ACTIVITIES AT THE ISMAILI CENTRE BURNABY

Any Institutional activities in the world
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

ACTIVITIES AT THE ISMAILI CENTRE BURNABY

Post by kmaherali »

Ugandan Vice President speaks at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

Gathered at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby (L to R): His Excellency George Abola, High Commissioner for Uganda in Ottawa; Samira Alibhai, President of the Ismaili Council for British Columbia; His Excellency Professor Gilbert Bukenya, Vice President of Uganda; Malik Talib, Vice-President of the Ismaili Council for Canada; and John Halani, Honorary Consul for Uganda in BC. Photo: Riyaz Lalani

On 25 October 2009, His Excellency Professor Gilbert Bukenya, Vice President of Uganda visited the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Accompanied by His Excellency George Abola, High Commissioner of Uganda in Ottawa, he sought to reach out to the Canadian Ismaili community — many of whom were born in Africa — with an invitation to invest in the future of Uganda.

Upon their arrival, they were received by Malik Talib, Vice-President of the Ismaili Council for Canada and Samira Alibhai, President of the Ismaili Council for British Columbia, as well as John Halani, Honorary Consul for Uganda in British Columbia. A number of businessmen and professionals had also gathered at the Ismaili Centre to hear Vice President Bukenya’s presentation.

During the visit, the Ugandan Vice President discussed his country’s socio-economic progress, and presented to the Jamat a range of economic opportunities in the country. Of particular emphasis was Uganda’s movement from being an exporter of raw materials to an exporter of finished products, and a supporter of private sector enterprise.

The Ismaili Centre, Burnaby provided a meaningful setting for the event. “This is a place not only of prayer and congregation, but also a place for teaching, learning, intellectual discourse, inquiry, and social gathering,” said Vice-President Talib in his address. Symbolic of the Jamat’s permanent presence in Canada, it also testifies to the core values of the Ismaili community, he added.

Vice-President Talib applauded the Ugandan government for the stability and overall sense of renewal that it has created in Uganda. “Today, the Government of Uganda is also making a strong commitment to public education, and Uganda’s own history involves centres of learning, like Makerere University,” he said.

His Excellency Professor Gilbert Bukenya, Vice President of Uganda, speaks at the occasion of the foundation-stone ceremony of the Aga Khan Academy, Kampala, in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam. Photo: AKDN/Gary Otte

He highlighted the importance of ongoing partnership between the Government of Uganda and the Aga Khan Development Network through economic initiatives like the Bujagali Hydroelectric Power Project and the Kampala Serena Hotel, as well as the Aga Khan University’s health studies and education programmes in Uganda. Vice President Bukenya also has first-hand knowledge of the new Aga Khan Academy being built in Kampala, having joined Mawlana Hazar Imam at the occasion of its foundation stone-laying ceremony in 2007.

“We are confident that these partnerships will grow under the investment-friendly policies of your government and we look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with the Government of Uganda,” concluded Vice-President Talib

http://www.theismaili.org/cms/907/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations

Publications

AKU-ISMC is pleased to announce that it will be conducting a cluster launch for its publications at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby, Canada during the first week of January 2010.

This will be the first of a programme of ongoing cluster events to be held across several locations to launch the institute’s 3 new series of academic publications . Four volumes from these series were published this past October, entitled: Islam: Between Message and History, Development Models in Muslim Contexts, The Challenge of Pluralism, and Encyclopaedias about Muslim Civilisations.

Sikeena Karmali Ahmed, Manager, Publications & Editing at the ISMC will deliver a brief presentation about the Institute’s publications programme, its 3 academic series and the newly published volumes. There will be abundant opportunity for both questions and discussion; and the books will be available for sale.

Please refer to IJKC announcements for a confirmed date and time.

http://www.aku.edu/ISMC/publications/cluslunch.shtml
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Reflecting on 25 years of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

Leafy plants and fragrant flowers accent the exterior of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Photo: Nurdin Dhanani

On 23 August 1985, then Prime Minister of Canada, Brian Mulroney, officially opened the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam and then Premier of British Columbia, Bill Bennett. The opening of the first Ismaili Centre in North America was a historic moment for the Jamat in Canada and around the world.

Also see:
» Ismaili Centres: The Ismaili Centre, Burnaby
» Opening Ceremony on 23 August 1985
» Gallery: Architecture of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

Farouk Verjee, then President of Ismaili Council for Canada, was intimately involved in the planning, development and opening of the Centre. He describes a meeting that occurred on the morning of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 1978 visit to Vancouver when Hazar Imam announced to the Jamati leadership that Burnaby would be home to the first Ismaili Centre in Canada. “It was much more than just a building,” he says, “it was a powerful message to the Jamat that Canada was to be our permanent home.”

The building was designed by Vancouver architect Bruno Freschi. In 2006, Freschi visited the Centre for the first time since his involvement in the project, and spoke of his inspiration for the building and the rationale and purpose of the building from an architectural standpoint.

Architect Bruno Freschi describes to Mawlana Hazar Imam and the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, how the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby will take shape. Photo: Christopher Little

“I was inspired by the opportunity to work on a significant spiritual architectural space, and one from such a long and profound tradition in spiritual architecture,” said Freschi. “Through very illuminating discussions with His Highness, the local community and other consultants, I found an open minded and very willing client group in a passionate search for an icon to represent this new community in Canada.”

