Connect-Ummah is a Non-Profit-Organization. It’s based out of Toronto and launched in February 2022. Our aim is to build a diverse professional Muslim network that can help our community grow through our Youth mentoring Program and Networking events. Supporting and guiding Muslim youth in the community.

Mission/ Vision:

Helping Muslim professionals connect

Helping Muslim youth find mentors

Board of Directors

Dalia Ashry

Dalia Ashry is a reporter with CBC News Toronto. She was born and raised in Toronto to Egyptian parents who immigrated to Canada over 30 years ago. She speaks English, Arabic, French and proficient in Spanish. Dalia is passionate to tell stories that involve social justice, race, religion, foreign affairs — ones that matter and change the narrative. With over 5 years in the industry under her belt, Dalia has worked in northern B.C. and Alberta before making her way back home to Toronto. She has worn several hats including video journalist, host, anchor, weather forecaster, producer and reporter.
She has a degree in Linguistics and Language studies from Glendon College (YorkU) and a broadcast journalism diploma from Seneca College.
Dalia would love to see more Muslims reporting in the industry. She’s excited to launch the Connect-U program with her fellow colleagues. She hopes to inspire, lead and support our future leaders.

Sara Zeitoun

Sara is a Partnership and Outreach Manager at a not-for profit organization focusing on the transportation and logistics sector.
She has a bachelor’s degree in Global Political Studies and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Government / Public Relations from Seneca College.
Her passion for helping those in the community is what has led Sara to her career. With an extensive experience in the not-for-profit sector, she’s been able to assist and lead several meaningful programs. She has supported internationally trained professionals settle and find meaningful employment in Canada. Sara has experience as an Employment Consultant and Mentoring Coach. She has firsthand knowledge of the powerful impact mentors have on someone’s life.
She’s excited to be an exec member and give back to the community.
“It’s something I wish I had growing up, and I hope it is helpful to our future Muslim leaders”

Walied Khogali Ali

Walied has lived in Regent Park with his family since 2005. He has worked to champion issues such as affordable transit, environmental stewardship, equity and human rights in both the community and across the city. Walied is known for his work with residents from all backgrounds to create safe, inclusive, sustainable communities that are free from discrimination and hate.

Walied is passionate about building a society in which all people can reach their full potential.

He is the Co-Founder of the Coalition Against White Supremacy and Islamophobia (CAWSI). This coalition of 170+ organizations, mobilized a national day of action in February 2017 in response to the Trump administration’s “Muslim ban” and the deadly islamophobic and racist attack on a mosque in Quebec City in January 2017. Walied is a community mentor for youth experiencing marginalization, and an advocate for education and career opportunities, as well as meaningful youth participation in public discourse. Walied continues to support at-risk youth and families across the Greater Toronto Area as a mutual aid coordinator at the City of Toronto, focused on raising awareness about food insecurity and promoting vaccine access.

Abdullah Tahiri

Abdullah Tahiri, currently practises dentistry in the Kitchener and Oakville area. He graduated from York University with a BSc. in Kinesiology and Health Sciences. While at York University, he was published in numerous scientific journals and involved with a variety of charitable organizations.
Abdullah went on to complete his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Schulich School of Dentistry at the University of Western Ontario. Abdullah’s main focus in dentistry is using the latest advances in technology. Examples of this include his use of C.E.R.E.C (chairside economical restoration of esthetic ceramics), his integration of CBCT and digital scans for implant guide fabrications, and more — all to provide the best possible dental experience for his clients.
Abdullah believes in a strong work life balance, and has committed himself to paving a career path which yields time to spend with friends, family, and the community.

Nour Atiyeh

She’s currently a Medical Skin Care Therapist, based out of Toronto. She is also a Clinical Manager, and oversees over a dozen employees. Nour provides Medical skin consultations and treatments.

She graduated from York University with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Psychology. After working in the cosmetic field for a few years, Nour expanded her studies and obtained a Medical Skincare therapist diploma. Because of her passion for health and wellness she is currently studying to become a holistic nutritionist by the end of 2022.

In addition to her passion for health and wellness, Nour believes in the importance of giving back and volunteering. She is a proud Palestinian-Canadian who is one of the organizers of a non-for-profit organization called “Run for Palestine”. Nour also volunteers to organize events such as: Talent for Syria, RIS( Reviving the Islamic Spirit), and Run for Palestine Toronto. She wished she had the guidance growing up to choose the right career that matched her passion and interests. She joined Connect-U to provide support and leadership to the Muslim Youth in our community.