Syed Najam Hassan, a Pakistani-Canadian living in Calgary, Canada, has received the prestigious Canadian Immigrant Empowerment Award in the Top 25 Canadian Category. This award recognizes individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the community by empowering immigrants and newcomers in the country.
Syed’s own experiences during settlement in Canada inspired him to help others facing similar challenges. He started a mission to empower immigrants and refugees by teaching them valuable skills for finding jobs, writing resumes, and preparing for interviews.
In 2018, he came up with the innovative idea of a Multicultural outdoor Street public library, which has been a huge success. He has donated and installed 32 libraries across Canada, providing a space for people to read and socialize in their native languages.
Witnessing the struggles of new immigrants and refugees in need of food, Hassan launched a Community Outdoor Food Bank in 2019. This initiative has grown to 11 more food banks, making a significant impact on the lives of many.In 2022, Syed established two Outdoor Clothing Banks, offering clothing to those in need and encouraging others to donate new clothes.
He has also conducted seminars for immigrants, organized food deliveries for isolated individuals during Covid, and carried out various initiatives like the Blessing Basket Campaign, city clean-up campaigns, free tax filing, and fresh produce distribution.
In 2018, Syed founded the non-profit organization “Love with Humanity Association” with a mission to provide love and support to those in need, regardless of their background.
For his outstanding community service, Syed Hassan has received several awards and medals, including the Immigrant Champion Award and the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal.
