This project captured the narratives of refugee women in Waterloo Region through art. From December 2017 to March 2018, immigrant women worked with local and Syrian artists to express their journeys visually. The resulting exhibition at the Rotunda of the City of Kitchener provided a platform for these women to share their experiences.
Alaa Shaheen graduated from Conestoga College with distinction in Business Administration Marketing, where she was awarded the Fred Henning Marketing Award for outstanding performance. She further enhanced her skills with the Broadcasting Performance and Digital Media Certificate, focusing on comprehensive digital media campaign management.
At the Canadian Arab Women’s Association (CAWA) as a Social Media and Content Creator, Alaa enhances the organization’s digital presence and engages the community through various platforms. She creates targeted campaigns to support fundraising efforts and promotes CAWA’s programs effectively. Alaa’s bilingual skills in Arabic and English allow her to connect with a diverse audience, fostering community engagement and storytelling.
In her free time, Alaa enjoys hanging out with her two cats, crocheting small projects, and reading books.
Wardah Alnunu is a dedicated and dynamic professional with a strong foundation in computer science, complemented by a Microsoft Certification. She brings extensive experience in marketing and sales, showcasing her ability to connect with diverse audiences and deliver impactful results.
After moving to Canada in 2018, Wardah further enriched her academic background by earning a General Arts and Science Certificate from Conestoga College, demonstrating her commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability in new environments.
Passionate about community support and empowerment, Wardah currently serves as an Outreach Worker and Program Coordinator at the Canadian Arab Women Association (CAWA). In this role, she leads initiatives to assist newcomer women in Canada, fostering their integration and growth through innovative programs and personalized support.
Her love for helping people and creating positive change is the driving force behind her professional and personal endeavors.
Dina Eldeeb has a BA in Faculty of Information from the University of Cairo (2007) and has a Community Services Worker Diploma from triOS College. From the American University of Cairo, she has obtained a training certificate (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Internet). Additionally, Dina has a General Art and Science Certificate from Conestoga College as well as a Diploma of the Academy of Specialized Studies in Mechanical Technology. Other certificates include “Trusting Loving Connections”, Trauma & Violence Informed Care, and Psychology of Older Adults.
As a motivated individual helping people in need, including victims of domestic violence and the elderly, Dina has experience working with diverse cultures and sensitive situations. She assists victims of domestic violence and the elderly. From intervention and de-escalation skills to knowledge of treatment procedures for mental disorders and addictions, Dina is a valuable resource to those facing difficult situations.
At CAWA, Dina is a Community Service Worker.
Sarah came to Canada twelve years ago with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Education. Since her arrival, she has been actively engaged in the community in various ways. She started volunteering at the community center in her neighborhood and at her children’s school. Sarah worked at AlHuda Saturday School and MAC Maple Grove School as an Arabic and Islamic studies teacher. Later, she made a career change and obtained a diploma in Dental Assistance.
Despite the challenges, Sarah balances her work in a dental office with being a mom while continuing to volunteer and stay involved in the community. She is a coffee lover who enjoys outdoor activities with her family, such as camping, hiking, and barbecuing.
At CAWA, Sarah supports Arab women in their job search by offering services ranging from resume editing to interview preparation.
Lindsay leads Manulife’s climate and sustainability risk program across its global operations. In this role, she focuses on the integration of environmental and social risks across Manulife’s global risk framework and advises business units on ESG risk issues. Prior to her current role, Lindsay was responsible for managing
Manulife’s international government affairs, working closely with colleagues across North America, Europe and Asia on cross-border topics ranging from ESG and artificial intelligence to trade negotiations and market access. Since joining Manulife in 2010, Lindsay has held several other regulatory and government affairs roles across its American and Canadian businesses and spent time in a direct briefing role for the global CEO. She has served on several industry task forces, at groups including the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the American Council of Life Insurers, and the Global Business Association. Lindsay holds a master’s degree in international public policy from the Balsillie School of International Affairs and a bachelor’s in public Affairs and Policy Management from Carleton University.
Fahmi is a Relationship Manager at Libro Credit Union, bringing over six years of experience in banking and financial analysis. He started his sales career in Edmonton, Alberta, before returning to London, Ontario, and later Kitchener. With a degree in Finance and Public Relations, Fahmi is dedicated to investing in youth and emphasizes the importance of providing access to training in personal and business finances. He is committed to sharing his expertise to make a positive impact in his community.
Alaa Noui is a dedicated commercial litigation lawyer born and raised in Hamilton, a place she still proudly calls home. Her passion for travel fuels her love for exploring diverse cultures, histories, and architectural marvels across the globe. After earning a bachelor’s degree from McMaster University, Alaa moved to England to complete her law degree, followed by obtaining a Master of Laws from Osgoode Hall Law School. Alaa has been committed to helping people through non-profits since childhood.
Tova leads the sustainable waterloo region, by developing strategic direction, supporting team members, and is responsible for building key relationships throughout the Waterloo region. She brings her experience in public relations and communications to creatively approach sustainability opportunities. Paired with her business background she is primed to collaborate with top organizations in Waterloo Region to drive change locally and provincially. Having been selected by The Guelph Mercury for Top 40 Under 40, and the recipient of the Mayor’s Award of Excellence, Tova leads by example while inspiring others to do the same.
