The Organization for the Prevention of Violence is a community and expert-led non-government organization.
An international best practice model of countering violent extremism (CVE) built on the foundations of trust and authentic community partnerships.
The OPV is a diverse group of professionals with experience in CVE and other forms of violence and risk reduction.
As an organization, the OPV brings community, academic and practitioner knowledge to bear on the problem of radicalization to violence.
Together, we work to prevent radicalization and challenge extremism through awareness, psycho-social interventions and an evidence driven approach to countering hate-motivated violence.
Ultimately, effective prevention is a team effort and the OPV acknowledges and welcomes the concerns, input, feedback and leadership of the community.
The OPV recognizes that programs to counter hate-motivated violence are most effective when they engender a multi-sectoral response that includes community groups and experienced professionals.
An effective response to hate-motivated violence requires a whole-of-society response. For that reason, the OPV has created connections with community and non-government organizations with a host of organizations within Alberta and across Canada.
We have developed partnerships and working relationships with the Edmonton Police Service (EPS), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Government of Alberta, City of Edmonton and REACH Edmonton.
Our primary financial support comes from Public Safety Canada and the City of Edmonton.
We also regularly communicate and share best-practices with a host of international research networks and prevention initiatives.
The Organization for the Prevention of Violence is a community and expert-led non-government organization.
Dr. John McCoy is the Executive Director of the OPV. In addition to this role, he is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Alberta and a Senior Research Affiliate at the Canadian Network for Research on Terrorism, Security & Society (TSAS). McCoy has worked as a consultant in the Middle East, North America, Europe and the Caribbean and with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (RCMP-INSET), specifically as an instructor on the Counter-Terrorism Information Officer (CTIO) course. McCoy has represented Canada and the OPV at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, G20 and the General Assembly of the United Nations. He has more than forty publications on the subjects of violent extremism, and integration, including op-eds, policy papers, academic articles and books.
Dr. John McCoy is the Executive Director of the OPV. In addition to this role, he is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Alberta and a Senior Research Affiliate at the Canadian Network for Research on Terrorism, Security & Society (TSAS). McCoy has worked as a consultant in the Middle East, North America, Europe and the Caribbean and with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (RCMP-INSET), specifically as an instructor on the Counter-Terrorism Information Officer (CTIO) course. McCoy has represented Canada and the OPV at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, G20 and the General Assembly of the United Nations. He has more than forty publications on the subjects of violent extremism, and integration, including op-eds, policy papers, academic articles and books.
Michael is the OPV’s Deputy Executive Director. He also teaches the psychology of terrorism at the University of Calgary, and has been appointed adjunct professor at both the University of Toronto and Ontario Tech University. Michael strives to use behavioral science to help counter violent extremism. To do this, he draws upon his academic training and knowledge as well as his experience working at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and at Public Safety Canada. Michael completed his PhD in social psychology from McGill University, where he researched how individuals legitimize the use of ideologically-motivated violence.
Michael is the OPV’s Deputy Executive Director. He also teaches the psychology of terrorism at the University of Calgary, and has been appointed adjunct professor at both the University of Toronto and Ontario Tech University. Michael strives to use behavioral science to help counter violent extremism. To do this, he draws upon his academic training and knowledge as well as his experience working at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and at Public Safety Canada. Michael completed his PhD in social psychology from McGill University, where he researched how individuals legitimize the use of ideologically-motivated violence.
David is the Manager of Applied Research at the OPV and a research affiliate at the Canadian Network for Research on Terrorism, Security and Society (TSAS). His work has been funded by Public Safety Canada, TSAS, NATO and the Department of National Defence. He has delivered training and lectures before diverse audiences including the Brookings Institution, Oxford University’s Department of Politics and Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC). He also regularly instructs on the RCMP’s Counterterrorism Information Officer Course. In addition to research, David works with some of the clients in the OPV’s intervention program. He is a graduate of the University of Alberta.
