A Journey of Passion, Purpose, and Community: Mohja Alia’s Story 

This year, at the ISANS Inspires event, ISANS proudly introduced the first-ever “Award of the Year” award created to recognize and celebrate the amazing staff who inspire us every day through their dedication, passion, and impact. 

We are thrilled to announce that the inaugural recipient of this special award is Mohja Alia, Manager of the Employment and Bridging Team. 

When Mohja and her family arrived in Canada in 1997, they were filled with hope and determination to start a new life and build a business. Their path led them to ISANS, known as MISA, previously, where they received the support and guidance they needed to begin their entrepreneurial journey. 

“During our work as a family with the MISA team, we felt the warmth and support of every single person. We started our first business with the support of Nabiha Atallah, and at the same time, I began volunteering with MISA,” Mohja recalls with a smile. 

Although her background was in banking and business ownership, volunteering in community work opened a new world for her. For over eight months, she volunteered full-time, working closely with immigrant clients and learning about the challenges and barriers they faced while settling in a new country. 

“I want to thank Maria Ramos, my dear colleague, for being there for me through all these years. My journey wouldn’t have been as successful without the generous mentorship of Jan Sheppard Kutcher, my previous manager, mentor, supporter, and friend,” shares Mohja.  

As Mohja’s passion for helping others grew, so did her leadership within ISANS. She worked with inspiring leaders such as Claudette Legault and Gerry Mills, whom she describes as “two pillars of the organization.” Their belief in her creativity and vision empowered her to develop new programs and services that made a lasting impact in the immigrant community. This spirit of innovation continued under the guidance of Jennifer Watts, Paula Knight, and Olive Ozoemena, who all championed new ideas and initiatives. 

Reflecting on her nearly 29 years with ISANS, Mohja is filled with pride and gratitude. 

“I can’t believe it’s been close to 29 years. What makes me most proud is being able to make a difference in immigrants’ lives whether they came as refugees or skilled workers,” Mohja shares with gratitude. “Seeing them succeed and contributing to the community while settling with dignity brings tears of happiness to my eyes. Working at ISANS was never just a job, it has always been my passion and mission.” 

At ISANS, Mohja found an environment that encouraged creativity and innovation. 

“At ISANS, the sky is the limit! I’ve had the opportunity to think outside the box, explore new project ideas, and create programs that truly make a difference. The openness of senior leadership to support new ideas has strengthened our immigrant support work and increased retention across Nova Scotia,” she says. 

Receiving this special award was a deeply emotional and meaningful moment for Mohja. 

“I feel humbled and honored to be the first recipient of this important award. I want to thank everyone who nominated me. It’s especially emotional as I prepare for my retirement in February 2026. I share this award with my family, who have supported me every step of the way, and with my wonderful Employment and Bridging team, “you all rock!,” Mohja mention proudly.  “I also thank our senior leadership for putting staff wellbeing first. ISANS is successful because of its people. Initiatives like this strengthen our commitment to the organization and the work we do.” 

After nearly three decades of service, Mohja’s legacy stands as a testament to compassion, leadership, and the power of community. Her work has touched countless lives and continues to shape the future of immigrant support in Nova Scotia.