The same men who are placing all these outrageous restrictions on women's freedoms in southern Somalia - that type of mentality - that's what I had to deal with in captivity.

Somalia is an important story in the world, and it needed to be told.

After being in captivity for so long, I can't begin to describe how wonderful it feels to be home in Canada.

It was a slow understanding that the lack of education in a country like Somalia creates these huge social problems.

My faith in human decency was sorely tested at times during my captivity; however, after my release, I am humbly reminded that mankind is inherently good by the tremendous efforts and support of fellow Canadians.

I made a vow to myself while I was a hostage that if I were lucky enough to live and to get out of Somalia, I would do something meaningful with my life - and specifically something that would be meaningful in the country where I'd lost my freedom.