David is the Manager of Applied Research at the OPV and a research affiliate at the Canadian Network for Research on Terrorism, Security and Society (TSAS). His work has been funded by Public Safety Canada, TSAS, NATO and the Department of National Defence. He has delivered training and lectures before diverse audiences including the Brookings Institution, Oxford University’s Department of Politics and Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC). He also regularly instructs on the RCMP’s Counterterrorism Information Officer Course. In addition to research, David works with some of the clients in the OPV’s intervention program. He is a graduate of the University of Alberta.
Navaid Aziz is a Canadian Muslim public figure with a diverse academic and social background, who supports the OPV’s intervention, engagement and research activities. He is currently focused on the education and integration of Muslim youth, with the hopes of eradicating radicalization. He was raised in Montreal, Quebec where he completed a diplome d’etudes collegiales in commerce and social sciences from Champlain College (2000) before heading to the Islamic University of Madinah where he completed an Associates Degree in Arabic Language and Literature (2003) and a Bachelors in Islamic Law (2008).
Upon returning home to Canada, Navaid began teaching for Al-Maghrib Institute. He has since transitioned to their Director of Public Relations and Student Affairs. During this period, he volunteered as the Islamic Editor for Little Explorers Magazine and began his work as a youth and family counselor. It was also during this time that he established himself as a sought after public speaker. He has lectured across four continents and eighteen countries thus far.
In 2012 Navaid moved to Calgary, Alberta to become the Director of Religious and Social Services for the Islamic Information Society of Calgary, a position he currently holds. In Calgary his youth counseling work extended further to include helping in the mitigation of criminal radicalization. This included the implementation of civic engagement opportunities for Muslim youth. Among the programs started were youth groups, volunteer programs at the local shelters, community cleanups, and tree planting days. In 2015 Navaid became the first ever Muslim chaplain with the Calgary Police Services. Through his involvement with CPS he consulted in the development of their renowned ReDirect program.
Navaid Aziz is a Canadian Muslim public figure with a diverse academic and social background, who supports the OPV’s intervention, engagement and research activities. He is currently focused on the education and integration of Muslim youth, with the hopes of eradicating radicalization. He was raised in Montreal, Quebec where he completed a diplome d’etudes collegiales in commerce and social sciences from Champlain College (2000) before heading to the Islamic University of Madinah where he completed an Associates Degree in Arabic Language and Literature (2003) and a Bachelors in Islamic Law (2008).
Upon returning home to Canada, Navaid began teaching for Al-Maghrib Institute. He has since transitioned to their Director of Public Relations and Student Affairs. During this period, he volunteered as the Islamic Editor for Little Explorers Magazine and began his work as a youth and family counselor. It was also during this time that he established himself as a sought after public speaker. He has lectured across four continents and eighteen countries thus far.
In 2012 Navaid moved to Calgary, Alberta to become the Director of Religious and Social Services for the Islamic Information Society of Calgary, a position he currently holds. In Calgary his youth counseling work extended further to include helping in the mitigation of criminal radicalization. This included the implementation of civic engagement opportunities for Muslim youth. Among the programs started were youth groups, volunteer programs at the local shelters, community cleanups, and tree planting days. In 2015 Navaid became the first ever Muslim chaplain with the Calgary Police Services. Through his involvement with CPS he consulted in the development of their renowned ReDirect program.
Laura Stolte (MSW, BCYC) works with the OPV as the Evolve program’s Lead Caseworker. Laura has been with the OPV since 2020, following over a decade of work in youth housing, mental health, and community education. Her approach in supporting individuals and families is rooted in relational, strengths-based, trauma informed and anti-oppressive approaches. Laura aims to meet people where they are at in life and to empower others in accomplishing their self-defined goals.
Laura Stolte (MSW, BCYC) works with the OPV as the Evolve program’s Lead Caseworker. Laura has been with the OPV since 2020, following over a decade of work in youth housing, mental health, and community education. Her approach in supporting individuals and families is rooted in relational, strengths-based, trauma informed and anti-oppressive approaches. Laura aims to meet people where they are at in life and to empower others in accomplishing their self-defined goals.
