INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE GIRL
October 11, 2026
Educate a Girl. Empower a Generation.
Every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, dream, grow, and shape her own future.
On the International Day of the Girl, HOMA recognizes the importance of girls’ education and empowerment as a foundation for stronger families, more inclusive communities, and a more equitable society.
Education gives girls more than knowledge. It builds confidence, independence, leadership, critical thinking, and the ability to make informed choices. When girls have access to education and meaningful opportunities, they are better positioned to participate fully in their communities and become the women and leaders of tomorrow.
For immigrant and newcomer families in Canada, supporting girls and young women can be especially important as they navigate a new educational system, new cultural environments, and new opportunities. Creating spaces where young women feel safe, respected, heard, and included helps them develop their potential while strengthening the communities around them.
At HOMA, we believe in:
*Equal access to education and learning opportunities
*Confidence, skills, and personal development for girls and youth
*Leadership and meaningful participation of young women
*Safe, inclusive, and supportive communities
*Empowering immigrant and newcomer girls to thrive in Canada
*Building pathways from education to opportunity and leadership
When a girl is educated, she gains a voice.
When she is empowered, she can use that voice to create change.
When girls thrive, communities thrive.
Today, we celebrate the dreams, talents, courage, and potential of girls everywhere—and reaffirm our commitment to helping create a future in which every girl has the opportunity not only to succeed, but to lead.
HOMA — Building Belonging, Empowering People, Strengthening Communities.
WORLD TEACHERS’ DAY
October 5, 2026
Honoring Those Who Inspire, Educate & Empower
Teachers do more than teach.
They inspire curiosity, nurture potential, build confidence, and help shape the future of individuals and communities.
On World Teachers’ Day, HOMA proudly recognizes and celebrates Iranian teachers, educators, professors, instructors, and educational leaders in Canada and around the world.
Your knowledge, dedication, patience, and commitment to education make a lasting difference.
To every teacher:
Thank you for inspiring minds, touching lives, and building a better future.
Happy World Teachers’ Day!
HOMA – Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization
Women, Equality and Belonging: Celebrating Iranian Women in Canada and Building Inclusive Communities The Iranian Christian Solidarity Organization (HOMA) hosted an online webinar on September 30, 2026, via Zoom, titled “Women, Equality and Belonging: Celebrating Iranian Women in Canada and Building Inclusive Communities.” The webinar brought together speakers and participants to discuss the experiences, contributions, and challenges of Iranian women living in Canada. The webinar opened with a welcome from Sedigheh Leyla Sadeghpouri, Director of Women’s Affairs at HOMA. She welcomed the participants and guests and thanked them for joining the event. She highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for dialogue, sharing experiences, and discussing the experiences of Iranian women in Canadian society. Women’s Participation in Leadership During the webinar, Mahnaz spoke about the importance of women having meaningful participation in leadership and decision-making. She highlighted the need to create opportunities for women to take part in management, decision-making, and community activities. Employment Challenges Facing Skilled Immigrant Women Najla discussed the employment experiences of skilled Iranian women and some of the challenges immigrant women face when looking for jobs that match their education, professional qualifications, and previous experience. She also discussed undeclared work and the exploitation of immigrant workers. She explained that difficulties with the recognition and assessment of professional credentials can sometimes lead skilled Iranian women to accept jobs that do not match their qualifications or professional backgrounds. The discussion highlighted the importance of recognizing the skills, professional experience, and abilities of immigrant women and creating fairer opportunities for them in the Canadian labour market. Mental Health and the Needs of Immigrant Families Dr. Maryam discussed the importance of greater attention to the mental health of immigrant women and children. She emphasized the need for services that respond to the cultural, social, and psychological needs of immigrant communities. She also highlighted the role of Canadian society in helping immigrant families access appropriate mental health and support services. Questions, Dialogue, and Exchange of Experiences The webinar concluded with a question-and-answer session. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions and share their perspectives and experiences with the speakers. The discussion provided an opportunity for direct dialogue and further discussion of the challenges and opportunities facing Iranian women in Canada. Continuing the Conversation The webinar highlighted several important issues affecting Iranian women in Canada, including women’s participation in leadership, equal access to employment opportunities, recognition of the skills and professional experience of immigrant women, and mental health support for women and children. By creating opportunities for dialogue and sharing experiences, HOMA seeks to increase awareness, strengthen community connections, and encourage discussion about the experiences and needs of Iranian women in Canada. HOMA thanks all the speakers and participants who contributed to the discussion and looks forward to continuing its efforts to support women’s empowerment, social participation, equal opportunities, and more inclusive and supportive communities.
On September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, HOMA stands in solidarity with Indigenous communities. We wear orange to honour residential school Survivors, remember the children who never returned home, and commit to listening, learning, and walking together toward healing and truth.
Financial Literacy Workshop – “Understanding How Money Works in Canada”
Introduction and Objective
Gaining a sound understanding of how money and financial regulations work is a foundational step toward building a secure, stable, and confident future in Canada. Because navigating the structure and nuances of the Canadian financial system can often seem complex and unfamiliar to newcomers and community members, HOMA organized a specialized educational workshop addressing these key topics.
Event Details and Schedule
The workshop was held online via Zoom on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 8:00 to 9:00 PM EDT. Participation was completely free and open to all community members and interested individuals.
Speaker and Key Topics
The session was led by Mary Mahallati, an experienced financial educator and specialist. She presented key concepts in a clear, accessible, and practical manner, helping participants strengthen their financial awareness and build personal confidence.
The core objectives and topics covered during the session included:
Gaining a clear and practical understanding of the Canadian financial system and its key tools
Learning strategies to build and maintain smart daily money habits
Implementing effective practices to safeguard against financial risks, pitfalls, and fraud
Empowering participants to make well-informed decisions for their and their families’ financial future
Conclusion
As part of HOMA’s ongoing educational initiatives, the workshop was met with an enthusiastic response, playing an impactful role in raising foundational financial awareness and delivering practical knowledge to participants, particularly newcomers.
HOMA Family Gathering at Centre Island
Introduction and Event Objective
To celebrate the Labour Day long weekend, HOMA organized a special event bringing together families and friends for a day filled with joy, friendship, and community connection. For HOMA, “community” is more than just a geographic location—it represents a shared sense of belonging. Accordingly, this gathering offered community members a valuable opportunity to step away from daily routines, meet new friends, reconnect with familiar faces, and celebrate the vital role of family and social solidarity.
Date and Location
The event took place on Sunday, September 6, 2026, starting at 10:00 AM in the Family Section of Centre Island, welcoming an enthusiastic turnout of families, friends, and community members.
Highlights and Atmosphere
Attendees gathered amidst the scenic natural surroundings of Centre Island, spending a memorable day in a warm, welcoming, and vibrant atmosphere. Key highlights included:
Enjoying the scenic beauty and refreshing outdoors of the island on a summer holiday weekend
Engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing experiences, and fostering a lively and uplifting environment among participants
Connecting newcomers and families with one another, helping build lasting friendships and support networks
Strengthening the spirit of participation and reflecting HOMA’s core values: Family, Friendship, Belonging, and Community Solidarity
The Centre Island family gathering reaffirmed the profound impact of coming together and creating spaces for dialogue, connection, and mutual support in fostering collective morale and strengthening social bonds. Expressing heartfelt gratitude to all the families and friends who joined, HOMA reaffirms its ongoing commitment to hosting community-centered initiatives.
