My parents fled a war and started here from zero. Their journey is what shaped me

June 30, 2026

Drilon Ramadani’s parents arrived in Canada as refugees shortly before he was born. They were determined to see their children succeed in their new home while honouring the life they left behind.

Mr. Ramadani first graduated from Seneca’s Mechanical Engineering Technology – Building Sciences advanced diploma program and recently returned to study in the Fire Protection Engineering Technology advanced diploma program.

He’s spending the summer on a co-op placement with the City of Toronto, inspecting and testing fire-protection systems that keep Torontonians safe by ensuring buildings comply with the Ontario Fire Code.

He discusses why he switched programs, what he wants to do after he graduates and the most important lessons he’s learned from his parents.