Your support fuels resilience, leadership and change

I’ve had the privilege of mentoring hundreds of incredible youths at BGC Ottawa, and Noshwan is someone whose leadership and drive continue to inspire me.

He grew up in the Overbrook community – just steps from BGC Ottawa’s Don McGahan Clubhouse – surrounded by both challenges and a strong sense of belonging. Like many young people, he faced periods of uncertainty. But with support, guidance and grit, he discovered the leader within himself.

He once told me: “I saw childhood friends go through hard times, and many were making poor decisions. I found myself going down a path I wasn’t proud of, and I knew I needed to make a change.”

That’s when everything shifted. He poured his energy into football – and found purpose and support through regular visits to the Clubhouse.

Through programs like Homework Club, Art Now, Walk This Way and Leaders 4 Life, Noshwan connected with mentors, built lifelong friendships and found his voice. What followed was extraordinary – not because he beat the odds, but because his potential met opportunity.

This fall, Noshwan will begin studying Political Science at the University of Ottawa – taking the next step on his journey to become a changemaker.

While in high school, he co-founded the Muslim Student Association to foster belonging and inclusion. He served as Co-President of the Student Council, acted as a Student Senator and volunteered for Relay for Life – all while balancing four part-time jobs to help support his family and save for university.

As he puts it: “I’m not defined by my circumstances, but by how I choose to lead through them. My dream is to create opportunities for others like me.”

Right now, hundreds of youths like Noshwan are stepping through our Clubhouse doors. They carry big dreams, quiet worries and the determination to rise. They’re meeting with mentors, Youth Outreach Workers and Neighbourhood Ambassadors – looking for hope, encouragement and tools to build a better future.

👉 Will you be the reason they succeed this school year?

Your back-to-school gift will support:

• Healthy after-school snacks, homework help and access to technology.
• Scholarships and post-secondary planning.
• Mentorship, leadership development and career readiness programs.

At BGC Ottawa, we believe every young person has what it takes to do great things. They just need the right support – and someone who believes in them.

When you invest in their growth, you unlock not just their future – but the future of our whole community.

Please give today. Help more youth step into September with confidence, dignity and someone in their corner.

Your gift can be the reason a young person chooses hope over hardship – the reason they believe their future is worth fighting for.

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With gratitude,

Mohammed Moafak‍

Provincial Youth Outreach Worker | BGC Ottawa Alumnus

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PS: “My main goal in life is to make a positive difference in my community.” – Noshwan

Help him – and youth just like him – start the school year strong. Donate now.

PPS: For many kids, the start of school can feel overwhelming. Your gift can be the reason they feel supported, prepared and hopeful. Let’s show them they’re not alone.

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