I was asked the question: “What do you love most about Sinkunia?” and I pondered on it for a while because I couldn’t decide what I liked the most and that’s because I love everything about Sinkunia. I love the mouth-watering cuisines from different nations that lure people in.

I love the yearly cultural festivals; the way the different cultural attires form colors of the rainbow, the reds and the blues and purples and indigos.

I love the sense of community. I love how Sinkunia is not just a bunch of people working together, it’s not just a community of different folks from different backgrounds. Sinkunia is a family; it’s home.

Miss. Mariam Bangura

 I recently joined Sinkunia officially as part of my practicum work, eager to deepen my engagement with the African community in Edmonton. Before this, I became familiar with Sinkunia’s work through meeting its Founder, Mr. Issa Kamara, and Program Manager, Agnes, at a UN community conversation about food sovereignty. I learned about their community garden initiative and even attended some of their events as a guest. So, joining the team has been an incredible opportunity to connect more closely with the community and contribute to the meaningful work Sinkunia is doing. One of the highlights of my involvement has been the seniors' sewing class on Wednesday mornings. This class brings older adults from the African immigrant community together, not just to sew—something they clearly take immense pride in—but also to socialise over breakfast and lunch. While I don’t sew myself, I’ve loved engaging in conversations with the elders, hearing their life stories, and seeing the joy they derive from creating something with their own hands. It’s been especially moving to learn about their unique cultures and to witness their eagerness to connect with me, even when language barriers exist.

On Saturdays, I’ve had the pleasure of participating in Sinkunia’s youth activities, which include fun games and sports activities. These sessions give young people a space to stay active and engaged, and for me, it’s been a wonderful chance to hear about their lives, from school to family, and gain insight into what it’s like growing up in Edmonton today. Beyond these regular activities, I’ve been invited to contribute to other events and projects, which I’m excited to explore as I grow more settled within the organisation. The bonds I’ve already built with Sinkunia’s members have been incredibly meaningful. Many of the people I meet at Sinkunia are newly immigrated to Edmonton and despite being new to town themselves, they consistently check in on me and show genuine care for how I’m doing—a testament to the warmth and thoughtfulness of the Sinkunia community. As a Black British person with Ghanaian heritage, my involvement with Sinkunia has also strengthened my own sense of belonging in Edmonton’s Black community. Sinkunia’s work goes beyond supporting individuals; they promote health, connection, and productivity across generations. It’s an honor to be part of an organisation making such a positive impact, and I look forward to continuing this journey.

Miss. Tyra Mensah

University of Alberta (UoA)

I like the amazing different kinds of food always available at Sinkunia, cultural festivals, and i am looking forward to Sinkunia Christmas party and the food.

Miss Paula Otoo

Hello everyone, Our placement at Sinkunia Community was a beneficial and rewarding experience. We had the honor of taking part in a number of worthwhile activities that promoted learning and personal development in addition to enabling me to give back to society.

On September 21, 2024, we participated in vegetable harvesting, which was a fulfilling way to engage with the community’s sustainable initiatives. Weekly quilting and sewing classes provided opportunities to develop practical skills, and we contributed by helping the people create bags and desk chair covers. We also supported community outreach efforts by visiting The Rock Soup Greenhouse and Food Bank in Wetaskiwin to donate food, clothing, and other essentials.

As part of the Youth Connect programs, we actively participated in sports such as badminton and basketball and attended the 3rd Annual Summit, where we gained insights into important topics like racism and discrimination. we also assisted in preparing food and snacks for various events, which reinforced the value of teamwork and collaboration. One of the highlights of my placement was the Farm Fair Field Trip at the Expo Center, where we engaged in numerous educational activities such as observing chicks, exploring a petting zoo, grinding corn, learning about fiber art, and crushing oil seeds.

What stood out to us the most was the community’s welcoming and inclusive nature. we deeply appreciated the friendly and supportive environment where individuals shared their cultures and eagerly learned about mine. The collaborative spirit of the Sinkunia Community was inspiring, and it reinforced the importance of unity in achieving shared goals.

Overall, our time at Sinkunia Community was both enjoyable and memorable. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a vibrant and dedicated organization and to contribute to its mission of fostering inclusivity, learning, and growth.

