About ACANS

ACANS stands for Association of Cameroonians in Nova Scotia, one of the four Atlantic Provinces of Canada.

ACANS was founded in 2015 by a group of pioneers who, after noticing that the Cameroonian community was steadily growing, recognized the need for a formally recognized entity to cater to their needs—particularly those of new arrivals. Consequently, ACANS was established to address this gap. Shortly thereafter, it was officially registered with the Nova Scotia Registry of Joint Stock Companies in 2017. Since then, ACANS has not only maintained its registration but has also consistently remained in good standing, a status it proudly upholds to this day.

The Association of Cameroonians in Nova Scotia – ACANS is a non-governmental, non-political and not for profit association which seeks to build unity and enhance capacity development within members and beyond.

Vision

Our vision is to create a cohesive and well-structured community in Nova Scotia that will ensure successful integration and achieve mutual economic prosperity for members centered on our collective cultural and moral values and principles.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to create a support system for Cameroonians living in the diaspora by building the capacity to connect with others, develop economically and promote the Cameroonian culture in Nova Scotia.

Our Values

The organization upholds values of positivity, solidarity/supportive, respect, integrity, equity and unity at all times

MILESTONES

2015

ACANS is Conceived

A group of pioneers agree to create a an organisation to better cater for the needs of the growing Cameroonian population in Nova Scotia.

2017

Board Positions are established

Members volunteer to handle various roles in the newly founded association.

2017

Registration with RJSC

Formal registration is achieved with the Nova Scotia Registry of Joint Stock Companies.

2022

Members surpass 50

The 50th member is registered marking a milestone in the Association.

ACANS Membership Requirements

To join ACANS, you must;

Be a Cameroonian national, of Cameroonian origin, or connected to a Cameroonian national by birth, marriage, or adoption.
Be at least 18 years old
Reside in or relocating to Nova Scotia
Submit your completed membership application form along with $20 Registration fee and $60 emergency fund. Please note that registration is required every year.
For offline registration, please download the form HERE. Fill it and Submit to the Secretary with your registration fee and emergency fund.

Finally, wait for a confirmation email with further instructions. Attend meetings, enjoy membership benefits and contribute to the community. If you have a question, please feel free to contact us.

JOIN ACANS

THE ACTIVITIES OF ACANS

Settlement Support

ACANS is the gold standard with it’s dedication to supporting new Cameroonian immigrants in Nova Scotia.

Welcoming Newcomers: When new immigrants arrive, we provide services such as airport pick-up and drop-off, ensuring they feel supported from the moment they land.

What We Do: We offer a welcoming community with tailored support and guidance to help newcomers integrate seamlessly and become productive residents of Nova Scotia.

Our Impact: Our programs foster a sense of belonging. They also equip immigrants with the tools they need to thrive, strengthening Nova Scotia with each new arrival. Subject to availability of funds.

Sport for Health

ACANS is a vibrant community organization, committed to promoting fitness, health, and unity through sports.

Fostering Health and Connection: We organize in-house and inter-community sporting events that encourage a healthy lifestyle while building bridges among members.

What We Do: Our events create opportunities for camaraderie and teamwork while providing a platform to identify and nurture young talent.

Our Impact: Through sports, we inspire fitness, unity, and personal growth. This empowers members to lead healthier lives and unlocks potential in the next generation of athletes.

Arts and Culture

ACANS is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Cameroonian culture, fostering a strong sense of identity and connection within our community.

Passing Down Traditions: ACANS organizes cultural festivities featuring traditional food, regalia, dances and art. Through these, we introduce our rich heritage to those born here while reigniting fond memories for those who have lived it.

What We Do: These events tell our stories, celebrate our roots, and provide a vibrant platform for sharing our traditions, ensuring they are passed on to future generations.

Our Impact: By curbing nostalgia and keeping our culture alive, we strengthen bonds, enrich lives, and create a lasting legacy of pride and belonging.

Support For Seniors

ACANS is a beacon of compassion and community spirit, dedicated to uplifting elderly Cameroonians in Nova Scotia.

Addressing Isolation: In today’s busy world, many seniors feel isolated and disconnected from the friends and livelihoods left behind across the seas.

What We Do: Through visits, meetings, and picnics, we foster deep connections and bring comfort and joy to seniors, easing feelings of loneliness.

Our Impact: Our thoughtful initiatives enrich the social and emotional well-being of seniors, ensuring they remain cherished members of the community. Our tireless dedication has made a profound difference in countless lives.

Partner in life’s joys.

ACANS is a compassionate community, standing by our members through life’s joyful and challenging moments.

Sharing in Celebrations: We celebrate with expectant parents through diaper parties, reveals, and heartfelt visits. A thoughtful token is prepared when a baby is born, ensuring families feel supported and cherished.

What We Do: From hospital visits during illness to providing solace in times of loss, we offer unwavering support. Through Retour Au Pays Natale (RPN) insurance, we ensure dignified transportation back home for members who pass away.

Our Impact: By standing together in joy and loss, ACANS fosters a deeply connected and caring community, offering comfort and hope in every season of life.

Support Through Joy and Loss.

ACANS is a compassionate community, standing by our members through life’s joyful and challenging moments.

Our Impact: By standing together in joy and loss, ACANS fosters a deeply connected and caring community, offering comfort and hope in every season of life.

Membership Cancellation, Revocation or Suspension

ACANS membership can be terminated under the following conditions:

Voluntary withdrawal.
Failure to pay membership dues.
Engaging in disorderly conduct, breach of trust, sabotage, conflict of interest, fraud, or actions misrepresenting the community.
Acting in blatant disregard of the constitution and bylaws of ACANS. The Board of Directors investigates and works to resolve issues with the affected member before termination. Termination is the last resort.
Membership can be resumed after fulfilling all applicable requirements or addressing the causes of initial suspension with the board.

Community Resources

ISANS (Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia) is an immigrant-serving agency. They help newcomers build a future in Nova Scotia through settlement, language, employment, and business services. Website: https://isans.ca
YWCA Halifax‘s Newcomer Support Program assists recent immigrants, refugees, and newcomers to Nova Scotia. They provide free training, workshops, and courses to help them successfully settle into Canada. Website: https://ywcahalifax.com
HIPPY – YMCA of Greater Halifax and Dartmouth has a home visitation initiative. The initiative supports mothers of children aged three to five, particularly those who are vulnerable, isolated, or from low-income backgrounds. They equip you with skills and confidence to help your children succeed as they enter school. Website: https://ymcahfx.ca