Maryam, we are proud of you!
Maryam first came to the MacPhee Centre as a newcomer with her brother and cousins. When they arrived in Canada, none of them were able to attend school due to their immigration status - other programs and organizations required permanent residency, citizenship, or refugee status to participate. They came to the MacPhee Centre seeking connection, community, and a place to belong.
Maryam quickly became involved in a variety of programs, but she stood out as a leader in our Intro to Content Creation program, a partnership with the Afterwords Literary Festival. In this program, youth learned how to interview authors and audiences, capture content on video and audio, and share stories with confidence. Maryam participated in both the pilot and second year of the program, and her growth was remarkable.
Through these experiences, Maryam gained confidence, built skills, and found a supportive community. She caught up academically, returned to school, and successfully graduated high school. This fall, she will begin a Bachelor of Science degree, a testament to her perseverance, talent, and determination.
Maryam’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact of accessible arts programs. By providing mentorship, creative opportunities, and a welcoming community, the MacPhee Centre helps young people like Maryam overcome barriers and reach their potential.
You can help youth like Maryam thrive! Your support enables us to offer programs, scholarships, and mentorship to newcomers and youth facing obstacles - giving them the tools and confidence to grow, create, and succeed.
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