UMOJA is a minority founded newcomer settlement and charitable organization established in 2002 by Amos and Edith Kambere, refugee immigrants originally from Uganda as informed by the challenges they faced settling their then young family into the Canadian context. Both founders have continued to volunteer with our organization over Umoja’s 20 year tenure. The experience of the Kambere family and our dedicated staff and volunteers mirrors that of many newcomers to Canada, but particularly those at risk of marginalization because of commonly recognized risk factors. 

In a rapidly shifting demographic, we fully recognize that all newcomers must succeed for the overall long term health of Canadian society. This cognizance defines our core ethos as an organization. We are above all motivated by the urgency of need for the families and individuals we seek to support and the ultimate bearing of our work on the success of our communities. Umoja is therefore uniquely positioned to serve our clients with dedication, compassion, respect, as well as clarity and integrity of purpose. Both our founders and Umoja have received numerous awards in recognition of the spirit of service and measurable impact over our over 20 years of transformative impact.

Internationally, we support initiatives to improve the quality of life in global communities, especially the great lakes region of East and Central Africa through education, health and a micro-finance project for women.

In recognition of our service, UMOJA has also been humbled to receive numerous awards over our 20 year tenure. However, our greatest satisfaction comes from the affirmation that our efforts are of genuine value to those we serve.

Mission | “To empower immigrants and refugees to successfully integrate into an inclusive Canadian society.  Internationally, we support initiatives to improve the quality of life in global communities.”

Vision | “Building strong communities; moving from newcomers to neighbours.