BridgeTO Youth Superstars: Nastaxa
We are excited to introduce snapshots of some of our remarkable students from the BridgeTO graduating class of 2020. They have not only mapped out their dreams into actionable goals but have begun to take their first steps to achieve them. This Summer 2020, will be highlighting a few who have generously shared their stories with us in order to better reflect who we serve, who you are helping with your donations, and to motivate our future students.
Comedian Turned Scientist
Nastaxa, BridgeTO's exclusive in-house comedian, has accepted her offer to York University’s Science program where she aspires to obtain a career in the Biomedical field to nurture her passion for community service and science education. But finding the pathway to a successful future wasn’t smooth sailing for Natasxa and required immense perseverance and self-evaluation, both of which were developed through her endearing time with BridgeTO.
When Natasxa joined BridgeTO in Grade 11, the organization was just blooming as a small tutoring service supporting her with Math and Chemistry subjects. At the time, doubtful and unsure, she was struggling to envision her future but did consider a medical career making vaccines or supporting the development of medicinal inventions.
Amal, BridgeTO’s first Science tutor, supported Natasxa with subjects she had difficulty in, later overcoming triumphantly. In December 2019, BridgeTO was invited to Roche Pharma Canada for the launch of their STEM initiative. This was Nastaxa’s exciting opportunity to not only learn more about the STEM industry but to accompany her tutor and mentor, Amal, to her workplace. At Roche, Nastaxa discovered the diversity of the pharmaceutical industry and the excitement that accompanies it:
“The trip helped me realize that what other people were doing, was what I could see myself doing in a few years”.
Additionally in the fall of 2019, Natasxa attended the MAX Scholarship Reception where well-rounded High School and University students were awarded for contributing to their communities and achieving excellence in their academics. Here, Nastaxa had the unique opportunity to converse with accomplished nurses and physicians, and for the first time envisioning her potential as a Muslim scientist.
Along with this exhilarant self-discovery, Natasxa transformed from a shy, self-critical student to an outgoing member of the community. Her companionship with Sammer, the founder of BridgeTO, provided her with a place of solace where she openly discussed her struggles, dreams, passions, and fears.
“There is no disconnect between the tutors and the tutees in BridgeTO. We are in a comfortable and safe space.”
Natasxa is amongst the most dedicated students of the program and is astoundedly grateful for the exciting opportunities that she has accessed. Yet, Natasxa also emphasizes that BridgeTO is not merely a tutoring program:
“BridgeTO’s Ramadan iftars have been a huge help at this time during the pandemic. Groceries have been an incredible hassle with the long lines and the way BridgeTO and Sammer have helped us: it's indescribable, unbelievable, and it left us speechless”
Her gratitude for BridgeTO inspires her advice for new students:
“Do not be afraid to ask for help. Until, probably this year, I never asked for anything. Nothing wrong can come out of it, you have to be unafraid. We all need help sometimes and there is no shame in admitting it.”
BridgeTO works to not only provide students like Natasxa with purpose and confidence but offer a better quality of life.
So as Natasxa ventures off to her post-secondary journey don't be surprised to hear: BREAKING - Somali Scientist Discovers the COVID-19 Vaccine!