Community Resources

Ali Nasser has dedicated his life to learning and teaching Islam, nurturing the faith of Muslim youth in the community. He began his journey in Islamic studies at the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM), where he completed an associate degree in Arabic. He later received a scholarship to the Islamic University of Madinah, graduating with a BA in Islamic Theology and Missiology. In addition to serving as an Imam at the Islamic Information Society of Calgary (IISC), Ali is the Director of Youth Affairs at Al-Kahf Youth Center. His work within Palliser Regional Schools allows him to engage with and support Muslim youth across Calgary. Now, as the Muslim Faith Representative at the University of Calgary, Ali continues his commitment to fostering spiritual growth and understanding in the academic community.

Having completed his Memorization of the Quran (Hafidh) in 2017 through the full-time Tahfeez Program at the Islamic Association of NW Calgary (IANWC), Fawaz has since been giving Friday sermons (Khutbahs), youth lectures, teaching the Quran, and leading Taraweeh during Ramadan. One of Fawaz’s passions is to advocate and support Muslim students as they navigate through their academic journey, and has done so through being involved in the MSA during his time at the University and also through establishing the Muslim Students’ Advisory Committee (MSAC). Fawaz has contributed across programs and organizations in Calgary through mentorship, spiritual and mental health guidance, leadership development, program coordination, media interviews, and more. As a Registered Nurse, he hopes to combine holistic wellbeing and Islamic knowledge to support Muslim students at UCalgary.

With over 20 years of experience, Noureen is dedicated to supporting Calgary’s Muslim community as an Islamic Counsellor, Spiritual Guide, and Life Coach. She is passionate about fostering unity, creating positive change, and empowering individuals of all ages. Since 2007, Noureen has served as the Academic Director of Noor Quran Academy and has been a chaplain since 2018. She is also an instructor for Muslimah Talks and programs hosted by the Muslim Student Association at UCalgary. Most recently, she has had the honor of serving as a chaplain at the University of Calgary through Nisaa Foundation. She holds an A’alimah Degree in Islamic Theology and certifications in Islamic Psychology, Life Coaching, and Chaplaincy. Quoting Rumi: “Some human beings are safe havens. Be companions with them.”

Omar Al Bastami blends his role as a full-time software engineer with a deep commitment to Islamic education and community leadership. A UCalgary graduate in Electrical Engineering, Omar educates youth on Islamic fundamentals such as creed, the Islamic way of life, and the Seerah. He has memorized the Quran with multiple recitations and serves as the principal of the Quran school at the Calgary Islamic Center SW Masjid, educating hundreds of students. On Fridays, Omar delivers khutbahs (sermons) and has led tour groups in Makkah and Madinah, providing spiritual guidance and historical insights. He actively seeks to build bonds with students and foster deeper understanding and connection.