Helping immigrants find their place in Canada's climate fight

Written By Peter Allan

Aish Mann facilitating a circle discussion during the Newcomer Climate Camp 2025, surrounded by newcomer participants. Photo by: Bruno Martin del Campo

 

By Patricia Lane & Aish Mann

Aish Mann empowers newcomers to Canada to lead in the climate movement. She launched Tanah Air, a nonprofit inspired by a Malaysian concept meaning “homeland,” to help newcomers create a sense of homeland in this country.

Tell us about this project.

In October 2025, Tanah Air brought together more than 20 newcomers who were eager to take climate action. Grounded in humility and gratitude, we learned from Indigenous leaders about colonialism and their relationships with land, water and air. We met with civil society and business leaders, explored our skills and interests, built networks and created community. For many participants, it was the first time they felt a genuine sense of belonging.

Our diverse, deeply skilled cohort included a marine biologist from El Salvador, a park ranger from Colombia, and a scientist from Iran. They were all working minimum wage jobs at fast food joints or as housekeeping staff at hotels.

Again and again, participants told us this was the first time they felt seen as whole people, not just as low-cost labour.

In 2026, we’re scaling Tanah Air so many more newcomers can access the opportunities, community and affirmation they deserve.

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Peter Allan
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