“Mawlana Hazar Imam was intimately involved in the design process,” recalls Verjee. “And Prince Amyn played a key role as well, particularly in the design and development of the beautiful courtyard.”

The Centre is a synthesis of Islamic architecture and contemporary design, drawing on architectural principles steeped in Muslim history and tradition, but reflecting the requirements of modern-day society. The fusion of these seemingly disparate elements results in a design that draws strength from its diversity and is also rooted in timeless values. The use of architecture to convey layers of meaning is evident not only in the Ismaili Centres in Burnaby and around the world, but also in the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat in Ottawa that was opened in 2008.

Mawlana Hazar Imam applauds Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, following his remarks at the Opening Ceremony of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Photo: Zahur Ramji

The Delegation building was inspired by rock crystal, which presents itself differently as light moves through it and is a symbol for the profound beauty and unfolding mystery of creation itself, and of the Creator. The melding of design concepts will also be employed in projects currently under construction in Toronto — the Ismaili Centre, the Aga Khan Museum and their Park on Wynford Drive. The architecture of these buildings is inspired by the past, but also by the modern day, making the structures relevant for generations to come.

At the opening ceremony of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby, Mawlana Hazar Imam outlined his vision for the Centre: “This will be a place of congregation, of order, of peace, of prayer, of hope, of humility, and of brotherhood,” he said. “From it should come forth those thoughts, those sentiments, those attitudes, which bind men together and which unite. It has been conceived and will exist in a mood of friendship, courtesy, and harmony. While the building will be an important focus in the social and religious life of the local Ismaili community in Burnaby, it is my hope, a very deep hope, that it will become a symbol of a growing understanding in the West of the real meaning of Islam.”

During the 25 years since its opening, the Centre has served as a conduit through which the community has sought to fulfil this dynamic vision not only for the Jamat, but also for the wider Canadian and international communities. The Centre has welcomed an array of social, political and business leaders, crossing the lines of political affiliation, culture and religion, and has provided a meaningful setting for the promotion of dialogue and the sharing of ideas.

His Royal Highness Prince Andrew, Duke of York, speaks with guests and recipients of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the courtyard of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Photo: Aziz Ladha

“The Centre was the first Silver Jubilee project in Canada,” says Ismaili Council for Canada President, Mohamed Manji. “As I look back, I see the Jamat and its outlook have changed significantly since its establishment. In any city — in any community — the built environment speaks to the life of the community. The Centre in Burnaby is more than a place of gathering, it has become a focal point. It provides a sense of pride, belonging and identity. It has also been a source of education about Islam and the Ismaili Jamat. And, it is utilised by people from all walks of life as a place for meetings and seminars, thus providing the Jamat an opportunity for meaningful interaction.”

Both past and recent events held at the Centre demonstrate its role in fostering a pluralistic civil society where the diversity of cultures, traditions and ideas are celebrated. Since the opening of the Centre, the building has continually welcomed citizens from within its neighbourhood to discuss the commonalities amongst their faiths.

During Mawlana Hazar Imam’s recent Golden Jubilee visit, the City of Burnaby recognised the contributions of Mawlana Hazar Imam and the local Ismaili community by gifting a large parcel of land next to Burnaby Lake Jamatkhana, which will be developed into a park. In his remarks, the Mayor said: “We are honoured to create this park on the occasion of His Highness’ Golden Jubilee as the City of Burnaby’s recognition and thanks to the Aga Khan and the Ismaili community for making Burnaby their home. We have benefitted from their enterprise and contribution to civil society.”

Professor Farid Esack is congratulated by ummah leaders during an event held in commemoration of Milad-un-Nabi at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Photo: Courtesy of the Ismaili Council for Canada

President Manji says that the gift from the City of Burnaby “is a wonderful example of how the Jamat and the Ismaili Centre have had an impact in Canada, and how the Centre in Burnaby has been a catalyst for the continued success of the Jamat.” Similarly, Manji adds that the projects on Wynford Drive represent a turning point for the Jamat, offering it a trajectory along which to reach even greater heights of success.

In September 2009, the Olympic Truce Dialogue was held at the Centre, where Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, led a dialogue aimed at engaging youth in meaningful and action-oriented conversation on the topic of peace-building through sport and culture. In welcoming the guests, President Manji noted that the values of the Olympic Truce — humility, tolerance, pluralism, the creation of a peaceful and better world through sport, and the spirit of volunteerism — are values that the Ismaili community also lives by, and are cherished by all Canadians.

The following month, the Centre welcomed His Excellency Professor Gilbert Bukenya, Vice President of Uganda, who spoke about his country’s socio-economic progress and the growth of economic opportunities. And, more recently, on 24 April 24 2010, the Chief Justice of Canada, Beverley McLachlin, was a guest at a luncheon held at the Centre, where she spoke about improving access to justice and the role of alternative dispute resolution. Professor Azim Nanji, Senior Associate Director for Islamic Studies at Stanford University, and past Director of The Institute of Ismaili Studies, also spoke on the topic of justice in Muslim contexts.

