Raised in Egypt, Youssef grew up deeply curious about the world and determined to build a life beyond the limits set for him. Traveling in his early twenties opened his eyes to what freedom truly looks like — and to how borders, passports, and systems can quietly define one’s destiny.

After military service and the pandemic forced his life plans to pause, he made a bold decision to reclaim control of their future. Through years of persistence, exams, and setbacks, that journey eventually led him to Canada — not with fireworks, but with the quiet relief of finally breathing freely.