Latinx Niagara Magazine V2

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Volume 2

Niagara Latinx Business & Professionals

Strength in Diversity Thriving through our vibrant colors and rich cultures

905 348-1818 – R E A L E S TAT E –

casasenniagara.com myhousetoday@gmail.com

Volume 2

Niagara Latinx Business & Professionals

Strength in Diversity message from the Director Unidos en Crecimiento y Esperanza Hola, amigos de Latinx Niagara, El crecimiento de la comunidad latina en Ontario es motivo de orgullo. Con más de 249,000 personas de origen latinoamericano, somos la mayor población latina en Canadá.

Ciudades como Toronto, Hamilton, London y Niágara han visto un aumento notable, fortaleciendo nuestra contribución a esta sociedad multicultural.

Este avance refleja nuestro esfuerzo y las oportunidades que Canadá ofrece. Cada logro académico, negocio y esfuerzo enriquece esta nación, recordándonos también la importancia de integrarnos en su cultura, idioma y leyes.

Desde Latinx Niagara, les enviamos esperanza: los desafíos de hoy son el legado de mañana. Canadá valora la diversidad, y juntos podemos dejar una huella positiva.

A Special Message to Our English-Speaking Readers To our valued clients and readers: thank you for your trust. Latinx Niagara celebrates cultures and builds bridges. Join us in enjoying Latin festivals, cuisine, and music, sharing our heritage while respecting yours.

Together, let’s celebrate diversity and build a brighter future.

Con gratitud y orgullo,

Freddy Pinto Freddy Pinto Director

FEARTURES

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TRASITIONAL HOMES NETWORK

STRENGTH IN DIVERSITY

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CULTURAL DIVERSITY FESTIVAL

22

CHEF GIUSSEPPE FORK YOU

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THE LATEST IN CANADIAN IMMIGRATION 2025

Gerardo López Art Direction & Design

Chris Bittle MEMBER OF PARLIAMANT

Dear LATINX Readers, As the Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, it is with great pride that I offer my heartfelt greetings to the readers of LATINX and to our growing Latinx community in Niagara.

This publication has quickly become an important voice for celebrating the richness and diversity of Latinx culture in our region. It is exciting to see LATINX continue to highlight the achievements, experiences, and stories that shape our community.

In a time when storytelling and local representation are vital, LATINX provides a meaningful space for entrepreneurs, creatives, and individuals to share their perspectives. I’m thrilled to watch the publication thrive and contribute to the ongoing growth of Niagara’s Latinx community.

A todos los contribuyentes, les deseo mucho éxito y un año inspirador. I look forward to seeing LATINX continue to thrive and support Niagara’s Latinx community.

Chris Bittle Member of Parliament for St. Catharines

A Beacon of Support and Shelter in Niagara Region, Ontario

by María Londoño - HOPE Founder In late 2023, driven by the region’s growing housing crisis and the influx of refugees without a clear destination, Maria sought a way to address the housing challenges faced by newcomers. Her goal was to help alleviate homelessness among refugees and offer them a safe and stable place to begin rebuilding their lives.

With the support of a dedicated group of professionals, Maria began developing her vision for a transitional home.

In April 2024, the board of directors was formed, composed of 12 committed members who worked tirelessly to bring this dream to life. Within less than a year, they successfully established a transitional home in St. Catharines, now known as Hope Transitional Home Network.

TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH TRANSITIONAL HOUSING

HOPE TRANSITIONAL HOME NETWORK: A VISION OF SUPPORT Hope Transitional Home Network is a transitional housing program founded by María Londoño, who has spent many years advocating for refugees arriving in Canada. Maria herself came to Canada as a refugee approximately 20 years ago, settling in the Niagara Region with her family. Since her arrival, she has worked passionately to support refugees in their journey toward a new life.

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Hope Transitional Home Network was founded with the mission of supporting individuals who arrive in Canada, often leaving behind everything they know. Through guidance and resources, the organization aims to help refugees and newcomers adjust to their new life in Canada successfully.

EMPOWERING NEW BEGINNINGS, ONE STEP AT A TIME Our mission is to help refugees and immigrants regain stability and achieve self-sufficiency by offering the guidance and support they need after fleeing persecution. We are committed to supporting those seeking a new beginning in Canada and empowering them to create a brighter future.

