada. Etab Saab, Employment Counsellor, led the tour, and talked to CBC’s Early Edition (1 hour and 30 minute mark). The interview was also summarized in an online article.
CBC Early Edition, March 22, 2016
CBC Online, March 22, 2016
Nina Miller, Senior Manager of Language Programs, addresses the impact that funding cuts will have on newcomers. Listen to the program at approximately 1:12 mark for the introduction of MOSAIC and Nina’s comments.
CBC Early Edition, March 7, 2016
CBC online article, March 7, 2016
Joan Andersen, Director of Employment and Language Programs, talks about the impact that funding cuts to English language programs – and even longer wait lists – will have on newcomers and refugees.
Vancouver Sun, March 8, 2016
Najah Hage, Manager of Employment Programs, is quoted in this CBC article highlighting the differences in the settlement experience of newly arrived government sponsored, vs. privately sponsored Syrian refugees.
CBC, March 6, 2016
John Dubé, Senior Manager of Settlement Services, talks about assisting Syrian refugees.
Global News, February 19, 2016
MOSAIC’s Heart Health initiative is generating great participation from chefs!
The Province, February 7, 2016
Joanne Chung, Employment Counsellor, comments to CBC Radio about the frustration newcomers feel about lack of resources available to help get back on a professional career path. Read the story here, or click on the “Listen” button – Joanne is introduced at the 5 minute mark.
CBC Early Edition, February 6, 2016
Taslim Damji, IC Specialist and LINC instructor, commented on the story about the complaints generated over spitting around a Richmond pool. The story begins around the 25 minute mark and Taslim’s comments are at 29:30.
French CBC, February 4, 2016
February is Heart Health Month and towards this, MOSAIC has been working with the BC Salmon Farmers Association to investigate the dietary habits and awareness of healthy eating amongst newcomers. A recipe book has also been created as part of the project.
Vancouver Courier, March 15, 2016
CBC Early Edition, February 2, 2016 at the 1:30:40 mark
Voice Online, February 1, 2016
Fish Farming Expert, February 1, 2016
The Province, January 30, 2016
Times Colonist, January 30, 2016
Ottawa Citizen, January 30, 2016
News United, January 30, 2016
LINC instructor and MOSAIC Works facilitator Taslim Damji ended up on the CBC nightly news as she offered up a possible explanation of why some cultures might spit – this in reaction to complaints about spitting around a Richmond area pool. The story begins at 12:35 and Taslim can be seen at the 14:12 mark.
CBC Evening News, January 29, 2016
Joan Andersen, Director of Employment and Language Programs, spoke to Gloria Macarenko on CBC Radio about Canadian employers’ lack of credential recognition around newcomer experience and education, as well as discussing some of the programs available to help newcomers find work. Joan’s interview was part of a larger conversation around a Conference Board of Canada study that internationally-trained professionals who are not actively working in their fields of study/experience cost this country $17 billion annually. Joan is introduced at the 36:33 mark.
BC Almanac, January 26, 2016
Joan Andersen, Director of Employment and Language Programs, contributed to a column by the Vancouver Sun’s Daphne Bramham who writes about waitlists for English language classes and the challenges faced by newcomers who are unable to speak English.
Vancouver Sun, January 22, 2016
The experience of a Group of Five who are sponsoring a family referred by MOSAIC is chronicled in the North Shore News, January 21, 2016
The following articles focus on the challenge of housing Syrian refugees to Metro Vancouver, with comments from Saleem Spindari, Manager of Refugee Resettlement Support Projects:
The Province, January 19, 2016
Ottawa Citizen, January 19, 2016
The Source features an article on the Syrian community’s efforts to help new refugees and Saleem Spindari, Manager of Refugee Resettlement Support Projects, discusses MOSAIC’s efforts and experience working with refugees.
The Source, January 11, 2016
Chantelle MacIssac, Manager of Burnaby Language Centres, talks to CBC about the wait lists for English language instruction, also included is footage of students from the Brentwood Language Centre.
CBC Evening News, January 7, 2016 at the 41 minute mark
The wait list for LINC classes is featured on CBC’s On The Coast, and includes comments from Chantelle MacIsaac, Manager of MOSAIC’s Burnaby Language Centres, at the 1 hour and 21 minute mark.
