Voices of refugee youth
Abstract
Using PhotoVoice, this research explored the
settlement experiences of refugee youth who have exited high school and are in a program designed by
an Albertan school board to support their language and academic needs. Newcomer youth
encounter profound academic and social stresses as they attempt to create a new identity and
sense of belonging in their new home. This project examined what it means for refugee youth to recuperate a place of belonging. By focusing on the notion of belonging rather than barriers to settlement, the findings revealed that at the core of the youth’s efforts, connecting to people, especially in school, in addition to connecting to the natural world, fostered feelings of well-being and belonging. Educational
implications include recommendations for schools and teachers supporting newcomer youth.
Notes
Community organizations:
- Literacy, English and Academic Development (LEAD) Program at the Calgary Board of Education (CBE)
Future research / gaps identified:
- Interviews and discussions were conducted in English only.
- Results cannot be generalized to refugee youth in Alberta as a whole.
Integration timeline: not defined
Location: Calgary, AB
Key findings:
A sense of belonging in Canada was developed by developing friendships, enjoying nature, getting involved, sharing with family, adjusting to winter, engaging in cultural celebrations, reflecting on experiences, and appreciating everyday life
Key populations: refugee youth who now live in Calgary
Key recommendations:
- Offer welcoming and focused language programs at schools, with teachers who have trauma sensitive training.
- Build trust through developing meaningful relationships between teachers, students and families.
- Give youth opportunities to reflect on and share their perspectives with other youth to foster confidence and awareness.
Open access: Yes
