Zebib came from Eritrea to Edmonton in Spring 2024. Her first weeks here were about getting to know her new home and spending time with her husband, who had arrived in Edmonton first, ” it’s better together,” she says with a smile. It was her husband who took her to CCI-LEX for the first time. She knew she wanted to study English to improve her language skills and communicate with others.
On her first day at CCI-LEX, Zebib found it a great place, full of understanding and respect for others. “CCI-LEX is my second home”, she proudly says after being part of the LEX program for several terms. Now as an Intermediate level student, she has found that speaking and writing are her favourite in class activities, while outside of the classroom she enjoys CCI-LEX’s volunteer activities that allow her to give back to the community.
“One of the most exciting things at CCI-LEX for me were the announcements, it showed the volunteer activities, always showing the value [of volunteering]”. These experiences have been very valuable to Zebib, as they gave her an idea about what it’s like to be part of a work environment in Canada, while she also contributed to helping others and could puta smile on their faces.
For Zebib it is very hard to put into words how thankful she is for this experience, about her time at CCI-LEX, the impact it has had on her life, and the great experience it is to be in a place surrounded by kind people when you are a newcomer.
She is very grateful for the work of Gabi – our Student Events Coordinator and teacher – who has been very understanding of Zebib’s needs as a newcomer. The many volunteer activities Gabi plans for our students have provided Zebib the chance to prove her skills and even receive a letter of reference for her efforts.
Part of her new beginning in Edmonton has been part of CCI-LEX, so she wants to continue being part of this community. Thinking about the future and how she would like to volunteer or keep being part of our activities she says, “I will continue in CCI-LEX for a long time!”