CBC On The Coast, January 7, 2016
The Province, December 23, 2015
MOSAIC has been selected by the Glacier Media Group, publishers of Business in Vancouver, Times Colonist in Victoria, Westender, Vancouver Courier and many other community papers including the Now News group. MOSAIC is in excellent company too – other profiles in the 2015 issue include Rennie and Associates and Odlum Brown Financial; previous issues have profiled Kwantlen Polytechnic University and the Mining Association of BC.
Saleem Spindari, Manager of Community Outreach and Advocacy, participated on CBC’s radio program “BC Almanac,” a call-in program where listeners comment and ask questions about topical events. Today’s topic was about the loan repayment program in place for refugees that generated many calls!
BC Almanac on CBC, December 23, 2015
MOSAIC and Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, are cited in an article with the award-winning Washington Post, which featured a story about the warm embrace Canadians are offering to Syrian Refugees.
Washington Post, December 13, 2015
NRT TV, a Kurdish Satellite TV channel, featured a segment on MOSAIC. A number of programs and sites are discussed, as well as interviews with Saleem Spindari (in Kurdish), Manager of Community Outreach and Advocacy program, and John Dubé (in English, which is then dubbed into Kurdish), Senior Manager of Settlement Programs.
NRT TV, December 12, 2015
Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development, speaks (in Punjabi) about the refugee situation and MOSAIC’s response.
OMNI TV, December 10, 2015
Saleem Spindari, Manager of Community Outreach and Advocacy Programs, shares his thoughts on the Syrian refugee crisis, and the work of MOSAIC on the BC Almanac program with CBC Radio.
BC Almanac, December 10, 2015
Settlement staffer Mustafa Ahmad has been working with the Jewish Community in helping to select families to sponsor. His comments about the screening process can be read at
Canadian Jewish News, December 10, 2015
Rubina Mudhar, Coordinator of MOSAIC Youth Programs, gave a lengthy interview to OMNI TV discussing the issue of violence against women to commemorate the anniversary of the École Polytechnique Massacre in Montreal, which happened on December 6, 1989. The interview is in Punjabi.
OMNI TV, December 7, 2015
Sherman Chan, Director of Settlement Services, presented at the Grandview Woodlands Area Council Monday, sharing information about how to assist with the refugee newcomers and talking about MOSAIC’s response. Below is a link to a picture and a summary of the session in Chinese language.
Sing Tao News, December 8, 2015
Amal Kago from MOSAIC’s Moving Ahead program provided language support for LGBTQ client, Nawar Al-Labdi, who spoke to the Chinese language publication about her experiences.
Sing Tao, December 7, 2015
The Refugee Sponsorship Program – housed at MOSAIC’s main office – is featured in this article, with comments from Saleem Spindari, Manager of Refugee Resettlement Support Projects.
Asian Pacific Post, December 2, 2015
A MOSAIC event is referenced in this article about UBC students’ efforts to help Syrian refugees.
TheThunderbird.ca, December 2, 2015
Ronnie Law, Manager of MOSAIC’s Moving Ahead Program, talks to a Filippino TV station, and a Chinese daily newspaper following a New Westminster Town Hall meeting about the incoming Syrian refugees on Nov. 29th.
Balitang America, November 30, 2015
Sing Tao Daily, November 30, 2015
Saleem Spindari, of MOSAIC, discusses the challenges he faced when he came to Canada as a Kurdish refugee from Iraq. Danny Ramadan, a Syrian refugee, also offers his perspective on the challenges facing refugees from Syria.
CBC TV, November 24, 2015
What happens to government sponsored refugees when they arrive in Canada? Zarghoona Wakil, of MOSAIC, discusses the process and the role of settlement organizations.
CBC TV, November 25, 2015
Ninu Kang comments briefly on the federal government’s announcement that only 10,000 refugees will be admitted to Canada by the end of 2015. Hear Ninu’s comment at the 5:26 mark on Global News, November 24, 2015
Sherman Chan comments to the Vancouver Sun about counselling services for refugees can be read in the Vancouver Sun, November 24, 2015
MOSAIC helped a group of North Shore United Churches in finding a Syrian refugee family to sponsor to Canada.
Churches in North Shore News, November 22, 2015
Saleem Spindari, Manager of Community Outreach and Advocacy, chatted with Stephen Quinn, host of CBC’s On The Coast about how members of the public can contribute, or assist with the Syrian refugees when they arrive in Metro Vancouver.
November 23, 2015, CBC’s On The Coast – 56 minute mark
MOSAIC Youth Program participants talk to the Globe and Mail about food – specifically their views on fast food, personal preferences, and whether they eat much food from their native homelands.