Peter Smyth, MSW works with the OPV as the EVOLVE program’s Director, having recently retired from the High-Risk Youth Services with Alberta Children’s Services in the Edmonton region. From 2005 to 2012 he was the supervisor of the High-Risk Youth Unit. Peter has been a social worker for almost 30 years and has developed a practice framework that incorporates non-traditional intervention methods. He provides consultation, training and workshops on engaging and working with youth, and understanding youth through an attachment, trauma and brain development lens. Peter is a co-founder of the Old Strathcona Youth Society in Edmonton and instructor at the University of Calgary, Faculty of Social Work, Central and Northern Alberta Region and MacEwan University. He has authored a number of book chapters and articles, and in 2017, he published his book High Risk Youth: A Relationship-Based Practice Framework.
Peter Smyth, MSW works with the OPV as the EVOLVE program’s Director, having recently retired from the High-Risk Youth Services with Alberta Children’s Services in the Edmonton region. From 2005 to 2012 he was the supervisor of the High-Risk Youth Unit. Peter has been a social worker for almost 30 years and has developed a practice framework that incorporates non-traditional intervention methods. He provides consultation, training and workshops on engaging and working with youth, and understanding youth through an attachment, trauma and brain development lens. Peter is a co-founder of the Old Strathcona Youth Society in Edmonton and instructor at the University of Calgary, Faculty of Social Work, Central and Northern Alberta Region and MacEwan University. He has authored a number of book chapters and articles, and in 2017, he published his book High Risk Youth: A Relationship-Based Practice Framework.
Dr. Zare-Bawani is a practicing Forensic Psychologist who works as a consultant with the OPV. Since 2014, he has taught as an Associate Professor of Psychology at Concordia University of Edmonton where he chairs the interdisciplinary research cluster on youth mental health and leads forensic psychology training and research. Dr. Zare-Bawani has served as a forensic psychologist with Federal and Provincial Governments for more than a decade, working in maximum security institutions, with gang members and violent, dangerous offenders. In this role he managed the process of reintegration of offenders with parole and law enforcement agencies. In his career as a forensic expert, clinician, researcher, and educator, he has focused on promoting public safety by building bridges with communities from north African and Middle Eastern communities, and indigenous peoples of Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Dr. Zare-Bawani is a practicing Forensic Psychologist who works as a consultant with the OPV. Since 2014, he has taught as an Associate Professor of Psychology at Concordia University of Edmonton where he chairs the interdisciplinary research cluster on youth mental health and leads forensic psychology training and research. Dr. Zare-Bawani has served as a forensic psychologist with Federal and Provincial Governments for more than a decade, working in maximum security institutions, with gang members and violent, dangerous offenders. In this role he managed the process of reintegration of offenders with parole and law enforcement agencies. In his career as a forensic expert, clinician, researcher, and educator, he has focused on promoting public safety by building bridges with communities from north African and Middle Eastern communities, and indigenous peoples of Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Brad is currently working as a case worker with the Evolve program at OPV, where he assists individuals who are exiting extremist lifestyles.
Brad is also a Case Manager with Life After Hate where he works in the same servicing American clientele. He also provided research assistance on a number of projects that are funded by Public Safety Canada and the Canadian Network for Research on Terrorism, Security and Society (TSAS). Brad has also served as a consultant for Google, Moonshot CVE, and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD), among others. His primary research interests include right-wing extremism and terrorism, preventing and countering violent extremism, and the roles of former extremists in combating violent extremism.
Brad is currently working as a case worker with the Evolve program at OPV, where he assists individuals who are exiting extremist lifestyles.
Brad is also a Case Manager with Life After Hate where he works in the same servicing American clientele. He also provided research assistance on a number of projects that are funded by Public Safety Canada and the Canadian Network for Research on Terrorism, Security and Society (TSAS). Brad has also served as a consultant for Google, Moonshot CVE, and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD), among others. His primary research interests include right-wing extremism and terrorism, preventing and countering violent extremism, and the roles of former extremists in combating violent extremism.
