Sheldon-Williams Collegiate
My journey to Canada began when I was 10 years old, and I was forced to move to Jordan because of the war in Syria. When I was 16, my family and I were accepted as refugees and began our life in Canada.
In my first year in Canada, I started at Sheldon-Williams Collegiate, where I began to develop my English skills. I took a creative writing class that helped me to learn new words and was able to have one of my poems published in a book called, Speak Up: Young Saskatchewan Writers.
In order to achieve more in school, in November, I decided to participate in the Remembrance Day ceremony to share my poem in front of the entire student body. I shared my deep feelings to help other students to understand the life of refugees and my story of living through war. I also have a history of celebrating culture and have twice helped to organize and perform in the Multicultural Day performances.
I was honoured to win the Multicultural Youth Leadership Award from the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan in 2018. I have spoken at an EAL teachers’ conference and SSWIS conference to give ideas on what new students need from schools and community organizations in order to be successful. Even though my English is still developing, I have used my voice to create awareness and connection. In 2019, I met the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan when I was invited to deliver the closing prayer at his Honour’s prayer breakfast. I also co-presented with Her Excellency, Julie Payette, Governor-General of Canada, was part of Sheldon’s SLC and took two years of choir. As a result of all of these things, I was interviewed by various media.
I feel very honoured for all of the opportunities and experiences I have had at Sheldon. This school is a wonderful place that will hold a special place in my heart forever. Thank you for the honour of being one of this year’s Twelfth Year recipients.
