Families with Refugee Backgrounds Rebuilding New Lives: A Saskatchewan Study

Daniel Kikulwe; Donalda Halabuza; Teisha Williams

doi:10.25071/1920-7336.41175

Authors

Daniel Kikulwe School of Social Work, York University, Toronto, Canada https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1473-8180
Donalda Halabuza Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan
Teisha Williams School of Social Work, York University, Toronto, Canada

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25071/1920-7336.41175

Keywords:

resilience, refugees, starting over, new life, adversities, employment

Abstract

This qualitative study explores factors contributing to refugees’ resilience in Regina, Saskatchewan. It aims to add to the emerging body of Canadian literature on refugees’ strengths and experiences as they navigate resettlement in smaller urban centres. Data were collected from three focus groups that explored the experiences of 15 people from seven countries who had settled in Saskatchewan. Findings show common patterns that contributed to resilience for refugees, including pursuits of Canadian education, employment, social networks, and personal qualities. Conclusions indicate that protective factors (i.e., personal characteristics, social supports and networks, starting over in education and employment) that facilitated resilience for participants interacted and worked together to help them overcome adversity during settlement.

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Author Biographies

Daniel Kikulwe, School of Social Work, York University, Toronto, Canada

Dr. Daniel Kikulwe is an Associate Professor in the School of Social Work at York University. He can be reached at kikulwe@yorku.ca.

Donalda Halabuza, Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan

Dr. Donalda Halabuza is a retired Associate Professor from the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Regina.

Teisha Williams, School of Social Work, York University, Toronto, Canada

Teisha Williams is a Graduate of York University's Bachelor of Social Work Program.

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