Brushing Away Barriers

Brushing Away Barriers

Mothanna Alzobi’s journey of art, hope and resilience.

Mothanna Alzobi’s (English for Academic Purposes alumni, 2024) journey spans thousands of kilometres, with many obstacles in his path, yet he remains passionate about education and helping others.

Mothanna left his home country of Syria in 2012, arriving in Jordan as a refugee. He then had to leave his studies behind and begin his education again in a new country, focusing on visual arts and graphic design.

“Art is so important in supporting people, especially children, psychologically and socially,” says Mothanna. “In Jordan, I taught art to children affected by wars and disasters.”

In 2020, Mothanna’s journey brought him to Canada. He enrolled in the English for Academic Purposes (GAP5) program at Fanshawe with the goal of pursuing a master’s degree at Western University. He has many areas of interest and sets his sights high; Mothanna has also pursued education in psychology, political science, leadership and non-profit management.

Fanshawe’s English Language Institute helped Mothanna with his language skills, and he volunteered as a peer support partner for other students.

“My experience at the English Language Institute was one of the best I have ever had,” says Mothanna. “The services provided made the education process easier. My teachers were very kind and keen to help me.”

Art is so important in supporting people, especially children, psychologically and socially.

Mothanna is an integral member of the community. He volunteers at South London Community Centre and Museum London, where his artwork has been featured. For the past two years he has partnered with London Arts Council to do live painting downtown in the summer.

“I have many dreams and aspirations for the future,” says Mothanna. “I want to complete my education, get a fair job opportunity, have my own drawing studio and increase my community participation to bring about positive change.”