Amal's Story

Amal has seen the Y from many perspectives: as a client, volunteer, and staff member.

When Amal moved from Palestine to Canada in July 2023, she was proactive about connecting with organizations in her community and learning about the services that are available for newcomers. One of the organizations she connected with was the YMCA.

Amal visited the Y’s Language Assessment and Referral Centre, where she was referred to English classes. She also began attending workshops offered by the Newcomer Information Centre, where she learned about settlement resources and employment opportunities.

“I discovered that these organizations are incredibly valuable. They offer all the vital information that newcomers need … As a newcomer, it keeps you hopeful, which is very important.”

In Palestine, Amal spent many years leading social development projects. She worked primarily with women, youth, and people with disabilities, assisting them “to have a proactive role in their communities and build their capacity to be more resilient.”

Driven to continue helping others while making new connections, Amal started looking for volunteer opportunities in Ottawa. Having some familiarity with the Y, she applied for a volunteer position with the Newcomer Information Centre and the Language Assessment and Referral Centre. “I was inspired by the newcomers. They are eager to learn, to be supported, to look for a new path in their lives.”

I was inspired by the newcomers. They are eager to learn, to be supported, to look for a new path in their lives.

Amal

Amal assisted the team in their daily work, shadowed staff in sessions with clients, and got an inside perspective of the work culture. After a few months, she was offered a short-term position as an Information and Referral Specialist.

She rose to the challenge, working to understand people’s complex needs and directing them to the right resources. “You realize their fears, their concerns, their weaknesses, even their strengths, so you can help them to figure out where they can go.”

With the knowledge and connections that she has gained, Amal hopes to continue being a light for others throughout her career. “This really helped me to feel more confident about my skills, capacities, and how I plan for my future career here in Canada.”