Sajeel Ahmad: From Refugee to Young Advisor for UNICEF Malaysia
A Scholarship That Changed Everything
Sajeel Ahmad and his journey is filled with moments of resilience and hope. Born into the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Pakistan, he faced relentless persecution from a young age. In 1974, his community was declared non-Muslim by the Pakistani government, sparking a wave of hostility that made everyday life dangerous.
Survival became an uncertainty, and his mother made the difficult decision to flee with Sajeel and his younger brother to Malaysia, seeking safety and a new beginning.
Life as a refugee in Malaysia presented its own challenges. While no longer fearing for their lives, Sajeel and his family struggled to find housing, access healthcare, and secure stable work. Education, a privilege many take for granted, was a distant dream. However, with determination and the right support, Sajeel found his path.
Sajeel’s pursuit of education led him to Fugee, an organisation dedicated to providing learning opportunities for refugees. In 2023, he applied for Fugee’s Hi-Ed scholarship, which offers higher education opportunities in partnership with Brickfields Asia College (BAC). With 50% of the funding provided by BAC and the other half by Fugee, Sajeel was awarded a scholarship to study law at BAC. This marked a turning point in his already incredible life.
“Education truly changes lives—I have seen it firsthand as it has changed mine,”
Why Law?
For Sajeel, choosing to study law was deeply personal. He sees law as a tool for justice and change.
“In a time when mankind is exploring the depths of the ocean and the vastness of space, we still see innocent children suffering in refugee camps, girls being raped in war zones, and millions struggling without basic rights,” he said.
“I believe law can bring relief to humanity, and that is why I chose this path.”
While his academic background was in science, transitioning to law was made easier by BAC’s supportive lecturers and tutors. Despite struggling with legal jargon initially, he found guidance from faculty members who patiently helped him grasp new concepts.
Becoming a Young Advisor for UNICEF Malaysia
Sajeel’s dedication to community service didn’t stop at education. Having worked as a teacher for underprivileged children and led social initiatives, he felt compelled to take his advocacy further. This drive led him to apply for UNICEF Malaysia’s Young Person’s Advisory Group (YPAG), where he was accepted as a Young Advisor.
Through this role, Sajeel has had the opportunity to meet policymakers, visit Parliament, and consult on Malaysia’s National Action Plan on Human Rights and Business. He describes his experience as invaluable, allowing him to contribute to real change while also connecting himself with other young changemakers.
Advocating for Refugee Rights
Sajeel hopes for a future where refugees in Malaysia are seen as contributors rather than burdens.
“Many believe refugees drain resources, but they don’t see how much we give back,”
From leading flood relief efforts to organising blood donation drives, refugee communities have consistently stepped up to help Malaysia.
He also co-founded Help For All, an initiative that raises funds and provides scholarships for refugee children to attend school. “Seeing children go to school because of small efforts we made is incredibly rewarding,” he shared.
Looking Ahead
Sajeel’s long-term goal is to work within a system where he can be the driver for meaningful change. He hopes that his legal education will equip him to fight for the rights of the marginalised and inspire others to do the same.
His message to policymakers is simple yet powerful:
“God has given you the power to change a child’s life. Use it to give them hope.”
To refugee students aspiring for higher education, his advice is clear:
“It’s tough, but possible. Seek support from organisations like Fugee, BAC, and UNHCR. Connect with students already in college—they can be a great source of help.”
Sajeel Ahmad’s story is nothing short of incredible. It is a showcase of the strength of the human spirit, the impact of good education, and the difference one person can make in the world no matter the circumstances.
As he continues his journey, there is no doubt that he will be a force for change, proving that no challenge is too great when met with determination and heart.
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