Izza Athar

Izza Athar wasn’t originally thinking much about what came next in terms of post-secondary education until her dad convinced her to go to university. Despite wanting a bit of a break from formal education, she decided the hard work might be worth it and applied.

“When I got accepted to the University of Calgary, I was very excited,” says Izza. “But it’s been a hard go sometimes, and I’ve had to learn a lot about myself.”

Izza is the only deaf student in her year in her program, and she found it difficult to get to know people. So she thought to herself, “How do I broaden my social circle and get involved at the same time?”

Along with two friends, Izza co-founded the American Sign Language club at the University of Calgary. “We wanted it to be a safe place for anyone who wanted to practice, learn, and feel comfortable being around a language model like myself without any intimidation,” she says. “It’s not a formal class; it’s a social activity. And for me, a benefit was alleviating some of that loneliness.”

Izza isn’t afraid to advocate for access and engagement opportunities that work for her, allowing her to participate in campus activities and bring her perspective. “If you’re not getting what you need—for example, if you’re told, ‘No, this is too expensive or this isn’t something we’ve had someone like you at’—[the host and other students] are missing out on an opportunity too,” she says.

Who inspires Izza?

Deaf people who have come before her. “They’re the pioneers who fought for a lot of our rights,” says Izza. “I wouldn’t be here without the work they’ve done in making the world easier for me and more accessible.”

What is Izza’s advice for her fellow students?

Advocate for what you need! You need to be a self-advocate to get what you want out of school and for your future career.

Q&A with Izza Athar

What does being named a Capitalize Campus Star mean to you?

When I first heard I’d been named a Capitalize Campus Star, I felt it was a huge honour for me as a deaf person. I didn’t think I deserved it since it was difficult for me to believe; however, I’m so intrigued about where it will take me.

I also see this as a chance for me to learn about myself and how I want to contribute to the inclusive community I’ve created in the hopes of building bridges between the hearing and deaf communities, especially in the business world.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank for their help or inspiration? What would you tell them?

I want to start by expressing my gratitude to my parents for always being there for me, supporting me through my ups and downs, and spending their time and energy helping me reach my full potential and become the person I am today. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for everything!

I also want to thank my siblings, friends, interpreters, teachers, and everyone else in my life. They are the reason I have come this far, and I will always be grateful to have them in my life.

Why do you want to become a CPA?

I believe obtaining a CPA will boost my career opportunities, provide opportunities to network with many firms and industries, and increase my chances of being hired as a deaf person. Additionally, earning my CPA will increase my financial literacy so I can help people who need financial guidance outside of the workplace.

Capitalize and CPA Alberta are proud to announce the 2022 class of Capitalize Campus Stars. The Campus Stars program recognizes amazing Alberta post-secondary students who are dreaming of one day becoming CPAs. Learn more about the entire 2022 class!