Canadian Support Group Raises Over $150,000 to Support Families and Orphans in Guyana
The friendly and uplifting atmosphere reflected the collective spirit of the Guyanese-Canadian Muslim community — one rooted in compassion, unity, and the desire to serve others.
By Shaykh Imran Ally
The Canadian Support Group of the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) hosted its annual fundraising dinner on Saturday, October 25 at the Scarborough mosque, Sunnatul Jamaat of Ontario, raising more than $150,000 to assist vulnerable families and orphans in Guyana.
The event, held under the theme “The Love of Giving for Humanity,” brought together community members, imams, and representatives from across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
Despite a busy evening of overlapping community programs, organizers reported strong attendance and a warm atmosphere of generosity throughout the night.
Honouring Tradition and Legacy
The program opened with a recitation of Surah Ad-Duha by Zahraa Mohammed, followed by an English translation by Sauleh Ally.
The inclusion of both a young reciter and translator reflected a prophetic tradition emphasizing respect for both the youth and elders.
The evening concluded with a special tribute recognizing three distinguished Guyanese for their decades of community service and leadership: Imam Meer Lakha, Imam Abdool Haleem Hack, and Professor Mohamed Kayume Khan.
Calls for Continued Compassion
In his welcome remarks, Mr. Liaquat Baksh, President of the CIOG Canadian Support Group, thanked attendees for their continued generosity and highlighted the enduring importance of giving back.
“This event reminds us that the love of giving is at the heart of our faith and our humanity,” Mr. Baksh said.
He also expressed appreciation for the many individuals and organizations that have supported CIOG’s charitable initiatives in Guyana over the years.
Among the special guests were Mr. Mani Singh, Honorary Consul of Guyana in Toronto; Mr. Jerry Karamat, from the One Guyana Forum; and Mr. Danny Doobay, former Consul General of Guyana in Toronto.
Guest speaker Shaykh Abdul Hafeez Mahinudin conveyed greetings on behalf of CIOG’s leadership in Guyana and delivered the evening’s keynote address.
He outlined the continuing need for community support despite Guyana’s economic growth, noting that many families still face serious hardship.
“The economic gains in Guyana have not yet reached everyone,” he said. “Our support remains vital for those struggling to meet basic needs.”
Partnering for Impact
Mr. Nabil Ali, Chief Operating Officer of the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF), presented a detailed report on the foundation’s collaboration with CIOG.
The partnership includes a joint initiative with the Guyanese Ministry of Health to expand access to mental health services — a growing priority in the country.
Mr. Ali praised the CIOG Canadian Support Group for its consistent commitment and described the collaboration as a model for effective community-based humanitarian work.
A Spirit of Generosity
Leading the fundraising segment, Shaykh Imran Ally began his appeal with a reflection on Surah Ad-Duha, drawing lessons of hope and divine reassurance.
He then used a well-known Guyanese proverb — “wan, wan, dutty build dam” — meaning small efforts lead to great results, to inspire donors to contribute, regardless of amount.
The approach resonated with attendees and led to a strong response.
The evening’s total exceeded $150,000, alhamdulillah, with contributions from several major donors, including IDRF, Muslim Welfare Canada, Islamic Foundation of Toronto, Islamic Society of Markham, Sunnatul Jamaat of Ontario, and the International Muslims Organization of Toronto.
Community leader Mr. Winston Kassim, C.M., assisted with the fundraising, while coordination with major donors was managed throughout the year by Ms. Janet Ferouz, Mr. Liaquat Baksh, and Ms. Fathima Baksh.
Food, Fellowship, and Faith
Guests were treated to heartfelt qaseeda performances by Mr. Mumtaz Alli, followed by a traditional Guyanese dinner catered by S&B Catering (Br. Sheriff and family).
Volunteers led by Ms. Waheeda Bacchus and Mr. Tariq Baksh ensured smooth logistics, from meal service to seating arrangements, all executed with efficiency and care.
The friendly and uplifting atmosphere reflected the collective spirit of the Guyanese-Canadian Muslim community — one rooted in compassion, unity, and the desire to serve others.
Gratitude and Du’a
In closing remarks, Mr. Liaquat Baksh thanked all donors, attendees, and volunteers for their generosity and commitment to CIOG’s humanitarian mission.
“May Allah reward everyone who contributed, prayed, and participated in making this event a success,” he said.
He emphasized that the funds raised will directly benefit families in need through CIOG’s established programs in Guyana, providing food, education support, and care for orphans.
For many attendees, the evening was more than just a fundraising dinner — it was a reaffirmation of the values of sadaqah jariyah (ongoing charity) and a reminder that even small acts of giving can have lasting impact.
The CIOG Canadian Support Group’s annual event continues to serve as a bridge between the Guyanese Muslim diaspora in Canada and the communities they support back home, embodying the enduring message of faith, generosity, and shared humanity.
fazal