MEET

The Team

 With great pleasure and pride, we present you with our dedicated team from the community consisting of directors, leaders, teachers and staff who make LFA a great place to learn and grow!

THE

Board of Directors

HUSSAIN ALI

Board of Directors Chair

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Engineering in Biomedical and Electrical Engineering

ABOUT

Hussain is a Professional Engineer with over 19 years of experience in engineering and project management. He has a strong track record of leading multi‑disciplinary teams to successfully deliver complex engineering projects. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Hussain provides clear direction and technical guidance while fostering alignment among engineering, operations, and project stakeholders.

 

Beyond his professional career, Hussain is committed to community service. He has volunteered with organizations such as Hull Services and Big Brothers Big Sisters, providing structured mentorship to youth facing mental health challenges. Additionally, through his passion for STEM and developing the next generation of scientists and engineers, Hussain has been a regular volunteer and judge for APEGA’s annual Science Olympics.

 

Hussain is passionate about leading high‑performing teams and building trusted relationships, believing that strong collaboration is the foundation for achieving exceptional results.

ROSE GERANSAR

Director and Voting Member

EDUCATION

PhD, Health Services Research

ABOUT

Rose Geransar is a health policy and management professional with over 30 years of experience in community work and volunteerism within both the Muslim community and the broader Calgary community.

 

Rose has experience leading and working collaboratively across government, non-profit, and academic organizations, managing research teams, and producing evidence-based deliverables to inform public policy.

 

Rose has been volunteering in the community since she was a youth. Her experience includes seven years as a Sunday school teacher for Madinatul Ilm School, and two decades of experience volunteering at various levels to serve the community within the City of Calgary, University of Calgary, Alberta Health Services, and the former Calgary Health Region.

HACHEM FAWAZ

Director and Voting Member

EDUCATION

MBA in Business Administration

ABOUT

Hachem Fawaz is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC-IRB) and Founder & CEO of Canada Sweet Home Immigration. With over 20 years of administrative experience and more than a decade in immigration assessments, he brings extensive expertise in governance, compliance, and strategic leadership.

 

Mr. Fawaz has demonstrated long-standing community leadership, including over 12 years in executive roles at Alkawthar Community Center. In his early years, he was actively involved in youth development through managing scout camps and serving as a First Aid trainer.

 

He is recognized for his cross-cultural communication skills, ethical leadership, and commitment to strengthening community-focused institutions.

THE

Officers

ALI DHIA

CEO

EDUCATION

BSc in Electronic Engineering

MEng in Engineering Management

ABOUT

Co-founder of Lady Fatima Academy, Calgary

Principal and teacher at Madinatul-Ilm Saturday school, for the last 14 years, where students learn Arabic, Quran and Islamic studies from ages 6-18 in Calgary.

Founder and President of Al-Zahra Learning Centre, Calgary.

 

JALAL WEHBY

TREASURER

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance 

ABOUT

Sayyed Jalal Wehby possesses a strong foundation in financial services and advisory. Mr. Wehby gained professional experience as a Financial Advisor at TD Bank, where he provided clients with comprehensive financial guidance.
He currently practices as an independent accountant and tax advisor, offering a range of financial and taxation services to individuals and businesses. His work is characterized by a commitment to accuracy, regulatory compliance, and the delivery of tailored financial solutions. He is also actively engaged with the community in Calgary and across Canada, supporting individuals and businesses in achieving financial stability and growth.

THE

Leadership Team

SARA KAMAR

Principal

EDUCATION
  • Bachelor of Education (secondary sciences)
  • Bachelor of Science in Ecology
  • Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a French minor
ABOUT

Born and raised in Calgary, I am passionate about helping children grow academically, spiritually, and personally in a nurturing Islamic environment. I hold a Bachelor of Education (secondary sciences) , a Bachelor of Science in Ecology, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a French minor from the University of Calgary. Aside from LFA, my experience includes working at the Calgary Board of Education, Islamic Schools, and Foothills Academy, as well as volunteering with organizations such as The PREP Society, Calgary Reads, Junior Achievement, and many more.

As both an educator and a parent, I believe the early years are a sacred time for developing faith, character, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. Literacy has always been at the heart of my work, and I strive to make it a meaningful part of every child’s education. My training in ADHD and learning disabilities, combined with a commitment to research-based and innovative teaching practices, allows me to support diverse learners while continually seeking the best ways to help every student succeed.

As Principal, I believe exceptional schools are built through meaningful relationships, high expectations, and strong partnerships with families. I am committed to fostering a safe, welcoming school culture where students and staff feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow in faith, character, and knowledge.

Aside from education, I enjoy healthy eating, preparing foods from scratch, spending time with my family, reading, enjoying the outdoors, staying active, attending local Islamic programs, and continually learning through books and Islamic lectures. I look forward to partnering with families as we help every child develop a love for Allah, a love of learning, and the confidence to grow into the best versions of themselves inSha’Allah.

