Two brothers, one dream
I chose Canada because I loved what I heard about it - the respect for human rights, the welcoming people, and the quality of life. Here, we can build out future - and share it with family.
Akram and Abdalla
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs)
How Akram and Abdalla Built a New Life and Career in The Pas, Manitoba
When Akram and Abdalla Farwana stepped off the escalator at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, they were met with a moment they’ll never forget – a warm welcome to Canada from a member of Manitoba’s Recruitment and Retention Office (HCRRO) team.
“Meeting us at the airport made us feel like family right away,” Akram recalled. “We had never met them (Pauline Langedock and Mohammed Alkhateeb, Senior Recruiters, HCRRO) before, only over email, but they made us feel at home the second we arrived.”
That simple gesture marked the start of a new chapter, one that had been nearly ten years in the making. Their dream of coming to Canada began in 2013, when Akram started researching countries where they could build a better future for themselves.
“Meeting us at the airport made us feel like family right away. Sometimes I still can't believe we're really here. It feels like a dream.”
- Akram
“I chose Canada because I loved what I heard about it — the respect for human rights, the welcoming people, and the quality of life,” he said.
The brothers, both Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs), grew up in Saudi Arabia and completed their Bachelor of Radiology in Egypt.
“We’ve always been together — in school, at work, and now here in Manitoba,” Akram said. “Sometimes I still can’t believe we’re really here. It feels like a dream.”
With support from Pauline and Mohammed with HCRRO, the brothers navigated the recruitment and immigration process. Today, the brothers both live and work in The Pas, where they’ve found a sense of belonging. Working together and sharing routines has made the transition easier.
“We cook together, go for walks, watch movies,” Abdalla added. “It helps so much not to feel alone.”
Since arriving, they’ve made a noticeable impact in the community.
“Patients told us how hard it was before, when there weren’t enough technologists,” said Akram. “Now they can get their imaging faster, and they thank us every day. That’s the best part — to feel we’re making a difference.”
Their advice to anyone looking to make the move to Manitoba is to start in a smaller community, like The Pas.
“Small communities make it easier to adjust. You’ll find opportunity and support here,” Abdalla said. “It’s a quiet, safe, and affordable town — surrounded by lakes and rivers. Everyone is so welcoming, especially the Indigenous community. We really feel at home.”
Akram added, “When I talk to friends who want to move, I tell them — come to Manitoba. You’ll be welcomed, and you’ll make a difference.”
Akram and Abdalla continue to grow both professionally and personally. They’re currently pursuing additional certification in MRI technology, with exciting milestones ahead — both are getting married soon and are eagerly awaiting approval of their permanent residency applications. With continued support from HCRRO in extending their immigration status, they hope to buy homes in The Pas and eventually bring the rest of their family to Canada.
“It’s a chance to build a life we couldn’t before,” said Akram. “Here, we can build our future – and share it with family.”
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