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, speaks with volunteers at the Olympic Truce event hosted at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby in 2009. Photo: Courtesy of the Ismaili Council for Canada

Twenty-five years ago, Mawlana Hazar Imam called for a better understanding of Islam in the Western world. “Muslims living in the West can, and indeed must, contribute to improving the comprehension of what their faith does stand for, and to dispelling misconceptions which, both in the short and the long term, pose a serious threat to international understanding,” he said.

The need for this understanding has never been more evident than in the world today. The institutional buildings and presence in Canada, including the Ismaili Centre in Burnaby, the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat and Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa, as well as the new Ismaili Centre, the Aga Khan Museum and their Park in Toronto, serve not only as symbols but also as vehicles to help develop and cultivate this understanding.

The Ismaili Centre, Burnaby is a focal point for many events, including this book launch held in the Social Hall. Photo: Courtesy of the Ismaili Council for Canada

http://www.theismaili.org/cms/1070/Refl ... re-Burnaby
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

MEDIA ADVISORY

Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the Institute for Canadian Citizenship welcome 40 new Canadians at a special ceremony at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

Citizenship and Immigration Canada and the Institute for Canadian Citizenship in partnership with the Vancouver citizenship committee will host candidates for citizenship at a special community ceremony at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby on Monday Oct.18 to kick off Citizenship Week (Oct. 18 – 22).

Forty new citizens will be welcomed. Prior to the ceremony, the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, in partnership with Citizenship and Immigration Canada, will hold another in its series of community roundtable discussions. These unique ICC-designed roundtable discussions aim to strengthen the connection between new Canadians and their communities.
PRESIDING OFFICIAL: Judge Anne-Marie Kains

http://www.icc-icc.ca/en/elibrary/docum ... yfinal.pdf
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Diversity and Pluralism in Islam: Historical and Contemporary Discourses amongst Muslims

For more than fourteen hundred years, Muslims have held multiple and diverging views about many aspects of their religious tradition including religious authority, ritual practice, political power, law and governance, civic life, and the form and content of individual and communal expressions. Muslims have regularly debated amongst themselves about these issues. Despite the diversity amongst Muslims and the plurality of understandings about Islam, Muslims are regularly portrayed as internally homogenous and monolithic. This book challenges such propositions by examining the ways in which Muslims regularly debate amongst themselves about matters of common concern, the processes by which they discursively construct notions of self, other and community, and the socio-cultural tools they employ in so doing.

Dr. Zulfikar Hirji will be in Vancouver to launch this new and share his insights from a range of disciplines, including anthropology, history, literature, political theory, comparative literature and Islamic studies.

Date: Thursday, November 25, 2010
Time: 8:30pm
Venue: Ismaili Centre, Burnaby.
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Video: Twenty-five years of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

http://www.theismaili.org/cms/1123/Vide ... re-Burnaby
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

CITIZENSHIP WEEK –
BUILDING CITIZENSHIP CEREMONIES


Citizenship Week was from Oct. 18 to 22 this year and the
ICC celebrated with community ceremonies all across the
country!

Our Building Citizenship committees held ceremonies at
the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Ismaili Centre Burnaby,
the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, the Immigrant Centre
in Winnipeg, the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto ,
Hamilton’s Mohawk College and Thorncliffe Park Public
School in Toronto, which was featured on CBC’s Metro
Morning.
The P.E.I. Citizenship Committee, headed by Trina O’Brien
Leggott, also launched its first-ever ceremony on Oct. 28 in
Charlottetown at the Confederation Centre of the Arts.
Ceremonies in November included Fort York in Toronto (Nov. 12), St. Michael’s

http://www.icc-icc.ca/en/elibrary/docum ... 2010EN.pdf
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Ismaili Center Burnaby: Venue for "A Song at a time to make a difference!”

Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Come to Burnaby & Coquitlam to hear the harmony of Children’s voices….
“A Song at a time to make a difference!”


A number of lunchtime concerts will take place in public venues around Burnaby and Coquitlam during “Songs of the World 2011″. Each choir will energize your day with a wonderful set of about 30 minutes of singing. A wonderful way to spend your lunch hour!!


Wednesday July 6, 2011 | Noon | Performances located as follows:


II. Ismaili Centre , Burnaby- 4010 Canada Way, Burnaby

Young Naperville Singers and Coastal Sound Children’s Choir

http://www.coastalsoundfestival.com/201 ... -concerts/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Shahin Jaffer <shahinjaffer@gmail.com> wrote:
Ya Ali Madad to all our Lower Mainland Physicians, Residents, Fellows
and Medical Students,

On behalf of the Economic Planning Board we would like to invite you
to the first meeting of the Physicians’ Alliance to be held in
Vancouver. In keeping with the recent guidance from the Imam, we
would like to bring together members of the medical community in an
attempt to establish a closer network between health care specialists
so as to better serve the jamat.

The first meeting will be held at Darkhana Jamatkhana on September 24
in the meeting room at 11:00 am . This initial meeting will be for
the purpose of brainstorming potential ideas and goals for the
Alliance, as well as to determine how we can better serve the jamat
and humanity in general. Your presence is requested both for your
participation as well as for your contribution as a health care
professional.

