UMOJA is a minority founded newcomer settlement and charitable organization established in 2002 by former Ugandan member of parliament Amos Kambere and his wife, Edith, refugee immigrants originally from Uganda. Our organization’s founding was as motivated 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 team 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 support while our approach is defined by a frontlines service mindset. 

Umoja is therefore uniquely positioned to serve our clients with dedication, compassion, respect, as well as clarity and integrity of purpose. Indeed, while we have been humbled to receive numerous awards over the years, our greatest affirmation comes from the fact that our efforts are of genuine worth to those we serve and the communities in which they live.

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.