Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

ACANS was founded in 2017. If you are a member, please read or download the ACANS constitution and bylaws in your account.

ACANS is a non-profit, non-political organization that provides support, advice, fellowship, and unity for the Cameroonian community in Nova Scotia. It also promotes Cameroonian culture and facilitates social, cultural, and economic development for its members.

Membership is open to:
– Cameroonians by birth or marriage.
– Well-wishers of Cameroon.
– Individuals who respect ACANS’ Constitution, objectives, mission, and goals, and who pay their membership dues.

To become a member:
– Attend at least two ACANS events to express interest.
– Pay an annual membership fee of $20 CAD (Free for students) and a $60 CAD Annual Emergency Fund.
– Sign and submit a membership form (orientation can be done by an ACANS board member).

Members enjoy:
– Full voting rights and eligibility to run for board positions.
– Access to organizational resources and communication.
– Member support packages and support as per constitution and by-laws.
– Participation in events, meetings, and networking opportunities.

Yes, membership can be terminated for:
– Voluntary withdrawal.
– Failure to pay membership dues.
– Misconduct such as fraud, sabotage, or conflict of interest.
– Breach of the Constitution and bylaws.
– Suspended members can have their membership restored upon resolving the issues leading to suspension.

Members are required to pay:
– $20 CAD annual membership fee.
– $60 CAD Emergency Fund.

-$10 RPN Dues to top up when balance drops below $4.
These amounts may be adjusted during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) based on financial needs and ratified through constitutional amendments.

ACANS organizes or participates in;
– Monthly house gatherings. (Members volunteer to host)
– Cultural and recreational activities such as BBQs, picnics and galas.
– Birth and death celebrations.
– General and Board Meetings to discuss the organization’s goals and member welfare.

To remain in good standing:
– Pay at least 70% of membership dues.
– Attend a minimum of 70% of events and meetings.
– Actively participate in community activities and discussions.

ACANS is governed by:
– A General Assembly of all registered members (the highest decision-making body).
– A Board of Directors elected by the General Assembly for a two-year term.
– Various committees, such as Events and Outreach, Finance, and Projects committees. Each committee is led by the respective board member, for example, the Financial Secretary leads the finance committee.

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RPN is a French abbreviation for “Retour Au Pays Natale” which translates to “Return to the Native Land” in English. It is an Insurance initiative dedicated to ensuring dignified and respectful repatriations of mortal remains of members of the African community in Canada.

No. RPN covers members of ACANS and well as members of many other associations who are signed up with them.

No. While RPN membership is acquired and maintained through ACANS, ACANS membership is distinct from RPN membership. When joining ACANS, members are presented with the option and are encouraged to register for RPN. In cases such as the birth of a child or a family member immigrating to Canada, members may register them for RPN through ACANS. Please note that RPN does not insure people who are not currently residing in Canada.

No. RPN does not register members directly. Member registration is achieved and managed through their respective associations such as ACANS.

If a member passes away, RPN covers the full cost of transporting their remains to their home country (up to the airport). Alternatively, the member’s beneficiaries may opt to receive a lump sum of 15,000 CAD instead.

The maturity period is 90 days after registration. However, members who have been in Canada for over a year may experience delays with having their registration approved hence it is imperative to register immediately upon arrival in Canada.

Members are only entitled to RPN benefits if they are current members of ACANS and in financial good standing.

No. RPN covers members only when they are resident in Canada. Members emigrating from Canada permanently may terminate their RPN membership.

RPN requires a completed claims form and supporting documents such as death certificate submitted through the deceased member’s association.

Yes. RPN insurance is optional and members can opt out at any time. However, members will observe a 90 days probation period if they decide to join again in the future.

A $40 deposit per person is required at joining and members are required to top-up when their balance drops below a threshold. Notifications will be sent out accordingly.