A farewell note: Reflection on my journey joining CWICE

Starting my journey as a child protection worker with the Child Welfare Immigration Centre of Excellence (CWICE) at Peel Children’s Aid Society has been an incredibly rewarding and eye-opening experience. From the very first day this past June, I was welcomed by a passionate and knowledgeable team that made me feel supported and valued. Transitioning into this unique space of work, where child welfare intersects with immigration and settlement needs, was initially challenging. I had to quickly learn how immigration and child welfare systems intersect, along with the complexity of cases. This would involve multiple jurisdictions, immigration statuses, and systemic barriers, which made it challenging to balance child protection priorities with immigration considerations. However, CWICE team members always ensured I never felt alone.

One of the most remarkable parts of my role as a CWICE Flex Worker has been collaborating with external agencies like the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and various immigration service providers. What stands out for me is how CWICE approaches these collaborations with empathy and advocacy, ensuring that families—especially those new to Canada—are not only seen through a child welfare lens but are supported holistically.

Our work often involves families who have recently arrived in Canada, many of whom are navigating immigration status issues, while trying to build a safe and stable life for their children. It’s been deeply fulfilling to work with these families, helping them access vital services and work toward their immigration goals.

One of the most impactful parts of my work has been supporting families residing in new asylum reception centres. These spaces are often the first-place newcomers stay after arriving in Canada. I have seen how children and their families may face challenges, ranging from trauma and loss to uncertainty about their future. As a CWICE Flex Worker, being present with families, in these spaces, offers the opportunity to not only support around safety and well-being, but also help individuals map a plan that contributes to a sense of stability during an overwhelming time. The team’s ongoing presence in these reception centres has been crucial in ensuring that those who may be most vulnerable upon arrival have access to early intervention and services as soon as possible.

The support, mentorship, and collaborative spirit of the team have been greatly appreciated. Prior to attending the airport to meet an Unaccompanied And Separated Child (UASC), for example, I was always thoroughly prepared. The team provided detailed briefings on what to expect, what questions to ask, and how to approach the interaction with care and professionalism. This guidance not only enhanced my confidence but also demonstrated CWICE’s commitment to thoughtful, trauma-informed practice.

The work we do involves attending the airport. The airport space can initially feel daunting—there are many procedures, security zones, and agencies involved—but once you become familiar with the layout and operations, it becomes much easier to navigate. Building positive relationships with CBSA officers, and understanding their processes, has been essential. One important thing I’ve noted when working with an UASC is how crucial it is to remain attentive to their body language and overall demeanor. Understanding how they may have experienced trauma from where they came from is vital. Many of these young people have just arrived from long and exhausting flights, often following very difficult journeys. Paying attention to how youth respond, what they say, and how they present themselves helps us ensure that their voices are heard and that they feel seen, safe, and respected from their very first interaction with officials and our agency.

One thing I will never forget is a conversation I had with a UASC minor I met upon his arrival in Canada. He shared that in his home country, he was considered a foreigner and treated as one—he was unable to obtain a birth certificate or official documents. When he arrived in Canada, the first thing he noticed was how diverse and peaceful everything seemed, and how people treated him with respect and kindness. Hearing him express that sense of belonging so quickly after arrival, and feeling safe here, reminded me of the profound impact that early and compassionate intervention can have on a young person’s outlook and sense of hope for the future.

Overall, being part of CWICE has been an enriching experience that has expanded my understanding of what we can achieve in our role within child welfare. As I transition to a new field and sector, I will continue to carry these experiences with me and champion the work of my esteemed colleagues at Peel CAS and CWICE.

About the Author:

Kevin Chen is grateful for his journey at Peel CAS that started on the Complex Needs team, continued through Advice and Assessment branch, and finally in CWICE. Each step brought growth, learning, and incredible support from colleagues and management.