Empowering African Families and Youth in Calgary to Thrive

Who We Are

SHESA Alberta is the alumni association of Sacred Heart College, Mankon – Bamenda, bringing together former students who now call Alberta home. United by the values instilled at our alma mater, we are passionate about community, service, and personal excellence.

Wherever we live, we strive to connect, support, and uplift our members and the broader community through fellowship, cultural events, and charitable initiatives that reflect the true spirit of the Sacred Heart.

What We Do

01.

— Family Settlement & Life Skills

We empower African immigrant families by delivering essential workshops focused on settlement success. These programs provide practical knowledge on financial literacy and navigating complex systems like Canadian education and healthcare.

02.

— Strengthening Intergenerational Bonds

We host focused Intergenerational Dialogues to mend communication and cultural gaps between African immigrant parents and their youth. These mediated sessions create a space for mutual respect and understanding, helping families honour their heritage while embracing Canadian life.

03.

— Mental Wellness & Resilience Training

We address the unique mental health needs of Black immigrant youth through culturally-tailored resilience workshops. These programs teach emotional intelligence and healthy coping strategies for stress and trauma.

04.

— Youth Leadership & Mentorship

We invest in future leaders through dynamic leadership camps and retreats. These programs blend cultural pride with professional skill-building, offering mentorship from successful Black role models. This empowers youth with crucial skills like public speaking, while boosting their confidence and civic aspiration.

05.

— Civic Engagement & Advocacy

We promote active citizenship by training youth in civic participation and advocacy. This includes learning how local government functions and how to lead community service. We establish a Youth Council to provide hands-on experience, enabling young people to effectively champion important issues

06.

— Essential Support Resources

o ensure lasting impact, we create and distribute tangible resources, including a comprehensive Family Support Handbook (in English and French). This guide consolidates vital information on settlement services and local contacts, ensuring families have easily accessible, culturally relevant tools for long-term success in Calgary.

Impact Stories

Settlement and Financial Stability

“The financial literacy workshops and the practical guide to the school system were immediate game-changers for our family. We feel so much more stable and connected in Calgary now. This program truly reduced our settlement anxiety.”

P. Adewale (Parent)

Youth Leadership and Skills

Before joining, I was shy, but the leadership camp gave me the confidence to step up and join the Youth Council. I now have the skills to speak publicly and advocate for our community. They really prepare you to lead.