From Refugees to Canadian Citizens, with Maple Grove’s Help

The Al Balkhis Family, getting their Canadian citizenships

The Al Balkhi family became Canadian citizens on Monday, March 28th via a Zoom citizenship ceremony. They cut up their permanent residency cards on camera, swore the oath and sang “O Canada”. The ceremony was followed by cake, cookies and hot tea.

The Al Balkhis were the first Middle Eastern refugee family sponsored by Maple Grove United Church. Mom, Nadia, studied hard and got 20 out of 20 on her test, much to the joy of the Outreach team. Asyad has graduated from his construction management diploma course, still works for Daniels Corporation, and is starting his own home renovation business on the side. Aslan, graduated with a business diploma from Sheridan in accounting and is now doing sales for Branthaven Homes. Mohammad, now known as Mo, is graduating in computer science from Sheridan College in April. Aosam is studying optometry assistantship at Seneca and hopes to design eyeglasses, and Shahad is studying architectural design at Sheridan. Riad is driving Uber and enjoying the good life here in Canada. They all seem very happy.

They still live in the townhouse the synagogue found for them in Mississauga, but now they have new furniture they chose themselves and their home is looking very attractive.