Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC) is pleased to recognize Ahmed Abdu Idris as Volunteer of the Month for his dedication to supporting newcomers through Interpretation, front desk support, and community services.

Originally from Eritrea, Ahmed arrived in Canada in April 2026 and soon became involved with ISC. He volunteers in several areas, including one-to-one interpretation sessions, workshops, and front desk reception. Fluent in English, Arabic, Tigre, and Tigrinya, Ahmed uses his language skills to help newcomers feel welcomed and supported.

Ahmed first learned about ISC before arriving in Canada and later connected with the organization through his English language assessment and Gateway planning sessions. Drawn to ISC’s welcoming environment and settlement services, he saw volunteering as a meaningful way to make a difference.

“Volunteering with ISC allows me to give back to the community while using my language skills and experience to support newcomers.”

For Ahmed, volunteering is personal. Having lived in different countries and experienced displacement, he understands the importance of community support. Before coming to Canada, he also volunteered for seven years with St. Andrew’s Refugee Services in Egypt, supporting education, outreach, teacher training, advocacy, and refugee-led initiatives.

Through these experiences, Ahmed developed a strong belief in the talent, leadership, and resilience of refugee and newcomer communities. He describes volunteering as a source of fulfillment, inner peace, connection, and learning.

Ahmed plans to continue volunteering for as long as he can and hopes to pass these values on to his children. He encourages others to volunteer to give back, build meaningful relationships, gain experience, and support those building a new life in Canada.

Thank you, Ahmed, for your kindness, dedication, and commitment to helping newcomers feel welcomed and supported in Calgary.