From International Student to Canadian Citizen: A Journey of Perseverance, Gratitude, and Giving Back

The day before Yesterday (April 17th, 2023) was a truly unforgettable day for me, as I had the honor of taking the oath to become a Canadian citizen. This milestone represents the culmination of an incredible journey that started when I arrived in Canada as an international student and continued as a permanent resident, and now as a citizen.

Throughout this journey, I have been blessed with the warmth and kindness of many Canadians, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people and the countless opportunities that this country has to offer. With hard work and determination, with God's blessings, I have built a life for myself and contributed to the growth of the community around me. Now, as a Canadian citizen, I am committed to giving back and helping others along the same path.

Canada is a shining example of how a country can attract, settle, and retain immigrants, and I am blessed to be a part of that story. I am deeply grateful for the government's proactive immigration policies ( Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada / Immigration, Réfugiés et Citoyenneté Canada , Government of New Brunswick / Gouvernement du Nouveau-Brunswick and City of Fredericton | Ville de Fredericton ), as well as the support of local communities and organizations ( Ignite , Capital Region Integration Network , Fredericton Chamber of Commerce , New Brunswick Multicultural Council ) which have created an environment that fosters success for all.

I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the many individuals and organizations that have played a significant role in shaping who I am today. My parents, who instilled in me the values of hard work and determination; my university ( University of New Brunswick , UNB’s J Herbert Smith Centre (JHSC) ), which provided me with the education and opportunities to thrive; my friends and family, both here in Canada and in my home country, who have supported me every step of the way.

I must also express my deep gratitude to my wife, who has been my constant support and source of inspiration throughout this journey. Her unwavering love, encouragement, and patience have been instrumental in helping me achieve this milestone. I could not have done it without her by my side.

To the community leaders and organizations that have helped me settle and build a life in Canada, I say thank you. Your support and guidance have been invaluable and have allowed me to flourish in this beautiful country. As an entrepreneur, I am especially grateful for the support and nurturing that I have received from the community ( New Brunswick Innovation Foundation , Planet Hatch , ACOA - APECA , Opportunities New Brunswick ) here in Atlantic Canada, which has helped me build multiple businesses and not-for-profits. I am committed to giving back to this community by contributing to its economic and social growth and job creation.

Moreover, as a new Canadian citizen, I am committed to using my experience and skills to contribute to Canada's culture, economy, and social progress. I want to continue to support newcomers to Canada by helping them navigate the same challenges that I faced, and support them in achieving their dreams.

Finally, to all immigrants like myself, I want to say that Canada is a place where you can build a life and achieve your dreams. With hard work, determination, and the support of a welcoming community, anything is possible.

I am blessed to be a Canadian, and I look forward to contributing to the growth and prosperity of this wonderful country for years to come. Together, let's celebrate the diversity that makes Canada great, and work towards creating a welcoming and inclusive society.

Thank you, Canada, for embracing me and for being my home. Alhamdulillah!