COVER STORY

As we endeavour to shine a light on mental health, I was pleased to be put in contact with Aaron Tabasum; co-owner of Scholars Education’s Etobicoke Lakeshore franchise in Alderwood. He and his fiancee, Kareen Ratnam, opened the education centre in November 2020 in the Farm Boy plaza on Brown’s Line at Evans.

So why open a business in the throes of a pandemic?

“Living near Rexdale my whole life, I have always had the Alderwood neighbourhood as my goto spot for nearly everything,” says Tabasum. “Whether it is to work, shop or meet with friends, it has always been a hub. Alderwood is a diverse area, we wanted to help a growing yet established community since there are not enough resources in the area for parents of all types. We came here to make a difference, one student at a time.”

It goes without saying, this has been a tough year for kids. The stresses of in-class learning during a pandemic, along with the pressures of at-home virtual learning and/or homeschooling have taken their toll on students as well as their families. Mental health has become a prevalent issue, perhaps more so now than ever. Not just among parents, but among youth, as well.

“Given the current circumstances and the stayat-home order, children are suffering more than most adults.” States Tabasum

Not everyone in the community is in a financial position to afford private tutoring, though. Especially given today’s economic uncertainties.

“We are working hard by giving back to students who are less unfortunate through donations made from businesses, families, and our own contributions,” says Tabasum. “Between food, clothes, toys, etc.; a lot of children need the human connection. This is our way of making them aware that we know they exist and that someone is looking out for them.”

Tabasum and Ratnam, both community-minded individuals, come together to offer value to the South Etobicoke community by creating a safe environment for children to learn and excel.

“We add value by going above and beyond with each student,” says Tabasum. “We create a family environment, so students feel like they are cared for. If students are eager and happy to continue with us without making it feel like a chore, they will not only learn better but reach their potential sooner. By setting goals and expectations with parents and teachers, the students get tools and resources that are endless.

“Scholars Education has a well-equipped, Ontario-based curriculum working alongside the student’s school and teachers. We can individualize the student’s program to a ‘T’. This enables us to get the results both parents and students want to have success, both academically and personally.”

In speaking with Aaron Tabasum, I could tell even over the phone that he’s a kind man; compassionate and patient, as well. I applaud his and Ratnam’s efforts in bringing a new business focused on supporting youth - their education and mental health - to the neighbourhood.

KAREEN RATNAM & AARON TABASUM

Co-owners of Scholars Etobicoke Lakeshore etobicokelakeshore@scholarsed.com 827 Brown’s Line 416.252.5177

“We prioritize the family first,” Tabasum explains. “Families and education for the children are far more important than generating an overflow of income. Your child’s education and mental health are our top priority.”

Scholars Etobicoke Lakeshore offers complimentary assessments for all students to see where their skill gaps are. Bookings are available by phone, Whatsapp, email, or in-person. Check out their impressive Google reviews as part of your research. Tabasum and Ratnam are available from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM every day.

SCHOLARS ETOBICOKE LAKESHORE

etobicokelakeshore@scholarsed.com 827 Brown’s Line 416.252.5177