20 COMPELLING CALGARIANS
The Herald unveils its annual list of influential individuals making a difference in our city
Each year, the Herald honours 20 Calgarians making their mark in our community and beyond who are worth keeping an eye on in the year ahead. Their achievements are significant but are often outside the public spotlight. Today, we recognize the achievements of these remarkable individuals.
The murder of her sister by an ex-boyfriend forever changed Racha El-dib’s life.
It’s now her mission to prevent anyone from going through a similar ordeal.
“My first objective was to keep telling Nadia’s story and spread the word about what happened to her,” said El-dib, who has become an advocate in the fight against domestic abuse. “Eventually, because so many people were listening and saying this is a great initiative, it just got me thinking that we need to keep it going.”
El-dib started a foundation in her sister’s name, through which she has been able to spread awareness.
“We thought it was going to end when we released the details of what happened to Nadia,” said El-dib.
“I started getting invited to do some public speaking events. It made me realize that Nadia’s story is really important and, unfortunately, a lot of voices aren’t heard because they aren’t able to tell the story. I thought if we had this opportunity, we should make it as big as possible.
“The services are there,” she added. “I’m just amazed about what’s out there . . . counselling for abusers, 24-hour help lines, counselling for teens. Unfortunately, we also know that shelters are always completely full and there’s a big turn-away rate, so that needs improvement.”
El-dib’s family moved to Calgary from Montreal in 2006. Racha attended Ecole Sainte-marguerite-bourgeoys and Mount Royal University.
The school system is where she is now intent on taking her message. Along with RCMP representatives, she does presentations in Airdrie high schools.
“We’ve gotten great feedback, so my next step is to have these presentations come to Calgary to reach as many high schools as I can,” she said. “That’s when they’re starting to date and, at that age, you don’t want to talk to your parents about your relationships and your friends are equally as uneducated about healthy relationships. If we’re able to give these presentations, not only are they able to look at their current relationship but they can take it on to adulthood, as well.”