Women RISE Toronto Campaign

By Iffat Ammatul

My name is Iffat Ammatul, I am 19 years old, and I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science at the University of Waterloo. I’m deeply passionate about healthcare, community building, and empowering others through education and advocacy. Witnessing language barriers, socioeconomic challenges, limited access to healthcare and its disproportionate effect on individuals in my community ignited my determination to bridge these gaps. These passions have shaped my academic pursuits and my commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

As a full-time student, my days are a careful balancing act. Beyond my coursework, I volunteer for campus organizations and community initiatives that focus on well-being and empowerment. These experiences fuel my drive to contribute positively to the world around me. Joining the Women RISE program at Bangladeshi-Canadian Community Services (BCS) was a natural extension of this mission. I wanted to connect with a diverse community of women who are equally committed to fostering resilience and creating opportunities for growth.

Building a Dream in Healthcare

My career aspirations are rooted in a desire to bring meaningful change to the healthcare field. While I’m still exploring specific pathways, I envision myself working in a setting where I can combine advocacy and action, particularly for communities that are often underserved.

I dream of becoming a leader in my field—someone who not only delivers quality care but also creates systemic changes that make healthcare more inclusive and accessible. Achieving these goals will allow me to find personal fulfillment, support my family, and positively impact the broader community. I see financial independence not just as a personal milestone but as a tool to give back, inspire others, and empower those who feel unseen.

Navigating a Path Filled with Barriers

As a Bangladeshi-Canadian Muslim woman, my intersecting identities have profoundly influenced my experiences, shaping both opportunities and challenges. Microaggressions and racism—whether in professional settings or public spaces—have made it clear how systemic biases can create barriers that are often invisible but deeply felt.

Being a first-generation student brings its own unique challenges. Unlike peers who have established networks or mentors to guide them, I often feel like I’m navigating this journey alone. Building professional connections is an uphill battle, requiring extra effort and resilience. This isolation can be overwhelming, but it’s also a reminder of how vital it is to create spaces for support and mentorship.

Breaking Barriers Through Action

To address these challenges, I’m taking proactive steps to forge my path. Through Women RISE, I’ve found a supportive community that not only inspires me but also provides tools and strategies for overcoming shared barriers. Attending workshops, participating in peer discussions, and building connections through this program have been transformative.

Beyond personal growth, I’m committed to creating systemic change. I aim to advocate for inclusive hiring practices, raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by racialized immigrant women, and push for policies that prioritize equity. Engaging with HR professionals and employers is essential to this effort, as is sharing my story to highlight the need for change.

Mentorship has become a cornerstone of my approach. I am determined to be the mentor I didn’t have, offering guidance and support to other young women navigating similar journeys. Whether it’s through one-on-one conversations or collective advocacy, I want to be a resource for others and help them feel empowered to succeed.

A Future Built on Resilience

Living in a diverse community has shown me the power of connection and the importance of lifting each other up. The Women RISE program has been a turning point in my journey, strengthening my resilience and determination to rise above barriers. Through this program, I’ve gained not just skills and knowledge but also a network of inspiring women who remind me of the collective power we hold.

I see this journey as just the beginning. I am filled with hope and conviction as I continue working toward my goals—both individually and collectively. My vision is to build an equitable future where all women, regardless of their background, have access to opportunities, mentorship, and support. Together, we can create a culture of empowerment, growth, and resilience that leaves no one behind.

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