Karibu · Welcome

Swahili Vision International Association

The Swahili Vision International Association's purpose is to promote Swahili Language, Culture, and Arts.

Vancouver, British Columbia

01 — Who are we?

Swahili Vision International Association

Who are we?

Swahili Vision International Association is a community of Swahili speakers and others who are interested in Swahili language and culture. We are based in Vancouver, British Columbia, and our mission is to promote Swahili language, culture, and arts around the world. All individuals interested in Swahili Heritage are welcome to apply and join.

Become a member!
  1. 01

    Mission

    SVIA is empowering and unifying all individuals interested in Swahili Heritage through the Swahili Language, Cultures, Arts, Functions and Music programs.

  2. 02

    Goals

    To establish the Canada Institute of Kiswahili, and to work in collaboration with community agencies and other NGOs in order to serve better all individuals interested in Swahili heritage.

  3. 03

    Programs

    SVIA programs include:

    • Swahili Institute Development
    • Youth Engagement
    • Women's Empowerment
    • Arts Together for Seniors
    • Swahili Day
    • Swahili Exhibition
    • Justice Pathways

02 — Our Programs

Programs that bring us together

  1. Hands playing traditional drums beside a performer in printed African cloth
    01

    Swahili Week

    Swahili Week is a vibrant annual celebration that offers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Swahili culture. Originally known as Swahili Community Day, this cherished event has evolved into a week-long extravaganza, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the captivating world of Swahili traditions.

    Learn More
  2. Young women repairing bicycles together in a workshop
    02

    Youth Program

    Through this program, youth find a place where they can come together to learn, grow, and contribute to our community’s well-being. Our program is more than just a gathering; it’s an opportunity to engage with peers, gain valuable life skills, and connect with our incredible senior mentors.

    Learn More
  3. An elder's hands working a length of red thread
    03

    Seniors Program

    We are deeply committed to enhancing the well-being and inclusivity of our esteemed senior community through our Seniors Program. Senior isolation is a pressing concern, and we have launched this dedicated initiative to ensure our seniors thrive in an environment that fosters connection, engagement, and a strong sense of belonging.

    Learn More
  4. A wood-frame apartment building under construction, with a tower crane
    04

    Joint Housing Project

    In partnership with the Aboriginal Land Trust, Swahili Vision International Association is embarking on an exciting housing development initiative in New Westminster. This innovative project aims to provide affordable housing to Black and Indigenous families, Elders, and individuals, addressing a pressing need in the community.

    Learn More
  5. A small child's hand resting in an adult's palm
    05

    Empowering Single Mothers

    There are unique challenges that single mothers face as they navigate through life’s journey. Our Single Mothers Program provides a strong support system and empower these incredible women to overcome obstacles, achieve their goals, and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.

    Learn More
  6. A young man and an older woman walking arm in arm down a tree-lined path, seen from behind
    06

    Justice Pathways

    Welcome to Justice Pathways, a community-anchored initiative led by Swahili Vision International Association (SVIA). Designed specifically for Black individuals, youth, and families across Metro Vancouver, this project addresses systemic inequities upstream by shifting the focus from institutional contact to grassroots empowerment, education, and mutual care.

    Learn More
  7. All programs

Methali · Swahili proverb

Umoja ni nguvu, utengano ni udhaifu.

Unity is strength, division is weakness.

03 — Every first week of July

Swahili Week

Swahili Week is a vibrant annual celebration that offers a deep dive into the rich tapestry of Swahili culture. Originally known as Swahili Community Day, this cherished event has evolved into a week-long extravaganza, allowing participants to fully immerse themselves in the captivating world of Swahili traditions.

Explore Swahili Week

04 — Recognition

Recognition

Proclamations and messages honouring Swahili Community Day and Swahili Week.

  • Letter from Prime Minister Mark Carney, 2026
  • City of New Westminster proclamation of Swahili Week, 2026
  • Province of British Columbia proclamation of Swahili Community Week, 2025
  • Province of British Columbia proclamation of Swahili Community Day, 2020
  • Letter from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
  • Message from Premier John Horgan
  • Province of British Columbia proclamation of Swahili Community Day, 2019
  • City of Vancouver proclamation of Swahili Community Day, 2019
The Swahili App running on a phone

05 — Swahili App

Connect with and learn about Swahili culture and language

Hello there, Habari? we say Hakuna Matata na Swahili App. In the Swahili App you can

  • Learn the Swahili Language.
  • Experience Swahili Culture & Arts with SVIA events.
  • Store your favourite words and their translations to Swahili
  • Get familiar with numbers in the Swahili language
Get it on Google Play

Membership

Become a member!

We would love to have you join our growing community!