Maple News reports on an inspiring journey of immigrant leadership and community transformation in Winnipeg, Manitoba. When Raymond Ngarboui arrived in Canada from Chad in 2005, he brought with him more than aspirations for a better life—he arrived with a vision of collective growth, resilience, and nourishment. Nearly two decades later, Raymond has become a key figure in addressing food security, cultural preservation, and social cohesion in the city.
His most celebrated initiative is the Rainbow Community Garden, founded in 2008. What began as a small group of 16 families cultivating shared plots has since blossomed into a thriving five-acre urban garden, now supporting 389 families—with over 100 more waiting to join. The garden has become not just a source of fresh produce, but a vibrant hub for cultural connection and healing.
More than a gardening project, Rainbow Community Garden allows newcomer families to grow culturally familiar foods—from traditional leafy greens to indigenous peppers—often unavailable in mainstream grocery stores. The opportunity to maintain these connections to their heritage has proven essential for many, helping to ease settlement challenges and forge a deeper sense of belonging.
Supported by institutions such as Knox United Church, the University of Manitoba, and the Community Education Development Association (CEDA), the garden plays multiple roles. It provides food access, fosters community interaction, and even enables economic empowerment. Through partnerships with the Winnipeg Central Global Market, participants can sell their surplus harvest, offering them an added source of income.
Raymond, who also works as a project coordinator with CEDA, describes the garden as “a healing space,” where newcomers rebuild their lives and regain a sense of purpose. Garden member Amber Dahal shared, “It feels like a family. Because of the garden, life has become easier and more positive.”
Raymond’s commitment to the community became even more critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to rising food insecurity, he co-launched the ‘Food 4 All’ program alongside Knox United Church. With backing from Harvest Manitoba, the project has since delivered more than 350,000 pounds of food to vulnerable families throughout Winnipeg.
His work highlights a broader truth about immigration in Canada: contributions from newcomers extend far beyond the economic realm. Raymond’s efforts have strengthened community ties, promoted intercultural understanding, and improved the lives of hundreds—making him a striking example of how immigrants fuel social innovation and resilience.
As debates around immigration policy and integration continue nationwide, stories like Raymond’s remind us that every newcomer arrives with potential—not just to benefit themselves, but to uplift communities and shape a stronger, more inclusive Canada.