Sister Sabria and about 50 volunteers hopped on a big bus and took a road trip to Ottawa for a good cause!
On my way to the event, my mind could not escape thinking about the pain of the Rohingya massacre which left a devastating impact on the country of Myanmar. My heart was saddened by the news with the estimation of 520,000 people who have been displaced as well as the parents who died and their children who are now alone and vulnerable to degenerates of societies lowlifes. I was relieved attending this dinner for which Sister Sabria Foundation and HCI Canada have come together to be a beacon of light and hope at a time it is needed most. Sister Sabria worked closely with the Malaysian government to secure two acres of land in Malaysia to construct an orphanage for the orphan refugee children from Rohingya areas. Our role model is always a great inspiration to all of us and is always the most generous soul which always puts others first and especially for those in crises and most in need. I couldn’t but be part of one of this great amazing initiative for building the orphanage because I really want to help ease the pain and the suffering of our brothers and sisters in Rohingya.
The dinner was more than what I expected and was a great turning point for me. HCI invited distinguished guests to present at the fundraiser in Ottawa. We had dignitaries from Turkey, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Kuwait and Canada coming together for a cause that touched our heart. Nothing could describe the joy of seeing the unity of different cultures and countries coming together for the same humanitarian cause at such a critical time. The stories we heard from native Rohingyan left us speechless. Doctor Raeez’s story left tears in our eyes and a message that resonates with us all. As we hear his story, we can’t stop thinking that all victims are people like you and me. They are for the most part working hard to take care of their families. They all want to do the same. They want to be able to provide for their own on their own. They want the independence to live freely without risk to their livelihood. They are not asking anything more than their basic rights of freedom, security, and protection.
As I was constantly looking around and observing the people and the attendees in the reception hall, I felt delighted. It was very heartwarming to see such a large turnout. There were over 350 people and all tables were full to capacity. Donors cry as they gave willingly throughout the night. The evening raised close to $62000.00 for the Orphanage that will be built in Malaysia for the Rohingya orphans. We heard from Doctors who were there on the ground seeing the atrocities that were happening there, and we are left to ask how this world can let this genocide happen.
Ottawa community opened their hearts and pocketbooks willing to a good cause. God bless all those who play a role in making this fundraiser such a success, no matter how small a role or how big a role. This was a moment that I was proud to be an activist and so pleased to be part of Sister Sabria Foundation.