This evening on Summer Reflections, we take a journey into the Ismaili Centre, Vancouver, where we will explore the space through the lens of the architect Bruno Freschi.

Through a virtual tour, and in conversation with CBC's Zahra Premji, Mr. Freschi will share his personal insights on how he brought to life Mawlana Hazar Imam's vision for the Centre, and what truly inspired him when he was designing this magnificent space. From the smallest details to the grandest idea, join us for a glimpse into the creative process that led to the design of the Ismaili Centre, Vancouver.

Join us at iiCanada.live.

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The Aga Khan Council for Canada, the Ismaili Centres (Vancouver, Toronto) and the Canadian Council of Muslim Women, in collaboration with the Muslim Awards for Excellence and the Institute of Islamic Studies at the University of Toronto, have launched a new series that aims to:

  • Provide a platform for Muslims who are thought leaders in their areas of expertise/professions from across Canada to enhance and showcase their contributions to Canadian society.

  • Promote discussion on topics of relevance to Canadian society, with a particular emphasis on emerging issues.

  • Bring Muslims of diverse backgrounds together to share knowledge and ideas.

The inaugural program in the series will be held on Saturday, August 7 at 11am PT  | 12pm MT | 2pm ET ont the topic of “Muslims in Science and Medicine: Navigating the Currents of COVID-19”.

The panelists will talk about their roles as medical professionals and what life has been like for them during the pandemic from a professional and personal perspective. They will speak about specific challenges, triumphs or prejudice they have faced and address work-life balance and lessons learned from the pandemic. They will also discuss their identity as Muslims and the inspiration they derive from their faith.

As Jamatkhanas across Canada start to re-open where circumstances permit, we are reminded of the old adage that absence makes the heart grow fonder. Having survived 15 months with limited access to the place that, for so many, serves at once as a centre of community, camaraderie, unity, understanding, prayer, peace and fulfillment, it is appropriate to ask at this juncture - why and how do Jamatkhanas hold such a central and cherished place in the life of a murid? What is the significance of congregational prayer? How do we continue to ensure that we embrace the gift of the Jamatkhana as a means towards personal and spiritual fulfillment?

This evening, host Marline Aizouki and special guest Alwaez Karim Jiwani join us to reflect on this notable milestone in the evolution of the pandemic, helping us to consider and remind ourselves what it means to be able to be together. Jamati voices comment on what they missed, and what Jamatkhana means to them. And musical expressions remind us of our strength in unity.

  • Join us and watch together on iiCanada.live in English or in Farsi

  • A second broadcast will be shown at 8:30 pm Pacific | 9:30 pm Mountain

  • A gallery of Jamati submitted photographs showcasing Jamatkhanas of the World will be shown 15 minutes before the broadcast

Disasters and emergencies, including the one we are currently in the midst of, take a staggering toll. But they also have the potential to bring out the best of humanity, in community spirit, unity, and compassion for one’s fellow citizens.

This evening, President Ameerally Kassim-Lakha provides an update on important recent initiatives to support the Jamat during this crisis. Host Huse Madhavji, Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi, Council for BC President Samir Manji, and past FOCUS Canada Program Officer Aysha Rajwani then discuss the resilience of the human spirit, the risk of natural disasters, and the steps we can all take to mitigate the resulting suffering and devastation. 

Commiserate with Huse as he scrambles to put together an Emergency Kit, learn about the amazing work Jamati members and institutions are doing to build disaster resiliency around the world, and test your knowledge of emergency preparedness with the return of the exciting Kahoot quiz.

  • Join us and watch together on iiCanada.live in English or in Farsi

  • A second broadcast will be shown at 8:30 pm Pacific | 9:30 pm Mountain

  • A gallery of Jamati submitted photographs showcasing nature's beauty will be shown 15 minutes before the broadcast