Globe and Mail, November 17, 2015
Joan Andersen talks to the CBC about the challenges faced by immigrants and newcomers in finding employment commensurate with skills and training.
CBC On The Coast, November 12, 2015 – radio interview
CBC Website Summary from November 12 2015 interview
Saleem Spindari, Manager of Outreach Programs, shares his personal story as a refugee with Roundhouse Radio, November 11, 2015.
Sherman Chan, Director of Family and Settlement Services, talks to Gloria Macarenko about the offer to accommodate refugees at a Resort Lodge near Golden.
CBC On The Coast, November 10, 2015 – radio interview
CBC Website Summary from November 10 interview
Director Sherman Chan, and Manager Saleem Spindari talk to Global News about the influx of Syrian refugees heading for Metro Vancouver.
Global News, November 9, 2015
Settlement staffer, Jennifer Ng, talks about MOSAIC’s new Farsi Calligraphy workshop.
La Source, September 7, 2015
Eyob Naizghi, Executive Director for MOSAIC, was a key speaker at a Vancouver City Forum held on September 8, 2015. The following media clips feature coverage of the event:
Vancouver Metro – September 9, 2015
Vancouver Sun – Brief mention of Eyob, September 8, 2015
News 1130 – September 7, 2015
The Province – very good description of Eyob and the event, September 9, 2015
The Syrian refugee crisis generated a worldwide outpouring of emotion and calls for action after the photo of 3-year old Alan Kurdi’s body, washed up on a Turkish beach, went viral. Amongst local proposals of assistance, MOSAIC announced that it could provide immediate help to 1000 refugees, and Executive Director Eyob Naizghi is a key speaker at the September 8th Vancouver City Hall Forum about the crisis.
Vancouver Sun – September 4, 2015
VoiceOnLine – September 4, 2015
News 1130 – September 5, 2015
AM 730 – September 7, 2015
Vancouver Sun – September 8, 2015
CKNW – September 8, 2015
MOSAIC Settlement Worker Mustafa Ahmad talks to 24HR about newcomers’ reasons for relocating to Vancouver from other provinces.
24HR, September 2, 2015
The topic of elder abuse was highlighted at the MOSAIC of Seniors event on August 22, 2015. Some local media provided coverage ahead of the event:
Ming Pao Chinese News – August 20, 2015
Local media has shown interest in MOSAIC’s research findings regarding the project “Enhancing Community Capacity to Respond to and Prevent Forced Marriage.”
VANCOUVER SUN, July 30, 2015
CBC On the Coast, July 30, 2015
CBC Television News, August 8, 2015
CKNW, July 31, 2015
Weekly Voice, July 31, 2015
The Voice Online publishes MOSAIC’s findings from the first year of the two-year project, “Enhancing Community Capacity to Respond to and Prevent Forced Marriage.”
Voice Online, July 30, 2015
Sherman Chan, MOSAIC Director of Family and Settlement Services talks to 24HR about Surrey’s efforts to rid government sponsored refugees’ mandatory repayment of loans for the transportation costs incurred in coming Canada.
24HR, June 9, 2015
Ninu Kang, MOSAIC Director of Communications and Development, talks to Rick Cluff from CBC’s Early Edition about the existence of the caste system in Metro Vancouver’s South Asian community.
CBC, 8 June 2015
Rufus Yeung, Manager for MOSAIC’s NorthEast Employment Centre and WorkBC office, talks (in Mandarin) to NTDTV regarding how immigrants can prepare themselves to find jobs, and improve their English language skills.
NTDTV, May 28, 2015
Emma Tang, MOSAIC Career Advisor, talks to OMNI TV about how to deal with being laid off work, and strategies for finding new employment.
OMNI Cantonese News, May 27, 2015
Report on LGBTQ immigrants’ needs unmet.
24HR, May 6, 2015
The pilot project to help LGBTQ newcomers has come to an end, but despite a lack of funding, MOSAIC hopes to continue with services.
Daily Xtra, May 5, 2015
MOSAIC’s 2015 Job and Career Fair and interviews with staff are featured in Chinese daily publication Kan Zhong Guo.
Kan Zhong Guo, April 16, 2014
Roja Bagheri, Coordinator for MOSAIC’s I Belong Project, is featured in an interview with Co-op Radio Gender Queeries discussing the I Belong project, and challenges faced by LGBTQ newcomers.
