The South Sudanese Canadian Association of Ottawa (SSCAO) is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to serving, empowering, and uniting South Sudanese Canadians while fostering inclusion, cultural pride, and meaningful participation within Canadian society. We are your home away from home ,a place where heritage is celebrated, futures are built, and every voice matters.
South Sudan: A Nation of Hope and Promise
As the world's youngest nation, South Sudan embodies extraordinary resilience and immense potential. It is a land rich in diverse cultures, breathtaking natural beauty, and a people determined to forge a brighter future. We proudly celebrate this vibrant heritage, fostering connections that span continents and inspire hope for generations.
The South Sudanese Canadian Association of Ottawa (SSCAO) is deeply committed to nurturing the aspirations of South Sudan. By empowering our diaspora in Canada, we ensure their heritage thrives and their contributions enrich both nations. This card is dedicated to the ongoing journey of hope, unity, and shared progress.
Enduring Resilience
The spirit of its people
Rich Cultural Tapestry
Diverse traditions uniting
Untapped Potential
Opportunities for growth
A Vibrant Community Hub in Ottawa's Heart
The South Sudanese Canadian Association of Ottawa (SSCAO) serves as a vibrant community hub where newcomers, families, youth, seniors, and friends of South Sudan come together to build stronger communities through support services, education, advocacy, cultural preservation, and meaningful partnerships. We believe that every member of our community deserves to feel seen, heard, supported, and celebrated.
Whether you are newly arrived in Ottawa and seeking settlement guidance, a longtime resident looking to reconnect with your culture, a young professional eager to give back, or a community partner wanting to collaborate , SSCAO welcomes you with open arms. Our programs and services are designed to meet people where they are and help them thrive in every dimension of life: socially, economically, culturally, and personally.
Rooted in the values of unity, integrity, and cultural pride, SSCAO has become one of Ottawa's most dynamic and inclusive organizations. We are proud to serve as a bridge between the South Sudanese diaspora and the broader Canadian multicultural mosaic, creating pathways to belonging, opportunity, and lasting community strength.
Mission, Vision & Values
Everything we do at SSCAO is guided by a clear sense of purpose, a bold vision for the future, and a set of values that reflect the spirit of our community.
Our Vision
A united, empowered, and thriving South Sudanese Canadian community contributing positively to Canada's multicultural society while proudly preserving its rich heritage. We envision an Ottawa where South Sudanese Canadians are recognized as vibrant, essential contributors to the city's cultural, civic, and economic life , and where the next generation grows up with pride in who they are and confidence in where they are going.
Our Mission
To empower South Sudanese Canadians through community support, education, advocacy, cultural preservation, and collaborative partnerships that promote successful integration and social inclusion. We work every day to ensure that South Sudanese Canadians in Ottawa have the resources, connections, and opportunities they need to lead fulfilling, dignified, and prosperous lives.
Comprehensive Support for Every Stage of Life
SSCAO offers a wide range of culturally responsive programs and services designed to support South Sudanese Canadians and friends of South Sudan at every stage of their journey. From newcomer settlement assistance to youth mentorship, from women's empowerment to senior social gatherings , we are here for our entire community. Explore the programs that can make a difference in your life or the lives of those you care about.
Settlement Support
Comprehensive newcomer orientation, housing information, government services navigation, and community referrals to help you find your footing in Ottawa quickly and confidently.
Youth Programs
Leadership development, mentorship, career coaching, sports activities, and homework support — giving young South Sudanese Canadians the tools and encouragement to reach their full potential.
Women's Programs
Empowerment workshops, wellness sessions, professional networking, and skills development opportunities tailored specifically to the needs and strengths of South Sudanese women in Ottawa.
Seniors Programs
Regular community gatherings, health information sessions, and dedicated social support to ensure our beloved elders feel connected, valued, and cared for within the community.
Employment, Language & Cultural Programs
Beyond settlement and social support, SSCAO delivers specialized programs that help community members build careers, communicate confidently, and stay deeply connected to their South Sudanese roots. These programs are the heartbeat of who we are blending practical skill-building with the irreplaceable joy of cultural celebration.
Employment Services
Professional resume assistance, interview preparation coaching, job search strategy support, and one-on-one career coaching to connect community members with meaningful employment opportunities in Ottawa's diverse job market.
Language Support
English conversation groups, interpretation services, and translation referrals to remove language barriers and ensure every community member can access the services and opportunities they need with confidence.
Cultural Programs
Traditional dance, music performances, South Sudanese language preservation initiatives, community storytelling sessions, and vibrant cultural celebrations that honor our heritage and inspire the next generation to carry it forward with pride.
