Volunteer

Volunteer of the Month

Fatima Saqib

Fatima Saqib is currently studying Human Nutritional Sciences at the University of Manitoba. She has been volunteering with the Nutrition Services department at the Immigrant Centre since October 2020. In addition to the Centre, Fatima also enjoys volunteering at a daycare, and a hospital surgical department. 

Fatima found the Immigrant Centre while searching online for opportunities for experience that were similar to what she was learning in school. She chose to volunteer with the Immigrant Centre as she connected with the fact that the Centre helps newcomers. Coming to Canada as an immigrant, she understands the language barriers that newcomers encounter, and found that the Nutrition Services department allowed newcomers the opportunity to learn English in a unique way. This volunteer position fits her love for nutrition and food, and is an opportunity for her to help newcomers overcome barriers that she has encountered.

The volunteer work that Fatima is engaged in, has allowed her to observe the determination of the clients. During one session for example, a client was having difficulty with chopping a vegetable but did not want help. The client wanted to try something new on their own, which is very hard for many people. Volunteering with Nutrition Services has also allowed Fatima to apply what she has been learning in school, and how to practically apply the theory she has learned through books; e.g. when the Nutrition Services Manager is explaining to the clients the nutritional aspect of foods. 

Overall, Fatima has enjoyed her time volunteering at the Immigrant Centre. She likes the interactive aspect with the clients that the Nutrition program offers, and the opportunity to enjoy the experience alongside the clients. “Everyone is super nice. Brianna, (Nutrition Services Manager) has been really nice as well and has made it easy to volunteer.” 

Written by Manjot Mann