Osman Mohamed feels home again: Connections to rebuild his life in NS 

Osman Mohamed, an accomplished IT engineer with over a decade of experience in the technology sector, fled Syria in 2013 and spent the next eleven years in Kurdistan. Last year, in search of safety and a brighter future, he arrived in Canada as a refugee with his wife and daughter, ready to embark on a new chapter filled with hope and opportunity. 

“My journey to Canada was not easy, and this is understandable considering the huge differences between Canada and the Middle East in all aspects,” Osman reflects. “The support provided from the Canadian government and communities is making the difference.” 

Before relocating, Osman was welcomed into the Canada Connects program through SOPA. The Community Connections Program allows him to connect with Miles Leznof, who has volunteered for ISANS since 2018.  

“Canada Connects helps newcomers feel a sense of belonging by matching them with a Canadian resident whose primary role is to welcome them to their new home and to explain to them Canadian culture, lifestyles, values and government,” says Miles. ” I have seen Osman, and his family, gradually adapt to life in Canada and to live and think more like Canadians do.” 

This initiative pairs newcomers with local volunteers, offering guidance and friendship as they navigate their new environment. 

“Throughout the Canada Connects program, I have been connected to a Canadian volunteer who I’m proud to know,” Osman shares. “This relationship is providing me with a lot of information, information that is not visible easily. It also gave me the confidence to speak and have discussions with Canadian people.” 

Osman has participated in several programs, including Welcome to ISANS, which helped ease his transition. In January, he achieved a major milestone by starting his first job in Canada. ISANS also introduced him to the Family Support Program, where he gained valuable insights as a new father and gained a deeper understanding of the Canadian job market and effective strategies for finding employment. 

“Coming to a new country as a refugee is not easy, everything is unfamiliar, and it’s easy to feel lost. But organizations like ISANS don’t just provide service, they give people hope,” explains Osman. “Hope that things will get better. Hope that we can build a new life, find meaningful work, and feel at home again.”  

Osman’s story is proof of the power of community, connection, and the sense of belonging that ISANS strives to create for every newcomer. 

“ISANS support made me feel like I belong. It’s not about the services they offer, it was how they made me feel respected,” Osman emphasizes.