Andrew
Emad
Andrew is studying to obtain a certificate in Emergency Medical Response at SAIT
Andrew said he wants to help people, specifically through emergency services.
He intends to continue his studies to build a long term career in health care. The Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) program is his first step to becoming a fully licensed paramedic. Ultimately, Andrew wants to pursue a career as a firefighter with the City of Calgary.
Andrew draws inspiration from his sister who is a paramedic and his mom who works as a nurse. His parents also lived in Calgary Housing early in their marriage and worked hard to support the family.
“Living in Calgary Housing has provided me with the affordability and flexibility for me to pursue my educational goals. My parents’ example has inspired me to pursue what can be possible to achieve in life with determination and hard work. I aim to emulate and honour their example.”
Emad is studying to obtain a degree in social work at the University of Calgary
Emad came to Canada as a refugee from Syria and, given the support he received during his settlement in Canada, he wants to give back to community as a social worker.
Having completed his diploma in social work at Bow Valley College, Emad wants to further his studies with a Masters in the medical field.
Emad was inspired by his settlement counsellor during his immigration to Canada and feels his personal experience gives him a unique ability to support those taking the same journeys.
“The process of resettlement and adapting to a new country has taught me resilience and responsibility, but it has also meant starting over while raising a family. These experiences have strengthened my motivation to succeed in my education and career.”
Naila
Suhaib
Naila is studying to obtain a diploma in the Practical Nurse program at Bow Valley College
Naila has chosen to pursue nursing because she believes it is a meaningful and fulfilling job. She wants to be able to provide comfort and support when people are experiencing some of life’s most difficult moments.
Ultimately, Naila’s interest lies deep in the medical field. Her long-term educational goal is to pursue a medical degree in surgery. She also wants to provide medical support to those who cannot afford it.
Her life experience with limited financial resources fuels her passion, inspiration, and dedication to her educational goals.
“I hope to become a role model for others who may face challenges but still dream of pursuing higher education and meaningful careers.”
Suhaib is studying to obtain a degree in Education at Mount Royal University
Given Suhaib’s experience working with youth through volunteer and employment opportunities, he wants to continue to teach and support youth by becoming an elementary school teacher.
Growing up, it was teachers, mentors, and community leaders who had the most impact on Suhaib. He has realized that his passion lies not simply in working with youth, but in helping them discover their own potential.
His mom is a big part of his inspiration, after watching her support her family as a single parent and facing big challenges head on.
“Through my degree, I hope to gain an understanding about how educators can create environments where every student feels understood, supported, and capable of success.”
Zaima
Zaima is studying to obtain a degree in Engineering from the University of Calgary.
Zaima is focusing her studies in biomedical engineering. She also wants to continue her education, ultimately obtaining a master’s degree in biomedical science.
Zaima’s interest in medical research is rooted in watching her mother deal with a chronic illness. Zaima ultimately wants to focus on addressing disability and disease through research.
“My degree is the deliberate first step towards becoming a research-oriented biomedical engineer. It is not just a collection of courses. It is a structured foundation that bridges the physical sciences with clinical problem solving, and that distinction matters to me.”