Miss. Diljeet Saloni / Miss. Ann Mary Shaju

Norquest Collage (September 2024 to December 2024)

Hello everyone, my name is Asatu, a volunteer at Sinkunia community. I was brought to the community through my friend Muna, and being part of Sinkunia Community has been a blessing, I have learnt so many things in the community like how to communicate and help each other.

Sinkunia has helped me to improve my skills through the computer literacy program, making beads, cooking, and sewing clothes. I also get food through the Sinkunia foodbank hamper program and also bus pass.

i am grateful to be part of this community. Thank you

Miss. Asatu Roke Sesay

Hello my name is Sasa, l will just like to say that i love everything about sinkunia so much and what i like about sinkunia is the garden, and getting to work on it and getting to harvest it, it really nice and i really enjoy that time of the year, and i really like summer camp because it introduces me to most of my friends i have now and i will just like to say, Sinkunia is one of the best summer camps that i have ever been to because it really feels like home and everybody there is so supportive and yeah i really love Sinkunia.

Miss. Saajida Saani

One thing I admire about Sinkunia is how it creates a strong sense of community and celebrates our cultural values. Additionally, I deeply admire Sinkunia’s commitment to uplifting communities and creating growth opportunities, especially through programs that empower youth and celebrate diversity. The activities this year have been outstanding, but what excited me the most was the fall harvest festival because it was such a beautiful celebration, filled with joy, connection, and the spirit of togetherness. I loved seeing everyone come together to celebrate the season. It was inspiring to see how impactful and engaging it was for everyone involved. Truly Sinkunia is home away from home!

Miss. Najewa Nuntaa Siddique - NAIT

I love the quilting program because I’m usually at home by myself. Since my friend introduced me to it, I fell in love with it. With this program, I have something to do instead of being bored at home. The food is very good. The computer classes has also develop my skills with basic skills that i hope to improve on.

Ms. Sophie Ndi

Sinkunia is a very diverse organization that welcomes every individual from all walks of life. This organization is a home for newcomers in Alberta as they help these individuals settle into Albertan life.

My favorite thing about Sinkunia is the way they prioritize the mental health of the community members. They help youth in the community to tackle the problem of racism, and gun and gang violence by hosting programs that are focused on the youth and also doing fun activities.

Mr. Abdul Hafiz Conteh

I am from Cameroon, I have been here for some time and when I was introduced to the quilting program by my friend Pauline. I was happy about the program because being at home without nothing to do causes me stress. Being here makes me happy. This is the only program I have attended since moving to Canada. Being with Sinkunia reminds me of being back home. I don’t want the program to end. I will invite more seniors to attend the program.

Ms. Patience Gang

I am from Cameroon. I like the quilting program because it helps newcomers from Africa, they come here and learn how to sew, and patch a dress, through Sinkunia some of us attend computer classes. We receive free food which is good because some of us don’t have enough food at home as we are newcomers. I volunteer with Sinkunia. Other Sinkunia programs I have attend are the Computer literacy classes, Heritage festival, Swimming, Gardening and many more. I don’t want the quilting program to ever end. Everyone is welcomed at Sinkunia no matter where they are from.

Ms. Pauline Isaindang

One thing I like about Sinkunia is the way they welcome everyone despite their color or ethnicity

Sinkunia has helped me to be bold and speak among people and also they never disappoint when it comes to food.

Miss. Muna Alie

The quilting program has enabled me on how to paddle a sewing machine. I love it because it enabling me to become self employed by quilting beddings to sell so other families benefits from it. The beading program has helped me to design bags in different forms that will not help me in my usage alone but other families in the community. The computer program has showed me how to turn a computer on, design a resume, open different tabs and many more. Sinkunia has helped me embrace love and accept different cultures. I would love the quilting program to stay forever so others coming to Canada will also benefit from it

Ms. Beatrice Ntifor

My name is Kofi. I am sixteen years. I have been attending Sinkunia programs since 2014. There were lots of activities and programs that were delivered to us during the year. These are some of the things that stood out for me. The facilitators and volunteers took their time to deliver interesting topics to us. Most of the stuff they discussed with us are very important to us African youth. They made the sessions very engaging and participatory so I did not sleep at any of the sessions. I love the video content of the sessions and they stick in my head all the time. I also like the food part of the program. In my opinion the sessions wouldn’t be the same if there were no food.