Please RSVP to either Dr. Shahin Jaffer or to Tehmina Remtulla by
September 10th, either by phone or by email. Our contact information
is as follows:

Dr. Jaffer – 604-719-3414 or shahinjaffer@gmail.com
Tehmina Remtulla – 604-306-1630 or tehmina@demortgagize.com.

We will be serving light refreshments so we would appreciate it if you
would RSVP so that we will be able to order coffee and snacks.

We have tried to reach all the physicians, residents and medical
students but please pass on this email to anyone we might have missed.

Looking forward to meeting you all in person, and we are both really
looking forward to making this alliance a successful endeavor.

Sincerely yours,


Dr. Shahin Jaffer
Tehmina Remtulla
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Lieutenant Governor of BC presents Duke of Edinburgh awards at Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

http://www.theismaili.org/cms/1257/

His Honour the Honourable Steven L. Point, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, addresses Duke of Edinburgh award recipients at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Photo: Azim Verjee

In the past 25 years, the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby has hosted a wide range of events, opening its doors to government officials, prominent academics, leaders of many communities, and the wider public.

Over the years, the Centre has served provided a distinguished venue for the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Awards, hosting 19 Bronze Award ceremonies and a Royal Gold Award ceremony. These ceremonies have permitted Award recipients and their families an opportunity to tour the Centre and engage in dialogue with leaders of the Ismaili community.

As part of its year-long commemoration of the 25th Anniversary, the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby hosted a Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award ceremony on 4 June with His Honour the Honourable Steven L. Point, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. It was the first time a Silver Award ceremony has been held outside of Government House in Victoria.

Antalya Popatia, a Silver Award Recipient, is also a member of the Girl Guides, and represented her group during the Opening and Closing ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver. “Receiving my Silver Duke of Edinburgh award gave me a great sense of accomplishment, confidence and satisfaction,” she said.

“In the journey to get this award, I was able to make new friends, participate in physically challenging activities and learn about and appreciate nature. Many of the skills I developed- teamwork, leadership, discipline and serving others - will help me to succeed in life.”

Rashid Fatehali is recognised by the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia for 25 years of outstanding service to the Duke of Edinburgh programme. Photo: Azim Verjee

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was established as a challenge from Prince Philip to all youth between the ages of 14 to 25. Participants have to satisfy the requirements of four sections of the programme: service, adventurous journeys, skills and physical recreation. The Award represents a personal commitment to constructive endeavour, promoting qualities of self-discipline, self-help and self-reliance, and seeks to play a role in grooming the leaders of tomorrow.

During the ceremony, Rashid Fatehali — who has been instrumental in leading the Ismaili youth through the Duke programme since 1986 — was honoured for his 25 years of outstanding service. Fatehali along with the expedition leaders, Fahreen Sovani, Al-Karim Virani, Ebrahim Bawa, Shane Virani, Aly Sachedina and Zahra Ramji have had the privilege of guiding numerous Award recipients, and watching them develop into outstanding individuals.

“I was very honoured to have been recognised for my 25 years of time and energy,” explained Fatehali. “I felt a sense of satisfaction knowing that I was a part of helping the youth achieve their goals through this programme, which has been very rewarding for me.”

Eighty-five youth from 38 different groups across British Columbia received their certificates of recognition from the Lieutenant Governor, including 12 Ismailis. The youth had successfully completed a variety of unique adventurous journeys that included kayaking, hiking, cycling, and mountain climbing.

“The programme has helped me develop a variety of different skills,” says Matina Kamdar, who received her Silver Award at the ceremony. “Over the many camps and expeditions that I have taken part in, I have felt myself grow as a person and have been able to connect and share new ideas with others within the community.”

Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award recipients and leaders from the Ismaili community gather for a group photograph at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Photo: Azim Verjee


As construction continues along Wynford Drive, BC Premier visits exhibition at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby
More Stories About

News and Events Ismaili Centre Burnaby British Columbia Duke of Edinburgh Award 25th Anniversary
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Tour of Ismaili Jamatkhana & Centre, Burnaby, B.C. on November 7th, 2011.
Monday, November 7, 2011 from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (PT)
Burnaby, British Columbia

The Ismaili Jamatkhana & Centre, designed by Bruno Freschi, is a synthesis of traditional Islamic architectural principles and modern construction techniques. From reports of people who have visited the Jamatkhana & Centre, we can assure you a most memorable day. The Jamatkhana, inaugurated in 1985, is one of BC’s best kept architectural secrets.

Join Naz Rayani C.M., and Mona Goode of the Centre for Studies in Religion and Society CSRS (Uvic) to tour The Ismaili Jamatkhana.

Meet at 8:30 - 8.40 a.m. At Swartz Bay Terminal to depart as foot passengers on the 9 a.m. to Tsawwassen.

Please dress casual and comfortable for the weather.

http://takethetour.eventbrite.com/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Governor General of Canada delivers keynote address before the Canadian Club of Vancouver at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

http://www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=14251

Excerpt:

"It is a pleasure to be here to address members of the Canadian Club of Vancouver and to continue the long tradition of governors general speaking at Canadian Clubs.

Indeed, it is fitting that we are here at the Ismaili Centre, a site that represents the diversity I have seen and the inclusiveness that we can all celebrate."

