Journey to Home
Ways To Give
Your tax-deductible donation helps ICA welcome, support and provide much-needed services for immigrants and refugees as they settle into the community. There are many ways to give a gift that has a direct, positive impact on the lives of newcomers. Donate or volunteer today!
"Every time I met with them, they were encouraging and made me feel safe. ICA is more like a family to me than an organization!"
Latif’s happy childhood turned into a fight for survival when a bomb injured his father in Syria, and his family had to leave their home and travel to Turkey, in search of safety and medical care. The transition was tough; Latif was just a teenager, grappling with fear and uncertainty. Just when they thought they had found stability, a devastating earthquake struck Turkey, forcing them to face yet another upheaval. Luckily, through the UN’s expedited refugee process, Latif and his family finally found a new beginning in Canada, arriving as Government- Assisted Refugees.
"Support from ICA was the most important help my family received. Nahla, Ramzi, and Ashraf, ICA staff members, made sure we found housing, got needed medical care, and helped us understand our new country"
Latif had dreams of pursuing his education in economics but settling in Canada presented both challenges and blessings. First, he needed to improve his English skills, so he enrolled at Camosun College where he immersed himself in language classes while also juggling a job at the Fernwood Inn. His coworkers welcomed him like family, patiently helping him learn new cooking techniques and improve his English one phrase at a time. Each day brought new challenges, but with each small victory, Latif felt a sense of progress.
Exploring his new home in Victoria, Latif was continuously amazed by the lush landscapes and the warmth of the people. The vibrant greens of the parks and the serene waters were a stark contrast to the dry, war-torn lands he had known. He found joy in the simple act of greeting strangers on the street, something he was not used to from his life in Turkey. The kindness he encountered everywhere reinforced his hope that a brighter future was possible.
At just 23 years old, Latif was determined to complete his education and build a career that would allow him to contribute to his community. The path from Syria to Turkey and now to Canada was filled with trials, yet it was also a testament to his resilience and unwavering hope for a better life. With each passing day, Latif moved closer to realizing his dreams, embodying the spirit of perseverance that defined his journey.