Syrian student ready to share story of journey to Canada with UN

Basel Alrashdan is preparing to share the story of his family's journey from Syria when he speaks at the United Nations in New York on Universal Children's Day on Nov. 20. 

The 12-year-old Charlottetown resident came to P.E.I. with his family in December 2015.

Alrashdan told CBC News: Compass he was six years old when he left Syria and listed a few areas he lived in but had to leave because they weren't safe. 

"We moved to Jordan and lived there for two years and eight months and then there were some people who called us and asked us if we wanted to go to Canada." 

Adjusted to Canada

Alrashdan said after thinking about it the family agreed and a month later they were on their way. 

The P.E.I. Newcomers Association were contacted by UNICEF for someone to speak and executive director Craig Mackie said they suggested Alrashdan would do a great job telling the story of how he and his family have adjusted. 

"He won an award at the heritage fair last year for telling this very story," said Mackie. 

• Syrian refugee family approaching landmark date on P.E.I.
• 'There's no limit for your dreams:' Syrian family finds home in P.E.I.

The executive director said the crew from UNICEF visiting the Island to make a documentary were so impressed with Alrashdan and his ability to describe his journey from Syria, as well as his enthusiasm for Canada, that they invited him to speak at the UN. 

"I'm really nervous and I'm pretty excited," said Alrashdan.

When asked to describe a typical day for himself at school, the Grade 7 student said, "It's just awesome. It's perfect. People aren't racist."

"We live here and it's safe."  

• MORE P.E.I. NEWS | Charlottetown musician seeks clarity on busking rules
• MORE P.E.I. NEWS | 'He's just hanging out': Dolphin swimming around Mount Stewart