Co-op Radio, April 16 – Roja Bagheri from 12:38 to 28:03
Abraham Asrat talks to reporter Hershey He from Kan Zhong Guo, ahead of MOSAIC’s 4th Annual Job and Career Fair. In the Chinese language:
Kan Zhong Guo, April 10, 2014.
MOSAIC’s 4th Annual Job and Career Fair is featured on NTD Television’s nightly newscast. April 14, 2015.
MOSAIC’s Job Fair is in the news as a former client talks about getting hired at the 2014 Job Fair and Abraham Asrat, MOSAIC’s Manager of Employment Programs, talks about the 4th Annual Job and Career Fair happening on April 14, 2015.
The Province, April 6, 2015
Ninu Kang, MOSAIC Director of Communications and Development, is featured in a video inviting everyone to join in the local March 21 Community March Against Racism. The video was filmed by Shaw Communications and broadcast on their local network.
Broadcast on local Shaw Communications Networks, March 17-21, 2015
Angel Tse, Settlement Worker from MOSAIC’s Buller office, talks to Cantonese language station Fairchild Television about the lengthy wait in the family reunification program that is a reality for some MOSAIC clients.
Fairchild Television, March 10, 2015
MOSAIC’s new online program, Pre-Arrival Services for Women in Engineering, a workshop for pre-landed women in the engineering profession. The innovative workshop addresses an identified need and pulls resources from professional organizations and engineers.
The Source, February 24-March 10, 2015
Vancouver Sun reporter, Douglas Todd, met with students at MOSAIC’s Brentwood Learning Centre to discuss traditions around the Chinese New Year’s. Read about how Mainland Chinese, Taiwanese and Koreans, as well as other cultures, celebrate the coming of the New Year.
Vancouver Sun, February 14, 2015
Roja Bagheri, Project Coordinator for the LGBTQ pilot project “I Belong,” talks to the Georgia Straight about challenges faced by LGBTQ newcomers. February 16, 2015
MOSAIC is soliciting stories about racism as part of the campaign RAISE HANDS AGAINST RACISM, to help bring awareness to this issue.
VancouverDesi.com, February 3, 2015
MOSAIC Program Coordinator Roja Bagheri talks to 24HR about the LGBTQ Community Forum held in Vancouver on January 26. Over 60 people attended the event, including clients and members of the LGBTQ community, and staff from the services sector.
24HR, January 25, 2015
Ninu Kang, MOSAIC Director of Communications and Development, discusses the racial overtones in the proposed Bill S-7 “Zero Tolerance for Barbaric Cultural Practices” Act.
Vancouver Courier, January 23, 2015
The Society of Translators and Interpreters of British Columbia has profiled Tanja Krzman, MOSAIC Manager of Translation Services, in their January 2015 newsletter. In the article, Tanja also discusses the qualifications of translators and what it takes to become certified in this field.
STIBC Newsletter, January 2015
OMNI Punjabi News, December 19, 2014
Vancouver Shinpo has published an interview with Yumi Onozawa, MOSAIC Settlement Outreach Worker, in their December 18th issue. The one-and-half-page feature outlines all of MOSAIC’s programs and services for immigrant communities.
Vancouver Shinpo, December 18, 2014
Solmaz Mehrabani, MOSAIC settlement worker talks about the concept of Christmas and Canadian customs around the holiday to her Muslim clients. She offers practical advice to clients who may be eligible to access gifts and food from the Burnaby Christmas Bureau.
Burnaby Now, December 16, 2014
Fred Lee writes about Festival MOSAIC 2014 in the Social Column of
The Province, December 7, 2014.
MOSAIC’s Specialized Services team hosted a well-attended media awareness launch for the projectPreventing and Reducing Violence Against Women and Girls in the Name of Honour on Friday, November 28, 2014 and the campaign has netted some great publicity for the message.
CBC Early Edition interview with Marc Larrivée, November 28
OMNI’s Punjabi News, November 28
World Journal (in Chinese Traditional script), November 29
Voice Online, November 27
Vancouver Sun, November 29
Festival MOSAIC 2014 is in the news as the HIPPY program is featured as one of the programs benefiting from the proceeds of the event.
The Province, November 27, 2014
MOSAIC’s 2014 AGM and changes to its Board of Directors is chronicled in the Jewish Independent.
