Jaivet Ealom's Journey to Freedom

Join fellow alumni and friends as U of T student Jaivet Ealom tells his remarkable story of his escape to Canada

U of T Where You Are
Jaivet Ealom

Rohingya student Jaivet Ealom’s attempt to flee Myanmar and become a refugee in another country turned into an agonizing tale of survival. Held in immigration detention for four years, on a notorious island prison, he made a daring escape and finally found sanctuary in Canada – arriving in Toronto in 2017 with $45 to his name. It is a testament to his courage and perseverance that, this fall, he expects to graduate from U of T with a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Join us on June 15 as Jaivet Ealom speaks with U of T News writer Mariam Matti about his experience as a refugee, the challenges of being a newcomer in Canada, how he created a new life for himself here, and what’s next in his inspiring story.


Escape from ManusJaivet Ealom was born in Myanmar and now lives in Toronto, where he is a fourth-year student in politics and economics at the University of Toronto. He is a co-founder of the Rohingya Centre of Canada, and an outspoken advocate for the Rohingya community. His memoir Escape from Manus Prison was published in 2021.


Have questions about this event?

Contact Alumni Relations at regional.programs@alumni.utoronto.ca

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