ABOUT US

Drawing upon the rich inspiration of the Muslim tradition while embracing diversity, the Rhoda Foundation is a Canadian Registered Charity serving diverse communities in Canada’s National Capital Region. Our mission is to support the spiritual, intellectual, and emotional development of all people, transcending cultural, linguistic, and religious boundaries.

While we cherish our roots in the Islamic faith, our programs are designed to be universally accessible and welcoming to all, regardless of their faith or background. We are a testament to the ancient and evergreen legacy of those who have shared the light of Divine Guidance with humanity, across diverse faiths and traditions.

Our vision is to foster multicultural, multi-religious, multi-generational spaces and initiatives reflecting and sharing the universal values of love, peace, and wisdom. We are dedicated to translating these principles into action, word, and spirit, nurturing a harmonious environment where the beauty of human diversity is celebrated and respected.

OUR HISTORY

The Rhoda Foundation was established in 2012 by Hamdi Ben Aissa and Shehnaz Karim. Formerly known as the Sanad Collective, the Rhoda Foundation was founded to connect Muslims and non-Muslims alike in Ottawa to the rich legacy of the Islamic tradition. Over the years, many projects were led by members of the community under the guidance of its founders, such as the Lotus Community Corner, Cafe Floraison, the Rhoda Masjid, the Pickthall Institute, the Lotus Blossom Retreat, Retraite Floraison, and many more.

These projects served and continue to serve as a link, connecting people to a rich legacy of sacred knowledge, passed down from generation to generation – one that we must benefit from and be ready to pass to the coming generations.

Today, the Rhoda Foundation continues to build meaningful community and spiritual development projects.