Acacia Henderson-Wentzell

Hello! I am Acacia, a fourth year Global Studies student at Laurier. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss ISOW with members of parliament, highlight the importance of ISOW and advocate for government support for ISOW. I appreciate this opportunity and look forward to representing ISOW in Ottawa.

Delta Collard

As an International Education Studies student who is passionate about access, representation, and equity in education, International Students Overcoming War has provided me with a unique opportunity to explore the realities of these issues in real-world contexts. Through my experiences, I have been able to engage directly with diverse people, organizations and communities, deepening my understanding of how education is shaped by cultural, political and social factors. These experiences have also broadened my perspective on the field of education itself, showing me that meaningful impact and change extends far beyond the classroom. Through ISOW, I have come to understand how education intersects with migration, policy, and global advocacy, and how I can contribute outside the classroom through research, program development, and community-based work. This trip to Ottawa is another experience that will allow me to continue building these connections, engage with new perspectives, and further develop the knowledge and skills needed to support more equitable and inclusive education programs and systems.

Nazillah Hassanzada

My name is Nazillah Hassanzada, and I am an Afghan law graduate, educator, and women's rights advocate based in Canada.

I completed my law degree in Afghanistan and worked in both governmental and private sectors. In 2023, I began teaching English online to Afghan girls, providing free education to those who lost access to school, with support of a Canadian family.

In 2024, I was introduced to FTR and the International Students Overcoming War (ISOW) initiative, and in 2025, I moved to Canada and started working as ISOW's Assistant Director of Communication and started my qualifying year in global studies at Wilfrid Laurier University. This summer, I will begin my Master's in Global Justice, Religion, and Culture. I serve as the Director of International Scholarships and Vice President of ISOW, while continuing to teach Afghan girls through online education as a part of a women's online university based in London.

My goal is simple: to use education as a tool for empowerment, justice, and change. I would never have been able to get this far without ISOW and Laurier students and faculty members, and with their continued support, I know I can reach my goal. I'm really thankful for having this much opportunity and success in just one year.

Isma Bibi

My name is Isma Bibi, a Rohingya student at Wilfrid Laurier University majoring in Global Studies with a minor in Health Studies. Growing up as part of a displaced community has deeply shaped my commitment to human rights, global justice, and international development, and strengthened my desire to better understand the world and contribute to meaningful change. I am passionate about advocating for dignity, equality, and lasting peace for marginalized communities worldwide. Through this trip to Ottawa, I look forward to engaging with inspiring leaders, sharing our voices, and advocating for meaningful change. I am especially excited about the possibility of meeting the Prime Minister of Canada and learning how leadership and policy can help build a more just and peaceful world.

Jaron Bowman

Jaron is an alumnus of the International Education Studies program at Laurier and is currently working to attain his Bachelor of Education. The same passion for people that drew him to the teaching profession has been the driving force behind his involvement with ISOW over the years. He loves helping others become the best they can be. During ISOW’s trip to Ottawa, Jaron is excited to build connections with politicians and civil servants who share his passion for people and are able to use their platform to make a difference in people’s lives.

Aung Kyaw Hlaing

Aung Kyaw Hlaing is an ISOW Scholar from Myanmar and a third-year Global Studies student at Wilfrid Laurier University. Currently serving as the ISOW Photographer for the 2025-2026 academic year, Aung has leveraged his role to build meaningful connections across the Laurier faculty, staff, and student body. His work with ISOW has facilitated high-level engagement with key political figures, including Bardish Chagger, Tim Louis, and Kelly DeRidder. These experiences have fostered a deep appreciation for collaborative governance and community support. In April 2026, Aung will join the ISOW Team for a three-day delegation to Ottawa. This trip involves strategic meetings with Members of Parliament and various political stakeholders. Aung views this upcoming advocacy trip as a vital opportunity to strengthen the bridge between student-led international initiatives and national policymakers, ensuring a mutually valuable exchange for all involved.

Khin Mar Cho 

My name is Ma Khin Mar Cho, and I am a young Rohingya woman from Northern Rakhine State, Myanmar. I am currently a first-year student in the Faculty of Arts at Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in International Education Studies. As someone who grew up amid conflict, displacement, and restrictions on education, I have gained firsthand experience into how access to quality education can transform lives. I am excited about this trip as an opportunity to share our mission and build meaningful connections.

Sharmaine Lichty

My name is Sharmaine, and I am a fourth-year undergraduate studying History and English. I am looking forward to meeting and networking with professionals in Ottawa. I enjoy sharing ISOW and our work and receiving feedback that helps us build our programs. Previously, I have been a part of meetings that have significantly shaped my work in ISOW, and I want to continue contributing to the exciting development and sharing of ideas that makes ISOW unique.

Parmida Rahbar

My name is Parmida Rahbar, a Communication Studies student at Wilfrid Laurier University. Through my work with ISOW, I have become passionate about advocacy, policy making, and creating meaningful change for students affected by war and displacement. I am most looking forward to the Ottawa trip as it is an opportunity to speak directly with various MPs and political leaders, raise awareness about ISOW’s mission, and advocate for stronger support for international and displaced students. I am also excited to represent our organization and be part of conversations that can lead to true impact.

Munira Quraishi

Munira Quraishi is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Health Sciences in Canada and is a trained medical doctor from Afghanistan. She has experience working in both government and non-governmental organizations, where she provided medical care and supported communities during critical periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to her healthcare work, Munira has been actively involved in education and scholarship-related initiatives. She has supported programs that promote access to education for individuals affected by conflict and displacement, reflecting her commitment not only to health, but also to empowerment through learning. Through her work in Afghanistan, Munira developed strong clinical skills and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Her experience across both health and education sectors has shaped her dedication to addressing inequality and supporting community development. Now studying at Wilfrid Laurier University, Munira is expanding her knowledge in Health Sciences while gaining experience within the Canadian academic system. She has also contributed as a research and teaching assistant, strengthening her skills in research, communication, and collaboration.

Munira’s journey reflects resilience, dedication, and a strong commitment to service. She aims to contribute her combined experience in health and education to support inclusive systems and to build a meaningful professional future in Canada.

Erica Reppo

My name is Erica and I am studying Economics and Financial Management here at Laurier! I am currently at the end of my third year of studies and I have been part of ISOW for two years. I am excited to speak about ISOW, our mission and global issues to a new audience in Ottawa, and I am interested to hear the viewpoints from the seasoned professionals that we will meet. Additionally, I look forward to spending some good time with our team! 

Jill Tomlin

Hello, my name is Jill Tomlin. I am a program assistant with ISOW and am currently in my first year of the Bachelor of Education program at Laurier. I am looking forward to meeting with various MPs during our time in Ottawa to advocate for the important work that ISOW is doing.

Zin Thi

I’m Zin Thi, a first-year International Education Studies student and I’m especially interested in advocacy and engaging with policy discussions. For the Ottawa trip, I’m excited to meet with politicians, advocate for ISOW’s initiatives, and gain insight into how government processes work. I’m also looking forward to exploring Ottawa and learning from these meaningful interactions.

Maheen Shah

My name is Maheen Shah, and I am a second-year student at Wilfrid Laurier University, pursuing a double major in Global Studies and Political Science. My academic interests focus on international law, global conflict, and questions of justice, particularly how systems of power shape lived experiences.

Beyond my studies, I am involved with International Students Overcoming War (ISOW), where I support initiatives that expand access to education for students affected by conflict and displacement. This work has deepened my commitment to advocacy and reinforced my belief in education as a tool for meaningful change.I am looking forward to engaging in important conversations in Ottawa and contributing to a space centered on learning, collaboration, and impact.