Building NEW Beginnings: Marjan’s Story of Courage
Posted on March 28, 2025
Leaving behind everything familiar and starting anew in a foreign land takes immense courage. For Marjan, an Afghan journalist, the decision to flee her homeland in 2021 was not one of choice, but of survival. Under the Taliban regime, her commitment to uncovering the truth made her a target. Faced with life-threatening danger, she sought refuge in Canada, determined to rebuild her life. With the support of Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto (NEW) and the Advanced Leadership Program (ALP), Marjan overcame numerous challenges and found success. Today, she thrives as a Social Media Coordinator at Madison Community Services, demonstrating resilience and perseverance.
Overcoming Obstacles with Determination
The early days in Canada were anything but easy. Alone in a new country, Marjan confronted the daunting realities of cultural adjustment, language barriers, and the uncertainty of securing employment. Despite knowing English, navigating the competitive Canadian job market was an overwhelming challenge. “The first days were difficult. As an immigrant in a new country, I faced challenges I had never anticipated. Living away from my family, adjusting to a new culture, language, and way of life—everything was different. Finding work and a place to live felt overwhelming. But despite the hurdles, I didn’t give up. I clung to hope, worked hard, and pushed forward with determination.”
Eager to succeed, she sought support from NEW and enrolled in the Advanced Leadership Program, a decision that would prove transformative.
Empowered Through Learning and Mentorship
Through ALP, Marjan gained access to valuable mentorship, career coaching, and practical learning opportunities. The program equipped her with both technical and personal development skills, including leadership training, networking strategies, and industry insights. With the support of ALP Career Development Specialist Samina Nayla and the Workforce Development Team at NEW, she refined her resume, mastered interview techniques, and confidently navigated her job search. This guidance played a crucial role in securing her current role at Madison Community Services. Marjan herself reflects, “I joined the ALP program because it perfectly aligned with my experience and career goals. I was adjusting to a new life in Canada, and the ALP offered me the resources and support I needed.”
Marjan’s participation in the MBA Essentials Program with the Rotman School of Management and the Digital Fluency in the Workforce course with Humber College further broadened her expertise. Mentors like Professors Walid Hejazi and Freeda Khan, along with industry leaders Henna Agha from Telus and Monika Duddy from Ontario Health, provided invaluable insights into the Canadian business landscape.
Looking Ahead and Giving Back
Through her experiences, Marjan learned that success isn’t solely about qualifications—it’s about embracing challenges, seeking support, and continuously evolving. She shares, “Our newcomer stories, though different, share a common thread: perseverance. We face obstacles that seem insurmountable, but with the right support, mindset, and persistence, we can turn those challenges into stepping stones for success.”
Marjan’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. She remains passionate about uplifting others, using her platform to advocate for newcomer women facing similar challenges. As she continues to grow in her career, she hopes to mentor and inspire those navigating their own journeys of resilience and transformation.
As Marjan puts it, “The challenges may be many, but with patience, resilience, and a willingness to learn and grow, better days are ahead.”
About "Building New Beginnings"
This series highlights the journeys of newcomer women as they overcome challenges and build their careers in Canada. Through their stories, we celebrate resilience, achievements, and the impact of Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto programs. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories!