‘Don’t forget the people who helped you reach your destiny’

Paul Tshuma refuses to be defined by his limitations. While living with muscular dystrophy, he’s a busy choir director who launched an album last year and graduated this spring with a BA in Music Studies — and the O'Brien Medal.

“I'll definitely miss Concordia because of its community. I felt like I belonged to this floor, this department. Rolling along in my chair, everybody greeted me or welcomed me,” says Tshuma. “The same applies to the staff. I wasn't considered a number, but a person who is of value and is recognized by the university.”

Tshuma has some words of wisdom to share with new students — especially those with special challenges. Watch his video message, where he talks about his time at Concordia, the university’s Access Centre for Students with Disabilities, the United Tribulation Choir and his long-term goals.

Watch the video by Concordia star graduate and choir director Paul Tshuma:

Find out more about Concordia's Department of Music.