On September 20, 2026, ABL Immigration organized the “Hike for TFWs” activity at Oka National Park in Quebec. Temporary foreign workers (TFWs) had the opportunity to take part in a 4.4-kilometer hike in nature, step away from their usual routines, and enjoy a pleasant moment with other workers and their families.
The activity also allowed participants to discover the park’s history and heritage. Throughout the hike, a specialized guide shared historical information about the site, enriching their experience and helping them learn more about the environment in which they live. In addition to encouraging physical activity, the initiative aimed to create an opportunity for socializing and connecting outside the workplace.
Participants included workers from Morocco, Tunisia, and Cameroon, as well as a few Guatemalan workers. Several work in sectors such as welding and mechanics. The diversity of their experiences and backgrounds provided an opportunity to share different perspectives on life in Quebec, as well as the challenges and progress that are part of the integration process.
One of the most memorable aspects of the day was the presence of several families who joined the workers on the hike. Their participation offered a glimpse into how some TFWs continue to build their lives in Quebec. Among them were workers who had been living in the province for approximately three years and had managed to bring their families to Canada so they could continue pursuing their personal and family goals. These experiences highlight the importance of offering activities that promote social connection, well-being, and the development of social relationships.
Jonathan Buitrago, regional coordinator and representative of InfoTET from Immigrant Québec, also took part in the activity. He used the opportunity to speak directly with the workers, check in on how they were doing, and learn about the progress of their integration journeys in Quebec. He also reminded them that InfoTET offers services, resources, and informational tools they can turn to when they need guidance or support.
This type of gathering helps build connections with workers in a setting different from their everyday professional lives. Sharing an outdoor activity encourages conversation, builds trust, and helps create meaningful relationships for TFWs during their stay in Quebec. The initiative also serves as a reminder that integration goes beyond work and includes personal well-being, family life, social relationships, and discovering the community in which they live.
InfoTET from Immigrant Québec would like to extend special thanks to ABL Immigration for organizing this initiative and for its commitment to temporary foreign workers. Activities like this help create opportunities for people to meet, encourage social connection, and maintain contact with TFWs, while reminding them that resources and organizations are available to support them throughout their experience in Quebec.