Itinerary: Official Visit to British Columbia
http://www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=14246

Official Visit to British Columbia - Day 3
http://www.gg.ca/gallery.aspx?ID=10588

http://www.gg.ca/

http://www.cknw.com/.

*****
Governor General calls for more youth volunteers
Ariana Kaknevicius/Metro Vancouver

Canada’s Governor General encouraged youth to become more active in volunteering during a speech yesterday at the tail end of a three-day official visit to B.C.

“As we are always reinventing government,” said Gov. Gen. David Johnston. “We also reinvent the volunteering sector.”

His speech to the Vancouver Club, held at the Ismaili Centre in Burnaby, focused on 10 challenges to improve to volunteerism among youth and families.

http://www.metronews.ca/vancouver/local ... volunteers

*****
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Afghan musician playing in Burnaby

Postmedia Network Inc. October 26, 2011


Burnaby's Ismaili Centre will get a sneak peek at a unqiue cross-cultural musical collaboration.

Afghanistan's legendary Homayun Sakhi Trio will be performing a private concert at the centre on Nov. 4, as a lead-up to a major concert on Saturday, Nov. 5 at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts.

Sakhi is a master of the rubâb, a lute-like instrument from Afghanistan.

"During the country's long years of armed conflict, when music was heavily controlled, censored, repressed and, finally, totally banned, the classical rubâb style to which Homayun devoted his career not only survived but reached new creative heights," a press release notes.

The day after his Ismaili Centre performance, Sakhi brings his renowned trio to the stage at the Chan Centre to share the spotlight with the celebrated Kronos Quartet - featuring David Harrington and John Sherba on violin, Hank Dutt on viola and Jeffrey Zeigler on cello.

The musicians will offer up individual sets and then join forces to perform Sakhi's composition Rangin Kaman, translated as "rainbow" in Farsi - which takes listeners on a musical journey through different regions of Afghanistan.

"It can be said that all music is a type of dialogue, with interweaving melodies and rhythms functioning like a conversation," said Joyce Hinton, co-managing director of the Chan Centre, in a press release. "In Rangin Kaman, we experience the most exciting variant of this discourse: one where cultures collide, boundaries blur and traditions fuse. The resulting collaboration is a piece of rich depth, breathtaking passages and soaring melodic beauty."

Their concert is set for 8 p.m. in the Chan Shun Concert Hall at the Chan Centre, at the University of British Columbia.

Tickets range from $57 to $63. Buy at www.ticketmaster.ca or by phone at 1-855-985-2787.

For more details, see www.chancentre.com.

© Copyright (c) Burnaby Now

http://www.burnabynow.com/Afghan+musici ... story.html
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Monday, November 21, 2011
TRIP TO THE ISMAILI JAMATKHANA IN BURNABY

Mention the words Islam and Muslim to many in the street these days and their thoughts turn to Sharia Law condoning the cutting off of hands, suicide martyrs dreaming of virgin in paradise, raped women being stoned...and many more negative images.

Eight parishioners from St. Philip's-by-the-Sea decided on Tuesday November 15th to accept the free invitation of Naz Rayani and Mona Goode from the Centre for Studies in Religion and Society (CSRS) at the University of Victoria to tour The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Centre in Burnaby. We sought the truth behind those stereotypes.

http://lynhancock.blogspot.com/2011/11/ ... rnaby.html
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Inaugural Ismaili Centre Lecture
February 3, 2012

photo: Noor Rahemtulla

The Ismaili Centre in Burnaby, BC hosted a keynote speech by Prof. Toope on 31 January, marking the inauguration of The Ismaili Centre Lectures, a series of intellectually stimulating speaker-based events.

Titled Pluralism and Pragmatism: The Role of Universities in Developing Human Potential, the emphasis of Prof. Toope’s speech is the importance of fostering global citizenship in order to support pluralism within the greater community.

The Lectures will encourage exchange and mutual understanding between diverse peoples, communities, and faiths while broadening intellectual horizons and fostering an appreciation of pluralism.

Prof. Toope’s remarks are also available under Speeches & Op/eds

http://president.ubc.ca/2012/02/03/inau ... e-lecture/

*******
Universities have a role in encouraging pluralist encounters says UBC President at inaugural Ismaili Centre Lecture
Video presented by TheIsmaili.org, the official website of the Ismaili Muslim community.

Video by Jamil Mawani and Jalal Karim» Also see text of President Toope’s speech (PDF)

“Communities are built on common interest, shared histories, need for information, the desire for connection and for a safe place to disagree,” said Professor Stephen J. Toope, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of British Columbia, speaking at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby, on Tuesday, 31 January 2012.

Praising Mawlana Hazar Imam for his passionate articulation of pluralism and his call to action, President Toope suggested that for students, it is through individual experience and learning — not only about themselves, but others — that they encounter people whose views and backgrounds differ from their own. A university education, he suggested, can be a “transformative experience.” Students need to be able to build successful networks and collaborations that are diverse and global in order to pragmatically understand and experience pluralism.

President Toope emphasised that creating an environment that fosters “global citizens” is crucial to seeing pluralism in action: “We transform ourselves into citizens, and that transformation is sustained by a recognition, that, as moral beings, we are here to help one another. That we cannot set someone outside our circle, we cannot turn our back on someone less fortunate than ourselves without in some way compromising ourselves and our own humanity.”


