Each academic year, the Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU) sponsors up to two refugees to become Canadian permanent residents and students at Brock through the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) Refugee Program.
WUSC is a Canadian non-profit organization that works with universities across the country to achieve their goals of improving youth education, empowerment and economic opportunity.
“Education is a powerful tool,” said BUSU Clubs Manager Chloe Villers. “Supporting refugee students in their pursuit of higher education can transform their lives and shape a better future.”
Villers, who leads the WUSC program, works with each student to prepare them for their time in Canada and their new academic journey.
For Ahmed Ibrahim Sheik Abdirahman, a second-year business student, this journey began in 2022 when he applied for the WUSC Student Refugee Program. Originally from Somalia, he lived as a refugee in Uganda before coming to Canada at the age of 27 to study with Brock.
Ahmed’s arrival last year was the start of many new experiences, including getting used to Canadian winters.
“My first winter in Canada was tough, but BUSU helped me a lot,” said Abdirahman. “The cold weather was new for me, but the support of BUSU and the university community made it easier. They helped me adapt and made the experience better.”
In addition to thriving in the business program, Abdirahman is now a proud BUSU employee and works alongside his colleagues at the General Brock Store.
“My life in Canada was a profound change. The feeling of security and stability here is in stark contrast to the challenges I faced in my home country,” Abdirahman said. “During my time at Brock University, I have encountered a welcoming community that celebrates diversity and provides not only world-class education but also unique employment opportunities. The inclusive environment and support of both the university and BUSU have enabled me to build a future that I once only dreamed of. Canada, and particularly my experience at Brock University, was the foundation for a new chapter of growth, education and opportunity.”
BUSU invites anyone interested in joining the WUSC committee to mentor and support new students to email Clubsmgr@brockbusu.ca for more information.
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