A program run by YWCA Metro Vancouver has connected 350 newcomer and refugee women fleeing abusive relationships with the supports and services they need to rebuild their lives.
The YWCA Axis program pairs participants with an advisor who speaks the same language as them and, in many cases, also understands the cultural differences participants must deal with.
“I decided to travel to another country to survive,” said Misha, an abuse survivor originally from Iran who CTV News has agreed to only identify by her first name.
Some of the women fled their abusive partners after arriving in Canada.
Others, like Misha, left the abuse behind in their former countries.
“I came to Canada with the help of my daughter. She invited me,” Misha said. “And I am here because I was a victim of abuse in my country by my ex-husband.”
The advisors connect participants with supports, and help them gain confidence and learn skills to enter the workforce.
Misha and her Farsi-speaking advisor Sareh Zonoobi have developed a strong bond.
“(She’s) more than a friend. Like my family,” Misha said, her face lighting up as she described the relationship. “The best of my family because she’s so kind to me and helpful to my life.”
New participants often hear about YWCA Axis from other survivors who help break the stigma that often surrounds domestic violence and abuse.
“It’s so sweet to me to see with all these existing stigmas, we can connect with women and support them and make these connections,” Zonoobi said.
In 2023, the provincial government provided $2.4 million to fund YWCA Axis for three years.
Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction Sheila Malcolmson said she hopes the program can help 500 women by the end of the third year.
Some participants start with an advisor before they’ve even escaped the abuse.
“For them, while their husband is at work, they may be doing online counselling, getting themselves ready to leave a violent situation,” said Malcolmson.
During her time in the program, Misha has gained volunteer experience working in kitchens at seniors centres – and hopes to become a professional baker.
“I have received some of her cookies. They were so delicious,” said Zonoobi, as Misha blushed and laughed – showing that she is not just surviving, but also thriving.
