During the past 20 years of my work with international organizations and Western media, my responsibility was to train, mentor and build the capacity of media and support women empowerment projects in Afghanistan. But, when I escaped the country because of political turmoil, I could not bring any academic certificates. So, finding a job became challenging- my application was rejected because I had neither Canadian work experience nor academic credentials. Getting a rental was also not easy without any income. So, as you see, I was grappling with several challenges after I moved here with my family. But my interaction with CCSYR became a game-changer. The staff motivated me to push boundaries and rebuild my life afresh. They told me that it’s never too late to begin again.
I was a little apprehensive about English not being my first language, but things eventually fell into place. I’m enrolled in a two-year Community and Developmental Service Worker program, after which I can revive my career and serve the newcomers. With my wife and youngest son by my side, I’m slowly getting used to Canada and believe the dark days won’t last longer.