Michelle is a Research Associate with the Organization for the Prevention of Violence. She holds a Master’s degree and conducts research on extremist groups and hate-based violence in North America, Europe and elsewhere.
Michelle is a Research Associate with the Organization for the Prevention of Violence. She holds a Master’s degree and conducts research on extremist groups and hate-based violence in North America, Europe and elsewhere.
Lauren is a former extremist who denounced hatred and has since partaken in initiatives to facilitate the disengagement of members of hate groups, including working with Life After Hate in the United States. At age 17, she joined the white power movement after the death of her father. She spent several years in the movement before making the conscious decisions to leave due to the murder of another member, sobriety and gaining critical thinking skills. Lauren and her mother, Jeannette Manning, recently co-authored the book Walking Away from Hate.
Lauren is a former extremist who denounced hatred and has since partaken in initiatives to facilitate the disengagement of members of hate groups, including working with Life After Hate in the United States. At age 17, she joined the white power movement after the death of her father. She spent several years in the movement before making the conscious decisions to leave due to the murder of another member, sobriety and gaining critical thinking skills. Lauren and her mother, Jeannette Manning, recently co-authored the book Walking Away from Hate.
Yasmine Behiry, Project Coordinator at the Organization for the Prevention of Violence, leads strategic initiatives aimed at youth violence prevention. Yasmine brings a wealth of knowledge to her role and holds a Bilingual Honours BA in Sociology, a certificate in Public Policy Analysis and Migration and Refugee Studies from York University, and a diploma in Social Service Work from George Brown College. She also holds a part-time professorship at Mohawk College and is a Certified Nonviolent Crisis Intervention trainer. Yasmine was acknowledged by York University for her exceptional contributions as a field instructor and received a commendation for her impactful community work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Yasmine Behiry, Project Coordinator at the Organization for the Prevention of Violence, leads strategic initiatives aimed at youth violence prevention. Yasmine brings a wealth of knowledge to her role and holds a Bilingual Honours BA in Sociology, a certificate in Public Policy Analysis and Migration and Refugee Studies from York University, and a diploma in Social Service Work from George Brown College. She also holds a part-time professorship at Mohawk College and is a Certified Nonviolent Crisis Intervention trainer. Yasmine was acknowledged by York University for her exceptional contributions as a field instructor and received a commendation for her impactful community work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chinonye Ilupeju, Evolve Caseworker at the Organization for the Prevention of Violence, is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families through comprehensive support and intervention. With a focus on family systems and support, Chinonye has spearheaded culturally sensitive and collaborative programs. Her background in counseling and experience in child protection enrich her understanding of family dynamics. She focuses on understanding the impact of extremism on family dynamics, developing intervention and prevention programs, and investigating trauma and resilience among family members. Chinonye is also deeply invested in empowering families and preventing radicalization within communities through diligent documentation and collaboration with professionals and agencies.
Chinonye Ilupeju, Evolve Caseworker at the Organization for the Prevention of Violence, is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families through comprehensive support and intervention. With a focus on family systems and support, Chinonye has spearheaded culturally sensitive and collaborative programs. Her background in counseling and experience in child protection enrich her understanding of family dynamics. She focuses on understanding the impact of extremism on family dynamics, developing intervention and prevention programs, and investigating trauma and resilience among family members. Chinonye is also deeply invested in empowering families and preventing radicalization within communities through diligent documentation and collaboration with professionals and agencies.
Ciara Middlebrook is a dedicated Caseworker with the Organization for the Prevention of Violence. She employs a client-centered and trauma-informed approach to empower individuals toward positive change. With over five years of experience as a social worker and counselor, Ciara has worked extensively with adult survivors of abuse, violence, and complex trauma, addressing issues such as grief, anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. Currently a Master of Social Work student and a Licensed Practical Nurse, Ciara brings a unique blend of skills and knowledge. Her expertise in navigating complex systems and understanding the physiological manifestations of illness makes them a valuable asset in providing comprehensive support to clients. She is also actively involved in the Moonshot project, which aims to connect people to supports and services through online ads. Ciara is committed to making meaningful contributions to research and projects aimed at promoting mental health and well-being in communities.
