CIWA Blog
Meet Lida
She shares her time and talents with CIWA’s Seniors Sewing and Craft Groups, stitching creativity, friendship, and community into every project. Lida and her spouse relocated to Calgary in 2024 from Iran, joining their daughter, who had settled in Canada several years...
Meet Iffat
Born and raised in Bangladesh, Iffat built her foundation in journalism and communication, earning her Master of Social Science (MSS) in Media Studies and Journalism. Before moving to Calgary in 2021, she worked in the field of journalism, which sharpened her...
Friends of CIWA Spotlight: Little Rock Printing
At CIWA, our work is made stronger through the generosity of community-minded businesses who believe in supporting immigrant women and their families. We are grateful to recognize Little Rock Printing as one of our valued Friends of CIWA. Little Rock Printing has...
Meet Carmen
Carmen’s journey is one of resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to community. Born and raised in Cuba, she built a strong foundation in civic service with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economic Sciences and a Diploma in Foreign Trade. In 2021, Carmen and her family...
Meet Kafayat
Since 2023, Calgary has been home to Kafayat Tijani, who originally hails from Nigeria. Her journey has taken her across the globe, with time spent living and working in the United Arab Emirates and Scotland. With a background in both teaching and healthcare, Kafayat...
Meet Pauline Hoskin
Born and raised in Toronto, Pauline Hoskin has lived a life rich in experience, both at home and abroad. Alongside her husband, she spent time living overseas and in various southern Alberta communities before settling in Calgary over a decade ago. With a remarkable...
Meet Yvette Hou
Originally from China, Yvette How and her family moved to Canada in 2022, after spending two years in the Philippines. She previously worked as a teacher and has her master’s degree in English Literature. Yvette’s story with CIWA began one day while riding the C-train...
Meet Siefaie: Leading with Heart, Purpose, and Passion
Siefaie Nabiieva is a shining example of resilience, dedication, and community spirit. Originally from Ukraine, she spent over a year in Turkey before settling in Canada with her husband. With a background in medicine and pediatric care, Siefaie dreams of returning to...
Meet Aysha
Aysha is an inspiring youth volunteer whose leadership and commitment are shaping the next generation. Born in Pakistan and raised in Calgary, she brings a global perspective and a deep sense of community to her role as a mentor in CIWA’s Youth Mentorship Program....
Meet Hema
At the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA), we are honored to work alongside remarkable individuals like Hema, whose journey embodies the transformative power of volunteering and community spirit. Born and raised in India, Hema holds a Bachelor’s Degree in...









