I was born in Eritrea in 1974 and was among the top students in my country. However, due to war, I was forced into military service and spent over seven years in endless national service, unable to continue my education or build a future. Eventually, I escaped the front lines and found work with the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission. With their help, I crossed into Ethiopia, where I lived as a refugee for 17 years.

In 2021, I was resettled in Canada and began working as a housekeeper in a long-term care facility. There, I discovered a passion for caring for others and decided to become a Health Care Assistant.

I joined Sprott Shaw College’s HCAPP program in September 2024. Though the beginning was difficult, the incredible support from my instructors, the staff, and the Victoria campus director helped me succeed. I graduated in April 2025, and I now work full-time at Mount Saint Mary Hospital.

My journey has been long from war and hardship to healing and hope, but I made it!

Solomon Abreha
Health Care Assistant
Victoria Campus