Community Wellness
Mental health awareness programming, family support services, health education workshops, and proactive community outreach , because a thriving community is one where every person's well-being is valued and supported.
Become a Community Volunteer
Volunteering with SSCAO is one of the most meaningful ways to give back to the South Sudanese community and strengthen Ottawa's multicultural fabric. Whether you have a few hours a week or want to dedicate significant time to a cause that matters, there is a place for you here. Our volunteers are the backbone of everything we do , they organize events, support programs, mentor youth, assist newcomers, and help ensure that SSCAO can continue to serve hundreds of community members each year.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, skill sets, and experience levels. You don't need to be South Sudanese to volunteer , you just need a big heart, a willingness to show up, and a commitment to community. In return, you'll gain invaluable experience, meaningful connections, and the deep satisfaction of making a real difference in people's lives.
Volunteer opportunities include: program facilitation, youth mentorship, event coordination, administrative support, translation and interpretation, communications and social media, fundraising, and more.
Join the SSCAO Family
Becoming a member of SSCAO means joining a close-knit, vibrant, and supportive community of South Sudanese Canadians and allies who are committed to building a better future together. Membership is open to all individuals who share our values of unity, inclusion, and cultural pride , regardless of background, nationality, or religion. As a member, you become part of something much larger than yourself: a growing movement of empowerment, belonging, and positive change in Ottawa.
Community Networking
Build lasting friendships and professional connections with fellow community members, Ottawa partners, and allies who share your values and aspirations.
Event Participation
Get priority access and exclusive invitations to SSCAO cultural events, community gatherings, Independence Day celebrations, workshops, and family picnics.
Leadership Opportunities
Step into leadership roles on committees, working groups, and the board of directors, shaping the direction and future of your community organization.
Training & Development
Access exclusive training sessions, capacity-building workshops, and professional development opportunities designed to help you grow personally and professionally.
Family & Youth Support
Your entire family benefits from membership with dedicated youth programming, family support services, and resources tailored to every generation.
Your Donation Changes Lives
Every dollar donated to SSCAO goes directly toward programs and services that transform the lives of South Sudanese Canadians in Ottawa. Your generosity makes it possible for us to welcome newcomers, empower youth, support seniors, uplift women, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of South Sudan right here in Canada's capital. We are deeply grateful to every donor , individual, corporate, or institutional who believes in our mission and invests in our community's future.
Youth & Education
Fund mentorship programs, homework clubs, leadership training, and scholarships that give young South Sudanese Canadians a head start in life.
Newcomer Support
Help newly arrived families navigate life in Ottawa from finding housing and understanding government services to building social connections and gaining employment.
Seniors & Elders
Support social gatherings, health education, and connection programs that keep our elders engaged, respected, and surrounded by community warmth.
Cultural Preservation
Invest in the preservation of South Sudanese languages, music, dance, storytelling, and traditions so that future generations can grow up knowing and celebrating who they are.
Upcoming Events - Join Us!
SSCAO hosts a rich calendar of events throughout the year from cultural festivals and Independence Day celebrations to practical workshops, youth activities, family picnics, and our annual general meeting. These events are at the heart of who we are: joyful, purposeful gatherings that strengthen community bonds, celebrate our identity, and create opportunities for learning and connection. Everyone is welcome members, volunteers, newcomers, and friends of South Sudan alike.
Independence Day Celebration
July 9 - Annual celebration of South Sudan's independence with music, dance, food, and community pride. All are welcome!
Cultural Night
September -A vibrant evening of South Sudanese traditional arts, storytelling, food, and performance open to the entire Ottawa community.
Family Picnic
August - A beloved annual outdoor gathering for families, children, and community friends to relax, play, and connect in a welcoming, joyful setting.
Annual General Meeting
November — Members come together to review the year, celebrate achievements, elect leadership, and shape SSCAO's direction for the year ahead.
Volunteer Appreciation Day
December -A special event honoring the incredible volunteers whose dedication makes SSCAO's work possible every single day.
We'd Love to Hear From You
Whether you have a question about our programs, want to get involved as a volunteer or member, are interested in partnering with SSCAO, or simply want to learn more about who we are — please don't hesitate to reach out. Our doors are open to everyone. We are here to serve, support, and connect.
Office Location
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Serving the South Sudanese community across the Greater Ottawa Area.
Email Us
Drop us a line anytime at info@sscao.ca for inquiries or support.
Phone
Reach out to us directly for assistance. Please contact us for our current office number.
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Saturday: By appointment.
Sunday: Closed.
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Copyright & Disclaimers
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Building a Stronger Community Together