F. W. Johnson
My name is Sabah Sharif, and I moved to Canada as a Syrian refugee in 2016. Over the past four years, my life has greatly changed and I am proud of how far I’ve come.
I started Grade 9 as a shy person due to a lack of English skills, but with dedication and hard work, I was able to improve my English very quickly. I took every opportunity I was given to help myself grow as a person. I enrolled in many activities in my school that included singing in the choir and playing on the badminton team. I’ve also been an Outdoor School leader and the leader for the Peer Support group at Johnson. I seek excellence and that is shown in my academics since Grade 9.
Proudly, I started my journey of reconciliation and have been advocating for the importance of truth and reconciliation over the last few semesters. I hosted events regarding this issue and took part in the Treaty Four flag-raising ceremony at Johnson. I also wanted to give back to my community; therefore, I started volunteering at the Regina Open Door Society since the end of 2017 to teach young newcomers English and help them adapt to their new lives. Above all that, I manage to work part time to help support the family who has been there for me.
“You reap what you sow.”
My dedication and hard work have taken me to a new level and it has opened new doors and opportunities for me. I am thankful for my family, my teachers and all those who stood by me and supported me. I hope to become a pediatrician and serve in Doctors Without Borders program.
