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.
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..
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.”
LEADERSHIP & STAFF
The Umoja board members and staff work together collaboratively to serve and empower immigrants and refugees as they integrate into an inclusive Canadian society. Internationally, our team supports initiatives that seek to improve the quality of life in global communities.
Board Members
Amos Kambere, President
Geoff Bazira, Board Chairperson
Beatrice Okyere
Ruby Virani
Emily Siemens
Margaret Akulia
Alix Wadeson
Mesfine Berhane
Audrey Staudacher
Mambo Masinda
Kakule Masinda