Did you know that millions around the world still do not know how to read or write? Millions lead their lives without going to school?
When I, Yasmin Farah Peer learnt of this harsh reality I couldn’t remain silent. I started researching and educating myself about literacy around the world. As a human rights advocate, i believe the right to read and write ought to be universal throughout the world. In this problem there lies many other, such as gender-based discrimination, cultural differences, and so many which are human right’s violations.
As I kept learning, reading and writing about the social movements in my political science class at Concordia University during the COVID-19 pandemic, I applied to the World Literacy Foundation for the opportunity and privilege in representing my country, Canada. Little did I know that out of so many candidates I would be given the honour to represent Quebec, Canada.
Thereafter, I was burning on the inside to do something bigger, something where I could create a large impact and thus was born, Lives For Literacy. Lives, because every life is important and in crafting this grass-roots movement, the aim is to empower humans in all corners of the world. According to UNESCO, “Literacy is a fundamental human right and the foundation for lifelong learning. It is fully essential to social and human development in its ability to transform lives.” Such a statement is one I completely agree with and promise to dedicate my life working towards achieving this goal!
In forming this movement, and leading a team of exceptional individuals I am aware that with great leadership comes great responsibility. I would be nowhere without the support of my mentors, my professors and my family.
I am incredibly grateful to be able to embark on my journey to effect change in the world and cannot wait to expand this movement in the future!
Written by,
Yasmin Farah Peer
(Founder & President of Lives For Literacy
About The Author
Yasmin is currently pursuing her undergraduate studies in political science with a minor in human rights at Concordia University. In the future, she hopes to attain a masters in peace, human rights or diplomacy and thereafter to attend law school to work in the field of international human rights. Yasmin is the Canadian World Literacy Foundation Ambassador and she believes literacy goes beyond being able to read and write, as it is a tool that brings positive change to uplift individuals out of poverty. Breaking the cycle of illiteracy and improving self-esteem is crucial for women and girls in the developing world. By enabling them to become economically productive and independent, they become empowered and can take control of their lives. Yasmin loves reading as she believes that it takes her into the perspectives of others and helps expands one’s knowledge. Some of her favourite books are, the Harry Potter Series, The Breadwinner, Prisoner of Tehran, & A Thousand Splendid Suns. Yasmin hopes to inspire people and educate them about the importance of literacy. She aspires to taken on this initiative along with her wonderful team to a local and international level.
Lives For Literacy 