This blog was written by Omer Malikyar who has been working with Jumpstart since May 2024.
Omer is a student at the University of Toronto’s Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy where he is pursuing his Masters of Global Affairs program.
On this International Day of Education, January 24th, we celebrate the profound impact education has on individuals and societies. It is a day to reflect on the power of knowledge to transform lives, break barriers, and create opportunities. For me, education has been the defining force in my journey, guiding me through challenges, reshaping my aspirations, and empowering me to make a difference in the world.
The Cultural Barriers to Education in My Hometown
In the city where I grew up, education—especially for women—was often undervalued and stigmatized. Economic hardships and societal norms reinforced the belief that higher education was unnecessary or even harmful for women, seen as a threat to traditional roles. Yet, within my family, the story was different. My parents’ unwavering respect for education shielded me from these societal pressures and instilled in me the belief that knowledge is the key to independence and progress.
Reflecting on My Educational Journey in Canada
Today, as I look back on my journey from those early days to pursuing graduate studies in Canada, I am reminded of how education has been my anchor, my escape, and my path to empowerment. On this special day, I share my story to honor the value of education and advocate for those who are still denied this fundamental right.
Navigating the Challenges of Migration
When I arrived in Canada, as a teenager, I encountered the overwhelming challenges of migration: cultural adjustment, isolation, and the struggle to rebuild a life from scratch. Yet, I made a promise to myself—to seek knowledge and continue my education in the best way possible. As a refugee and newcomer navigating the complexities of life alone, I faced numerous obstacles, such as lack of proper documentation to study, unfamiliar academic requirements, and financial burdens.
Laying the Foundation for My Future
Despite these challenges, I started where I could. I re-enrolled in high school, determined to build a strong foundation. After a year of hard work, I graduated from Middlefield Collegiate Institute in Markham and continued my academic journey at Seneca College, earning a diploma in Liberal Arts. This paved the way for me to pursue my undergraduate studies, double majoring in Political Science and Canadian Studies at the University of Toronto (U of T)—an institution that had captured my dreams ever since I first set foot on its campus.
A Commitment to Giving Back
Realizing this dream was more than just a personal milestone; it was the culmination of resilience, grit, and support. While pursuing my undergraduate studies, I dedicated myself not only to academic success but also to giving back. I joined non-profits and community organizations dedicated to supporting Afghan children involved in child labor, advocating for their right to education. I mentored Afghan refugee newcomers in Toronto, helping them navigate the challenges I had once faced. As a leading member of the Afghan Student Association, I organized networking events to foster community on campus and advocated for the educational rights of Afghan women who were deprived of access to learning.
Pursuing Graduate Studies in Global Affairs
Driven by my passion for education and global affairs, I pursued my dream of graduate studies and enrolled in the Master of Global Affairs program at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy. I am now just a semester away from graduation this June. For nearly seven years in Canada, education has been my constant companion. I have never grown weary of learning or seeking knowledge. This journey has shaped me into someone who critically examines global injustices, outdated policies, and governance failures that disproportionately impact marginalized communities. My academic and advocacy efforts have shown me that even small actions can create meaningful change and make the world a better place for everyone.
Future Plans: Turning Knowledge into Action
As I look to the future, I am eager to apply my education and experiences to help shape policies and support displaced populations. I am particularly interested in working nationally with the Government of Canada or internationally with the United Nations to address the challenges that refugees and marginalized communities face. My goal is to help displaced individuals find safe and stable homes while influencing policies at both national and international levels to ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are met.
A Call to Action: The Gift of Education
My journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of education—not only for individuals but for entire communities and societies. On this day, let us celebrate the gift of education and renew our commitment to advocating for those who are denied this fundamental right. If we have spent years acquiring knowledge, let us not allow that wisdom to remain dormant. Instead, let us share it—whether through mentorship, community involvement, or other means of engagement.
Together, we can honor the torch of education by passing it forward, ensuring that its light illuminates the lives of others and paves the way for a more just and equitable world.