When Tasneem Hashim and Shaian Berry first met through the Best Buddies chapter at Brampton Centennial Secondary School, it didn’t take long for them to form a genuine connection.
Shaian was drawn to her new friend’s energy as soon as they met. “She’s nice, confident, and amazing,” she says sincerely.
“She was very friendly to me,” Tasneem recalls. “We would listen to Shaian’s favourite songs, and she shared with me her passion for being a singer.”
They quickly bonded over their shared interests and became inseparable, doing activities together like playing Jenga, dancing, doing puzzles, colouring, reading, and singing. Tie dying socks with other students and attending Best Buddies Canada and Humber FLAS’ Reach for the Stars event are highlights from their time in Best Buddies. “That was a lot of fun,” Shaian says. “Everyone participated and it was such a good time.”
As their friendship strengthened, Tasneem noticed that Shaian grew even more confident and communicative. “Every time we see each other, she says hi to me right away,” she says. “We’ve grown a really good friendship.”
Shaian lights up when she talks about Tasneem, who is always there to help her at school. “She’s amazing, loving, and caring.”
The Best Buddies program provides opportunities for students like Tasneem and Shaian – who may not spend time together in a typical classroom setting – to form connections. For Tasneem, the best part of Best Buddies is making these connections. “Best Buddies is such a special part of my school life,” she says. “Students outside of Best Buddies get to interact with the RISE kids and it helps them become more open, more understanding. When everyone participates in school-wide activities, it brings us all together.”
Tasneem’s friendship with Shaian has also helped her pursue her own goals. “She’s inspired me,” she says. “Her confidence has helped me build my own. I want to be a teacher, and getting to know Shaian made me sure about that.”
Tasneem and Shaian’s story is a powerful reminder that true friendship is about being present, cheering each other on, and growing side by side. Whether they’re singing Rihanna’s Work (Shaian’s favourite song), colouring together, or just sharing a laugh, their bond shines brightly. Through Best Buddies, they have built a connection that is sure to last well beyond their school years.