Ruba Nadda: writer, director, and producer

1. Even though I was born in Montreal and English was my first language, I was always put in ESL classes while living in very small towns across Canada because everyone was confused about my name. It wasn’t until I was 17 years old and came to Toronto to attend Jarvis Collegiate that I finally put my foot down and said ‘no’ to ESL. I’m fluent in English goddammit! It’s why I studied literature in university. To prove it.

2. When I was 16 years old in Damascus, I was to be wed in an arranged marriage. Eventually, it was my father who got me out of it.

3. I am terrified of water and I can’t swim. I won’t even have baths.