Empowering new beginnings: A holistic evaluation of a community-developed multi-sports program for new-to-Canada refugee youths and its impact on physical literacy, mental wellbeing and social health
Abstract
Resettlement for refugee youth in Canada presents multifaceted challenges, notably in integrating into existing social structures, including sports and physical activity (PA) programs. Sports and PA programs can play a crucial role in promoting physical and mental well-being, yet refugee youth often face lower participation rates compared to their Canadian-born counterparts. To address this gap, this study investigated the impact of a community-developed multi-sport program, the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) multi-sport program, on the physical
literacy (PL) development and psychosocial well-being of young refugees in Calgary, AB, Canada. The program aimed to equip refugee youth with the tools to embrace sports and PA opportunities in their new environment, fostering physical well-being and a sense of belonging. A total of 16 refugee youth participants between the ages of 13-19 years old (Mean age = 16.00±1.75, n =14 males) were recruited for this study and were living in temporary housing (M = 1.19 months on arrival) while being assisted by CCIS during their resettlement period. The study employed
mixed methods, including the PLAY-basic tool and a modified PLAY-self questionnaire, to assess program effects on various PL domains. Qualitative data from focus group interviews and an ethnographic approach provided further insights into the program’s broader impact on well-being and social health.
Notes
Community organizations: Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS)
Future research / gaps identified:
Evaluate long-term effects of the program.
Integration timeline: mean of 1.19 months since arrival in Canada
Key findings:
1) Positive changes, particularly for those who participated frequently, included improved fundamental movement skills, boosted confidence, and influenced their motivation to participate in sports and PA.
2) More importantly, the program fostered social connections and a sense of belonging, contributing positively to their mental wellbeing.
3) Participants also benefitted from access to well-equipped facilities, structured programs with qualified coaches, and valuable resources within the community.
4) Logistical difficulties like competing schedules and lack of awareness about the program, along with unmet gender specific needs, hindered consistent participation.
Location: Calgary, AB
Open access: Yes
Key population: refugee youth in a sport program in Calgary
Key recommendations:
Develop private, female-specific programming to decrease the gender disparity between boys and girls participating in programs like this.