Classes helping newcomers prepare for Canadian citizenship in Altona

Ty Hildebrand and Ilsiia Fomina

Permanent residents in the Pembina Valley have an opportunity this spring to prepare for Canadian citizenship through free classes being offered in Altona.

Regional Connections is running Canadian citizenship preparation classes at its Altona office, aimed at eligible permanent residents who have already applied or are planning to apply for Canadian citizenship. 

The classes are designed to help participants feel confident and informed when it comes time to write the citizenship test.

“Our classes help participants to learn more about Canadian government, Canadian history, symbols, and citizens’ responsibilities,” says Ilsiia Fomina, a settlement worker with Regional Connections.

The program is led by longtime volunteer Jim Perry Hill, who has been teaching citizenship preparation classes for many years. 

Fomina says Hill’s teaching style goes beyond memorizing facts and focuses on understanding the meaning behind Canada’s history.

“His method is not just memorizing everything,” she explains. “He explains what stands behind important dates, events, and names.”

According to Fomina, many newcomers are surprised by how much there is to learn about Canada, even after living here for several years. She says participants often gain a deeper appreciation for the country through the classes.

“We have many clients, and they are so excited to take that test because they didn’t know so many things,” she says. “Living here for three years, they didn’t know so many things about Canada, and when they finally know it, they are very excited.”

The citizenship preparation classes run Thursday evenings from April 9 to May 14, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., at the Regional Connections Altona office. 

While the classes are based in Altona, residents from across the Pembina Valley, including Winkler, Morden, and Carman, are welcome to attend.

Fomina says eligibility is based on immigration status rather than location.

“The most important thing is you have to be permanent residents, and you need to apply for Canadian citizenship or going to apply for it,” she says.

The classes are available to permanent residents who became eligible between 2021 and 2023. There is no citizenship knowledge required beforehand, as the course is designed to fully prepare participants for the test.

Those interested in registering can contact Regional Connections directly by calling 204-324-6858 or by emailing [email protected]

With files from Ty Hildebrand