Success Stories

Our clients benefit from the settlement services offered through AWO Refugee and Immigrant Services. Accessing housing, education, employment, and social services are a key part in successful settlement. We are pleased to share these client success stories with you.

Youth Success

A recent arrival from Kabul, Afghanistan, Ezzat* was referred to AWO’s youth program by a friend who volunteered with the program. He then introduced his family to AWO’s settlement services and they were connected with their community service providers. His involvement with the youth program supported his studies and helped him to complete his homework. He was introduced to Canadian laws and rights and responsibilities as a Canadian citizen. Through Ezzat’s involvement in the youth program he feels confident he can meet his goals for the future.

Employment Success

Moska* arrived from Afghanistan 2 years ago. She studied law in Afghanistan and had extensive experience working with women. She’s currently working on a Master of Law at York University, but felt she needed more information about Canada’s labour market. Moska felt socially isolated and turned to AWO for support. AWO’s employment services assisted Moska with her job search and supported her while she applied for work. To date, Moska has been interviewed by a company that will be considering her for future opportunities.

“This was made possible by the professional support I received from AWO programs. While I continue tapping into your professional resources for finding job; I would like to thank you all for providing valuable support to me and all newcomers”

Saleh* arrived last year with his family of four from Syria. He had over 15 years of experience marketing in Syria and was doing very well until the war broke out. In Canada, Saleh felt isolated and lost. He didn’t know where to begin. AWO guided Saleh through his job search process, helping to build his confidence and connections to his profession. Saleh was able to find a job in his field within a short period of time. He considers this a turning point in his life and for that he is grateful to AWO’s staff and services.

Senior Success

Gulnoor* is a senior from Afghanistan who lost her husband at a young age. She was left to raise 5 young children on her own during the war, with no income. She never would have believed that the worst crisis was yet to come after arriving in Canada and it would be at the hands of her own children and their spouses. One day Gulnoor was sitting on a park bench crying. She was scared and alone, not wanting to go home and face further abuse from her children. An AWO placement student approached her, speaking a language she understood. Gulnoor was then connected with an AWO counsellor who informed her of her rights in Canada and registered her in seniors programming including the senior language circle, religious programs, and field trips. Gulnoor had access to one on one guidance and assistance with transportation, interpretation, translation, as well as given mental health counselling. Most importantly, she was priority listed for housing and after 3 months was able to start living her life with peace of mind. Today, Gulnoor is still attending classes, will soon attend her Canadian citizenship ceremony, and has become an active support to other seniors new to Canada and experiencing crises.

* Not client’s real name.