The Afghan Society of Halifax (Charitable Organization) Programs & Services

The Afghan Society of Halifax provides a range of programs and services designed to support

Afghan refugees and newcomers as they resettle and integrate into Canadian society. The

organization focuses on helping individuals and families become independent, productive, and

active members of their new communities.

Refugee Sponsorship Program

The Society supports the private sponsorship of Afghan refugees through community

sponsorship initiatives. The organization assists families after their arrival in Canada, ensuring

they receive appropriate guidance and support throughout the settlement process.

Settlement Assistance

Newly arrived refugees receive assistance with essential settlement needs, including:

• Securing safe and affordable housing

• Opening bank accounts

• Registering for healthcare services

• School registration for children

• Accessing language training programs

• Orientation to Canadian laws, culture, and services

Employment Support

The Society helps newcomers prepare for the Canadian job market by providing:

• Job search guidance

• Resume and interview preparation

• Employment referrals

• Connections with local employers and community partners

Education & Language Support

Education and language skills are essential for successful integration. The organization connects

newcomers to English-language training programs, adult education opportunities, and career

development resources.

Small Businesses Services and Entrepreneurship Support

For individuals interested in starting their own businesses, the Society provides guidance and

information on small-business opportunities, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship resources

available in Canada.

Community & Cultural Programs

The Afghan Society of Halifax organizes cultural events, educational workshops, and

community gatherings that promote cultural awareness, social connections, and community

unity.

Community Impact

The Afghan Society of Halifax has made a meaningful impact on the Afghan community in

Nova Scotia and across Canada. Through years of volunteer service and community leadership,

the organization has helped Afghan families build stable lives and successfully integrate into

Canadian society.

Key contributions include:

• Supporting Afghan newcomers since 2008

• Strengthening community connections through cultural and educational programs

• Assisting refugee families with settlement and integration services

• Submitting sponsorship applications for more than 100 Afghan refugees since 2022

• Promoting community collaboration and volunteer engagement

The organization continues to expand its work to support Afghan refugees and contribute to

stronger, more inclusive Canadian communities.

Governance and Leadership

The Afghan Society of Halifax operates with a commitment to transparency, accountability, and

strong community leadership. The organization is led by Founder and Community Leader

Gulmakai M. Sarvar, who has dedicated more than 18 years to serving and supporting the

Afghan community in Canada. The Society works with community volunteers, advisors, and

partners who help guide the organization’s programs and services.

Leadership responsibilities include:

• Organizational planning and strategic development

• Oversight of refugee sponsorship and settlement programs

• Community outreach and partnership development

• Financial management and responsible use of charitable resources

• Program evaluation and reporting

The Afghan Society of Halifax continues to strengthen its governance structure as it grows and

expands its services, with the goal of becoming a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH) and

increasing its capacity to support refugees across Canada.