Amna Iqbal, co-founder of Healthy Muslim Families (HMF), has devoted her life to easing the transition for immigrants into the Canadian system. Originally from Pakistan, Amna moved to Canada in 2008 with her husband and their 18-month-old son. With a background in commerce and business administration, she quickly emerged as a key figure in the Winnipeg community, where she has been empowering women, seniors, and children through various initiatives.

Reflecting on her move to Canada, Amna described it as a transformative experience filled with excitement and challenges. "Immigration means change, and change is never easy," she said. She vividly recalled her initial days in Canada, from the joy of witnessing snowfall for the first time to the daunting task of navigating a new country without the familiar support system she had left behind in Pakistan.

"Even though I had some connections here, the transition was still tough," Amna shared. "You need a lot of moral support—buying the necessary furniture, managing your finances, and simply adapting to a new way of life." She stressed the crucial role community support played in helping her family settle down, noting the early challenges of finding halal grocery stores and managing daily life logistics in a foreign land.

One of the most striking cultural differences Amna encountered was the friendliness of strangers. "I was walking on the pathway, and two people walking toward me smiled. I realized that's the culture here," she recalled. This small gesture of warmth made her feel welcomed and significantly eased her adjustment to her new environment.

Amna emphasized that adapting to a new country requires immense effort and resilience. "It takes your confidence, your skills, your life experiences… it takes everything," she said, underscoring the magnitude of the change. She credited her successful adaptation to the strong support systems she had both in Canada and Pakistan. "It takes a village to raise a child, and that phrase applies to everyone at any age," she added.

Her involvement in the local volunteer community eventually led to the founding of Healthy Muslim Families. As the Director of Programs at HMF, Amna has played an instrumental role in creating and implementing initiatives that empower various community groups, particularly women, seniors, and children. The organization's programs range from providing mental health support and educational workshops to offering resources for newly arrived immigrants. These efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of many in the Muslim community and beyond.

In addition to her work with HMF, Amna remains active in the ICNA Sisters' Organization, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to community service. Her dedication to helping others extends beyond her professional responsibilities, as she continues to mentor and support those navigating the complexities of immigration and integration.

Looking back on her journey, Amna expressed a deep sense of fulfillment and gratitude. "I'm happy with where I am now," she reflected, acknowledging the combined influence of her past experiences and the support she received along the way. Despite the many challenges she faced, Amna's story is a testament to the resilience and strength of immigrants as they build new lives in a foreign land.

Amna Iqbal's journey is an inspiring example of how determination, community support, and cultural adaptation can lead to both personal and collective success. Her work with HMF continues to make a significant impact on the lives of immigrants in Canada, proving that with the right support, any challenge can be overcome.