The inaugural Ismaili Centre Lecture in Burnaby was attended by civil society leaders, members of academia, and representatives from the government and diplomatic corps. Photo: Azim VerjeePresident Toope’s address marked the inauguration of The Ismaili Centre Lectures, a series of intellectually stimulating speaker-based events held at the Centre. The lectures encourage exchange and mutual understanding between diverse peoples, communities and faiths, while broadening intellectual horizons and fostering an appreciation of pluralism.

Speaking at the Foundation Ceremony of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby in 1982, Mawlana Hazar Imam expressed a vision for the Centre: “This will be a place of congregation, of order, of peace, of prayer, of hope, of humility, and of brotherhood. It has been conceived and will exist in a mood of friendship, courtesy, and harmony... it is my hope, a very deep hope, that it will become a symbol of a growing understanding in the West of the real meaning of Islam.”

The Ismaili Centre Lectures aim to raise consciousness on issues of universal importance and relevance through dialogue and community engagement. Commencing the programme, Ismaili Council for Canada President Mohammed Manji welcomed guests to the Ismaili Centre.


Ismaili Council for Canada President Mohammed Manji presents UBC President Stephen J. Toope with a gift — the Bismillah Whale by Sherazad Jamal. Photo: Azim Verjee“Today is a very special day for us, as it marks the launch of the Ismaili Centre Lectures, and continues a long-standing tradition within Islam of bringing people together to share knowledge and wisdom,” said President Manji to an audience that included leaders of civil society, members of academia, and representatives from the government and diplomatic corps. “In today’s world, gatherings and dialogues are more important than ever before, and we must continue to know one another and celebrate our shared values.”

An international Law scholar, President Toope’s academic interests include public international law, legal theory, human rights, international dispute resolution, and family law. He continues to conduct research on many aspects of international law including human rights and culture, and the origins of international obligation in international society.

President Toope said that universities have a role in developing human potential through what he described as the “twin lenses” of pluralism and pragmatism. “A university should be the place where students, staff, faculty, and alumni begin to discover both the common humanity and the deep difference between them, and where it’s safe enough to explore the discomfort and the vulnerability inherent in such encounters. It should be the place where open, authentic engagement with people whose appearance or customs or worldviews are different from ours becomes a habitual practice, part of our daily lives.”


UBC President Stephen J. Toope receives a standing ovation at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby. Photo: Azim Verjee“It is the task of our lives to find out [what our potential is], and to help others to do the same,” said President Toope. “And it is the task of our universities along with our partners to create, together, a global community of practice in which that may happen — for our students, staff, and scholars, and for all of the people we serve. The time for the best of deeds has come.”

http://www.theismaili.org/cms/1329/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Karen Armstrong speaks at the Ismaili Centre Burnaby

http://www.vancouverobserver.com/politi ... d-religion

Karen Armstrong in Vancouver to talk about compassion and religion
Eva Sajoo Posted: Mar 28th,
»Karen Armstrong at the Burnaby Ismaili Centre.

Karen Armstrong, an internationally renowned British author and commentator on religion, will be hosted by the SFU Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue from March 19 - 30 to hold a city-wide series of discussions on compassion. She makes the case that unless society grasps the social and political role that compassion must play, conflicts will extract a growing toll in human suffering.

Armstrong is the author of several bestselling books, including History of God, biographies of the Buddha and the Prophet Muhammad, and most recently, Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life. Armstrong’s gifts as a remarkably articulate author-activist earned her the prestigious TED Prize in 2008. The TED Foundation awards $100,000 each year to an individual with an idea important enough to change the world. “The TED Prize is awarded annually to an exceptional individual who receives $100,000 and, much more important, “One Wish to Change the World." Armstrong used her award to gather a network of scholars and activists from across several religious communities, working together to draft the Charter of Compassion.

The compassion charter draws on the Golden Rule shared by most religions: that people should treat others in the same way they expect to be treated. The vision behind the Charter, and the ways in which it is being used to motivate change, drives a series of conversations that Armstrong is leading across the city this month, linking communities and individuals to a global conversation on compassion.

On Sunday, March 25, she spoke to a packed audience at Burnaby’s Ismaili Centre, focusing on the ethical principles of Islam — which also inform universal ethics, secular and religious. Armstrong acknowledged that faith traditions can (and are used) to motivate claims of superiority, and to excuse the mistreatment of those outside the fold. Yet at their best, each of these traditions embraces compassion as the key to our dealings with other human beings.

Muslim mystic Ibn Arabi, writing in the 13th century, illustrates this concept.

“Do not attach yourself in an exclusive manner to any one creed, so that you disbelieve all the rest," he wrote. "Everyone praises what he believes; his god is his own creature, and in praising it he praises himself. Consequently, he blames the beliefs of others, which he would not do if he were just, but his dislike is based on ignorance.’

Armstrong emphasized that compassion is different from pity. Rather, compassion recognizes that “we are sharing the planet not with inferiors, but with equals”.

