The Canadian Council of Imams (CCI) celebrated the accomplishments of Imams and community leaders at its 4th Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony held on Monday, April 15th in Mississauga, Ontario.
“The event provides us with the opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of notable community members,” said Imam Refaat Mohamed, President of the Canadian Council of Imams.
“Through their tireless work ethic and dedication, they have created immeasurable impact.”
“The awards ceremony will be one for us to share our thoughts and exchange ideas on how to chart our journey forward to reach new heights,” he added. “We have an exciting program that allows for reflection, and to renew friendships and extend our networks.”
In attendance at the event were many Imams, dignitaries and law enforcement officials.
A number of political leaders sent greetings to the Council and commended the organization on their contributions to the country.
“I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge, with gratitude, the many ways in which the Muslim community has made Ontario a better place,” said Ontario Premier Doug Ford in his message. “The Muslim community is a vital part of the fabric of our province.”
“The Canadian Council of Imams plays an integral role in Toronto and their organization has advanced our city and impacted the lives of many in the community,” said Toronto Mayor John Tory in a message to the Council.
“Thank you to the volunteers and leaders for their hard work and dedication to making Toronto a better place.”
Reverend Colin Robert Johnson was the recipient of the Community Interfaith Award.
Reverend Johnson served as the Anglican Archbishop of Toronto and was an active supporter of the Anglican ministry in the Flemingdon Park neighborhood that served the Muslim communities there through a partnership with Muslim organizations running food banks.
Advocating for Community
Amira Elghawaby was recognized with the Community Activist Award for her outstanding work in advocating for the Canadian Muslim community.
Two well-known Muslim leaders, Shaikh Abdalla Idris, and Shaikh Muhammad Zahid Abu Ghuddah, were honored for their exceptional service to the community.
Ahmed Hashim Ullah was recognized with the Youth Activist Award for his advocacy and humanitarian efforts on behalf of the Rohingya people.
Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Ahmed Hussen, was also recognized for his achievements and service to Canada.
The Canadian Council of Imams is a collective leadership of Imams in Canada.
Established in 1990, the Council has been serving the Canadian Muslim communities in different capacities as well as a unifying platform for Canadian Imams and chaplains.
“CCI has and continues to work with other faith-based groups to voice our shared concerns about issues that affect the lives of Canadians,” said Imam Refaat Mohamed.
“The ultimate goal is to work together to become one voice in ethical, value-based perspectives.”
“With partnerships to the federal, provincial and municipal levels of support, CCI has been able to contribute to matters related to educational, civic, security and law enforcement agencies,” he added.
“With the aim to produce peace, we are grateful for the trust, support, and appreciation over the years.”