Georgian College

11 GEORGIANVIEW DIGITAL WINTER 2024-25 2024 PREMIER'S AWARDS | Zein Dhanidina (class of 2006) and her husband Dr. Karim Dhanidina at the Premier's Awards reception. Before RWN was even an idea, her early experience volunteering with causes like the World Partnership Walk and the Aga Khan Foundation nurtured her innate desire to make a positive difference. But as she interviewed for full-time roles, she quickly realized that she would need foundational fundraising skills if she hoped to have a sustainable and successful career—and that's where Georgian College's Fundraising and Resource Development came in. "Though I had finally found my passion, I realized I didn't know enough about fundraising and needed to learn more, so Georgian was a blessing that found me just at the right time. Their online program gave me the skills and knowledge I needed to excel in my chosen field, and with two children at home, it allowed me to learn from a distance and at my own pace, reducing the strain on my family. I'm so appreciative of everything Georgian has given me, for both me in my career and for the women RWN is able to help." Today, Zein's impact through RWN is significant, supporting more than 545 women across the GTA. Under her leadership, it has also expanded its programs, offering multi-lingual sessions on women's and children's health, tenant rights, domestic violence and Canadian citizenship. RWN has also provided laptops to women without existing access, amplifying its reach to a national level. And throughout this incredible growth, Georgian's impact on Zein's career can also be felt as she continues to connect with her professors and incorporate their advice into her ongoing work. Though a career in fundraising may not have been her initial goal, Zein's passion for helping marginalized communities has made her a powerful force for change— and thanks to Georgian, she had everything needed to transform that passion into real impact for women like her and her mother.

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