Matliuba Yusupova: finding joy in helping others

Matliuba Yusupova arrived in Canada as a refugee from Ukraine in December 2023, determined to rebuild her life. Drawing on her background in psychology and community support, she now uses her expertise to assist fellow refugees in the settlement and mental health sectors, contributing to their well-being in a new environment.

“Being a refugee myself, I can relate to many of the challenges newcomers face, and I use that experience to better support and advocate for them,” Matliuba shares.

At ISANS, Matliuba initially volunteered for the Blue Nose Marathon before joining the resettlement team as a temporary accommodation coordinator. Her role involves providing mental health support, sharing local resource updates, and fostering an inclusive environment where newcomers feel valued, welcomed and supported during their transition.

“I feel that ability to connect with people, especially those going through difficult transitions,” she says. “Many newcomers, including myself, face emotional and psychological challenges when adjusting to a new country.”

Her efforts not only demonstrate her adaptability but also highlight the positive impact of empathy and community engagement in facilitating successful resettlement experiences, where she finds fulfillment in the gratitude expressed by those she helps.

“My work is challenging, but I love doing it. People show so much gratitude, which is rewarding”, Matliuba shares. “Small acts like offering mental health resources, listening to people’s concerns, or simply being present can make a big difference in someone’s life.”

ISANS’ holistic approach to empowering newcomers, which focuses on community integration and long-term success, inspires Matliuba to continue making a positive impact. Her experience highlighted the importance of compassion and comprehensive support in fostering thriving, inclusive communities.

“I feel happy to see how grateful people are for even the simplest support, and it reinforced my passion for community work and mental health advocacy,” Matliuba recalls.

Matliuba’s story exemplifies how refugees can rebuild their lives and contribute significantly to their new communities, using their unique experiences to support others facing similar challenges.

“On this women’s day, I wanted to say that we do not have to be afraid of anything. Sometimes it feels difficult, but it’s worth to move on because it helps to understand life,” Matliuba shares. “I have learned that creating a sense of belonging is just as important as providing practical support.”

Matliuba found fulfillment in witnessing the appreciation for the mental health support and resources offered at ISANS, reinforcing her belief that even small acts of kindness can greatly influence someone’s well-being.

“I remember a moment when someone told me that having access to mental health resources made them feel “seen” and valued,” she says. “It reminded me that everyone deserves to feel like they belong and have access to the support they need.”