This year we learned a lot about Canada’s past and problems that were going on through the blanket exercise in the Aboriginal culture. We had a wonderful time during the field trips, swimming in the Sylvan Lake and learning how to dispose of garbage. We enjoyed the food, our most favorite food was the pasta – if we can have more of pasta. Above all, we love the programs and looking forward to participate in more of such programs. And hi! Nathan Riwo, Fatima, Mr. DJ, John and Anna Thank you all.

Sinkunia is a warm and vibrant community that encourages growth and connectedness. I joined SCDO as a CSL student and stayed because I loved how passionate the organizers are about serving their community and how excited the children are to see you each week. SCDO has developed a well-rounded program that encourages healthy development. There are activities to help the children release their energy, engage their mind and enhance their skills. Activities are centered around the  children and youth’s interests. It has been an honor to work with the children and youth. 

Morgan Beller-Program/Youth Facilitator

My name is Mercy, I am fifteen. Initially going to Sinkunia events and programs, I thought it was going to be a boring and stressful thing to do every weekend. The first day however I had so much fun, I made two friends and I was happy. As time went by and participating in different programs, the youth group got bigger and bigger. We all started feeling comfortable with each other. Some kids of my age started being friends and talking and laughing together. All the programs that Sinkunia delivers to the youth have helped me met new friends, be confident about myself. Now I always look forward to what is happening every weekend. We talk about new things and visit new places. I went to my first K-Days through the organization. The program until today is making me grow in so many areas of life and I would like immigrant parents to enroll their kids in it – its free. My mom loves it. I hope other kids in the program will also find it as enjoyable as I do. I want to thank the organizers, all the facilitators, volunteers and the students

As a student social worker with seniors and youth home care experience, I was thrilled when the Executive Director of SCDO sought me out and offered me an opportunity to work directly with immigrant youths and children, didn't think I had it in me but was willing to give it a shot! He believed in me every step of the way and that was empowering. Meeting an amazing team of resilient workers at SCDO,were able to reach out to many immigrant families with opportunities they didn't know existed, even with minimal resources.how hard everyone was willing to work, with or without pay, strengthened my faith in unity and most definitely inspired me to give it my all.

I will do this all over again if I can.is a tool I use to assess my input in every organization and the ability to smile after every encounter with SCDO program participants,assurance for me that we were creating a positive impact in each other’s lives.

SCDO programs, I will recommend to every new immigrant hoping to settle successfully in Canada.

Although I had to leave with the hope of getting more experience with the government sector, I look forward to resuming work with SDO in the future.

Patricia Sesay BSW: Program/Youth Facilitator

My name is Mamoud Ballah Kamara, a long-time beneficiary of SCDO Scholarship Fund. I sat for the West African Senior School Certificates Examinations (WASSCE) in 2011/2012 academic year which guaranteed my admission to any University in the country. But the dire financial situation of my parents almost made it impossible for me to further my studies; where I considered myself to be a drop out not until when SCDO intervened in my academic life.

It was a dream to me when I received my first-year university fees from SCDO through the Sinkunia Scholarship Fund in 2013 academic year; thereafter, I started another academic journey at Njala University College to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree with Honors in Environmental Management and Quality Control (EMQC). In June 2018, I graduated with a First-Class Honors Degree in the EMQC of study.

 I wish to express my profound gratitude to SCDO for all the support and wish to become the ambassador of SCDO in Sierra Leone to spread the good deeds of the organization.

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!   

My name is Regina, I am 12 years old. I have been to Sinkunia programs since 2017. Their programs are a place where you discover your true self and appreciate who you are that you are unique no matter what. Some of the programs have taught me how to take care of myself and help others get through difficult situations. Through the activities, I have learnt more about Canada and its history as well as the resources available for our use. During our homework sessions staffs help us to do our school works and explain difficult topics to us. With Sinkunia programs we learn new things every time we attend. I am happy to see new places that we visit through the program. Our trips to TELUS World of science, Elk Island, Afro-fest are my favorite. This year summer camp was full of fun. I learnt how to use clay to make something and we had a water balloon fight which was hilarious. I am very fortunate to have staff pick us up for every program. In all these programs I have learnt how to connect and make friends in a snap. I am grateful that there has never been any form of bullying that I have experienced in all the programs I have attended. Thank you.