CREATING A WELCOMING HAVEN FOR FRESH STARTS At Hope Transitional Home Network, we strive to create a safe, welcoming space where refugees and newcomers feel at home. Our goal is to provide a foundation where they can rebuild their lives and begin their new journey with dignity and security.

GUIDING REFUGEES AND NEWCOMERS TOWARD STABILITY AND SUCCESS Our purpose is to offer comprehensive and effective settlement services that ensure individuals have the necessary support and tools for a successful adjustment to life in Canada. By providing essential services and ongoing guidance, we help refugees and newcomers thrive in their new environment.

KEY GOALS AND CHALLENGES WE STRIVE TO ADDRESS We are committed to providing transitional housing for refugees and newcomers to prevent homelessness and create a supportive environment where individuals can access vital services such as healthcare, social assistance, legal aid, housing, and education. Our efforts include facilitating community integration through activities like sports, library visits, conversation circles, and cultural programs. Additionally, we provide accurate information about the refugee process and offer effective settlement services to assist individuals and families with immigration procedures, meeting deadlines, and maintaining contact with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada. We also ensure that basic needs such as clothing, food, hygiene products, and other essentials are met to help newcomers feel more settled and secure.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES Our goal is to create a welcoming community space for new arrivals, ensuring that refugees and newcomers from diverse cultural backgrounds have access to the services they need.

We aim to facilitate their integration into the community, providing support for individuals who have experienced trauma, and helping them rebuild their confidence and independence. By prioritizing privacy and safety, we ensure that newcomers feel secure in their new home. Additionally, we foster positive relationships between shelter residents, staff, and the broader community, encouraging a sense of belonging. We also offer volunteer and employment opportunities, while promoting cultural and spiritual practices as part of the adjustment process.

HELP US CREATE A WELCOMING HOME FOR NEWCOMERS. YOUR SUPPORT MAKES A DIFFERENCE.

VOLUNTEERS WELCOME!

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Strength in Diversity

Thriving through Our Vibrant Colors and Rich Cultures

By Gerardo Lopez, Art Director, LATINX Niagara

In the heart of Canada’s Niagara region, the vibrant Latino community stands as a testament to the power of diversity and resilience. Comprising individuals from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Uruguay, and Venezuela among others, this community brings together a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and experiences. This collective cultural wealth not only enriches the social fabric of Niagara but also drives significant economic and cultural development in the region.

Latino culture is renowned for its rich traditions, from the vibrant celebrations of Carnaval in Brazil and Carnaval in Barranquilla, Colombia to the deeply spiritual observances of Día de los Muertos in Mexico and Semana Santa in Guatemala. These traditions, while diverse in their origins and expressions, share a common thread of community, family, and resilience.

Latino immigrants in Niagara have brought these vibrant celebrations with them, infusing the region with color, music, and joy. Festivals and cultural events organized

by Latino groups have become a staple in Niagara, drawing crowds from all backgrounds and fostering a deeper appreciation for the cultural diversity that makes the region unique.

Beyond their cultural contributions, Latino immigrants have significantly impacted the economic landscape of Niagara.

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Professionals from various fields, including medicine, engineering, education, and business, have enriched the local workforce with their skills and expertise. Latinoowned businesses have flourished, contributing to the local economy and creating jobs. From family-owned restaurants serving delicious traditional dishes to innovative startups in tech and manufacturing, Latino entrepreneurs have demonstrated remarkable adaptability and ingenuity.

This adaptability is a hallmark of the Latino community’s resilience. Faced with the challenges of immigration, including language barriers, cultural differences, and the complexities of adapting to a new environment, Latino immigrants have shown an extraordinary capacity to overcome adversity. Community organizations and support networks have played a crucial role in this process, offering resources, guidance, and a sense of belonging.

These organizations help new immigrants navigate the complexities of Canadian society, from understanding legal and educational systems to finding employment and housing.

