Faces of WEST
Fasiha Bashir
Job Developer/Industry Placement Specialist
“I see every day in real-time what a difference we make in the lives of the people we serve, and it gives me the strength to persevere amidst all the challenges life throws at us.”
- Tell us about yourself.
I am originally from Pakistan and moved to Windsor 9 years ago to be with my husband.I have always believed and worked on the fundamental equality and empowerment of all individuals and advocating for people’s rights has been a long-life passion of mine. I started my journey when I was selected as a young Pakistani delegate to represent my country at an international leadership building camp in Maine, USA, hosted by the Seeds of Peace Organization in 2006. It was through this opportunity that I was able to address Mr. Richard A. Boucher, Deputy Secretary-General of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) USA, at the White House and discuss the conflicts happening in the region of South Asia. For a 14-year-old, that was an extremely empowering and memorable moment. From that time onwards, I have worked on the issues of social injustices across various countries, and I continue to be an advocate through my job at WEST. In my very spare time when I am not helping people find employment and when I have completed all my wifely and motherly duties, I enjoy playing video games as it gives me a break from all the stresses of the world. My favorite video game franchise is Resident Evil, especially the 4th one. - What does WEST mean to you?
WEST is a source of fulfillment for me as it allows me to express my talents, pursue my passions, and make a meaningful contribution to society. I see every day in real-time what a difference we make in the lives of the people we serve, and it gives me the strength to persevere amidst all the challenges life throws at us. It is not just my workplace, it is a place where I make connections with people, provide them guidance, and give people the skills they need to be able to become successful and contributing members of our economy. - What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
My mother-in-law took language classes at WEST when she came to Canada and as a newcomer, WEST was the only place of socializing for her. During her time at WEST, she not only improved her skills, but she also made friendships that are still thriving today. Being extremely passionate about social work and seeing the impact WEST had on my mother-in-law, I applied for the first job opportunity I saw at WEST so that I too am able to help transform people’s lives. - In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
WEST not just talks the talk, it walks the walk and its promise of helping remove barriers to employment for women is reflected in our staff, especially in leadership positions as I have yet to see more diversity in any other organization. No matter which community you belong to, there will be someone from WEST who will be able to understand you, empathize with you and help you with whatever it is that you are looking for. - What empowers you?
My children are my greatest source of empowerment and I have been gifted with both a neuro-divergent son and a neuro-typical daughter whose unconditional love, resilience, and endless curiosity inspires me to be the best version of myself not just for my family, but for all families out there.
