New Canadian citizen Fadwa Awad votes for the first time

Fadwa Awad did something today she never could do growing up in the Middle East.

Awad, who was born in Palestine, became a Canadian citizen in March and for the first time in her life, she voted at her polling station on Halifax's Morris Street.

"Under the government in Israel, we didn't have this opportunity to vote," said Awad, who moved to the United Arab Emirates when she was 21.

"I didn't have the opportunity there as well so this is my first opportunity to vote in all my life, so I am pretty excited."

Awad moved to Canada five years ago and says becoming a Canadian citizen this spring was one of the highlights of her life.

Getting the opportunity to vote was something she has always wanted to do.

"I'm so happy to have this opportunity to vote in my country, for democracy, for a good life," said Awad.

"I am hoping the election brings the best for Canada. It's a really big thing for me."

As a child growing up in Palestine, Awad saw lots of government turmoil and there were many clashes between countries in the region.

Living in Halifax she's now far away from it all.

Awad said she is very proud to be Canadian and couldn't wait to cast her vote.

"It is peaceful here and I'm living a good life. It's like what everybody hopes for," said Awad.

"I am just a new citizen to Canada but I want the best for Canada."