Ciara Middlebrook is a dedicated Caseworker with the Organization for the Prevention of Violence. She employs a client-centered and trauma-informed approach to empower individuals toward positive change. With over five years of experience as a social worker and counselor, Ciara has worked extensively with adult survivors of abuse, violence, and complex trauma, addressing issues such as grief, anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. Currently a Master of Social Work student and a Licensed Practical Nurse, Ciara brings a unique blend of skills and knowledge. Her expertise in navigating complex systems and understanding the physiological manifestations of illness makes them a valuable asset in providing comprehensive support to clients. She is also actively involved in the Moonshot project, which aims to connect people to supports and services through online ads. Ciara is committed to making meaningful contributions to research and projects aimed at promoting mental health and well-being in communities.
Nuha is a dedicated Caseworker and social advocate pursuing a Master of Social Work with a clinical specialization in Community Informed Health and Well-being at the University of Calgary. She focuses on tailored interventions through relationship-building and referral connections. Nuha is involved in community engagement projects like the Hate Crime Series, developing educational webinars on hate crimes, hate incidents, and extremism. As the Founder and Director of the Salaam Project, she champions Canadian-Muslim alliances and meaningful connections among diverse communities. Nuha is passionate about mental health advocacy, anti-racism work, and community development, and she promotes social justice and well-being for all.
Nuha is a dedicated Caseworker and social advocate pursuing a Master of Social Work with a clinical specialization in Community Informed Health and Well-being at the University of Calgary. She focuses on tailored interventions through relationship-building and referral connections. Nuha is involved in community engagement projects like the Hate Crime Series, developing educational webinars on hate crimes, hate incidents, and extremism. As the Founder and Director of the Salaam Project, she champions Canadian-Muslim alliances and meaningful connections among diverse communities. Nuha is passionate about mental health advocacy, anti-racism work, and community development, and she promotes social justice and well-being for all.
Using a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive practice framework, Morgan is deeply passionate about working with those who have been marginalized and oppressed in our communities. Morgan’s previous social work experience includes practicing within the housing, criminal justice, sexual violence prevention/awareness, and addiction/mental health systems in Alberta, Canada, and Ireland.
Morgan is committed to a lifelong process of learning and unlearning as a way to unpack harmful colonial systems of oppression in our communities. She is dedicated to implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and 94 Calls to Action on a personal and professional level. Currently a Masters of Social Work student in International Community Development at the University of Calgary, she has been involved in research surrounding the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our health care systems, as well as how to implement the 94 Calls of Action into social work education. Morgan was additionally a member of the City of Calgary’s Affordable Housing Task Force and strongly advocates for social justice, safety, non-judgement, and accountability in the social work profession.
Using a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive practice framework, Morgan is deeply passionate about working with those who have been marginalized and oppressed in our communities. Morgan’s previous social work experience includes practicing within the housing, criminal justice, sexual violence prevention/awareness, and addiction/mental health systems in Alberta, Canada, and Ireland.
Morgan is committed to a lifelong process of learning and unlearning as a way to unpack harmful colonial systems of oppression in our communities. She is dedicated to implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and 94 Calls to Action on a personal and professional level. Currently a Masters of Social Work student in International Community Development at the University of Calgary, she has been involved in research surrounding the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our health care systems, as well as how to implement the 94 Calls of Action into social work education. Morgan was additionally a member of the City of Calgary’s Affordable Housing Task Force and strongly advocates for social justice, safety, non-judgement, and accountability in the social work profession.
Brian brings over 36 years of policing and public service experience to the board. He has demonstrated leadership at the highest levels of law enforcement, serving 30 years with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and retiring as Chief Superintendent. He also served six years with the Edmonton Police Service as Deputy Chief of Police. Brian’s public service continued as a Branch Manager of Parks and Roads with the City of Edmonton, and he currently serves as Director of Special Projects with the RCMP as a civilian.
