When Waad Shurbaji flew into Vancouver International Airport in 2021, it was with fresh hope—and fresh fears. After eight years in Turkiye , where she’d fled the war in Syria, she was finally reuniting with her husband, Nedal Izdden. It was the end of one ordeal but the beginning of another.
“When I arrived as a newcomer, I didn’t know anything about Canada, about Vancouver,” Waad said. “I’d run away from the war but when I got here, I felt culture shock. I didn’t know what to do.” The struggle took a toll. “I was so sad, depressed, and hopeless...I thought I wanted to commit suicide. I couldn't accept to skip my life, my teaching certification, my career, and start from the beginning.”
Like many newcomers, Waad and her husband faced the challenges of starting over— learning a new language, finding work, and building community in an unfamiliar place.
By chance, Waad joined Nedal one day for a workout at the Robert Lee YMCA. There, she discovered programs designed specifically for immigrants and refugees. More than just a place to exercise, the Y offers English learning, healthy eating, social and physical education, employment programs, and other supports that help newcomers find their way and begin to shine again.
“A flexible service like this can be powerful in helping newcomers build skills, improve their English, and foster both friendships and a sense of belonging,” shared Lizeth Escobedo, Director, Newcomers, Youth and Community Wellness.
Waad found joy, friendship, and a sense of community through YMCA BC’s Canadian Fitness Connection Program, offered in partnership with Tennis BC. After volunteering at the Stanley Park Open, she was hired by Tennis BC — an opportunity that opened the door to further learning and employment pathways at the Y.
At YMCA BC, Waad rekindled her passion for teaching others and supporting their growth, earning certifications in both personal training and early childhood education. “Back home, many of us choose university programs and start working without really thinking about what we love. When I studied English literature in Syria, I wasn’t focused on what I was truly passionate about,” she said.
Today, Waad works as an Early Childhood Educator in YMCA child care. She also leads Moving Through Menopause classes at Robert Lee YMCA—a supportive, evidence-based strength-training program helping address the gap in health and wellness support for midlife women. She was recently featured on Global News Morning Weekend talking about the program and demonstrating how to lift weight safely.
“When I started as a newcomer program participant, I never imagined I’d one day be leading YMCA classes myself. The Y gave me the tools and the confidence to help other women feel strong and supported.”
Her journey highlights how YMCA BC sparks belonging and removes barriers—helping people reach their potential while creating stronger, more resilient communities across BC.
“Sometimes,” Waad said warmly, “you just need someone to help you.”