Rafia Haniff-Cleofas: An Exceptional Muslim Leader

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Sr. Rafia Haniff-Cleofas, a remarkable Canadian Muslim leader and a beloved member of Toronto’s Muslim community.

إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُون
إِنَّ لِلَّهِ مَا أَخَذَ، وَلَهُ مَا أَعْطَى، وَكُلُّ شَيْءٍ عِنْدَهُ بِأَجَلٍ مُسَمَّى، فَلْتَصْبِرْ وَلْتَحْتَسِبْ

Some individuals enter our lives as quiet blessings, leaving an imprint far deeper than words can capture.

Sr. Rafia was such a soul—her sincerity, warmth, and selfless service became a guiding light that inspired all who knew her.

Despite living with disability, she transformed her challenges into strength for others.

She became a pioneer for disability rights, ensuring that those too often marginalized were heard, valued, and included.

Her advocacy was never for recognition or reward, but rooted in the conviction that dignity and inclusion are rights granted to every human being by Allah.

She was a founding member of ERDCO (Ethno Racial People with Disabilities Coalition of Ontario) and played a vital role in Canada’s disability rights movement.

A major part of her legacy was through DEEN Support Services (Disability Empowerment Equality Network), which she co-founded.

At DEEN, she served in leadership and program roles, including as Program Manager, coordinating the Peer Support Network and initiatives such as DEEN’s Global Conference on Disability and Islam.

Her professional life also reflected her mission.

She worked in Human Resources and coordinated employment outreach programs with the City of Toronto—building fairness, access, and opportunity in every sphere of community life.

Sr. Rafia’s service extended well beyond Canada.

She quietly organized relief efforts in Gaza, Uganda, and the Philippines and established the Madrasah Rafia Umm Ahmad in the Philippines.

Passionate about her faith, she pursued higher learning and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic Studies.

She embodied resilience—not merely as endurance, but as grace in motion.

Her strong iman (faith) carried her through trials, and her life stood as a testimony to compassion, justice, and unwavering commitment to the vulnerable.

She was a mercy among us, a living reflection of the Qur’anic call to enjoin what is right and to stand for those in need.

Among her many aspirations was the establishment of a home for people with disabilities in Scarborough—a vision rooted in dignity, care, and inclusion.

To bring such a project to life would be to continue her service, a lasting sadaqah jariyah that keeps her light alive.

May Allah, Most Merciful, envelop Sr. Rafia in His infinite Mercy, forgive her shortcomings, and grant her the highest stations in Jannah.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to her husband, her sons, and her family.

May they find comfort in the cherished memories of an exceptional Muslimah whose legacy of kindness and service will continue to live on in all who were touched by her presence.