“You can make something out of nothing. That advice led me in a different direction – it kept me alive”
Born in the ashes of war, Gar’s family continually sought refuge. Gar learned that the only way to survive was to keep quiet, put your head down, and never expect too much.
Seizing the opportunity for a better life, his family fled the capital city of Khartoum to Egypt. However, succumbing to injuries, his father would not be joining them. As a community elder, he stood up courageously for the voiceless and paid the ultimate price. As a role model, he instilled in Gar “You can make something from nothing.” Only later in life, would he truly understand this meaning.
At age 17, enrolling in the first of its kind, Gar participated in a “bridge program” at Inglweood/ Ramsay school for learning new languages. Although he saw progression, he felt the stigma from being labeled an “outsider”. However, one simple investment from a teacher and Ramsay community member changed everything. She saw his potential, his future, and his character and how he quickly begin helping others. She consistency challenged Gar’s self-limiting beliefs, giving him the confidence to become fluent in English.
With what many would call destiny, Gar met the love of his life through the same English mentorship program in Inglweood/ Ramsay. Nancy, a South Sudan refugee, faced the same struggles that he once faced. Their common connection and desire for a better life & the opprotunities Ward 9 & Calgary gave them would ultimately lay down the bedrock for their future family.
His five children that followed changed the way he saw the world. Every day, he would take steps to make Calgary and his Ward 9 community an even better place. A place that they all could finally call home. Safe. Prosperous. Vibrant.
Gar was at a crossroads. While he cherished his South Sudan community, he knew that it would be all too easy to become complacent. In order to live his dreams, he would need to put himself in uncomfortable situations. Exposing himself to new people, new cultures, and new ideas.
Despite being told that he would likely never attend post-secondary, Gar’s graduation from the English program and upgrading at Bow Valley College finally paid off. In 2011, he would find himself walking the campus halls of SAIT Polytechnic.
and actively reaches out to other CA executives across Ward 9 — to ensure every voice is heard at that table. Together, his aim was to collaboratively address common key community issues such as traffic, public safety, rezoning, and infrastructure. Known for getting things done, Gar spearheaded Calgary’s first Heroes Crosswalk, making it a reality within just one week. He also led a successful two-week advocacy to secure $2 pool access for Ward 9 families at the Greater Forest Lawn outdoor pool — making recreational spaces more accessible for all.
It was at SAIT, when he truly understood his father’s philosophy. Surrounded by opportunities, all it took was a little bit of courage. Despite his mother’s insistence, he threw his hat into the political arena, hoping to make a difference. Every day, he connected with students. Finding solutions to the problems they faced every day.
Elected as SAITSA’s President, Gar Gar experienced his first major political victory. He found what really made the difference: actually listening to voters. With incredible grit, he successfully advocated for student employment, affordable & accessible textbooks, carpooling initiative and the provincial approval for SAITSA’s new building.
Continuing his passion for positive change, Gar sought the reconciliation of all victims from South Sudan’s conflict under a single flag. The scholarship’s vision is removing the financial barriers for youth upgrading. Allowing them to forge their own path.
2019
Gar has transformed himself into a community leader that his father would be proud of.
When he sees Calgary East, he is reminded of his displaced younger self with no voice and no hope.
But today,
Ward 9 is Home.It’s time to Find our Voice, Build our Home, Seize our Future