Colin R. Singer

Canada Immigration Success Story: Sudanese Man Wants to Help Newcomers Understand Each Other

• Why newcomer–Indigenous tensions exist and how he addresses them
• The mission of Real Talk Winnipeg
• What The Hood Fams does to support vulnerable youth
• Why community mentorship is changing lives

Mandela Kuet, a Sudanese-born community leader in Winnipeg, is on a mission to build bridges between Indigenous Peoples and newcomers to Canada . Arriving from South Sudan in the late 1990s, Mandela grew up in Winnipeg’s North End, a neighbourhood with deep Indigenous roots and a growing immigrant population . His lived experience has shaped his understanding of the complex relationship between these communities – one often marked by mutual misunderstanding, fear and competition for limited resources.

Rather than allowing these tensions to fester, Mandela has taken action. Through conversation, mentorship and grassroots initiatives, he’s helping people recognise each other’s struggles – and their shared potential.

Mandela arrived in Winnipeg at age 13 and settled in the predominantly Indigenous North End. Over time, he witnessed the challenges faced by both communities. “Each group thinks the other gets more opportunities,” he says. Misconceptions and stereotypes can fuel resentment, especially when families are struggling with poverty, trauma or discrimination.

The situation is often worsened by gang activity in disadvantaged areas. Vulnerable youth, whether Indigenous or newcomer, are at risk of being recruited. Mandela recognises that fear and a lack of understanding can lead people to see the other community as the cause of their problems. But he believes the real solution lies in communication and connection.

Explaining Each Other’s Stories

Mandela uses storytelling and open discussion to dispel stereotypes and build empathy. He explains Canada’s colonial history, residential schools and the ongoing trauma faced by Indigenous Peoples to immigrant communities. At the same time, he helps Indigenous youth understand the hardships newcomers endure – war, displacement, poverty and fear.

“Everyone is just trying to survive,” Mandela says. That simple message underpins his work.

Real Talk Winnipeg: Changing the Narrative

In 2019, Mandela partnered with Indigenous activist Michael Redhead Champagne to launch Real Talk Winnipeg, a podcast focused on bridging the cultural divide between the city’s Indigenous and newcomer communities.

The podcast explores tough issues like racism, parenting, government support and cultural identity. One episode tackled how assumptions about dreadlocks or long hair can lead to unfair treatment. Others debunk the myth that one group is favoured over the other in accessing public services.

Michael describes Mandela as someone who brings “a rational, calm energy and unique sense of humour” to the project. “He works from a very heart-centred place to create opportunities for folks of all backgrounds in the North End,” he says.

The Hood Fams: Preventing Youth from Entering the Justice System

Mandela also founded The Hood Fams, a not-for-profit that supports Indigenous, racialized and newcomer youth. The initiative offers a safe drop-in space, mentorship, and community-building activities. Its aim is to help young people avoid conflict with the law and instead channel their energy into growth and leadership.

Mandela hopes to expand The Hood Fams nationally to support youth in similar communities across Canada.

Mentoring the Next Generation

Mandela’s influence extends beyond formal programs. He takes a personal interest in mentoring youth leaders who want to make a difference.

One such leader is Gode Katembo, a West End resident who Mandela supported when he began working to create alternatives to gang involvement. Gode went on to found Sports Without Boundaries and the Manitoba African Cup of Nations, both of which use sport to engage youth and strengthen communities.

“If not for Mandela, I probably would not have these initiatives today,” says Gode. “I became who I am under his wings.”

A Leader Who Builds Bridges

Mandela Kuet exemplifies the power of grassroots leadership and the impact one person can have when they choose to unite rather than divide. His work serves as a model for how immigrants and Indigenous Peoples can collaborate to build stronger, safer, and more compassionate communities.

• Winnipeg has the largest urban Indigenous population in Canada
• The city’s Indigenous population grew 9.4% between 2016 and 2021
• Over 25% of those working in social assistance are immigrants

FAQ

Who is Mandela Kuet and where is he from?

Mandela Kuet is a community leader in Winnipeg originally from South Sudan. He moved to Canada in the late 1990s and has since worked to build relationships between Indigenous and newcomer communities.

What is Real Talk Winnipeg?

Real Talk Winnipeg is a podcast co-hosted by Mandela Kuet and Indigenous activist Michael Redhead Champagne. It promotes dialogue and understanding between different cultural groups in Winnipeg.

What is The Hood Fams?

The Hood Fams is a non-profit organization founded by Mandela. It offers youth mentorship, community events and support for Indigenous and newcomer youth to stay out of the justice system.

Why is Mandela’s work important in Winnipeg?

Winnipeg has a large Indigenous and newcomer population, often living in the same neighbourhoods. Mandela’s work helps reduce conflict, dispel stereotypes and create shared understanding.

How does Mandela support future community leaders?

Mandela mentors young people like Gode Katembo, encouraging them to take leadership roles and launch initiatives such as community sports programs that prevent youth violence.

Colin R. Singer, Managing Partner of immigration.ca, is a licensed immigration lawyer in Canada with Barreau du Quebec, for the past 35+ years.

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