Women RISE Toronto Campaign

By Sreya Tahsin

My name is Sreya Tahsin, and I am a recent graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University, where I majored in criminology. This field represents more than just academic interest to me—it embodies my passions for understanding law, addressing crime, and fostering social advocacy. These threads of curiosity and commitment run through every aspect of my journey, shaping both my current work and my aspirations for the future.

Currently, I serve as a research assistant for Dr. Sui Sui, focusing on Indigenous entrepreneurship. This role allows me to bring my passion for community building into a space where law, business, and advocacy intersect. My work examines colonial impacts and the challenges of economic sovereignty, helping to drive forward conversations that matter. But as much as I love research, I crave connection with a community of like-minded women. That’s why I joined the Women RISE program at Bangladeshi-Canadian Community Services (BCS)—to share, learn, and grow with other women of color. The mutual support and empowerment we offer each other remind me that we are stronger together.

Dreaming Big: Becoming a Lawyer and Making Justice Accessible

One of my greatest dreams is to become a lawyer in Canada. This ambition isn’t just about achieving a professional milestone—it’s about creating a life dedicated to learning, advocating, and uplifting others. ​​I knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue law. Growing up, I witnessed the unjust malpractices my family faced because of our economic status. These experiences fueled my passion, which only grew stronger over time through my work in law firms and law-focused classes. The challenge of entering the legal field excites me because it pushes me to grow, develop discipline, and maintain focus.

I envision a career where I can combine pro bono legal work with meaningful advocacy for underprivileged families. Justice should not be a privilege reserved for a few; it should be accessible to all. By helping others navigate the legal system, I hope to give back to my community while honoring the sacrifices my family made for me to reach this point. On a personal level, achieving this dream would also allow me to heal the generational financial hardships my parents faced as immigrants, bringing their hard work full circle.

Barriers: Navigating Challenges as a Woman of Color

Growing up as a woman of color in a multicultural environment gave me both opportunities and challenges. While I have been fortunate to avoid overt discrimination, I often find myself underestimated in professional settings. Networking events, for example, can be intimidating when my voice is overlooked, and job interviews sometimes leave me feeling like I haven’t had the space to fully articulate my potential.

Although I immigrated at a young age, I have witnessed the challenges my parents faced as newcomers. Language barriers, cultural nuances, and the need to adapt to an entirely new system made their journey difficult, despite their education and English proficiency. Their resilience inspires me to push through my own challenges and to advocate for systems that better support immigrants and women of color.

This is why I deeply value programs like Women RISE. They create safe, inclusive spaces where women can ask questions, learn, and grow without fear of judgment. Women RISE provides the support I wish my parents had when they first arrived in Canada, and it reminds me of the importance of community in overcoming barriers.

Action and Advocacy: Creating Change Step by Step

I firmly believe that change begins with individual action and grows through collective effort. In university, I was part of Women of Colour in Law, a group dedicated to supporting aspiring women lawyers. We provided resources such as LSAT preparation and mentorship networks, ensuring that members had access to the tools they needed to succeed. As a first-generation student, I know how difficult it can be to navigate these spaces alone, which is why I prioritized creating a welcoming environment where others could thrive.

Currently, I am collaborating with BacharLorai to design youth workshops on economic literacy. This project ties into my larger goal of empowering women of color and young people by equipping them with the skills they need to take charge of their futures. On a systemic level, my research into Indigenous entrepreneurship addresses the lasting impacts of colonial policies like the Indian Act. By highlighting these issues, I hope to inspire policy changes and encourage others to rethink how we approach economic and social justice.

Women RISE: A Catalyst for Growth and Community

Women RISE has reignited my commitment to creating change, not just for myself but for the wider community. Through this program, I’ve been inspired by feminist leaders who have transformed their struggles into sources of strength, writing books and leading movements. Their stories remind me that every challenge I face is a step toward personal growth and resilience.

This experience has taught me the power of mentorship and the importance of showing up for others. Whether it’s through my research, workshops, or everyday interactions, I aim to continue breaking down barriers and building bridges for women of color. Women RISE has shown me that confidence is the foundation of success, and it’s a gift I hope to pass on to others.

As I move forward, I carry with me the lessons of Women RISE: resilience, community, and the belief that change begins with us. Together, we can create a future where every woman, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.

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