​Hajar’s Journey of Strength and Hope 

When Hajar Kazerouni arrived in Canada from Iran in 2018, she carried just one thing with her that mattered most - hope for a better future. She came with her husband and young son, and a few months later, welcomed another son born right here in Canada. 

But those first days were not easy. Hajar remembers feeling scared, stressed, and unsure about what her new life would look like. She didn’t have a job yet and couldn’t speak English fluently. Everything, from finding a school for her child to understanding the community, felt new and overwhelming. 

What made a difference was the support she received. ISS referred the family to a SWIS worker in SD43 who guided them through registering at school. Hajar says this support was “confidential, kind, and always available,” helping her feel safe and welcomed. Her SWIS worker translated meetings, registered her for English classes, and shared resources that made settling in much easier. 

The challenges were real - language barriers, financial stress, finding work, and adjusting to life without close family - but Hajar refused to give up. She worked hard, attended school, and rebuilt her life step by step. 

Today, Hajar is proud of how far she has come. She earned her Education Assistant diploma, began working in Burnaby schools, and is already planning her next goal: getting her teaching certificate. She loves her work, especially because the schedule lets her spend time with her family. 

What keeps her inspired is her community. She describes the people around her as kind, supportive, and always willing to help.

Hajar’s message for new families is simple but powerful: “Be strong and hopeful. You are not alone. If you ask for help, you will receive it.” 

Her story reminds us that success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience. It takes courage. And it takes believing that, even when the journey is hard, the future can be brighter than you ever imagined. 

Hajar now celebrates her achievements, supports her family, and continues to dream bigger for herself and her children. 

Her journey is a beautiful example of resilience and the power of community.