In 2012, Asma’a Alwahsh embarked on a remarkable journey from Jordan to Canada, bringing with her a rich tapestry of experience in volunteer management, activism, and community development. With a degree in English Literature and German from the University of Jordan, she quickly enhanced her credentials by earning a postgraduate certificate in Volunteer Management and Senior Leadership in Nonprofit Organizations. Her thirst for knowledge remains unquenchable as she currently pursues a Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, focusing on Community Studies—a testament to her commitment to lifelong learning.
From the moment she arrived in the Waterloo Region, Asma’a sensed a disconnect among Arab women and felt compelled to act. In 2016, she began weaving together a vibrant community that would ultimately flourish into what is now known as the Canadian Arab Women’s Association by 2018. This initiative not only provided a platform for connection but also empowered countless women and newcomers, reinforcing her dedication to advocacy and support for marginalized groups.
Asma’s unwavering passion for uplifting vulnerable communities has garnered well-deserved recognition. In 2017, she was honored with the Canada 150 Medal by the Canadian Parliament, followed by the prestigious Women’s Leadership Award from MP Tim Louis in 2020. These accolades not only celebrate her impactful contributions but also illuminate her role as a beacon of hope and change in her community. Through her tireless efforts, Asma’a Alwahsh continues to inspire and uplift those around her, embodying the spirit of resilience and empowerment.
Yolande is a Master of Public Administration (MPA) graduate with a wealth of experience working at the Trade Commissioner Service in the Government of Canada in the Middle East. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to collaborate with multiple government arms, liaise with public agencies, and manage projects.
Yolande is deeply proud of her Arab heritage and fluent in the native language. Her commitment to empowering women and ensuring non-profit organizations operate with the highest ethical standards is unwavering, all for the betterment of the community.
As CAWA’s Projects Director, Yolande oversees and implements projects that make a positive impact on society. Her expertise and dedication to her work are invaluable to the CAWA team.
Rimah Al Ramahi has taken several courses in the fields of Science and Social Work. After obtaining a two year diploma in Science in Montreal, Quebec, she discovered her passion for helping people and decided to continue her studies by taking up Social Work locally at Wilfrid Laurier University.
In the Waterloo Region, Rimah has worked as a settlement worker and facilitator in the Social Work field. She has worked with Immigration and several different organizations. She has worked and is still working as an Interpreter and translator.
At CAWA, Rimah works as an Outreach Worker.
Iman Elhaydarı graduated from the Teachers Institute in Urfa, Turkey, and has a certificate in teaching languages. She has an Arabic Language Certificate from the Aleppo Private Institute in Syria. Additionally, Iman has completed a number of courses for newcomers settling in a new country and for working with people who are dealing with trauma.
In Turkey, Iman worked in multiple agencies to assist newcomers and has worked as an interpreter in Arabic and Turkish. Additionally, Iman was a teacher at the Language School for Adult Education. Her volunteer work with the Syrian Turkish Red Cross led to several awards and honors. Subsequently, in Canada, she worked at the Voluntary Center in Guelph Immigration services as well as in Chalmers. Currently, Iman is working in a public school as an assistant teacher.
As an Outreach Worker for CAWA in Guelph, Iman enjoys the opportunity to help the community grow and to work with others in this endeavor.
Kim graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Speech Communications. Additionally, Kim has obtained her Career and Work Counsellor diploma at George Brown College.
In Waterloo Region and surrounding areas, Kim has provided one-on-one coaching, group facilitation, and management within the Employment Service Sector. As a part-time faculty member at Conestoga College, Kim teaches in the Career Development Professional Program. Kim empowers individuals by teaching skills and providing tools as well as assisting in employer-employee matches.
As an Employment Specialist at CAWA, Kim Moore supports participants of the WorkPro program as well as other employer engagement initiatives.
Nahla Abdelbary has a master’s degree in veterinary medicine and is a happy mother. As a dedicated volunteer, she has served communities around the world including Japan, Kuwait, and Canada. Whether she is organizing various initiatives and projects for youth and different age groups, or assisting newcomers in improving their English language proficiency through a tutorial program; she makes a difference. In 2022, she received the Guelph & District Multicultural Award as an appreciation for her contributions.
At CAWA, Nahla is a Project Coordinator.
Alaa Allouh graduated from Future University in Egypt with a Bachelor’s degree in “Political Science” (2016) and from Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) with a Master’s degree in “Religion, Culture, and Global Justice” (2022). Professionally, Alaa collaborates with refugees and migrant communities in building peaceful bridges with their host community in Egypt or Canada.
Since Alaa’s arrival in Canada in late 2021, she has been active in the Canadian academic and non-for-profits field. Alaa is a research intern at Project Ploughshares, a teaching assistant at WLU, and a volunteer peace facilitator for elementary school students at The Ripple Effect Education. Peace-building and cultural heritage keeps this Syrian Academic busy.
At CAWA, she is a Project Coordinator.
