GGP Client Shares What Ramadan Means to Her
Hiba moved to Canada in August of 2024 and was immediately fascinated by its natural beauty and vibrant colours. Hiba was born in Lebanon and is half-Syrian and half-Sudanese. Her first seven months in Canada have been smoother than she anticipated initially, despite the challenges that have occurred throughout her journey. The most significant obstacles for Hiba were adapting to cultural differences, being away from her loved ones, and starting a new life in a new location. Hiba says, “adjusting to the cold was an interesting experience; every day felt like a project, trying to figure out the right amount of layering, only to accept that no matter what I wore, I’d still be cold!”
In her first few weeks in Canada, Hiba was overwhelmed with anxiety, wondering how she would adapt to life on her own, how she would take care of her mother who does not speak English, and how she would navigate the unfamiliar Canadian system. Hiba notes, “GGP eased my worries and fears when I arrived in Saskatoon. Thankfully, I was fortunate to have one of the best counsellors, who has supported my mother and me every step of the way, guiding us and providing us with the knowledge we need. One of the things I appreciate most about GGP is the developmental opportunities it offers its people and the effort it puts into integrating them into society. Whether through training programs or other initiatives, GGP has had a significant impact on my personal growth, and I have learned a lot.”
One thing Hiba learned when coming to Canada is that this country is not how it is portrayed on television. “It comes with both positive experiences and challenges, and I’ve come to understand this through both easy and difficult lessons,” Hiba says. One piece of advice Hiba would wholeheartedly give to fellow newcomers is “to stay strong. It’s okay to fail sometimes, to feel weak, and even to start over. Through it all, be kind to yourself, hold onto hope, and set a goal to work toward. Remind yourself of it daily and stay committed to achieving it. Also, always remember that Canada is a country full of opportunities, so take advantage of every single one given to you.”
Currently, Hiba stays busy with interpretation work, volunteering with different organizations, and applying for diploma and master’s programs. She also makes time to visit with the people she and her mother have connected with since living in Saskatoon. Additionally, Hiba is “learning to appreciate winter, enjoy its beauty, and take part in both indoor and outdoor sports.”
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims observe this month with fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. In 2025, Ramadan began on the evening of February 28 and is expected to end on the evening of March 30, depending on the sightings of the moon. The end of Ramadan marks the beginning of Eid al-Fitr, a three-day celebration.
For Hiba, Ramadan is more than just a month of fasting. “It’s a time of spiritual reflection and self-discipline. It’s about strengthening my connection with God, practicing gratitude, and being mindful of those who are less fortunate.” Beyond the personal aspect, Hiba says, “Ramadan is also about togetherness, and I’m grateful to have experienced that in Saskatoon. Sharing iftar with the family and friends we’ve met, feeling the unity within the community, and embracing acts of kindness make this time deeply meaningful to me. One reminder I hold close is to slow down, reset, and focus on what truly matters in God’s eyes, faith, compassion for myself and others, and continuous self-improvement.”
Hiba recognizes that Eid back home was and will be different from how it looks in Saskatoon. Hiba notes, however, “I believe that at its core, the joy of Eid remains the same, and even with new people we meet, it brings a unique and special feeling each year.” In Hiba’s family, “Eid begins with early morning prayers, followed by heartfelt calls and messages to loved ones back home. We dress in our best clothes, exchange warm wishes, and enjoy a festive meal together. Back home, visiting relatives and neighbours was a big part of our celebrations, but here in Saskatoon, we’ve found joy in creating new traditions, whether it’s gathering with friends, sharing meals, or participating in community events. And of course, above all, Eid is about gratitude, togetherness, and spreading happiness, no matter where we are.”
One thing that Hiba believes that people who do not observe Ramadan should know is that it is not just about abstaining from food and drink—it’s a deeply spiritual and reflective time. Hiba says, “fasting is a way to practice self-discipline, strengthen our connection with God, and develop empathy for those who struggle with hunger daily, and that is why I believe that the needy shouldn’t be in mind only but also reach them out in action.” Ramadan is “also a time of community and generosity, where families and friends come together for iftar, and acts of charity and kindness are highly encouraged. It is beautiful to always remember that Ramadan is about more than physical fasting; it’s about purifying the heart, in actions and faith.”
