Latifah Abdu Visits Maple Grove

submitted by Sylvie Turcotte, teacher

A graduate of Maple Grove, Latifah Abdu, a professional soccer player, came back to visit her alma mater. She attended Maple Grove from 2008 to 2014.

She spoke to the students about her beginnings in Lachine at Maple Grove, followed by her career path through high school at Lindsay Place and John Rennie High School in Sports Etudes. She told them that she had an older brother, Rahim, who came to Maple Grove from grade 4 to grade 6. Latifah lived in Duff Court and she started playing soccer with the Lachine soccer association at 9 years old. She wanted to follow in her brother’s footsteps.

At Maple Grove, Latifah participated in all the sports activities we organized, but it was in grade 6 that she started to really excel. She was the sole recipient of the Physical Education Award at graduation.

Latifah continued her studies at Vanier College. She represented the Vanier Cheetahs. She was named the Athlete of the Year in 2021 and her team won the national title. Latifah moved to France to play professionally in the LFFP (Ligue feminine de football professionnel).

When the Northern Super League was created, Latifah moved back to Canada. She first signed with the Montreal Roses and then was transferred to the Vancouver Rise, helping them win the very first Northern Super League title in November of 2025.

During her visit to Maple Grove, Latifah welcomed all the students with a smile and honest answers. She fielded all types of questions from “Who was an inspiration to you?” (Christine Sinclair) to “What is your favourite pokemon?” (Pikachu) and “What are your next goals?” (playing for Team Canada).

It was a happy reunion as well for staff members who remember Latifah fondly. She was accompanied by her mother, who has always supported her through her career choices. Thank you so much Latifah for your visit!!