1. Tell us about yourself.
My name is Arezo Anwari, and I’m a vibrant 20-year-old with a passion for both sports and creativity. I’ve been living here for almost two years, and I’m currently an honours student at Catholic Central High School.

When I’m not studying, you can find me engaging in my two favorite hobbies: playing sports and tailoring. My passion for sports is evident in my energetic and competitive nature. I love staying active, whether it’s playing soccer, basketball, or volleyball. My dedication to outdoor and teamwork has made me a valuable asset to my sports teams, and I am always up for a challenge.

In contrast, my tailoring hobby showcases my artistic side. I find solace in creating something from scratch, carefully stitching together fabrics to bring my designs to life. My attention to detail and creativity have resulted in stunning pieces that showcase my talent.

I joined the WEST Youth Program in January 2023, and as a volunteer it was my pleasures to be part of the team and work for people to help them during their journey.

My diverse interests and skills make me a unique and well-rounded individual. My positivity, enthusiasm, and determination inspire those around me, and I am always willing to lend a helping hand or offer support. With my multifaceted personality, I am sure to achieve great things in all aspects of my life.

2. What does WEST mean to you?
WEST has so much meaning for me and I cannot summarize it in a paragraph but it is a place for “empowerment”, a platform to unlock our potential and break free from limitations. Another meaning of WEST to me is “supportive community” – a network of like-minded women who understand and uplift each other. Also, “personal growth” meaning a journey of self-discovery and development, helping you grow in confidence and self-belief. “Entrepreneurial Spirit” as it is a hub for women to explore their business ideas and turn them into reality. Lastly, “resilience” since it is a safe space to face challenges and overcome obstacles with courage and determination. It provides “opportunities” access to resources, mentorship, and training to help you achieve your dreams. It also provides “sisterhood”– a sense of belonging to a community that celebrates women’s strengths and successes. And it means a “catalyst for positive change,” helping you become the best version of yourself.

3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
I got involved with Women’s Enterprise Skills Training (WEST) of Windsor because I was seeking a supportive community to help me grow my business and overcome personal challenges. WEST’s holistic approach, which combines business training with personal development and mentorship, resonated with me. Through WEST, I gained confidence, clarity, and a network of like-minded women who understand the unique challenges we face.

4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
What sets WEST apart is its focus on empowering women to break free from limiting beliefs and societal expectations, allowing us to tap into our full potential.

5. In your experience, what are some key challenges faced by participants, and how does WEST effectively address them?
Participants often face challenges like self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and lack of resources, but WEST effectively addresses these through workshops, coaching, and peer support.

6. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you have gained that you would like to share with others?
My journey with WEST taught me the importance of self-care and self-compassion in achieving success.

7. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
My advice to women striving to achieve their dreams is to embrace our uniqueness, trust our instincts, and surround ourselves with people who uplift and support us. Remember, our dreams are worth fighting for, and with the right mindset and support, we can achieve anything we set our mind to and WEST is the best place to make those dreams come true.