ZAINEB LATIF

Religion Lead & Instructor

EDUCATION

BA in Graphic Design

Currently studying BA in Education

ABOUT

Co-founder of Lady Fatima Academy, Calgary

Founding director of Al-Zahra Learning Centre, serving the youth and children of the Calgary Shia community for the last 14 years.

Co-Founder and Teacher at Madinatul-Ilm Saturday school, for the last 14 years, where students learn Arabic, Quran and Islamic studies from ages 6-18 in Calgary.

Zaineb is able to communicate religious knowledge and values in creative and engaging ways with proven success to win the minds and hearts of children and youth to the straight path of Prophet Muhammed (SAW) and AhlulBayt (AS).

THE

Education Team

Mahrukh Ali

Certified Teacher

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Education, University of Calgary (Specializing in French Elementary)

Teaching Second Languages Certification – Level 1- (French) University of Calgary

BA Honors (French) Kinnaird College For Women Lahore, Pakistan

MA (French As A Foreign Language) Kinnaird College For Women Lahore, Pakistan

ABOUT

“Anyone can learn with empathy and the right opportunity”. This motto has been Mahrukh’s motivation for years. Being fluent in English, French, Urdu, and Punjabi, she seeks to cultivate the term “I believe in myself” in her students. One of the reasons for her love for languages is the possibility it offers her to interact and affect a multitude of learners.

Mahrukh aims to build learning around her students’ emotional, physical, and mental well-being. She enjoys internal spirituality and intellect and aspires to touch the souls and minds of learners through her teaching.

NAYYAB FATIMA

Certified Teacher

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Education

ABOUT

Nayab has experience teaching students from grade 6 to 12. With a background in Science and Math, she is committed to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. Whether through thought-provoking discussions, hands-on activities, or personalized support, she will go above and beyond to ensure that each student reaches their full potential. Building positive and productive relationships with students stands as Nayab‘s foremost priority. 

SAKEENA ZAIDI

Certified Teacher

EDUCATION

Certification – Teaching K-12 in Alberta & Manitoba

Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Education ,The University of Manitoba, Winnipeg MB

MA English Literature, University of the Punjab, Pakistan

B. Ed, AIOU, Pakistan.

ABOUT

Sakeena Zaidi is an exceptional educator with a passion for fostering inclusive learning environments and empowering students to reach their fullest potential. With more than two decades of experience in the field of education, Sakeena brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our school community.

With a profound belief in the transformative power of education, Sakeena is dedicated to empowering students to become critical thinkers, lifelong learners, and compassionate global citizens. Her commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, coupled with her passion for mathematics instruction, reflects her unwavering belief in the potential of every student to succeed.

Outside of the classroom, Sakeena enjoys travelling and photography. Her enthusiasm for exploring new cultures and capturing moments through her lens reflects her commitment to personal growth and well-being. Sakeena’s diverse interests contribute to her ability to make a positive impact in the lives of her students and our school community.

KAWTHAR

Certified Teacher

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Education

ABOUT

With a background in Early Childhood Education, Kawthar enjoys creating a warm, welcoming, and supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to do their best. Kawthar loves reading, creativity, and using hands-on activities to make learning engaging and meaningful. One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is watching students grow in confidence and celebrate their achievements.

BATOOL BALLOUK

Certified Teacher

EDUCATION
University of Western Ontario – Bachelor of Psychology
University of Windsor – Bachelor of Education
ABOUT

Batul Ballouk is an enthusiastic and caring educator who is passionate about helping students grow into confident, lifelong learners. She is committed to creating a classroom community built on kindness, respect, and a love of learning, where every student feels valued and supported. Believing that each child brings unique strengths to the classroom, Batul strives to provide engaging and meaningful learning experiences that encourage curiosity and creativity. Through building strong relationships and creating a positive learning environment, she hopes to inspire every student to reach their fullest potential!

ALEIDA JAFRI

Certified Teacher

EDUCATION
ABOUT

Sheharbano Hassan

Instructor

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science ( Major in Math, Statistics & Physics)

Masters in Business Administration (Marketing)

Certified Early Childhood Educator level 3 – Red River College, Winnipeg MB

Bachelor of Education ( ongoing)

ABOUT

Sheharbano brings over 20 years of experience as an educator, with a strong foundation in teaching, curriculum planning, and early childhood development. She holds a two-year Early Childhood Educator (Level 3) Diploma and has taught at various levels, ranging from preschool to junior high, giving her a broad understanding of student learning needs across age groups.

Her teaching practice is rooted in compassion, inclusivity, and a commitment to creating a classroom environment where every child feels seen, supported, and valued. She prioritizes equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that her teaching approach and classroom culture reflect these core values.

In addition to her extensive educational experience, Sheharbano holds an MBA, which strengthens her ability to plan, organize, and deliver well-structured learning experiences. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Education to further enhance her teaching qualifications.

