Together We Grow

Explore Our Programs

View Annual Report 2026

Programs & Services

Business Development

Girl wearing a yellow hijab and red shirt runs on an indoor track, with teammates in red shirts in the background.

Community Integration

Woman in a hijab smiling, seated at a table during a job interview.

Employer Support

Employment

Several adult students sit at desks in a classroom, writing in notebooks; a Canadian flag on the wall and a whiteboard in the background suggest a learning session.

Language

A woman in a pink outfit leaning toward a smiling boy on a purple mat at an outdoor gathering in a park.

Settlement

Clients of SOPA smiling and looking at each other

Pre-Arrival

Couple posing outdoors with arms around each other; man in black jacket and orange polo, woman in a gold head wrap and green scarf.

Refugee Resettlement

immigrants received ISANS services

countries of origin among ISANS clients

community members volunteered at ISANS

About ISANS

ISANS is a non-profit organization empowering immigrants and refugees to build their futures in Nova Scotia. With over 45 years of experience, we support more than 14,500 newcomers from 170+ countries each year as Atlantic Canada’s leading settlement agency.

We offer a wide range of services, including language services, settlement support for families and children, employment programs, business development, community integration, and pre-arrival services, delivered in person and online in English and 46+ other languages.

ISANS is also committed to supporting Canada’s Francophone Integration Pathway and champions diversity, accessibility, and support for equity-deserving communities.

Oct 23

From International Experience to Professional Engineering: Manoj and Pooya’s Journey in Nova Scotia

For internationally educated professionals, starting or continuing a career in a new country can take...

Oct 23

From Newcomer to ISANS Staff Member: Arezo’s Journey of Growth and Opportunity

When Arezo arrived in Canada, she brought with her international experience, determination and a clear...

Oct 23

Building Connections, Creating Community: Taiwo’s Canada Connects Journey

Starting over in a new country comes with many opportunities, but it can also bring...

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Testimonials

My biggest takeaway from this IWEN (Immigrant Women Entrepreneurship Network) program is the confidence and clarity it gave me to pursue my professional and entrepreneurial goals. The guidance, practical insights, and exposure to experienced trainers and guest speakers have inspired me to apply what I’ve learned in real-world situations and continue developing my skills.

Farah Deeba Shimu

Entrepreneur

Business Development

I would like to thank Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) for kindness and support through my case manager and employment manager, you did wonderful job to my family in this whole first year in Canada. You left me strong and with a hope that future is great I really appreciate from the bottom of my heart you deserve blessings, may God bless you.

Jackson Cyubahiro

ISANS Client, Case Management Program

Settlement

The WTPA (Work-Based Trades Practical Assessment) program helped me start my career as a mechanic in Nova Scotia, where I could apply the skills and experience I earned back home. ISANS supported me every step of the way, from connecting me with an employer to providing safety shoes, tools, and everything I needed to begin working. I am deeply grateful for the support that helped me settle in and provide for my family.

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David Asare

Automotive Service Technician

Employment