Ihsan Gala 2026: An Evening Dedicated to Recognizing Those Who Never Seek Recognition
“Don’t worry when you are not recognized, but strive to be worthy of recognition,” said Abraham Lincoln over 171 years ago. He referred to a special group of individuals who dedicate their lives to serving a cause, unconcerned with what they might gain. These individuals may not be wealthy or have abundant free time, but they are committed to a higher purpose—pleasing their Creator. They look beyond their own needs and comforts to focus on those who are in need.
This principle is highly valued in the Qur’an, which encourages believers to be content with what they have rather than crave recognition (Surah Taha 131-135).
Among those deeply influenced by this concept of selfless service enshrined in Islam was the renowned novelist and philosopher Leo Tolstoy, author of the celebrated work *War and Peace*.
Leo promised, “The law of the Qur’an will prevail in the world because it agrees with reason and wisdom.” He was particularly impressed by the cohesion within the Muslim community and the encouragement and support its members gave to those who worked for Allah’s cause.
Three Canada-based nonprofit Islamic organizations share this sentiment. Their agreement extended beyond words to direct action.
Sound Vision Canada, Justice for All Canada, and their affiliate, Muslim Network TV, took the initiative to identify and recognize those sisters and brothers quietly working behind the scenes to improve people’s lives, never asking for acknowledgment or recompense.
On Sunday, September 13, 2026, these three nonprofits hosted a tranquil yet well-attended event titled “Ihsan Gala 2026” at a popular banquet hall in Mississauga. The guest list included Imam Abdul Malik Mujahid, the visionary behind all three organizations, as well as Taha Ghayyur, a human rights activist and the Vice President of Sound Vision Canada; Imam Hamid Slimi, an Islamic scholar; Mayor Patrick Brown of Brampton; Omar Khamissa, former COO of the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM); and Amira Elghawaby, former Special Representative of the Government of Canada on Combating Islamophobia.
In addition to presenting a comprehensive account of their public service activities, the three organizations came together to honor and award the unassuming, tireless agents of change within our community, many of whom had never been recognized before.
Awards were presented in six categories. The list of awardees is as follows:
Ihsan Youth Leadership Award
Winner: Yassmin Hafez
Bio: Co-founder of CMSA and Outreach Lead at Seeds of Leadership.
Ihsan Innovation / Emerging Venture Award
Winner: Ehab Mustapha Â
Bio: Ehab founded the GTA’s first no-tuition Muslim tech accelerator, creating a platform to help Muslim entrepreneurs turn ideas into impactful realities.
Ihsan Lifetime Community-Building Award
Winner: Hafizur Rahman Â
Bio: Hafizur has served the Muslim community in Kingston since the 1970s. He has played a vital role in establishing the Islamic Center and Masjid.
Ihsan Media & Storytelling Excellence Award
Winner: Rukhsana Khan  Â
Bio: Rukhsana is an author and storyteller whose work has brought Muslim perspectives to children and families through literature and storytelling. She has also creatively contributed to one of Muslim Network TV’s Emmy-winning shows, The Adam’s World.
 Ihsan Knowledge Leadership Award
Winner: Zubeda Vahed  Â
Bio: As an educator, mentor, trainer, and community advocate, Zubeda has dedicated her life to turning knowledge into empowerment. As an Equity Officer and Senior Policy Advisor with the Peel District School Board, she has advanced diversity and equity while challenging discrimination and Islamophobia.
Khadija Haffajee Award for Servant Leadership
A note on Sister Khadija Haffajee: She was a pioneering Canadian Muslim educator, community leader, and advocate who dedicated over five decades to serving the Muslim community in Ottawa and across Canada. Originally from South Africa, she moved to Ottawa in 1966 and began her journey as a schoolteacher before becoming deeply involved in community building and Islamic education. Â
Winner: Yasmin Bhabha
Bio: Yasmin’s personal and professional journeys were profoundly influenced by Sr. Khadija Haffajee, making this recognition especially meaningful. Her extensive service record includes advocating for food security and contributing to conferences and environmental initiatives. Â
On behalf of Sound Vision Canada,
Justice for All Canada, and Muslim Network TV, we wish the awardees good health and ease. Aameen!
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