Momina's Story

Momina is a Grade 11 student at Glendale Secondary school. She has deep roots in Canada but a cultural background from Pakistan, which means she’s a perfect fit as a team leader at the YMCA’s Newcomer Youth Centre. 

Momina felt like a stranger the first time she visited the NYC, but by the end of the month, that had all changed.  

“I knew nothing about the place, but I soon met many people who became important to me. The NYC helped me make connections and form friendships,” she says. "It is a place where all newcomers are welcome, where they can create new friendships and memories and feel supported by the staff or former youth who can guide them into their community," she says. 

“Everyone was always there when I needed them the most. It felt like a home away from home.”  

When asked what kind of role the YMCA has played in her life, Momina says it’s helped her grow and become a leader—quite literally. Right now, Momina is the president of her high school's Muslim Student Association (MSA). 

“I feel like the YMCA has helped me to develop as a person. It’s helped me with stress, and I've made a lot of new friends here,” she says. 

By connecting with the YMCA’s Newcomer Youth Centre, Momina was empowered to speak her mind and make a difference in the lives of others. 

“The Y has allowed me to share new ideas and let other people have their own opinions.” 

Momina is working towards 1000 volunteer hours through her work with the Newcomer Youth Centre before her graduation in 2025. She credits YMCA Staff at the NYC for always being there to support her. 

“If we’re struggling or if we’re doing something well in life, [the staff] are able to share in those experiences with us,” Momina says. 

Now, as a team leader in the Newcomer Youth Centre, Momina feels like she is doing incredibly meaningful work.

“Knowing that I can offer support and guidance to someone else, helping them navigate challenges and work towards their goals, brings a deep sense of satisfaction,” she says. 

For Momina, the mutual exchange of learning is what makes the Newcomer Youth Centre such a strong place of community. “While I'm there to help, I also gain valuable insights from the youth I interact with. Each conversation offers a new perspective and expands my understanding of different life experiences,” she says. 

“It feels like we're all growing and learning together," says Momina. 

The incredible staff at the YMCA’s Newcomer Youth Centre were the spark that ignited the potential in Momina. Now, wanting to make a positive difference in the world around her, Momina volunteers to help others just like her see that they can shine too. 

 #ShineOn #TheYSavesLives #NewcomerYouthCentre