Introduction:
On Refugee Rights Day at 22 Metropolitan Road, we had the privilege of meeting Samuel, a former journalist, editor-in-chief, and academic from Ethiopia. His journey to Canada is one of courage, resilience, and determination to rebuild his life in a new country. Despite political persecution in his homeland, Samuel remains hopeful that he can contribute meaningfully to Canadian society—and inspire others along the way.
To learn more about Refugee Rights Day, visit https://ccrweb.ca/en/refugee-rights-day
By Ana Cisneros, DEI Supervisor
Meeting Samuel: A Voice for Refugees
Tell me about yourself. What would you like to share with us?
Thank you for having me. I have experience as a teacher, researcher, and editor-in-chief for both local and international academic journals. I’ve authored several books and conducted research that criticized the Ethiopian government’s lack of good governance. Unfortunately, my findings were not well-received, which led to multiple imprisonments and ultimately forced me to flee my country and seek refuge in Canada.
I arrived here with great hope and confidence that I can use my expertise as a researcher and university professor. My academic focus is on language education, media discourse, and applied linguistics, and my books and articles are available online.
What steps have you taken to integrate into Canadian life, either academically or personally as a newcomer?
The most difficult challenge I’ve faced is obtaining Canadian experience. As you may know, it’s a requirement for almost everything. But you can’t get experience without work, and you can’t work without experience. I realized early on that I needed to be resilient in order to create a better future for myself.
I began investing in myself through training, building connections, making friends, and engaging actively at the community center and in the shelter where I currently live. Working at the shelter has allowed me to engage with many refugee clients—learning from them and sharing what I know in return.
Since arriving in August 2024, I’ve earned my driver’s license, completed computer and translation/interpretation courses, and am now preparing for the interpretation licensing exam. I’ve worked closely with my caseworkers, and I also volunteer as an online English-as-a-Second-Language teacher for the Refugee Center.
I’m making progress, and I’m hopeful that my wife and three children will be able to join me soon. My goal is to contribute my share to this country.
What advice would you give to newly arrived refugees or those who feel hopeless?
First, get your academic credentials evaluated—through services like World Education Services. That’s very important. Keep working to improve your skills. Mental health challenges and sadness can drain your energy, so staying active is essential.
I know there are many ups and downs. Finding housing and employment is not easy. But isolating yourself at the shelter or succumbing to depression only makes things harder. I encourage others to get involved in activities and connect with people. Days like Refugee Rights Day are vital because they help us understand our rights.
Many refugees arrive in Canada with deep expertise—we are doctors, engineers, journalists, teachers, and more. The Canadian government has a responsibility to create opportunities for us so we can contribute in return. It is not sustainable for people with so much talent to sit idle for months, living off financial assistance. There needs to be a system to tap into this wealth of experience.
Conclusion:
Samuel’s story is a powerful testament to the strength, knowledge, and resilience refugees bring with them. On Refugee Rights Day, we are reminded of the importance of inclusion and opportunity for those seeking safety and a fresh start.
To see how you can support Homes First and clients like Samuel, visit homesfirst.on.ca.
