For newcomers arriving in Canada, immediate language training is not just urgent, it is essential. It is the key to unlocking job opportunities, accessing services, and making meaningful connections. Let us empower every newcomer with the gift of language. Join the Conversational Language Program today - no experience required!

Register to teach English or French at iicanada.org/jamathelpingjamat. 

Across cities in parts of Africa, Asia, and Europe, a green revolution is sprouting—one that promises hope for the natural environment and local communities. This Earth Day, let’s take a look at microforests, and their potential to transform urban centres.

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Join host Asma Gowani for the April edition of The Ismaili Update, as we look back at some of the exciting stories from the worldwide Jamat over the past month.

Heads of State from the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) were hosted yesterday at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat. Prince Rahim and Prince Aly Muhammad welcomed Portugal's President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and leaders from other Lusophone countries.

In attendance were Their Excellencies José Maria Neves, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, José Ramos-Horta, and Carlos Manuel Vila Nova—the Presidents of Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Timor-Leste, and Sao Tome and Principe, respectively, accompanied by their delegations.

Other guests at the event included the President of Portugal’s Parliament, José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel and other senior state officials and diplomats. The President of the Ismaili Council for Portugal, Yasmin Bhudarally, and the leaders of the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) in Portugal also attended. 

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The Family Buddy Program is a unique opportunity for the Jamat to foster a compassionate family-to-family support system, aimed at facilitating the seamless integration of newcomer families into Canadian society through friendship and guidance. Participants will receive training and ongoing support. 

Many families who were newcomers to Canada over the past five decades have reported that it was the support of friends and community that got them through the toughest times. Let's pay it back, and forward!

Register today at iicanada.org/jamathelpingjamat. 

In a December 2022 speech, Prince Rahim announced a bold commitment: ensuring that all AKDN operations, spanning various agencies and institutions, achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. But what does 'net-zero' really mean? Essentially, net-zero emissions refer to the balance between the amount of greenhouse gases produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. Achieving net-zero emissions doesn't mean eliminating all emissions entirely; rather, it involves offsetting emissions by investing in projects that remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, such as reforestation or carbon capture technologies. This commitment marks a significant step towards combating climate change and preserving our planet's health for future generations.

As we commemorate Earth Day 2024 this week, let us strive for this goal as one Jamat. Let's also remember the importance of simple actions like conserving energy in our daily lives.

This includes habits such as turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use, transitioning to energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and adjusting heating and cooling settings to conserve energy. Opening windows or using window coverings effectively can also help regulate indoor temperatures without relying on air conditioning. These practices empower us to play a part in energy conservation, promote sustainable living, and shrink our carbon footprint.

Let's commit to conserving energy today for a brighter, greener future for generations to come.

In this urgent call to action, President Ameerally Kassim-Lakha introduces Jamat Helping Jamat, a program addressing critical needs within the Canadian Jamat such as employment, housing, and education. Discover the areas where your help is needed and see how you can contribute to meaningful change.