Education and mentorship are also integral to the Latino community in Niagara. Latino groups actively engage in supporting educational initiatives, providing mentorship programs for young people, and encouraging academic excellence. By creating opportunities for the next generation, they ensure that the youth can achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. Their efforts have led to greater recognition of the contributions of Latino immigrants and a more inclusive and equitable society. This focus on education and mentorship is rooted in a deep pride in their heritage and a strong commitment to making Niagara a better place for future generations.

Pride in their dual identity as both Latino and Canadian is a common sentiment among Latino immigrants in Niagara.

They celebrate their heritage while embracing their new home, creating a unique blend of cultures that enhances the richness of Canadian society. This dual identity is celebrated through cultural events, educational programs, and community gatherings, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

In conclusion, the Latino community in Niagara exemplifies the strength that comes from diversity.

Through their rich cultural traditions, professional contributions, entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and commitment to education and mentorship, they have made an indelible mark on the region.

Their presence is a reminder that diversity is not just a demographic fact but a source of strength and vitality. As the Niagara region continues to grow and evolve, the vibrant colors and rich cultures of the Latino community will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of its success and prosperity.

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Volume 2

Niagara Latinx Business & Professionals

We are much more than a magazine!

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¡Cultural Niagara Corporation celebra la riqueza de la diversidad cultural, transformando la vida comunitaria con eventos llenos de energía, color y vibrante creatividad!

Acompáñanos en el St Catharines Christmas Festival el 14 de diciembre de 2024 en Club Roma, donde la alegría navideña se fusiona con la celebración cultural.

No te pierdas el St Catharines Flower & Wine Festival el 24 de mayo de 2025, en el Club Roma, con vinos locales y deslumbrantes exhibiciones florales.

Marca en tu calendario el Welland Salsa & Cumbia Festival el 30 y 31 de agosto de 2025 en Merritt Park, una emocionante celebración de la música y danza latina.

A través de estos eventos, queremos crear experiencias inolvidables que conecten a nuestra comunidad y celebren la alegría de la cultura. ¡Te esperan grandes sorpresas!

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2022 | 2023 | 2024

Unity Through Cultural Celebration

by Luz Stella Peña C. - Journalist

On June 8th and 9th, 2024, the Cultural Diversity Festival was held for the second time at Fireman’s Park, organized by businesswoman Yeny Naranjo (importer and owner of Miyen Coffee). The event featured a special guest, Mr. Jim Diodati, Mayor of Niagara Falls, who officially inaugurated the festival.

Two days filled with music, dance, artists, performances, children’s games, prizes, gifts, crafts, and delicious Latin American food—a weekend that brought together residents and visitors.

There was great participation from all the families, with “Rumba Therapy,” where for 1 hour and 30 minutes, they danced and exercised non-stop.

The sack race for children brought back memories of our childhood when we used to play with friends outdoors with simple games that filled us with joy and love. We enjoyed watching the kids play, daring to compete, win prizes, and celebrate with friends. But that wasn’t all; we continued the fun by breaking the piñata, collecting joy, toys, laughter, candy, and the warmth of all the families who participated in the festival with their young children.

The time to sing arrived with “Marco Madrid,” a singer of regional Mexican music, who gave a wonderful performance and had the audience singing along with him to unforgettable rancheras.

Young people also had their space with the Latin urban music group “Ziggy & Nikompone,” who, along with the crowd, performed their best songs.

To close the night, “Luis Franco,” a salsa, merengue, and bachata singer, took the stage, making the audience vibrate, dance, and sing along to his spectacular show and repertoire.

Thank you to Facts Family and Children Services Niagara, supported by the Cultural Diversity Festival, with hopes of doing even more each day to assist this and many other organizations in the area.

We also deeply thank the sponsors, vendors, visitors, and all the countries that participated in this cultural event, including Canada, Colombia, Venezuela, Costa Rica, Mexico, El Salvador, Ecuador, Peru, Cuba, Argentina, and Antigua in the Caribbean. Without them, this beautiful event would not have been possible.

Unforgettable!! Why not repeat it next year on a warm June afternoon?

We look forward to seeing you!

Follow us on: @culturaldiversityfestivalNiagaraFalls @culturaldiversityfestival There, we will share updates about the date and preparations for the 3rd year of the Cultural Diversity Festival.

