History

A Refugee for Refugees

Meet Alex, the compassionate force behind Lens of Hope for Newcomers and Refugees. Inspired by his own journey and fueled by a desire to create tangible change, Alex embarked on a mission to make a difference in the lives of immigrant families in Calgary.

It all started in 2019 when Alex, driven by his own experiences as an immigrant, decided to take action. Drawing inspiration from his own sponsor, he facilitated private sponsorship for not just one, but two families – a family of three and a lone individual. Witnessing the hope and resilience in their eyes as they stepped onto Canadian soil in November 2021, Alex knew he was onto something special.

But he didn’t stop there. Advocating tirelessly, he paved the way for another individual to find refuge and opportunity in Canada in February 2024. Each arrival was a triumph, a testament to Alex’s unwavering commitment to extending a hand of support to those in need.

But Alex’s dedication goes beyond simply providing a safe haven. In 2022, amidst completing his BA, he delved into research that shed light on the struggles faced by immigrant families. Through his findings, he uncovered a harsh reality: many newcomers arrive in Canada with little understanding of financial systems, leading to debt and poverty.

This revelation fueled Alex’s determination to make a lasting impact. Lens of Hope for Newcomers and Refugees was born from this passion – a beacon of hope, dedicated to breaking the cycle of hardship and fostering socio-economic empowerment among immigrant families.

At Lens of Hope, we believe that every newcomer deserves the chance to thrive. Through education, mentorship, and community support, we equip individuals with the tools they need to navigate their new lives with confidence. From financial literacy workshops to vocational training, we empower immigrants to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.

Alex’s story is a testament to the power of compassion and the ripple effect of one person’s actions. With Lens of Hope, he’s not just changing lives – he’s transforming communities, one family at a time. Join us in our mission to create positive social and economic change for immigrant families in Calgary and beyond. Together, we can build a future where every newcomer has the opportunity to flourish and thrive.