Originally from Canada, Leezia Dhalla’s move to the U.S. two decades ago sparked her passion for working in immigration reform.
“As I was trying to navigate this complex immigration system, I met more and more people like me who were trying to live here, and work here, and build a life here,” says Dhalla.“It’s a really tough fight.”
Dhalla is the new communications associate at FWD.us, a nonprofit started by key leaders in the tech community to promote policies to keep the country competitive in a global economy. One of their main issues, and one that’s close to Dhalla’s heart, is comprehensive immigration reform and education reform. FWD.us believes that every person should have the opportunity to contribute to society.
Founders: 49 founders, including Mark Zuckerberg, Drew Houston, and Bill Gates
Year founded: 2013
Where we’re based: WeWork Dupont Circle
Moment of inspiration: “I came to the U.S. legally in 1996 and unknowingly overstayed my visa,” says Dhalla. “I grew up feeling American, and suddenly, I was told I’m not part of a community I was welcomed into. It was a turning point for me, and that’s when I started getting involved.”
Biggest hurdle: “Right now, there is a lot of anti-immigration sentiment,” says Dhalla. “There are talks of mass deportation policies and bans on reform for coming into the U.S. We don’t think that’s the right way to go about immigration reform.”
How we want to change the world: “Our goal really is to make the world a better place for people,” says Dhalla. “We mobilize the tech community and business community for policies that will help make the American dream achievable in the 21st century.”