This concept is easy to pay lip service to, but difficult to implement in practice. People are often guilty of allowing ignorance or unexamined prejudice to shape how we think and speak about others. By emphasizing differences of culture, race, or religion, we put distance between ourselves and others. The less they seem to be like us, the easier it is to treat them as inferiors.

Armstrong has put her finger on something critical here. The worst violence the world has seen -- from genocides to slavery -- is always preceded by a systematic attempt to erase the humanity of the victims from our language, and hence from our thoughts. Think of the way dehumanizing Rwanda’s Tutsis were portrayed by the Hutus ahead of the 1994 genocide, the way that Africans were viewed by Europeans, or the way Jews, gypsies, and others were categorised by the Nazis. By allowing ourselves to think of some category of people as less human, it becomes easier to treat them in barbaric ways. Compassion begins with a serious commitment to seeing the moral equality of other human beings.
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Karen Armstrong speaks at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby during her 12 Days of Compassion tour

Video included

http://www.theismaili.org/cms/1356/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Ismaili Centre the venue for United Way Leadership Vancouver

Excerpt:

United Way Leadership Vancouver will be held at the Ismaili Centre in Burnaby, with program dates starting from September 2012, and registration closing on July 30, 2012.

http://www.marketwire.com/press-release ... 663921.htm
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Diamond Jubilee Medal Presentation Ceremony at the Ismaili Centre

http://yonahmartin.sencanada.ca/p103245 ... remony.pdf

http://www.sagefoundation.net/?p=741
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

The Aga Khan Education Board for Canada and Technovation invites you to a Panel Discussion with Women Leaders in Technology

http://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2012/1 ... ilimail%29
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Eight dynamic women share leadership stories at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

http://www.theismaili.org/cms/1420/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

PM visits the Ismaili Centre, Vancouver

http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/media/pm-visits ... -vancouver

TheIsmaili.org – Diary of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby: Prime Minister of Canada tours the Ismaili Centre in Vancouver

https://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2015/ ... e-burnaby/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Ismaili Centre International Lecture

The Aga Khan Council for Canada and War Child invite you to the 2015 Ismaili Centre International Lecture featuring award-winning humanitarian and best-selling author Dr. Samantha Nutt. The 2015 Ismaili Centre International Lecture is sponsored by RBC.

The theme for the 2015 Ismaili Centre International Lecture is ‘Perspectives on Global Development’.

As a medical doctor and founder of the renowned international humanitarian organization War Child, Dr. Nutt has worked with children and their families at the frontline of many of the world’s major crises. A leading authority on current affairs, the impact of war, international aid and foreign policy, Dr. Nutt is one of the most intrepid and recognized voices in the humanitarian arena and is amongst the most sought-after public speakers in North America. With a career that has spanned more than two decades and dozens of conflict zones, her international work has benefited millions of war-affected children globally.

Dr. Nutt will speak in three Canada cities.

Dr. Nutt will deliver her lecture and participate in a moderated discussion followed by questions from the audience. The evening lectures will be followed by a reception and book signing (Damned Nations). Light food and beverage will be provided.

Ticket Cost: $25. To purchase tickets please click here.

The Ismaili Centres are symbolic markers of the permanent presence and core values of Shia Ismaili Muslim communities around the world. Reflecting the Ismaili community’s intellectual and spiritual understanding of Islam, its social conscience, its forward outlook and its commitment to progress, the Centres are bridges of friendship and understanding that serve to enhance relationships among faith communities, government and civil society. The Ismaili Centre International Lecture is a signature program of the Aga Khan Council for Canada. The International Lecture aims to foster a greater understanding of critical issues and brings together world renowned thought leaders. These lectures encourage exchange and mutual understanding between diverse peoples, communities and faiths, while broadening intellectual horizons and fostering an appreciation of pluralism.


Ismaili Centres

Region:

Canada

Start Date:

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Start Time:

7:00 PM

Location:


Vancouver

******

Start Date:

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Start Time:

8:15 PM

Location:


Calgary

*********
Start Date:

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Start Time:

8:00 PM

Location:


Toronto

http://iicanada.org/national/events/ism ... antha-nutt
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Cariboo Hill Secondary students visit Cairo exhibition at Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

Students in Mr. Bertness’ and Ms. Myles’ Sci-matics class had the opportunity to visit Connect, Create Cairo, an exhibition hosted by the Ismaili Centre in Burnaby to explore the past, present and future of cities and urban spaces. The exhibition used 3D printing technology to allow students to conceive design solutions to urban planning and issues.

/ismailimail.wordpress.com/2016/02/24/cariboo-hill-secondary-students-visit-cairo-exhibition-at-ismaili-centre-burnaby/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

British Columbia Premier Christy Clark visits the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

/ismailimail.wordpress.com/2016/04/02/british-columbia-premier-christy-clark-visits-the-ismaili-centre-burnaby/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

“A Place of Miracles” book launch to be held at Ismaili Centre, Burnaby on April 9, 2016

His Highness Prince Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Canada presents the book launch of A Place of Miracles: The Story of a Children’s Hospital in Kabul and the People Whose Lives Have Been Changed by It with author Lee Hilling

Saturday April 9, 2016
The Ismaili Centre, Burnaby
Presentation, interview, book signing and reception and Q&A 8:30 p.m.

