Volunteer of the Month- December 2017

Intisar Ghazala is Immigrant Services Calgary’s Volunteer of the Month.

Intisar is a one of ISC’s champion volunteers. She joined our Volunteer Program at the end of 2016 and through steady participation in various programs and activities, contributed over 160 hours so far.

Intisar moved to Canada with her family in May 2015. In Iraq, her home country, she used to be a lecturer at a Christian College teaching Religious Studies, a member of the Women’s Rights Committee as well as a facilitator of community activities. This is her story.

“When I arrived to Canada, I felt like a naked tree, because I had to start from the beginning. I had to get new experiences, which are like new leaves and fruits in my tree. My first step was at Immigrant Services Calgary where my settlement counselor encouraged me to volunteer, because volunteerism would provide me Canadian experience.  In December 2016, I began my volunteering work with office duties, interpretation at community events and facilitator of computer workshops for seniors. Recently, we completed a successful project called “Tell me your story”. We invited youth volunteers to help seniors share their story as a PowerPoint slideshow. It was a nice opportunity to join two generations that allowed me to learn about their different cultures, traditions and experiences. I have enjoyed my time volunteering with ISC helping newcomers, expanding my network and working with open-minded and supportive staff that encourage volunteers to get new experiences.  Volunteering is my first achievement in Canada, which has made new leaves and fruits grow on my tree. Thank you Immigrant Services Calgary for providing me the opportunities to grow!“

Thank you, Intisar, for your dedication and passion to share your knowledge with ISC’s clients. Congratulations!