Help Me Continue My Journey to Become a Teacher in Canada

My name is Mathieu Thierry, an international student from Madagascar currently living in Ottawa, Canada. I am raising funds to help cover my basic living expenses for the next six months while I await approval of my Canadian work permit and prepare to begin a Teacher Education Program in September 2026.

In September 2026, I will start a two-year accredited Teacher Education Program at the University of Ottawa. After completing the program, I will earn the Certificate of Qualification and Registration required to become a certified teacher in Canada. This will allow me to teach in both Ontario’s anglophone and francophone school systems.

However, until the Canadian government issues my work permit, I am legally unable to work. The funds raised will help cover essential living expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries between now and September 2026.

Any contribution-$10, $20, $30, or more-will make a meaningful difference and help me stay in Ottawa while I wait to begin the next chapter of my education.

My Story

In 2021, I was accepted to study at the University of Ottawa—an opportunity that changed my life. Leaving Madagascar was both exciting and frightening because I had never traveled outside my country before. Still, I knew this chance could shape my future, so I took the leap and moved to Canada to pursue a four-year undergraduate degree.

From June 2021 to May 2024, I studied and worked in Ottawa. In 2024, I proudly graduated from the University of Ottawa with a bachelor’s degree and a double major in Sociology and Anthropology.

After graduation, I applied for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, which normally takes about 9-12 months to process. While waiting, I found meaningful work teaching tenth-and eleventh-grade English Language and Literature at Omer Deslauriers French-language Public High School in Ottawa. I also taught French classes at Le Carrefour Adult School.

Teaching confirmed what I had already begun to feel during my studies: education is my passion.

Unfortunately, my work authorization expired in December 2025. It has now been more than 15 months since I applied for my work permit, and it has still not been issued. Because of Canadian immigration laws, I had to resign from my teaching positions. After three months without the ability to work, I have used up my savings.

Despite these challenges, I received wonderful news in January 2026: I was awarded a $50,000 scholarship to attend the Teacher Education Program at the University of Ottawa beginning in Fall 2026.

The full tuition for the two-year program is $85,000, and incredibly, my mother’s close friends -Ravaka and Colby, who have known me since I was born-have generously offered to cover the remaining $35,000. Their support means I will be able to complete the program and pursue my dream of becoming a teacher.

Now I just need help getting through these next few months.

How You Can Help

Until my work permit is approved and my program begins in September, I need assistance covering basic living expenses. Your support will help me remain in Ottawa so I can continue pursuing my goal of becoming a teacher who supports students from diverse backgrounds.

If you are able to donate or share this campaign, I would be deeply grateful.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can offer.

Mathieu Thierry