Country of origin: Philippines

Year of arrival to Canada: 2011

Languages spoken: Tagalog, English

Interests: Pop culture, politics, volleyball and karaoke

To make an impact and be a change to my community. Most especially, having my voice heard for all refugees through decision making and planning.

Why did you choose to be a member of SYNC?

I chose to be a member of SYNC because I wanted to help establish a tight-knit community of youth newcomers in Surrey that can:

• Provide a sense of belonging and peer-to-peer support to youth newcomers in the city
• Advocate for each other on legal, political and social issues affecting youth newcomers
• Empower each other by sharing knowledge and resources that can maximize the potential of youth newcomers in Surrey and allow them to contribute to our community in whatever way they choose to

Country of Origin: India

Year of Arrival: 2017

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Punjabi

Why did you choose to be a member of SYNC?

I joined SYNC because I wanted to be more involved in my community and offer a sense of belonging to newcomers in Surrey.

In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges impacting newcomer youth in Surrey?

I believe that the language barrier is a big issue. It is holding back newcomers from much of what Surrey has to offer.

What is your vision for Surrey?

I see Surrey as an inclusive city where people from all cultures and backgrounds can find a place for themselves.

School: Langara College

Interests: film, photography, fashion, community service

School: Frank Hurt

Year: Grade 12

Interests: Concerts, cooking, playing clarinet

Nargis Babrakzai is currently studying at the Western Community College and is also enrolled in a social science undergraduate degree program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. She came to Canada as an immigrant in 2015. Since then, she has volunteered and worked in different programs and non-profit organizations. Her most recent leadership experience involved working as the Surrey Refugee Youth Team Co-chair.

Nargis is graduate of the eight-month Youth Public Policy Program hosted by Vancouver Foundation. Nargis is passionate about education and community development. She would like to continue working in roles to serve community. Her aim is to be one of many newcomer youth voices at government level.