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FORK YOU Chef Giuseppe: A Master of Peruvian Cuisine

by Luz Stella Peña C. - Journalist

Chef Giuseppe is the creative mind behind “Fork You,” a Peruvian restaurant in Niagara Falls that brings the authentic flavors of Peru to the table. With a life dedicated to cooking, including experience in a family restaurant in his homeland, he has perfected his culinary craft with passion and dedication.

How did the idea of opening a restaurant in Niagara Falls come about? Is this your first in Canada?

I started with a food truck on the beach in Hamilton, selling Latin American food. Then I opened a restaurant, but the space was too small, so I decided to come to Niagara Falls and fell in love with this place.

Chef Giuseppe’s skill in Peruvian cuisine shines in every dish.

From seafood classics to innovative fusions, his passion for sharing the essence of Peru is the heart of his restaurant, offering diners a vibrant and unique culinary experience.

Peru is internationally known for its seafood cuisine.

What are the special dishes, the most famous ones?

Lomo Saltado, Ceviche, Papa a la Huancaína, and Jalea Huancaina.

Were you born in Peru?

Yes, I was born in Lima, Peru, and I arrived in Canada 26 years ago.

Have you always enjoyed the culinary arts?

Since I was a child, I started making mischief in the kitchen.

We opened a family restaurant in Peru, which has been running for 40 years.

Did you study to become a chef?

I studied Hotel and Tourism Management at university in Peru, and then in Vancouver, I specialized in Gastronomy.

What type of food do you prepare?

Only authentic Peruvian food, with its seafood and different fusions. I want to represent my country, as I am an ambassador of Peruvian cuisine.

I invite the entire Latin community and all tourists to come and enjoy this beautiful countryside-style restaurant with a stunning view of the Niagara River and the U.S. border. We offer live music, private parking, and personalized service from the owner and chef.

It will be an unforgettable experience!

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The Latest in Canadian Immigration for 2025 Krista Rodríguez

Paralegal, Notary Public and Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) Owner of Kanata Legal Services

Hiring an immigration professional safeguards you from unauthorized consultants, translators practicing illegally, and overseas agents. If IRCC suspects unauthorized assistance, you could face inadmissibility to Canada for misrepresentation. This could cost you not only your dreams but also significant time and money trying to correct errors.

Always ensure your immigration consultant is licensed by checking the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants registry. If working with a lawyer or paralegal, confirm their credentials through the Law Society of Ontario.

Changes to Mexican eTA Effective February 29, 2024, most Mexican nationals will require a visa to travel to Canada unless they: • Hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa, or • Have held a Canadian visitor visa in the past 10 years.

To support applicants, Canada is opening three new Visa Application Centres (VACs) in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara. This change aims to manage growing asylum claims and temporary resident volumes.

Refugee Protection Claimant Documents (RPCDs) As of April 1, 2025, expired RPCDs (commonly known as “papel marrón”) will no longer be valid. These documents are essential for accessing services like the Interim Federal Health Program. Refugees must renew or replace expired, lost, or stolen RPCDs through IRCC’s web form, available with step-by-step instructions online.

Work Permit Rules (Effective August 28, 2024) From August 28, 2024, you can apply for a work permit from inside Canada only if: • You or a family member hold a valid study or work permit.

• You qualify for a post-graduation work permit with a valid study permit.

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• You have a temporary resident permit valid for at least six months.

• You’re awaiting a decision on a permanent residence application as a spouse or family class applicant.

• You’ve claimed refugee protection or received a positive decision from the Refugee Protection Board.

• You’re allowed to work without a permit but need one for a new job.

• You qualify under the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) as a trader, investor, or professional.

Vulnerable Worker Open Work Permit Workers experiencing abuse or exploitation in Canada may be eligible for an open work permit for vulnerable workers.

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This permit provides temporary protection, allowing workers to leave abusive employers and seek new opportunities. It cannot be renewed and requires legal support for filing a complaint with the Ministry of Labour.

Home Care Provider Pilot Program Beginning June 3, 2024, Canada is introducing a new caregiver program offering Permanent Residence (PR) upon arrival for eligible candidates. Applicants must meet the following criteria: • Achieve a minimum CLB Level 4 in English or French.