Jewish Independent, October 31, 2014
In an interview with Rick Cluff on CBC’s Early Edition, Roja Bagheri, Coordinator of MOSAIC Settlement Services I Belong Project talked about the project’s goal of facing intersections between sexuality, class, gender, race, cultural diversity, criminalization and colonization.
CBC Early Edition, October 27, 2014
MOSAIC, partnering with community stakeholders, RCMP, and academic institutions to form the South Asian Community Coalition Against Youth Violence (SACCAYV), hosted a forum on October 9 to discuss Youth Violence and Family Relationships and make recommendations on ending youth violence.
The Indo Canadian Voice, October 14, 2014
Reporter Alexander Agnello talks with Khim Tan, Senior Manager of Settlement Programs, and Roja Bagheri, Project Coordinator for the project about MOSAIC’s new pilot program for the LGBTQ community.
The Source, October 10, 2014
Andara Ahmad, Community Development Worker for MOSAIC, speaks to the Georgia Straight about new Kurdish arrivals to Vancouver and shares some of her own background.
Georgia Straight, September 17, 2014
This feature in the Georgia Straight (August 20, 2014) – makes reference to a MOSAIC project and a resulting evaluation report. In 2012, Status of Women Canada funded a two-year project “Engaging Young People to Prevent Violence against Women on Post-Secondary Campuses,” which was a joint partnership between MOSAIC and Langara College. Maria Escolan was the coordinator and Setsuko Hirose supervised the project, and was co-chair of the advisory committees.
This student-driven project focused on engaging students attending Langara College and other post-secondary institutions to prevent violence against women on campus and in their personal lives. The project enhanced opportunities for post-secondary campus communities to actively prevent violence against women and increase safety strategies on campuses. The campus and community advisory committee members met regularly, to identify gaps and barriers faced by women around safety and violence on the campuses. These findings were included in a gender-based analysis report and a campus and community plan was developed with recommendations focused on violence against women promotion, education, and prevention. The project then focused on increasing student awareness of support services on and off campus, reviewing and developing policies on addressing safety for women students and having yearly educational activities and trainings. The project ended with an evaluation report which was done by the McCreary Centre it was very positive.
Roja Bagheri, MOSAIC Settlement Worker, provides translation for her client Tannaz on CBC’s EARLY EDITION July 31. Tannaz is a transgender woman from Iran who came to Canada as a refugee and the interview is part of a week-long “Pride and Prejudice” series focusing on the challenges facing LGBTQ people of colour in the Lower Mainland. Host Gavin Fisher said about his interview with Tannaz:
“That was hands-down the most powerful interview I’ve ever done. I feel very privileged to be able to tell her story.”
CBC’s EARLY EDITION, July 31, 2014
Joan Andersen, Director or Employment and Languages, talked to the Toronto Star on Friday, July 18, 2014 about the 10 new occupations which have been added to the Foreign Credential Recognition program, which fast-tracks specific occupations, professions and trades which have shortages of Canadians who are able to fill positions.
Toronto Star, July 18, 2014
On July 12th 2014, Roja Bagheri, Farsi speaking Settlement Worker at MOSAIC, was involved in a live “Round Table” radio panel discussion about Bill C-24, at the Vancouver Persian Radio (VPR), CKYE, 93.1 REDFM. There were four other distinguished guests, including: Josh Paterson, Executive Director of B.C. Civil Liberties Association BCCLA and Adjunct Professor of Law UBC, Marina Sedai, Immigration Lawyer and Immigration Law Instructor UBC, Peter Edelmann, Immigration Lawyer and Immigration Law Instructor UBC and Fin Donnelly MP for New Westminster-Coquitlam and Port Moody. Roja discussed MOSAIC’s position for Bill C-24 and the concerns that were brought to her and other Settlement Workers around the changes to the Canadian Citizenship Act.”
Vancouver Persian Radio (VPR), CKYE, 93.1 REDFM, July 12, 2014
Eyob Naizghi, MOSAIC’s Executive Director, spoke about the situation of Syrian refugees and about Canada’s humanitarian efforts in their regard. In the early 1980s Canada, he pointed out, responded to the Vietnamese Boat People with a program of refugee sponsorship. In the 1990s, a compassionate hand was similarly extended to refugees from Kosovo in the former Yugoslavia. With the crisis in Syria rising to alarming proportions, Canada needs to do more along the same lines to assist the Syrians who, daily, are being displaced in their thousands.