Samim Al-Qadh, MD, MEd is a practicing consultant paediatrician in London, where he specialized in paediatrics at the University of Western Ontario. Dr. Al-Qadhi received his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy and his subspecialty in Pediatric Trauma and Transport Medicine from the University of Toronto. As the co-founder and executive director of the Canadian Civic Cultural Club, he is passionate about identifying ways to increase civic integration in targeted populations. In recognition of his service, Dr. Al-Qadhi was awarded the Canada 150 Medal by the Canadian Parliament in 2017.
Currently and for the past six years, Entesar Yassin, MBET, has served as the Director of Finance and Administration at the International Medical Corps in Yemen, Central Africa, Chad, Libya, Tunisia, and Ukraine. Entesar has over ten years of experience in accounting, business strategy, finance, operations and management in corporate banking, and is passionate about work in the humanitarian aid and social development sectors. Enteser holds a Master’s Degree in Business, Entrepreneurship, and Technology (MBET) from the University of Waterloo.
CAWA took action to combat newcomer isolation during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic by facilitating Together, Stronger. The initiative aimed to maintain and foster a sense of community among Arab women and continue to offer services disrupted by the pandemic. This program was especially important for newcomer and refugee participants and intended to prevent the exacerbation of any feelings of isolation and improve mental health and well-being.
This program was generously funded by the Kitchener Waterloo Community Foundation COVID-19 BIPOC Sustainability and Recovery Fund and sponsored by Volunteer Action Centre.
Maya Kanana graduated from the American University of Beirut with a BA in Nursing before pursuing her Teaching Diploma for Science Education from the same institution. Later, she obtained her Montessori Diploma from the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute, which she put to use as a Montessori Toddler Directress.
Prior to arriving in Canada, Maya was an I-books publisher in Lebanon and later an elementary school science teacher in the United Arab Emirates. Here, she has demonstrated her passion for entertainment as a radio presenter and broadcaster.
At CAWA as a Social Media Content Creator, Maya creates content for our profiles on different social media platforms to increase reach and awareness in the community. She manages our presence on TikTok, where she makes short videos highlighting our work as an organization, and often interviews various community figures through livestreams on our Facebook page. Maya also has a strong presence in our private Facebook and WhatsApp groups, where she facilitates conversation regarding areas of concern for our membership.
In her free time, Maya enjoys spending time with her family and making funny, relatable Arabic content for her own TikTok account.
Zeena Kailani is currently pursuing her Honours BSc at Waterloo’s own Wilfrid Laurier University, where she is majoring in Health Sciences as a pre-medical student. Zeena serves as an executive in multiple student-led initiatives, where she facilitates programming for fellow pre-medical students and manages social media presence for the school’s Arab Students’ Association.
Since she was a child, Zeena has always had an affinity for writing and began honing her skills editing her peer’s school essays and assignments. She was later an intern at Seven Circles Consulting Firm in her native Jordan, where she worked as an editor on three books, all of which involved showcasing the achievements of local Arab women in Jordan and Lebanon. At only 15 years old, Zeena began copy editing content for organizations and their subsidiaries, as well as managing their social media platforms.
At CAWA, Zeena handles communications and digital media. She manages our social media presence on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and creates marketing materials for our profiles. She copy edits and writes content for social media, our website, newsletters, and more. Zeena also acts as a communications strategist, coming up with ways to convey CAWA’s work and message effectively to the community.
When she isn’t writing, posting, or studying in Waterloo, Zeena enjoys spending time with her two cats (and the rest of her family).
Mary Saleh graduated from Wilfrid Laurier University with a Master’s in English and Film Studies. Prior to forming roots in Waterloo Region, Mary lived in her native Syria, where she was a professional soccer player on the national soccer team until war broke out in 2011.
As an Outreach Worker, Mary facilitates a number of programs such as WorkPro, and keeps CAWA’s community engaged in our programs and informed about resources in the community.
Hala Alzain graduated from the University of Damascus with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, and later obtained her Diploma from Conestoga College in Sustainable Business Management. She later completed Occupation-specific Language Training in Entrepreneurship and Sales & Marketing in Niagara College.
In Syria, Hala was an engineer and Office Suite trainer at Damascus’s Ministry of Tourism. In the Waterloo Region, she volunteered with COMPASS Refugee Centre and the ELM Youth Foundation.
At CAWA, Hala works with a team of Outreach Workers to facilitate a number of our programs and extend our reach in our communities.
Oula Almadhoun obtained her BA in Business Management Systems from The Open University in England, and later completed her Master’s in Distance Education with a specialization in Instructional Design from Athabasca University. In recognition of her academic excellence, she was awarded a Graduate Scholarship from her alma mater.
Oula’s expertise stems from managing and developing educational programs for numerous institutions and non-profit organizations, as well as assisting newcomers with the English language. At CAWA, Oula oversees the organization’s day-to-day activities and manages grants applications for funding opportunities. She’s in charge of interviewing, hiring, and training students, as well as individual volunteers, with diverse backgrounds looking to gain real work experience to enhance their skills or complete work placements.
Outside of work, you’ll find Oula outdoors or on road trips. Some of her favourite locations to visit are the beautiful mountains of Jasper or Banff in Alberta.