Assiniboine student recognized with international student award

Assiniboine Community College student, Mehrdad Kadkhodaeimohammadabadi, was presented with an award yesterday from the Manitoba Council for International Education (MCIE) as part of International Education Week, running November 14 – 18.

He is an international student studying in the college’s Office Management program, and is the first Assiniboine student to receive this recognition.

“This is an incredible moment for me. I feel happy, proud, and honoured to receive this award,” said Kadkhodaeimohammadabadi. “This award is one of the significant achievements in my life. It encourages me to expand my community involvement and leadership skills further.”

Originally from Iran, he moved to Canada nine years ago after studying at Kings College and the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom. Prior to attending Assiniboine, he graduated from the University of Manitoba in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science.

“Mehrdad is a role model for students and faculty alike. He strives for perfection in understanding and applying skills, often going above and beyond course requirements,” said Colleen Bootsman, Instructor at Assiniboine. “His compassion, positivity, and enthusiasm for learning are all qualities that will continue to set him apart in his career.”

His decision to move to Canada was driven by its reputation of being a friendly and hospitable place for international students, along with his desire to visit the renowned Canadian tourist attraction, Niagara Falls.

He has used his knowledge and personal experience to help other international students adjust to living in Canada, away from their families and home country.

“We are proud of Mehrdad’s achievement and grateful for his contributions to the college community,” said Anne Bridge, International Student Advisor at Assiniboine. “He is a natural-born leader and continuously demonstrates a commitment to the college through his involvement in student events and peer groups.”

MCIE’s annual International Student Awards recognize students who demonstrate attributes of an outstanding international student in their sector – Secondary (9-12), College, University, or Language Program.

The award was presented at the Manitoba Legislative Building at a reception on Thursday evening.