Haffsa’s Story: A Journey of Resilience and Leadership
When Haffsa arrived in Canada in 2021, she carried more than just a suitcase. She carried years of uncertainty, courage, and hope for a better future. Originally from Afghanistan, Haffsa and her family were forced to flee after the sudden collapse of the government, following decades of war. They spent time living as refugees in Turkey before finally resettling in Canada.
Like many newcomer families, the journey was not easy. Haffsa had experienced disruptions to her education, especially as opportunities for girls and women became increasingly restricted in her home country. Yet through it all, her parents, especially her mother, remained determined to ensure their children would have access to education and opportunity. That determination became the foundation of Haffsa’s strength.
Adjusting to a New Beginning
Starting school in Canada felt overwhelming at first. Haffsa was shy and still learning English. She was navigating a new education system, a new culture, and unfamiliar expectations. Although she spoke limited English, she communicated in Farsi/Dari, which helped her begin connecting with support services.
Through our Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) program, Haffsa was introduced to the Women and Youth Wellness Team and began receiving one-on-one support. Slowly, her confidence grew. What started as quiet participation soon became active engagement.
Stepping Into Leadership
In 2022, Haffsa took a brave step forward. Seeing a need for connection among Afghan newcomer students, she helped establish her school’s first Afghan Students Newcomer Club. She personally reached out to more than 30 Afghan boys and girls, inviting them into a space where they could feel seen, heard, and understood.
The club quickly became more than just a meeting group, it became a community. Over 20 workshops and cultural celebrations were organized, creating opportunities for students to build friendships, celebrate their heritage, and feel a true sense of belonging.
Haffsa later became a Peer Leader in the Newcomer Orientation Week (NOW) Program, mentoring other newcomer students as they adjusted to life in Canada. She also became the first participant to graduate from the Resilient Afghan Girls Leader Program, where she strengthened her skills in self-expression, resilience, healthy coping strategies, and leadership.
One especially touching moment was organizing a visit to the local library for 25 Afghan girls. For many of them, it was their first time receiving a library card. What may seem like a small milestone became a powerful symbol of access – to books, knowledge, resources, and opportunity. The joy on their faces said it all.
Looking Ahead
With continued encouragement and advocacy from SWIS, Haffsa has completed over 100 hours of volunteer service and is now studying in the Nursing Program at Seneca College.
Her journey is a beautiful example of what can happen when resilience meets opportunity, and when community support meets determination. Haffsa didn’t just adapt to a new country; she became a leader within it.
Her story reminds us that newcomer youth are not defined by the challenges they face, but by the strength they carry and the futures they build.