Lee Hilling has been Chairman of FMIC’s governing body since 2006 and has travelled to Afghanistan nearly sixty times. He has held board and senior executive management positions at academic health centers in the United States, Pakistan, and East Africa. A native of Ohio, he now lives with his wife in Bethesda, Maryland.

/ismailimail.wordpress.com/2016/04/05/a-place-of-miracles-book-launch-to-be-held-at-ismaili-centre-burnaby-on-april-9-2016/
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

WEBCAST: Book launch and discussion with Lee Hilling

Lee Hilling, Chairman of the French Medical Institute for Children in Kabul, discusses his book A Place of Miracles: The Story of a Children’s Hospital in Kabul and the People Whose Lives Have Been Changed by It at the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby on Saturday, 9 April.

The event is due to begin soon after 2:00 PM PDT (Vancouver time) and will be webcast at TheIsmaili.org/live.

http://www.theismaili.org/ismailicentre ... ee-hilling[/b]
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Building Bridges of Understanding

April 20, 2015

Representatives of the Ismaili community of the Lower Mainland welcomed a group from the North Vancouver Region to the Burnaby Ismaili Centre on Sunday, April 12. Beginning in the courtyard - designed to reflect the beauty and tranquility of paradise - we were led slowly around its pathways, under spring blossoms, the sound of a fountain drowning out the noise of traffic on nearby Canada Way. We entered the Centre and Jamatkhana through architect Bruno Freschi's massive archway, faced with Carrara marble and flanked by sandstone walls. Our volunteer guide took us through the three floors of the Centre, with its rooms for community gatherings, administration and education. The simplicity and symmetry of the architecture are striking - engineers among us marvelled at the concrete construction. The calligraphic decorations on walls, doors and windows are complemented and softened by kilim rugs hanging in the stairwells and meeting areas.

We were served a wonderful hot lunch; then Dr. Omar Kassam spoke to us about the traditions and beliefs of Shi'a Ismaili Muslims, their spiritual practices and their practical engagement with the world. Our visit ended with time in the prayer hall, the centre of Ismaili life. We came away with gratitude for the hospitality we had been shown, and a deepened understanding of our Ismaili neighbours.

http://www.vancouver.anglican.ca/news/b ... erstanding
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

Special Edition | British Columbia Electronic Al-Akhbar | Wednesday, June 22, 2016
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Event

Ismaili Centre, Burnaby 30th Anniversary – Livestream on the Future of the Canadian Jamat


The Council for British Columbia is pleased to present a very special event this Friday in commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby, Council for Canada President Malik Talib will be addressing the entire British Columbia Jamat on the future of the Canadian Jamat via a live broadcast, which will be shown at all Jamatkhanas.

This is a unique opportunity for us to hear directly from President Talib about Mawlana Hazar Imam's vision for the Canadian Jamat and how we, as a Jamat, will navigate the next 30 years and beyond.

It is our hope that the entire Jamat, including non-Ismaili family members, will join us for this special evening


Date: Friday, June 24, 2016
Start Time:After Jamati Ceremonies
Location:All Jamatkhanas
kmaherali
Posts: 25106
Joined: Thu Mar 27, 2003 3:01 pm

Post by kmaherali »

A lecture/demonstration by Chugge Khan and friends

'Poems are rough notations for the music we are.’ – Rumi

Sufi music is the sound of Islam’s mystical inner dimension. At once spiritual and ecstatic, Sufi music reflects some of the most accessible, liberal and pluralistic traditions of Islam. Today it is contained in a variety of forms – from Qawwali (made popular the world over by musicians such as Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan) to the Kafis of poet saints like Bulle Shah, to a contemporary version some refer to as ‘Sufi Rock’.

Master musician Chugge Khan, born in the Thar desert in India, is a living repository of more than a thousand songs, and a master of many instruments. He has played with a wide range of musicians (from Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan to AR Rahman, to Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead) on stages all over the world including the Fez Sacred Music Festival and Womad.

Join Chugge Khan and key members of his musical collective Rajasthan Josh at a special evening in the beautiful courtyard garden of the Ismaili Centre in Burnaby. In an informal lecture/demonstration format, they will take us on a journey of the poetry, instruments and songs that inspire them. This event follows from the concert ‘Songs of the Desert Sufis’ and provides a deeper understanding of how Sufi music and poetry continues to influence our contemporary lives. Guiding us with musical context (and translating from Hindi and Urdu to English) is Mohamed Assani, himself a musician of renown and a noted member of Vancouver’s musical community.

Presented with support from the Ismaili Centre Burnaby
The Ismaili Centre Burnaby is part of a network of 6 Ismaili Centres around the world, including Centres in London, Dubai, Dushanbe, Lisbon and Toronto. Collectively, they are symbolic markers of the permanent presence and core values of Ismaili communities around the world. They are bridges of friendship and understanding, and serve to enhance relationships among diverse peoples, communities, government and civil society. For more information about the Ismaili Centre, Burnaby, please visit their website.

&#61747; When July 10, 2016 8:00 pm &#61505; Where Ismaili Centre, Burnaby

4010 Canada Way, Burnaby, BC V5G 1G8
Ticket Price
$15

http://indiansummerfest.ca/event/what-w ... the-sufis/
Post Reply