About this Event
What does it really mean to feel at home in a country you once arrived in as a stranger?
For immigrant women, building a life in Canada is about so much more than finding a home, getting a job, or learning how to navigate a new system. It is about finding community. Being seen. Building meaningful relationships. Rediscovering confidence. And eventually being able to say, “I belong here.”That is what '' is about.
Organized by Sisters In Canada Wellness Society (SICWS) The Safe Haven Conference creates a welcoming and empowering space where newcomer and long-settled immigrant women can connect, learn, heal and build a stronger sense of belonging in Canada.Through meaningful conversations, practical workshops, community resources, mentorship and intentional networking, women have opportunities to build confidence, strengthen social and professional connections, discover resources and create relationships that can continue long after the conference ends.
Our Story So Far
Every immigrant woman carries a story—of what she left behind, what she has overcome, and what she hopes to build in a new country.The Safe Haven Conference was born in Surrey, BC, in 2023 to create a space where those stories could be heard, celebrated and connected.What began as a gathering dedicated to immigrant women finding community and belonging has continued to grow each year into a powerful community of women, organizations, partners and allies committed to ensuring immigrant women do not simply arrive in Canada, but have opportunities to belong, contribute and thrive.Since 2024, Vancity has supported The Safe Haven Conference as our Presenting Sponsor, helping us bring immigrant women together and create a space for learning, connection, growth and community.
Our 2024 conference, themed “Empowering Newcomer Women: Navigating Integration Challenges and Cultivating Resilience,” welcomed more than 200 women into a room filled with conversations, resources and possibilities.
The conference featured a keynote from Lily Grewal, Director of Immigrant Integration with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs, alongside a panel workshop featuring leaders from MOSAIC, the Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver, Black Women Connect Vancouver and Aritzia.
More than 15 immigrant- and community-serving organizations also brought their programs and resources directly into the room, giving women the opportunity to ask questions, make connections and discover services available to support them.
In 2025, The Safe Haven returned with more sisters, more stories, and even more resources.And now...This November, we open the doors for our FOURTH year—and we just can't keep still!
What to Expect in 2026
Every Safe Haven Conference has its own unique thread. The theme may change from year to year, but the heart of the gathering remains the same: women connecting with women and discovering that they do not have to navigate life in Canada alone.
This year's theme is:
“Home Is Here: Redefining Belonging in a New Era.”
We are delighted to welcome Olga Stachova, CEO of MOSAIC, back to The Safe Haven Conference as our 2026 keynote speaker.Throughout the day, expect practical and engaging workshops, meaningful conversations, community resource booths, opportunities to meet immigrant-serving organizations, and networking designed for women who may genuinely be looking for their next connection, job lead, mentor, collaborator—or simply a new friend.
Most importantly, expect a warm and welcoming room where women can show up as themselves and where nobody has to explain why they left home in order to be understood.
Come ready to learn.
Come ready to connect.
Come ready to meet your next sister.
Because home is not only where you came from. Home can also be what you build—and who you build it with.
Who The Safe Haven Conference Is For
- The Safe Haven Conference welcomes:
- Newcomer and immigrant women looking for community, connection and practical support
- Past Safe Haven attendees ready to reconnect and experience another year
- Professionals, job seekers and entrepreneurs looking to expand their networks
- Community members and families who want to be part of an inclusive gathering
- Organizations, employers and service providers interested in connecting meaningfully with immigrant women
Whether you arrived in Canada recently or have called Canada home for years, there is a place for you in this room.
About Sisters In Canada Wellness Society
Sisters In Canada Wellness Society (SICWS) is a BC-based nonprofit organization creating spaces where newcomer and immigrant women can find sisterhood, support, mentorship and opportunities to thrive.Our work extends far beyond The Safe Haven Conference. Throughout the year, SICWS delivers workshops, mentorship opportunities, group support, volunteer engagement, community conversations and other programs designed to strengthen connection, confidence, well-being and belonging among immigrant women.
The Safe Haven is more than a conference.
It is a community.And this November, your seat is waiting.Join us for the 4th Annual Safe Haven Conference and experience a day of sisterhood, learning, connection and belonging.
Home Is Here. And there is room for you.
Get your tickets today!
Event venue & nearby stays
Port Kells Community Hall, 18918 88 Avenue, Surrey, Canada
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.