Becoming whole: Ahmad is no longer pretending to be who society wants him to be

Ahmad’s story is one of seeking equality, existence, and acceptance in a world that often asks people who are different to disappear or to pretend. It is the story of leaving behind a homeland rich in culture and tradition, yet bound by expectations of how one must act, love, and exist to be assigned a “correct” identity. For Ahmad, that identity never felt true.

Back home, survival meant shaping yourself into one acceptable version of a person. Individuality was a risk. Difference was dangerous. Yet the ache of family never disappears.

“Every time I go home, I have to talk to my family because I miss their voice. I miss their presence,” Ahmad shares. “This is the loneliest time of my life, but still, I have them as a family.”

His mother’s love remains both his deepest wound and his greatest comfort. Ahmad carries that pain silently, knowing that expressing it would hurt her even more. At this point in his life, he cannot return home but the longing never leaves.

“It’s like losing an organ and knowing it exists somewhere you can never reach,” he says.

After arriving in Canada two years back, Ahmad sought support through ISANS and joined the Immigrant Youth Employability Project (IYEP), which helps newcomer youth make informed career decisions, gain work experience, and prepare for post-secondary education. More than support, Canada offered Ahmad safety when he needed it most.

Despite culture shock, emotional upheaval, and moments of deep loneliness, Ahmad learned to love life again in Canada. “Ahmad is truly a valuable part of our program. His resilience and positive attitude bring so much to our classroom,” says Michelle Dvorkin, Facilitator IYCEP. “Despite having been through a great deal, and continuing to navigate different challenges, he consistently shows up for others. He offers support and understanding because he knows firsthand how isolating and difficult this journey can be. His kindness, empathy, and willingness to connect with others in a very genuine way make him an important presence in the program.”

He built a new family in Canada, one that loves him exactly as he is. He learned that acceptance cannot be forced, and that changing minds takes time. Instead, he chose a different kind of strength: self-acceptance.

“God created everybody equally. God made me like this for a reason”, he mentions. “I don’t see any issue with that, but you cannot change people’s minds. Every breath is a gift from heaven. This is how life was meant to be. Humans were brought to Earth to live and love”,

Though this truth does not align with everyone’s beliefs, Ahmad accepts himself because he knows who he is. He understands the culture he came from and does not blame it.

“They had to become anything just to survive. My people are thirsty for freedom. They are kind, brave, hospitable, and strong”, he mentions. “Their culture and traditions are outstanding.”

In Canada, Ahmad discovered parts of himself he once believed didn’t exist. For the first time, he felt heard, included, and at peace. Strangers showed him a kind of love he had missed for so long, and he returned it multiplied.

“I love Canada, I blend in so well now. I don’t feel unheard. I don’t feel left out,” he shares. “I am just part of them. And I realized this is where I was supposed to be.”

This chapter of Ahmad’s life may be the loneliest, but it is also the most peaceful. His journey is one of resilience, survival, and ultimately freedom. It is proof that finding safety can feel like being reborn.

Peace.

Freedom.

A better world.

Ahmad — a survivor.