On the Radar
RADAR | THE LOCALER
A Newcomer’s Compass
He arrived alone and now helps refugees find their way in Canada.
By Bob Nelson
SETTLING INTO A NEW COMMUNITY can be an emotional experience at the best of times. But how about doing it alone, as a newcomer to Canada and with no friends or family by your side? This was Abbas Faramarz’s experience when the 25-year-old arrived from Kabul, Afghanistan, in August of 2024. With the help of the Bridges Niagara Immigrant and Refugee Service in St. Catharines, Faramarz set about integrating into his new setting the best way he knew how — by volunteering. “I had to find a way to feel connected and meet new people in the community,” he says. Mission accomplished, clearly, because just one year later, he has made such a positive impact on others in need that he has received the 2025 Mayor’s Volunteer of the Year Award.
It’s not that Faramarz wanted to leave his home in Kabul — his mother and sister are still there — but he felt unsafe under Taliban rule. He studied communications and journalism at university, and he taught himself English. “Volunteering is not something I gained interest in only in Canada,” he says. Back in Kabul, he dedicated two days a week to helping women learn to read and write. “Life is not all about making money and going to work, day in, day out,” he says. “You have to help others as much as you can, and the best way is volunteering — it’s a win-win situation.” Faramarz plans to move into health care services, a natural progression for someone with such a big heart. As he likes to say: “Small actions can make a big difference.”
In one year, Abbas Faramarz went from newcomer to volunteer of the year. | PHOTO: JASON HAYWOOD
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond? We’d love to hear about them. Email us your nominations and they could be our featured Localer in an upcoming issue.
RADAR | PLAYLIST
What Songs Do You Road Trip To, Terra Lightfoot?
PROPELLED BY AN EXQUISITE VOICE, Waterdown-born Terra Lightfoot creates vivid compositions that tell life’s stories, big and small. (Though if your local brick-and-mortar record shop doesn’t have a section for that, check in “pop-rock.”) It’s no surprise the celebrated, globe-trotting performer digs deep into the proverbial crates before hitting the road. “These are a few of my top tracks for driving no matter the weather, and this playlist is a perfect recipe to put myself in a good mood,” she says. “There are a few great Canadian artists on this list that you won't want to miss, and feel free to play these in order, as I made this list just for you!” –Kim Hughes
PHOTO: COURTESY OF LYLE BELL
We are providing a preview of the artist’s playlist. The full playlist can be experienced directly on Spotify with a free account. Songs may not be appropriate for everyone. Listener discretion is advised.