Growing through every word, Hanim thinks every mistake is a step forward

When Hanim Ramadan arrived in Canada from Syria via Turkey in May 2023, she faced significant challenges learning English. With only six years of schooling in Syria, studying was difficult, and everyday communication felt overwhelming. At first, she struggled to read, write, and speak English, often feeling unsure of herself.

“The people in Canada are very kind and very helpful,” she shares. “They correct me and help me learn. I am very thankful to Canada.”

Instead of giving up, Hanim chose to learn from every mistake. She studied English wherever she could at home, in community centres, at libraries, and at ISANS. Each mistake became an opportunity to grow. She found that learning in different places helped her progress more quickly.

“If I go to one place, I learn one word. If I go to many places, I learn many things,” she explains.

This growth mindset seeing mistakes as steps forward rather than setbacks became key to her success in ISANS literacy classes. Since January 2024, Hanim has participated in several programs, including the Literacy Transition program, LB classes, and now the Young Adult High Literacy program.

“First test I failed because I didn’t know and it was hard. But I learned from it,” Hanim says. “The next test I passed because I learned. Learning a new language is hard, so I need to be patient, brave, and strong.”

At ISANS, encouraging teachers and classmates helped transform her uncertainty into confidence. Learning alongside peers at similar levels has made a meaningful difference. Through supportive instruction and consistent practice, Hanim has grown more confident using English at school and in her community.

“We learn together; we speak together,” she says.

This shared experience has strengthened her motivation and reminded her that she is not alone in reaching her goals. Inspired by her teachers, Hanim hopes to support others in the future. She is interested in careers such as interpreting, teaching, or becoming an early childhood educator. Experiences like class outings to Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) with her young adult literacy class have helped her explore these possibilities

Hanim’s journey shows that when we learn from our mistakes and support one another, growth is possible.