HIBA AL MOUSAWI

Instructor

EDUCATION

Childhood Development Certificate

Early Childhood Diploma

Education Assistant Diploma

Bachelor’s in Biology Science

ABOUT

With more than five years of experience in Education and Childcare Fields, Heba has a wide range of skills that enable her to work effectively with students with added knowledge of how to work with students who experience varying challenges such as Seizure, Autism, and ADHD.

Hiba is highly skilled in supervising and interacting with children due to her strong communication skills and her empathetic and gentle nature. Her sincere intention to support children in her care makes children at ease, confident and happy to learn. Hiba is passionate about guiding students towards spiritual and academic success in the light of Prophet Muhammed (SAW) and the Ahlulbayt (AS).

NAHDHAH ABBAS

Instructor

EDUCATION

Human Services Certificate

Human Services Diploma

Bachelors in Veterinary Medicine

ABOUT

With over a decade of experience, Nahdhah brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in child development and education. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated her ability to implement effective classroom plans, collaborate seamlessly with teachers and therapy teams, and develop tailored activities that meet the unique needs of each child. Nahdhah excels in modifying learning materials and classroom equipment to accommodate children with various disabilities, including autism and ADHD. Her empathetic nature, combined with her strong communication skills, enables her to build a nurturing and supportive environment where children feel at ease, confident, and motivated to learn.

ALI AL-SHIMARI

Instructor

EDUCATION

BA in Health and Physical Education majoring physical literacy.

ABOUT

Ali Al-Shimari is passionate about promoting health and physical fitness among students as a dedicated gym teacher. Recently graduated with a Bachelor of Health Physical Education, majoring in Physical literacy, Ali brings a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to the classroom. With six years of experience working with children, Ali is committed to creating engaging and active learning environments where students can develop their physical abilities and foster a lifelong appreciation for fitness. Outside of teaching, Ali enjoys participating in community sports leagues and is dedicated to inspiring students to lead healthy and active lifestyles.

FIZZA HASAN

Instructor

EDUCATION
ABOUT

MARYAM SHAMSAND

Instructor

EDUCATION
  • Dental Assistant Diploma
  • Certified Intraoral Dental Assistant
  • Dental Radiology Certification
  • First Aid & CPR Certified Instructor 
ABOUT

Maryam is a passionate educator creating a safe, nurturing environment where children thrive. Through hands-on learning, she inspires creativity, confidence, curiosity, and healthy habits through movement and play.

With a background in dental assisting and over five years of experience in children’s oral health, patient care, and infection control, Maryam brings a caring, safety-focused approach to the classroom. Her passion for arts, crafts, sewing, construction, and athletics makes learning fun and meaningful.

A proud mother of four, she is guided by Islamic values and Shia beliefs, nurturing kindness, strong character, and embracing cultural diversity. Fluent in English, Farsi, Pashto, and Urdu, she builds meaningful connections with children and families.

NADA SALEH

Instructor

EDUCATION

Education Assistant Professional Certificate from Columbia College Calgary

Bachelor’s degree in Arabic Literature from the University of Lebanon,

Standard First Aid and CPR/AED certification through the Canadian Red Cross.

ABOUT

Nada Saleh is an instructor and Education Assistant with over a decade of experience supporting children’s learning and serving the community in Canada. She has taught Arabic and the Holy Quran and worked collaboratively with teachers, families, and school staff to create inclusive learning environments that foster students’ academic, social, and emotional growth.
Passionate about helping children reach their full potential, Nada holds an

SOMAYA HOSSEINI

Instructor

EDUCATION
  • Bachelor of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
  • Master of Economic Geoscience, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad
  • Master of Petroleum Geoscience, University of Calgary
  • PhD in Geochemistry, University of Calgary
ABOUT

With experience teaching elementary students, leading university lab courses, and mentoring learners, Somayeh brings a strong educational background to her role. Guided by her passion for Islamic studies, she is dedicated to nurturing children’s spiritual growth and inspiring a love for the Holy Quran and the teachings of the Prophet and the Ahl al-Bayt. Through engaging and creative activities, she creates a positive learning environment that builds a meaningful foundation for lifelong faith insha’Allah. 

 

LAHIB ALAWADI

Sub – Instructor

EDUCATION

Diploma in early childhood education from Lethbridge College

Currently in the second year of a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Athabasca University.

ABOUT

Lahib Has worked as an early childhood educator and teacher in Islamic & Arabic preschools since 2008. She loves working with children of different ages and levels of abilities. Lahib believes in creating a suitable learning environment for children so they can achieve their highest academic potential. She has a firm conviction in the connection between education and faith in order to cultivate a new generation of educated and respectful individuals who can contribute to the community.

KANWAL IJAZ

Support

EDUCATION
ABOUT
THE

Transport Team

Imad

NADEEM

MOHAMMAD

TAHSEEN

INTISAR

MARYAM

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