New Country, New Challenges
Building Healthy and Resilient Iranian Families in Canada
October 7, 2026 | Online via Zoom
The Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization (HOMA) hosted an online panel discussion titled “New Country, New Challenges: Building Healthy and Resilient Iranian Families in Canada.” The panel featured Maryam Nasrilari, a former pediatrician and neonatologist in Iran and a graduate of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, and Maryam Nasrikoupaei, MA, a psychological counselor educated at Yorkville University.
The discussion explored the emotional, psychological, family, and educational challenges of immigration and ways Iranian families can adapt to life in Canada.
Speakers emphasized that immigration is more than geographical relocation. It can involve grief, homesickness, anger, anxiety, and a diminished sense of belonging. Recognizing these experiences and seeking appropriate support can help newcomers adjust more healthily to their new environment.
An important theme was the importance of parental self-care. Speakers emphasized that caring for oneself is also a way of caring for the family, as parents who attend to their emotional and psychological wellbeing are better equipped to support their children.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of parenting, effective communication, and social networking. Differences between educational cultures in Iran and Canada were also addressed, particularly the greater emphasis often placed on teamwork and collaboration rather than competition in Canadian schools.
Speakers further stressed the need to build self-confidence in both parents and children. Supportive relationships, healthy communication, community participation, and opportunities for personal growth can help immigrant families develop resilience and thrive in Canada.
Through this event, HOMA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Iranian immigrant and newcomer families and promoting wellbeing, belonging, resilience, and stronger family and community connections in Canada.
HOMA — Building Belonging, Empowering People, Strengthening Communities.
Announcement: Gender Equality Week 2026 – HOMA Special Event
The Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization (HOMA) is pleased to announce a special online event in recognition of Gender Equality Week 2026. This gathering celebrates the strength, resilience, and contributions of Iranian Canadian women, while fostering dialogue on inclusion, belonging, and community empowerment.
Women, Equality, & Belonging
Celebrating Iranian Canadian Women and Building Inclusive Communities
Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2026 Time: 7:00 – 8:30 PM EDT Format: Online via Zoom Admission: Free and open to all
This event will feature special guests and community speakers who will share stories, insights, and perspectives that highlight the vital role women play in shaping stronger, more inclusive communities. Attendees will have the opportunity to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations that inspire hope and encourage greater participation across all areas of community life.
Program Highlights
Women’s stories and lived experiences
Conversations on equality, belonging, and opportunity
Community perspectives and shared ideas
Inspiration for collective action and a brighter future
At HOMA, we believe that empowered women strengthen communities, and that fostering belonging is essential to building a society where everyone can thrive. We invite all members of the community to join us as we celebrate achievements, honor contributions, and work together toward a more inclusive tomorrow.
For more information, please visit homaorg.org or contact us at info@homaorg.org or 647‑352‑9897.
Together for a Brighter Tomorrow.
Life can sometimes take unexpected turns, but a brighter you is always possible!
Join us for an empowering webinar hosted by HOMA (Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization) titled “Starting Again: How to Rebuild Confidence, Motivation, and Hope.”
Whether you’re navigating a transition or looking to spark a fresh start, this session will offer wonderful insights into personal resilience and well-being.
🎙️ Featured Guest Speaker: Maryam Nasrikoupaei, MA (Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology with Honours, Yorkville University)
📅 Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2026
⏰ Time: 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM EDT
💻 Where: Online via Zoom
Stronger together because community, opportunity, and belonging matter! Feel free to share this post with friends, family, or anyone who might benefit from an inspiring evening.
Financial Literacy Workshop: Understanding How Money Works in Canada
Understanding how money works is an essential step toward building a secure and confident future in Canada. For newcomers and community members, navigating the Canadian financial system can sometimes feel complicated and unfamiliar.
HOMA is pleased to invite community members to a free online Financial Literacy Workshop: “Understanding How Money Works in Canada.” The session will provide practical knowledge and guidance to help participants better understand the Canadian financial system, develop smart money habits, protect themselves from financial risks, and make informed decisions about their financial future.
The workshop will feature Mary Mahallati, Financial Educator, who will share accessible and practical insights designed to help participants strengthen their financial awareness and confidence.
📅 Tuesday, September 8, 2026
🕗 8:00–9:00 PM EDT
💻 Online via Zoom
🎟 Free & Open to All
HOMA Family Gathering at Centre Island
This Labour Day long weekend, HOMA invites families and friends to come together for a day of joy, friendship, and community at Centre Island.
On Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM, we will gather in the Family Section to enjoy the beauty of nature, share conversation and laughter, and strengthen the bonds that connect us.
For HOMA, community is more than a place—it is a sense of belonging. This gathering is an opportunity to step away from our busy routines, meet new friends, reconnect with one another, and celebrate the importance of family and community.
Everyone is welcome. Come with your family, bring a friend, and be part of the HOMA community.
Family • Friendship • Belonging • Community
Statement of Sympathy from the Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization (HOMA)
The Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization (HOMA) extends its deepest sympathy and solidarity to the families and communities affected by the devastating flash floods in the Himalayan border region of Nepal and Tibet.
We mourn the hundreds of lives lost and hold in our thoughts and prayers all those who remain missing, injured, displaced, or separated from their loved ones. Our hearts are especially with the local communities and the many pilgrims and travelers caught in this catastrophe.
We commend the courageous efforts of the Nepalese and Chinese rescue and relief teams working under extremely difficult conditions. May the missing be found, the injured receive care, and those who have lost their homes and loved ones find strength and support in the days ahead.
Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization (HOMA)
August 27, 2026
HOMA Marks World Humanitarian Day 2026
The Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization (HOMA) held an online community gathering on August 19, 2026, marking World Humanitarian Day under the theme “Humanity in Action: Compassion, Courage & Solidarity.”
The one-hour program brought together Iranians and friends of the Iranian community to remember humanitarian workers who lost their lives while serving others and to reflect on human dignity, compassion, service, and social solidarity.
As part of the program’s history and significance segment, participants watched two videos: the first documenting the 2003 bombing of the UN Headquarters in Baghdad, in which Sérgio Vieira de Mello and 21 other humanitarian personnel were killed, and the second featuring the UN Secretary-General’s message for World Humanitarian Day.The program was successfully implemented by seven HOMA volunteers, men and women, whose participation demonstrated the importance of volunteerism and community engagement in HOMA’s activities.The gathering concluded with a reflection and prayer, encouraging participants to turn compassion into action through volunteering, service, solidarity, and support for their communities.
Remember. Reflect. Serve.
Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization (HOMA)
Serving People • Strengthening Communities • Inspiring Hope
August 19, 2026
