Thriving Together: Celebrating the Student Refugee Program Graduating Class of 2025!

Graduation marks more than the end of a chapter—it’s the beginning of a future shaped by resilience, growth, and community. For students in the Student Refugee Program (SRP), it also represents a powerful testament to what’s possible when young people are given the opportunity to thrive.

Across Canada, campuses are buzzing with celebration. Among the graduates are remarkable students from the SRP Class of 2025, each carrying a story of perseverance, transformation, and contribution. As we join them in marking this important milestone, we are honouring their achievements—and the communities that helped them belong.

Meet Chol Akol

Chol always dreamed of continuing his education, but financial barriers growing up in the refugee camp made it difficult. Determined not only to persevere but to support others facing similar challenges, he co-founded the Dongriin Foundation, a youth-led organization that empowers refugee students through mentorship, education, and scholarships. Their goal was to create a platform to help inspire and equip young people in their community with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive. Chol continued to seek out opportunities to further his own learning and growth. One day, during a visit to Yoro, he came across an advertisement for the Student Refugee Program. He applied, was accepted, and in 2021, began his Life Sciences degree at the University of Toronto.

On campus, Chol built new connections and a strong sense of belonging. He joined the Hart House Chess Club, competing in tournaments and building community through a shared love of the game. As a member of the WUSC Local Committee, he helped organise events and supported new SRP students as they adjusted to life in Canada.

Now, Chol is preparing to begin a Master of Chemical Engineering at the University of Toronto. 

His advice for incoming SRP students is to stay connected, keep in touch with friends, and learn from their experiences. They often have the knowledge and experience to help guide you and answer any questions you might have about life in Canada. 

Meet Amena Othman

When the war broke out in Syria, Amena was forced to leave her home and relocate to Lebanon, where she lived for several years. “Life as a Syrian refugee in Lebanon was extremely difficult—the living conditions were harsh, and opportunities were limited,” she explains.

When Amena learned about the Student Refugee Program, “it felt like the opportunity I had been waiting for—a chance to change my life and take a step toward the future I had always envisioned,” she explains. 

At McGill University, she majored in Social Work, inspired by the community workers she met in Lebanon. “During my time in Lebanon, I worked with NGOs that supported Syrian refugees, which allowed me to gain valuable experience and deepen my interest in social service work. I was especially inspired by the social worker in my local community committee. Their dedication and impact motivated me to learn more about the field.” 

Amena was actively involved in activities on campus—as a Student Navigator, she helped peers access academic and wellness services. 

Through the university’s local committee, she offered guidance and reassurance to incoming SRP students. “Drawing from my own experience, I helped guide them through the challenges of settling in and adjusting to university life. It was rewarding to be a source of reassurance and encouragement during such a pivotal transition.” 

Eventually, Amena became Lead Coordinator, supporting students to transition beyond their first year in the Student Refugee Program, helping them navigate life afterward—whether it was related to housing, financial aid, or continued access to university resources.

Starting this fall, she will be pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work at Carleton University. 

Last summer, Amena also reached a personal milestone. “I became a Canadian citizen and was finally able to visit my family this summer after five years apart, which was incredibly meaningful for me.”

Like Chol, Amena encourages incoming students to connect with their community and not to be afraid to ask for help. “Whether it’s academic support, mental health resources, or just someone to talk to, there are many people on campus who are there to support you—including staff, professors, and peer mentors. Reaching out doesn’t mean you’re weak: it’s a sign of strength and self-advocacy.” She also explains that they should take things slowly. “It can be overwhelming at first—new country, new system, new responsibilities—but you don’t have to figure everything out at once. Give yourself time to adjust and be patient with yourself.” 

Amena also encourages students to explore Canada. “Exploring different parts of the country gave me the chance to learn more about Canada’s diversity, natural beauty, and cultures. Each trip helped me feel more connected to the country I now call home.” 

Meet Alaa Alahmar

In Lebanon, Alaa dreamed of continuing his education, but instability in the country made it feel out of reach. That changed when he was accepted into the Student Refugee Program, and began a Master of Engineering at the University of Victoria, specializing in cybersecurity. “What makes this program unique is that it combines resettlement with education, offering the kind of stability I longed for during a time filled with uncertainty and fear about the future,” he explains.

During his studies at the University of Victoria, Alaa took various courses such as network security and digital forensics, where he worked on a project to investigate a real-world cyberattack scenario. 

Alaa shares that being part of the WUSC Local Committee was one of the best experiences of his student life. Through the Local Committee, he provided support to incoming students, just as he was supported when he first arrived. He explains that it was incredibly fulfilling to help new students settle in, navigate academic life, and find a sense of belonging. 

“For me, it was more than just volunteering—it was about building a family and creating a welcoming space for other students in the SRP. It gave me a chance to pass on the knowledge and experience I had gained during my first year,” he shares.

Now that he has completed his degree and secured a full-time position in his field, he is working on continuing to improve his knowledge and skills through professional certifications in cybersecurity and cloud architecture. In the meantime, he is also enjoying the beautiful summer in Victoria and planning to travel.

Alaa has some helpful advice for future SRP students. “Get involved with your Local Committee; it’s a great way to build connections and friendships,” he explains. He also shares that students should connect with resources on campus and in the Local Committee, because there are many people who are willing to help them.

Alaa shares that he has many wonderful memories in Canada. For example, he was able to try foods from different cultures and meet people from around the world. He also had the chance to share his culture and learn about others. “All these moments and experiences remind me how far I’ve come and how much is possible with hope, hard work, and community support.” 

The Class of 2025 has shown us what’s possible when refugee youth are supported to belong and thrive. They are not only achieving their dreams—they’re strengthening Canada’s future through their skills, stories, and contributions.

To the graduates: we are proud of you. You have navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and made new friendships that will last a lifetime. You’ve turned challenge into change, and dreams into degrees. Each of you carries a unique story, and we cannot wait to see the impact you will have. We wish you all the best in this exciting chapter of your life. 

Support Future Graduates on Their Educational Journeys 

The graduates featured here have forged their own remarkable journeys through resilience, determination, and hard work. WUSC monthly donors play a crucial role in those journeys. Their sustained support strengthens programs like the Student Refugee Program to give even more refugee students the opportunity to pursue their academic goals and contribute to their communities. 

Become a monthly donor today, and ensure that every young person has the support they need to write their own success story.