Brian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Simon Fraser University. He has been honored with numerous awards, including the prestigious Order of Merit for Police Forces (OOM), Queens Diamond Jubilee Commemorative Medal, and RCMP Distinction Award, among others, recognizing his commitment to both professional excellence and community service.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Brian has held various board memberships, including his current role as Chairperson for the Organization for the Prevention of Violence. He has also contributed to organizations such as the Special Olympics of Alberta, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, and REACH Edmonton. His deep commitment to community and public service is reflected through his many volunteer contributions and leadership roles in various civic and non-profit organizations.
Brian brings over 36 years of policing and public service experience to the board. He has demonstrated leadership at the highest levels of law enforcement, serving 30 years with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and retiring as Chief Superintendent. He also served six years with the Edmonton Police Service as Deputy Chief of Police. Brian’s public service continued as a Branch Manager of Parks and Roads with the City of Edmonton, and he currently serves as Director of Special Projects with the RCMP as a civilian.
Brian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Simon Fraser University. He has been honored with numerous awards, including the prestigious Order of Merit for Police Forces (OOM), Queens Diamond Jubilee Commemorative Medal, and RCMP Distinction Award, among others, recognizing his commitment to both professional excellence and community service.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Brian has held various board memberships, including his current role as Chairperson for the Organization for the Prevention of Violence. He has also contributed to organizations such as the Special Olympics of Alberta, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters, and REACH Edmonton. His deep commitment to community and public service is reflected through his many volunteer contributions and leadership roles in various civic and non-profit organizations.
Michael Solowan is a lawyer and workplace investigator with Kingsgate Legal in Edmonton. Michael’s practice focuses on governance, ethics and providing external general counsel advice to public sector organizations. Born in Edmonton, Michael grew up in Alberta and B.C. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in communications from Trinity Western University in 1997, and a law degree (LL.B. with distinction) from the University of Alberta in 2005.
Michael Solowan is a lawyer and workplace investigator with Kingsgate Legal in Edmonton. Michael’s practice focuses on governance, ethics and providing external general counsel advice to public sector organizations. Born in Edmonton, Michael grew up in Alberta and B.C. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in communications from Trinity Western University in 1997, and a law degree (LL.B. with distinction) from the University of Alberta in 2005.
Dr. Anna Kirova is Professor of Early Childhood Education in the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta. Her credentials include a PhD in Early Childhood Education from the University of Sofia, Bulgaria (1987), and a PhD in Elementary Education with an early childhood specialization from the University of Alberta, Edmonton (1996). Prior to her appointment at the University of Alberta in 2000, she was a faculty member in the Department of Human Development and Child Studies at Oakland University, Michigan, USA (1996-2000).
Dr. Anna Kirova is Professor of Early Childhood Education in the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta. Her credentials include a PhD in Early Childhood Education from the University of Sofia, Bulgaria (1987), and a PhD in Elementary Education with an early childhood specialization from the University of Alberta, Edmonton (1996). Prior to her appointment at the University of Alberta in 2000, she was a faculty member in the Department of Human Development and Child Studies at Oakland University, Michigan, USA (1996-2000).
Dr. Bob Murray currently serves as the Vice-President, Planning and University Relations (interim) at Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE).
He has held executive-level positions in the professional and business advisory services, economic development, think tank, and education sectors, and has advised extensively on municipal, provincial, federal and international policy issues. He consults on policy and political matters, both nationally and internationally, and has shared his extensive knowledge as a faculty member at the University of Alberta and Brock University.
Dr. Murray holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Alberta, a Master of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in History from Brock University and has an extensive international academic publication record.
Dr. Bob Murray currently serves as the Vice-President, Planning and University Relations (interim) at Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE).
He has held executive-level positions in the professional and business advisory services, economic development, think tank, and education sectors, and has advised extensively on municipal, provincial, federal and international policy issues. He consults on policy and political matters, both nationally and internationally, and has shared his extensive knowledge as a faculty member at the University of Alberta and Brock University.