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Live an authentic Cuban experience!

Discover the vibrant spirit of Cuba at HAVANA Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge in downtown Niagara Falls! Indulge in authentic Cuban dishes made with care, paired with signature cocktails or refreshing mocktails.

Mari & s y l e Da

Our lively atmosphere, complete with music

Mojito

and dancing at night, will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Havana. Immerse

Magic

yourself in the rich flavors, culture, and energy of Cuba!

Havana

lla

D’s Pae

Nights Tostones Rellenos

LARGEST GLASS OF MOJITO

289-213-4807 4555 Queen St, info@havananiagara.ca Niagara Falls, ON havananiagara.ca L2E 2L4, @havananiagara

Live Energy

Two Lakes Dental ¡Mejora tu sonrisa y mantén en excelente estado tu salud oral en Two Lakes Dental!

Hablamos inglés y español. Nuestro equipo está comprometido a brindarte cuidado dental personalizado en un ambiente acogedor, haciéndote sentir como en casa. ¡Ven y deja brillar tu sonrisa con Two Lakes Dental!

Alexandra Zapata, odontóloga de la Universidad del Valle, Colombia, cuenta con amplia experiencia en Colombia y Canadá. Desde 2022, presta sus servicios en la región del Niágara junto con un equipo de higienistas y colaboradores listos para ofrecerte la mejor atención en salud oral.

Ofrecemos tecnología digital en higiene oral, odontología familiar, estética, restaurativa, Invisalign, extracciones, placas miorelajantes y protectores dentales para deportistas.

2024-AWARD

COSMETICS DENTISTS NIAGARA FALLS

Tel.: 905-357-4434 info@dentistniagarafalls.com dentistniagarafalls.com

4209 Portage Rd, Niagara Falls, ON, Canada, L2E 6A2

Clean Spaces, Perfect Results

HABLAMOS ESPAÑOL

Perfect Cleaning offers top-tier services for homes, rentals, and businesses. From disinfection and post-construction

cleaning to move-ins, event prep, and janitorial services, we make every space shine with precision and care.

CONTACT US TODAY

365-880-1464 @perfectcleaningfa

COMPREHENSIVE CLEANING SERVICES: • Commercial & Office Cleaning

• Post-Construction Cleanup

• Airbnb/Rental Turnovers

• Disinfection & Janitorial Services

• Move-In/Move-Out & Residential Cleaning

• Event Prep & After-Event Cleaning

USTED LO SUEÑA, NOSOTROS LO HACEMOS REALIDAD! Nelson Gomez Contractor 647 904 1370 ngrenovations82@gmail.com 19 Crescentwood Dr. St. Catharines ON L2N 4k7

CONSTRUCCION RESIDENCIAL Y COMERCIAL

Jessica Rojas - Beauty Bar

Next Solution - Wbeimar Guevara

At Jessica Rojas Beauty Bar, we have everything to enhance your beauty: exclusive brow and lash services, plus products you’ll love. Want to know more?

Repair and maintenance services for all types of appliances, general repairs for any household or business needs, and installation of security systems.

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY +1 (289) 213-2029 @JessicaRojasBeautyBar Se habla Español.

Resaltando tu esencia!

CONTACT ME TODAY 905-347-0427 @wbeimar2020 wbeimarguevara370@gmail.com Electrical Solutions for All

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La Revolution - Taqueria Mexicana thebig.ca/orlando We strive to bring a little piece of Mexico to every table, sharing love, gratitude, and the unmistakable flavor of our land.

100% Homemade.

VISIT US TODAY OR ORDER AT: 289-296-9600 @la_revolucion_taqueria_ larevolucion.ca Taqueria Mexicana

Orlando Martinez orlando@thebig.ca

905.401.1898

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I’m Orlando, a licensed insurance broker at Billyard Insurance GroupSAVE in Grimsby.

With over 10 years of customer ON service INSURANCE experience and fluency in Spanish.

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CONTACT ME TODAY 905-401-1898 orlando@thebig.ca thebig.ca/orlando Save BIG on Insurance

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orlando@thebig.ca

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