Growth. Empowerment. Collective elevation.
Continuous learning and professional development are keys to progress and success in the settlement and integration sector. Our Professional Development (PD) events are immersive experiences designed for front-line workers, managers, and team leads. Attending these events is a commitment to staying at the forefront of our ever-evolving sector.
Thanks to ARAISA’s PD events:
- organizations are better equipped to serve immigrants and refugees
- staff members are empowered to deliver responsive and professional programs
- newcomers’ settlement needs are better understood and met
- the entire region strengthens its capacity to drive positive change in the sector
But our commitment also extends to fostering connections. Our PD events are energetic hubs where participants leave with newfound knowledge, a network of peers and a surge of motivation!
Any questions on past or upcoming professional development opportunities?
Contact Nicole O’Connor at noconnor@araisa.ca
Upcoming Event
February 25 & 26, 2026 | Halifax, NS
Communication at the Frontline
This professional development session is designed for staff in frontline settlement and integration roles.
The 4 latest events
September 25, 2025
At Home in the Atlantic
Co-hosted by ARAISA & IRSA PEI, At Home in the Atlantic brought together service providers, researchers, and community leaders to explore belonging, integration, and staying power in Atlantic Canada. Participants heard from engaging keynote speakers, participated in interactive breakout sessions, and connected through meaningful conversations.
February 25 & 26, 2025
Empowering RAP Staff: Innovative Strategies and Best Practices for Atlantic SPOs
Hosted by ARAISA, this PD session brought together staff from the eight Atlantic RAP SPOs for RAP-specific training, networking, and knowledge-sharing. It covered best practices, including housing and staff onboarding. Participants gained insights from IRCC and the National RAP Working Group, looked at RAP-to-settlement coordination, and attended a workshop on the Trauma of Money approach. The event strengthened regional networks and recognized RAP staff dedication.
44 attendees | 100% overall event satisfaction | 76 % indicated they were very likely to apply the training in their work | On a scale of 1 to 10, the training’s impact on organizational capacity averaged 9
February 5 & 6, 20235
Breaking Barriers : Supporting Diverse and 2SLGBTQI+ Newcomers
This annual ARAISA PD session, designed by and for frontline staff, focused on key learning topics: barriers faced by diverse newcomers, support for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and strategies for effective client service while maintaining staff well-being. It also fostered knowledge-sharing and recognized frontline workers’ contributions.
81 attendees | 26 organizations represented | 100% overall event satisfaction | 84% reported that the training will enhance their organization’s capacity to meet newcomer needs
November 5-6, 2024
Reimagining Governance
This dynamic and interactive session, facilitated by Lisa Villeneuve, was tailored for executive and managing directors, CEOs, senior leaders, and board chairs/directors. Participants explored emerging approaches and practices for purpose-driven governance, discussed governance myths, and learned about enhancing strategic decision-making.
30 attendees | 100% of participants reported that the workshop improved their knowledge of emerging approaches and practices in non-profit governance. | All participants agreed that the event fostered connections and dialogue within the sector.