From Pakistan to Canada: An Inspiring Immigrant Success Story

Amna Iqbal, co-founder of Healthy Muslim Families (HMF), has dedicated her life to helping immigrants navigate the Canadian system. Originally from Pakistan, Amna moved to Canada in 2008 with her husband and their 18-month-old son. With a background in commerce and business administration, she quickly became a key figure in Winnipeg, empowering women, seniors, and children through a variety of community initiatives.

Reflecting on her move to Canada, Amna described it as a significant change, filled with excitement and challenges. "Immigration means change, and change is never easy," she said. She recalled the early days of adjusting to life in a new country, from the joy of seeing snow for the first time to the challenges of finding resources and signing leases without the support system she had in Pakistan.

Even with some connections in Canada, the transition was difficult. "You need a lot of moral support… buying the necessary furniture, managing your finances," she shared. Amna emphasized the crucial role of community support in helping her family settle. She recounted the struggles of locating halal grocery stores and managing the daily logistics of life in a new environment.

One of the first cultural shocks she experienced was the friendliness of strangers. "I was walking on the pathway, and two people smiled at me as they passed by. I realized that's a part of the culture here." This small gesture made her feel welcomed and helped her adapt more comfortably to her new surroundings.

Amna stressed that adapting to a new country demands immense effort and resilience. "It challenges your confidence, your skills, your life experiences… it takes everything," she noted. She attributed her success to the support system she had both in Canada and Pakistan, saying, "It takes a village to raise a child, and that sentiment applies to everyone at any age."

Her involvement in community volunteering led to the creation of Healthy Muslim Families. As the director of programs at HMF, Amna has played a pivotal role in launching initiatives that uplift diverse community groups. She also remains actively involved in the ICNA Sisters' Organization, underscoring her ongoing commitment to service.

Looking back, Amna expressed a deep sense of fulfillment and gratitude. "I'm happy with who I am now," she said, acknowledging the impact of her experiences and the support she received along the way. Despite the challenges, her journey highlights the resilience and strength of immigrants as they build new lives in a foreign land.

Amna Iqbal's story is an inspiring example of how determination, community support, and cultural adaptation can lead to both personal and collective success. Her work with HMF continues to have a significant impact on the lives of immigrants in Canada, demonstrating that with the right support, any challenge can be overcome.