In 2023, wildfires burnt 2.84 million hectares in BC, resulting in the evacuation of thousands of residents. Evacuation alerts have already been issued in 2024, unfortunately signalling that this year’s wildfire frequency and intensity will be as challenging as last year. 

Flooding conditions have increased over the past few years, with mass evacuations in 2021 demonstrating the impact it has on communities. Climate emergencies are a reality and can be a difficult experience particularly for newcomers who already face challenges adjusting and understanding their new communities.

This session is targeted to front-line settlement workers to provide information on how to plan for a climate emergency so they can be prepared personally and be in a better position to support newcomers.  Speakers will provide an understanding of what they and their clients can do to prepare in the event of a climate emergency, understand the most common needs of newcomers during these situations and how best to address them.

Following the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with the speakers.

EVENT DETAILS AND REGISTRATION

Date: Wednesday,June 26, 2024  

Time:  2:00 p.m.- 3:30 p.m. PST  

Location:  Zoom Webinar - Event details will be emailed immediately after registration  

SPEAKERS

Anna Kazi (she/her)
Public Education Officer
Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness

Anna Kazi (she/her) works at the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness as a Public Education and Online Communications Officer. Anna was born in Pakistan and currently resides in Burnaby on the unceded and traditional homelands of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Sníchim speaking peoples. As someone who has first-hand experience with climate-related disasters, including wildfires and floods, Anna is passionate about educating the public and preparing them for such emergencies. Outside work, you will often find her reading a good book or handing out with her family.  Anna is excited to connect with you all on this preparedness journey and work together to be resilient.

Doreen Rosvold
Manager, Refugee Settlement
KCR Community Resources

Doreen Rosvold is the Refugee Resettlement (RAP) Manager with KCR Community Resources where she has led the RAP team for the past 8 years in welcoming and supporting Government Assisted Refugees. She has over 25 years’ supervisory and front line experience working in the community social service sector, where she has provided support for vulnerable children, families, adults and seniors, particularly forNewcomers/Immigrants and Refugees in our community. Doreen’s expertise alsoincludes offering training on Intercultural Awareness for professionals andorganizations.

Javier Robles
Settlement Worker, Immigrant Services
KCR Community Resources 

Javier Robles is a Settlement Worker for the BC Newcomer Services Program (NSP) with KCR Community Resources, supporting newcomers in the Central Okanagan region. He joined KCR in 2019 as aMigrant Support Outreach Worker under the Migrant Worker Support (MWS) program, where he led outreach activities, provided vital services, and facilitated workshops for migrant workers. During the McDougall Creek Wildfires in August 2023, Javier was instrumental in mobilizing emergency support and coordinating with agencies to ensure the safety of migrant workers. Originally from San Pedro Sula, Honduras, Javier has 15 years of experience as a pharmacist. He is passionate about making a positive impact in his community.

QUESTIONS?

For all other questions about the event, email Fernanda Hurtado at fhurtado@amssa.org.