In Canada, we speak many languages, come from many places, and across our differences, we look out for each other.
As we reflect on the recent release of the federal government’s latest immigration plans, we spoke to one recent newcomer to BC, Ebrahim Al-Yousef, about his journey from refugee to entrepreneur.
When violence forced Ebrahim to leave his home in Yemen, he carried with him little more than determination and the dream of a peaceful future. “I left everything behind,” he recalls. “But I believed there could be a place where I could build a life again.”
The refugee approval process required patience and courage — qualities he had already learned to rely on. Once his claim was accepted, he applied for permanent residency, hopeful that it would open the door to building a long-term future here in BC.
New measures announced in the federal government’s 2025 budget aim to streamline the process for thousands of protected persons to become permanent residents. For Ebrahim, this offers real hope — not only for himself, but for others who dream of calling Canada home.
Since arriving, Ebrahim has made remarkable progress integrating into Canadian life. A skilled software developer, he has launched his own consulting practice. He volunteers in his community to support others as they navigate settlement and employment challenges.
“Canada has been an awesome opportunity for someone like me,” he says. “I really do wish that other people would benefit too.”
“We will continue to welcome and embrace people, like Ebrahim, with incredible skills, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit,” says Jonathan Oldman, CEO at ISSofBC. ”
The latest long-term economic projections for BC forecast a deficit in labour supply over the next 10 years, even allowing for current immigration rates.
Canadians need to hear a clear and positive vision for immigration,” adds Jonathan Oldman, “and our leaders need to address the broader challenges that hold back everyone getting access to the healthcare, services, and affordable housing we all need.”
Ebrahim still misses his friends and family, but he remains optimistic. “Every day here is a chance to build something new,” he says with a smile. “It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.”
At ISSofBC, stories like Ebrahim’s remind us why our work matters — supporting newcomers and diverse communities to settle, learn, and thrive in British Columbia.
His journey is one of resilience, hope, and the promise of a better future for himself and Canada.
Every newcomer’s story is unique — and your support helps make more journeys like Ebrahim’s possible.
What can you do?
👉 Donate: please support our cause this Giving Tuesday, December 2, to make the voices of newcomers like Ebrahim heard. This holiday season, we’re raising $25,000 to support our advocacy and outreach work in 2026. The time has never been more critical.
👉 Learn more: about how ISSofBC supports refugees and diverse newcomers across BC, the latest government plans for immigration, and our call for a positive vision for Canada’s immigration future.
👉 Make your voice heard: call or message your local MP. Tell them you expect our leaders to restate the case for immigration to Canadian people.