Dr. Murray holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Alberta, a Master of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in History from Brock University and has an extensive international academic publication record.
Khalid has a rich family heritage rooted in Lebanese immigration to Canada. His great-uncle was among the early settlers in Lac La Biche in 1901, helping to establish a thriving Lebanese community through the fur trade. Khalid’s father, Ahmed, followed in 1952, working for the Hudson Bay Company in Edmonton before returning to Lebanon in 1964, where Khalid was born. After moving to Canada, Khalid pursued his education in telecommunications at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), graduating in 1989. He worked at Celluttel Communications before venturing into entrepreneurship, establishing a successful computer business, and later expanding into the food industry and land development.
Khalid’s deep commitment to his faith and community has shaped his remarkable career in leadership and service. From his early years as Youth Director at the Canadian Islamic Centre to being elected President of the Centre at just 27, he has played a pivotal role in fostering interfaith dialogue, supporting the Muslim community, and advocating for social causes. He has been instrumental in numerous initiatives, including establishing Edmonton’s Islamic cemetery, founding the Edmonton Council of Muslim Communities, and spearheading the Edmonton Islamic Academy project. Khalid’s dedication has earned him prestigious recognitions such as the Alberta Centennial Gold Medal, the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Award, and the RISE Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional contributions to creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Khalid has a rich family heritage rooted in Lebanese immigration to Canada. His great-uncle was among the early settlers in Lac La Biche in 1901, helping to establish a thriving Lebanese community through the fur trade. Khalid’s father, Ahmed, followed in 1952, working for the Hudson Bay Company in Edmonton before returning to Lebanon in 1964, where Khalid was born. After moving to Canada, Khalid pursued his education in telecommunications at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), graduating in 1989. He worked at Celluttel Communications before venturing into entrepreneurship, establishing a successful computer business, and later expanding into the food industry and land development.
Khalid’s deep commitment to his faith and community has shaped his remarkable career in leadership and service. From his early years as Youth Director at the Canadian Islamic Centre to being elected President of the Centre at just 27, he has played a pivotal role in fostering interfaith dialogue, supporting the Muslim community, and advocating for social causes. He has been instrumental in numerous initiatives, including establishing Edmonton’s Islamic cemetery, founding the Edmonton Council of Muslim Communities, and spearheading the Edmonton Islamic Academy project. Khalid’s dedication has earned him prestigious recognitions such as the Alberta Centennial Gold Medal, the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Award, and the RISE Lifetime Achievement Award for his exceptional contributions to creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Mirande Alexandre is a dynamic consultant, fund development mentor, project manager, and marketing advisor with over 25 years of experience, having excelled in roles for the Canadian government and various organizations in Canada, Jordan, and Mexico. Mirande is known for her ability to exceed sales targets and deliver outstanding project results, and has lived in Alberta since the late 1990s. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce, a Fine Arts degree, and a Tourism degree from Montréal. In 2012, she founded “Connecting 360,” a company dedicated to supporting small and mid-sized businesses and non-profits in building management capacity, strategizing, and securing government funding.
Mirande’s expertise in empowering professionals and diverse communities, including immigrant, Francophone, and Indigenous groups, has earned her numerous accolades from Government and community groups. She has received the Alberta Federal Council’s “Official Languages Award” and the “Collaborative Working Relationships Award.” In 2022, she was honored with the Right For All LGBTIQ+ Refugees in Canada Now Society Award for her dedication to the 2SLGBTQI+ community, and in 2018, Radio Canada recognized her as the “Pearle” of the Francophone Community. Her ongoing commitment to fostering community development and impactful projects makes her a highly sought-after mentor and consultant.
