How I became the first Rohingya refugee to become an international student in Canada

My name is Farhana Roshan, and I am a Rohingya refugee from Myanmar. Born into a life of displacement, I have faced unimaginable challenges and overcome incredible odds to pursue my education and advocate for the rights of marginalised communities.

My family’s story is one of resilience and determination, as we were forced to flee our home country due to conflict and persecution. In 2012, my father and siblings were threatened by the police, and they were forced to make a perilous journey to Bangladesh, and in 2013 my mother was also threatened and she decided to take the risk to crossing the border at midnight in a small ship. The experience was traumatic, and I remember the fear and uncertainty that gripped our family as we navigated the treacherous waters.

After spending some time in Bangladesh, we saw that refugees were not able to access education. My family and I again crossed the border, this time from Bangladesh to India, in search of safety and security.

Growing up, I had always been passionate about serving my community and upholding justice. My dream was to become an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, but unfortunately, my refugee status made it impossible for me to pursue this career path. However, this setback only strengthened my resolve to make a difference in the lives of others.

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to attend Salamah Residential High School in Hyderabad, which provided me with full facilities for my education. I studied there until grade 10, but unfortunately, I was not allowed to take the board exam due to documentation issues.

Despite trying to resolve the issue, I was unable to overcome the bureaucratic hurdles, and I had to leave. This was a difficult time for me, but I refused to give up on my education. I was then admitted to Telangana Scholar School, where I completed my grade 10, and later attended Dynamic Success Junior College, where I completed my Intermediate (11th and 12th grades).

My refugee status continued to pose significant challenges, and I faced difficulties in accessing higher education

However, my refugee status continued to pose significant challenges, and I faced difficulties in accessing higher education. I was being denied by every university because of limited documentation and I was almost lost my confidence. But, like a miracle, I got the Duolingo scholarship, which changed the course of my life. The scholarship provided me with the opportunity to pursue my goals and dreams, and I began applying to universities in Canada and the US. With the support of my advisor, I navigated the complex application process and was accepted into four universities.

But again, I faced challenges to travel abroad to get exit permit but again I got support from my university. I chose to attend the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, where I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Arts, with a major in Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Social Justice (GRSJ).

My academic pursuits are driven by a passion to advocate for the rights of marginalised communities, particularly refugee women and girls, who are often silenced and marginalised.

Throughout my journey, I have been inspired by my father’s words: “The real heroes are those who dedicatedly help the needy, who stand for the right, and who stand proudly for their community.” I have always been drawn to social justice and human rights, and I believe that my experiences as a refugee have equipped me with a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges faced by marginalised communities.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have been actively involved in various organisations, including UNHCR, UNICEF, Ashoka, Save the Children, Tale of Human Kind, and PRATYeK. I have worked as a child champion, youth leader, and change maker, contributing to the empowerment of refugee communities and advocating for their rights. I’m proud that I somehow inspired many people through my contribution and I’m the first girl from Hyderabad India who completed secondary education and got the scholarship.

I believe that my experiences as a refugee have equipped me with a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges faced by marginalised communities

I want more Farhanas in my community so, together, we can make positive changes. Since arriving in Canada, I have faced new challenges, including navigating the complexities of the education system and accessing resources.

However, I have persevered and am now enjoying my studies. I would like to encourage other students to remain strong and adaptable in the face of challenges, and to never give up on their dreams. My story is one of resilience, determination, and hope. Despite the obstacles I have faced, I remain committed to my goals and am passionate about advocating for the rights of marginalised communities.

I believe that education is the key to unlocking the potential of individuals and communities, and I am grateful for the opportunities that I have had to pursue my academic and professional goals.

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