Radio-Canada.ca, May 22, 2014
Eyob Naizghi, MOSAIC’s Executive Director, and Faustin Bilikano, Settlement Worker at MOSAIC, were interviewed in a story regarding how different organisations provide Settlement Services to new immigrants. While community associations are always looking to sit down with the Federation of Francophones in British Columbia (FFCB) to negotiate terms of support for francophone immigrants, CIC confirms that FFCB can offer services unilaterally.
ICI Radio-Canada.ca, May 22, 2014
Sherman Chan, MOSAIC’s Director of Family and Settlement Services, appeared on OMNI’s Cantonese TV News Monday evening. The interview, which took place in Sherman’s office, followed the lead story on the weekend slaying of a woman in Vancouver, allegedly at the hands of her husband.
Sherman commented that violence against women is prevalent in all cultures, although it is condoned by none. That many cultures support values and beliefs which promote male dominance and that often those in positions of power within the family will use this authority to exercise various types of abuse in order to maintain the power and control in the relationship.
In addition to talking about MOSAIC’s programs for Violence Against Women, Sherman also mentioned other community resources available to women in abusive relationships. OMNI showed closeup shots of MOSAIC brochures (in Chinese language) about our anti-violence against women programs.
OMNI TV, May 13, 2014
Support Migrant Labourers:
Letter to the Editor – Vancouver Sun, April 24, 2014
© Pacific Newspaper Group. Posted with permission.
Gov’t must do more to protect Temporary Foreign Workers
Letter to the Editor – The Province, April 2014
© Pacific Newspaper Group. Posted with permission.
La Source reporter Simon Yee, attends MOSAIC’s Culture Smart meeting and meets participants. Led by Sue, a retired teacher and MOSAIC volunteer, the session focused on parties and celebrations in Canada as well as in the home countries of the participants. MOSAIC Program Facilitator Karen George is pictured with some Culture Smart clients.
La Source issue, April 2014
MOSAIC’s 3rd Annual Job Fair 2014 is featured in The Pacific Post Group of Newspapers — page 6
Asian Pacific Post – South Asian Post – The Filipino Post
Chance for newcomers to connect: Job fair in Vancouver lets immigrants to Canada meet potential employers.
The Province, April 4, 2014
Joan Andersen, MOSAIC Director of Language and Employment Programs, talks to Vancouver Desi about job hunting tips and MOSAIC’S 3rd Annual Job Fair.
Vancouver Desi, April 3, 2014
MOSAIC and the New Westminster Chamber of Commerce complete research project WINS – Welcoming and Inclusive New Westminster Inclusive Workplaces, which explored employer attitudes and immigrant challenges to find work in New West.
WINS, March 18, 2014
Angelo Lam, coordinator of MOSAIC’s Men in Change program, talks about living with a challenging disability. Written by Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development for MOSAIC.
Spring 2014 edition of Transition, the magazine of BC Coalition of People with Disabilities
Roja Bagheri, MOSAIC Settlement Worker, comments on a New Westminster City report regarding the tough challenges that new immigrants face finding jobs and housing.
24HR, January 16, 2014
Ninu Kang, Director of Communications and Development at MOSAIC, comments on the higher-than-average birthrates of boys in the Indo-Canadian community, which suggests pre-natal sex selection.
The Link, January 11, 2014
Global Chinese Press, October 2013
250 gather to celebrate MOSAIC’S Multiculural Seniors Day in Burnaby
Sing Tao Daily, October 2013
Astarte Sands, MOSAIC Coordinator of Volunteer Programs, speaks about the importance of volunteer mentors in the Workplace Connections Program.
Sherman Chan, MOSAIC Director of Settlement and Family Services, is profiled.
Enjoy Living, July 2013 (Chinese Language)
Khim Tan, MOSAIC Settlement Manager, comments on the upcoming release of the National Household Survey.
MOSAIC Job Fair Coordinator Christian St. Cyr offers 7 job hunting tips to immigrants.
Metro, April 2013
Larry Chan, MOSAIC Employment Programs Manager, talks about how employers see the MOSAIC job fair as a great opportunity.
Philippine Canadian Inquirer, April 2013
MOSAIC Executive Director Eyob Naizghi shares the podium with author Nick Noorani and Jason Kenney, Minister for Citizenship and Immigration to launch newcomer resource guides.
CIC Newsroom, April 2, 2013
Ming Pao Daily, October 2012
The Province, October 2011
A Romanian senior discusses her challenges in learning and speaking English.
The Province, October 2011