Mirande Alexandre is a dynamic consultant, fund development mentor, project manager, and marketing advisor with over 25 years of experience, having excelled in roles for the Canadian government and various organizations in Canada, Jordan, and Mexico. Mirande is known for her ability to exceed sales targets and deliver outstanding project results, and has lived in Alberta since the late 1990s. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce, a Fine Arts degree, and a Tourism degree from Montréal. In 2012, she founded “Connecting 360,” a company dedicated to supporting small and mid-sized businesses and non-profits in building management capacity, strategizing, and securing government funding.
Mirande’s expertise in empowering professionals and diverse communities, including immigrant, Francophone, and Indigenous groups, has earned her numerous accolades from Government and community groups. She has received the Alberta Federal Council’s “Official Languages Award” and the “Collaborative Working Relationships Award.” In 2022, she was honored with the Right For All LGBTIQ+ Refugees in Canada Now Society Award for her dedication to the 2SLGBTQI+ community, and in 2018, Radio Canada recognized her as the “Pearle” of the Francophone Community. Her ongoing commitment to fostering community development and impactful projects makes her a highly sought-after mentor and consultant.
Shafana Mitha, based in Treaty 6 territory (Amiskwacîwâskahikan/Edmonton), is a dedicated community builder and leader with extensive public and private sector experience. She is a Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional (CCIP), CPA, and holds an MBA with a focus on Strategic Diversity and Inclusion. Through her company, aKollage Consulting Inc., Shafana supports organizations across Alberta and Canada in transforming their Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) practices with customized, practical strategies.
Beyond her professional work, Shafana volunteers on various boards, including the City of Edmonton’s Anti-Racism Independent Body. She collaborates with not-for-profits like the Edmonton Community League Foundation and Sister’s Dialogue to provide Anti-Racism learning and development throughout the community.
Shafana Mitha, based in Treaty 6 territory (Amiskwacîwâskahikan/Edmonton), is a dedicated community builder and leader with extensive public and private sector experience. She is a Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional (CCIP), CPA, and holds an MBA with a focus on Strategic Diversity and Inclusion. Through her company, aKollage Consulting Inc., Shafana supports organizations across Alberta and Canada in transforming their Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) practices with customized, practical strategies.
Beyond her professional work, Shafana volunteers on various boards, including the City of Edmonton’s Anti-Racism Independent Body. She collaborates with not-for-profits like the Edmonton Community League Foundation and Sister’s Dialogue to provide Anti-Racism learning and development throughout the community.
Olena Slepysheva is a Director in Health Information Systems at Alberta Health, Government of Alberta. In this role, she spearheads the delivery of effective technology and information services, managing over 40 business applications, including several mission-critical systems for the Ministry. Leading a dedicated team of managers, vendors, and business analysts, Olena ensures the successful development, enhancement, and maintenance of complex systems that align with the Ministry’s objectives and mandate.
A Certified Scrum Product Owner® with a BComm in Management Information Systems from the University of Alberta and a Certificate in Advanced Leadership from UBC, Sauder School of Business, Olena has a proven track record of modernizing key systems at the Workers’ Compensation Board – Alberta. She has driven strategic initiatives such as legacy system modernization, data asset growth, and the implementation of mobile and digital solutions. Olena is committed to delivering projects that advance corporate strategy, align with organizational goals, and provide significant value to Albertans.
Olena Slepysheva is a Director in Health Information Systems at Alberta Health, Government of Alberta. In this role, she spearheads the delivery of effective technology and information services, managing over 40 business applications, including several mission-critical systems for the Ministry. Leading a dedicated team of managers, vendors, and business analysts, Olena ensures the successful development, enhancement, and maintenance of complex systems that align with the Ministry’s objectives and mandate.
A Certified Scrum Product Owner® with a BComm in Management Information Systems from the University of Alberta and a Certificate in Advanced Leadership from UBC, Sauder School of Business, Olena has a proven track record of modernizing key systems at the Workers’ Compensation Board – Alberta. She has driven strategic initiatives such as legacy system modernization, data asset growth, and the implementation of mobile and digital solutions. Olena is committed to delivering projects that advance corporate strategy, align with organizational goals, and provide significant value to Albertans.
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