When Murad emigrated from Yemen to Dearborn, he was in fourth grade and was nervous about what life in a new environment and culture would be like. Murad, like so many Yemeni children who come to the United States, didn’t speak much English, either.
The following year, Murad joined the 21st Century Community Learning Center afterschool classes offered by ACCESS. The academic enrichment program, led by Anisa Sahoubah, aims to provide an educational atmosphere to motivate, educate and challenge each student to achieve his or her highest potential. In addition to core subject material, 21st Century incorporates character-building, recreational activities, and goal development.
Today, Murad, who is now a teenager, helps other 21st Century students. He says ACCESS was like his second home.
“It’s helped me with so much. I want to give back,” he said.
Now Murad has strong goals and sees a bright future for himself.
“Someday I would like to have my own soccer team for other kids,” Murad added. “I would also like to be a pharmacist, or do work where I’m needed.”
