Facilitating Community Connectedness and Economic Empowerment
“We have already been receiving positive feedback from business owners within the province, and hope that this initiative will have a lasting positive impact on the community’s economic development into the future.”
Amarildo was a recipient of the Centre for Community Engaged Learning’s Chapman and Innovation Grants in the 2022-23 school year.
Project Description
The majority of the Albanian diaspora live in the following developed countries: The United States, Greece, Italy, France, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Albanians began immigrating to Canada in the early twentieth century, and the number has increased since the government’s settlement program for Albanian Kosovar refugees in 1991. The ethnic Albanian population in Canada is 41,620, with an estimated 2455 in British Columbia alone, while the true figure may be greater owing to the diversity of birth countries.
The scattering of the community throughout different cities and lack of professional geared programs from NGOs has made it difficult for the community to come together. To empower the Albanian community in BC, Amarildo and their community partner organization conducted a study to understand the demographics, socio-economic status, and needs of the community.
Informational workshops focused on health education, health literacy, education, employment opportunities, and settlement information were created, along with the AlbMentor mentorship program and the Albanian businesses in BC directory.
Community Partner Description
“The “Eaglesland” Albanian Society of British Columbia is a not-for-profit organization that was established in 2006. Prior to its establishment, a closely knit group of Albanian immigrants assembled in the early 50s and created the first Albanian Association of BC.
The Albanian Society of BC is composed of a Board of Directors with 10 members as elected by members of the Albanian Community of BC and it organizes several annual community events to promote diversity, multiculturalism, Canadian values, and intercultural understanding. Through various annual community events, The “Eaglesland” Albanian Society of BC celebrates traditional Albanian food, language, and culture. As Albanian Canadians we are very proud to have made the beautiful Province of British Columbia our home.”
Project Outcomes
By conducting a study to understand the demographics, socio-economic status, and needs of the Albanian community in BC, this project was able to identify focus areas to address and developed tailored programs and initiatives to address those needs. This study was the first of its kind among this community, and helped to establish a baseline understanding about the community’s needs.
Secondly, the creation of informational workshops with a focus on health education, literacy, education, employment opportunities, as well as settlement information helped members of the Albanian community in BC access resources and information aimed to could improve their quality of life.
Third, the launch of the AlbMentor mentorship program facilitated the sharing of knowledge and experience between successful mentors and youth, as well as volunteers and new residents of BC. We are hoping this mentorship program will help foster a sense of community and create opportunities for growth and development.
Lastly, the creation of the Albanian Businesses in BC Directory, will support with the promoting of Albanian-owned businesses in BC and by increasing their visibility and accessibility to the broader community.
More information about Amarildo’s project outcomes can be found here.
Advice for Future Applicants
For students considering applying for a CCEL Grant, Amarildo offers some valuable advice:
Have fun: Have fun with the process and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Start early: Since the application process might take some time, it’s crucial to get started early and allow yourself enough time to complete all required stages. Before you start, make sure you have properly read the instructions and are aware of all the requirements.
Focus on the impacts of your project: CCEL’s Grants are all about having a positive impact on the community, so make sure it is well planned and be explicit about the results you want to see and how you plan on determining whether or not your project is successful.
Create the right partnerships: Since working on your project will probably involve other people, make sure you have solid partners in place to help you.
Be innovative: Don’t be scared to think creatively or innovatively- by considering fresh strategies or alliances that might aid in your goal-achieving.
Be genuine: Be loyal to who you are and what you believe in. Make sure your idea represents your actual passions and interests
Information about CCEL Grants
If you are a student interested in leading your own UBC CCEL project, you can learn more about the application process here. Year round advising for grant projects and applications are available via Zoom or in-person at our office on the UBC Vancouver office from Monday to Friday. For more information about year round advising, please email us at community.learning@ubc.ca to book an appointment.