Sikander Hashmi is an experienced imam, community builder, fundraiser, writer, teacher, and marketer based in Ottawa, Ontario. Sikander’s extensive expertise in diverse fields stems from his educational background and years of dedicated experience.
His 12 years of study have earned him an Alamiyya Degree in Classical Islamic Studies (Al-Rashid Islamic Institute), a BA Specialization in Journalism (Concordia University) and a Master’s Degree in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership (Carleton University).
❖ Imam
Sikander Hashmi’s path to serving as an Imam has been shaped by his rich experiences and commitment to serve. Born and raised in Montreal, Sikander’s formative years were profoundly influenced by his time at Al-Rashid Islamic Institute, North America’s first Islamic seminary in Cornwall, Ontario. There, he embarked on a transformative journey, dedicating four years to memorizing the entire Qur’an in Arabic and pursuing a rigorous six-year classical study of Islam.
During his comprehensive education, Sikander immersed himself in various subjects, including classical Arabic, jurisprudence, principles of jurisprudence, exegesis of the Qur’an, and classical collections of the recorded teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. In 2004, Sikander made history as the first individual to complete the entire program at the Institute without undertaking the customary final year of study overseas.
In the early 2000s, Sikander’s passion for leveraging technology to benefit the Muslim community led him to found and manage eat-halal.com, an interactive website providing information on Halal foods. This pioneering platform became a valuable resource for Muslims seeking dietary guidance.
Continuing his dedication to online initiatives, Sikander co-founded Sunniforum.com, a prominent Muslim web forum. This virtual space provided a platform for vibrant discussions, fostering a sense of community and facilitating the exchange of knowledge among Muslims worldwide.
In August 2010, Sikander assumed the role of imam at the Islamic Centre of Kingston (Ontario), where by the Grace of God, his compassionate leadership and insightful guidance left a lasting impact on the community. In 2014, driven by a desire to explore new opportunities for his family, Sikander relocated to Ottawa, where he currently serves as the imam of the Kanata Muslim Association.
Sikander’s contributions extend beyond his local community. As a member of the Canadian Council of Imams, Sikander has played an active role in representing the Council’s perspectives on significant societal issues. Notably, he provided testimony at Parliamentary committee hearings on Physician-Assisted Dying in 2016 and was invited by the House of Commons Committee on Canadian Heritage to share his insights during their study of Systemic Racism and Religious Discrimination. Additionally, Sikander is a valued member of the Council of Imams of Ottawa-Gatineau.
Recognized for his unique ability to demystify Islam with a touch of humor, Sikander has been selected as a human book for the annual CBC Ottawa Human Library for two consecutive years. His engaging presentations have reached diverse audiences, including law enforcement officials, church groups, and others seeking a deeper understanding of Islam.
To invite Sikander Hashmi to present to your group or organization, reach out to him today. Prepare to embark on an enlightening journey that fosters inclusivity, bridges cultural gaps, and cultivates a sense of shared understanding.
❖ Community Builder
Sikander is a passionate community builder focused on bringing people together. First in Kingston and now in Kanata, Sikander has worked to promote understanding, harmony, mutual respect and inclusiveness within the Muslim community and in the broader community. This focus goes into nearly everything Sikander does – whether it’s weekly sermons, design of community programming and facilities, and everyday interactions with members of the community. Contact Sikander to help guide the establishment and growth of your community in a manner that is positive, healthy, and inclusive.
❖ Fundraiser
In early 2019, Sikander graduated from the Master in Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership program at Carleton University. Alhamdulillah, the fundraising team at Kanata Muslim Association, led by Sikander, has so far raised over $5 million in support of the new Kanata Masjid & Centre project. Sikander has overseen fundraising strategy and communications since the beginning of the project, and has brought in new fundraising strategies and techniques.
❖ Writer
From a young age, Sikander Hashmi’s curiosity for news and storytelling ignited his journey in journalism. In the absence of television, Sikander immersed himself in newspapers and radio, becoming a dedicated news junkie. This love for the craft led him to pursue journalism studies at Concordia University in 2004.
During his studies, Sikander was selected as one of the nationwide winners of the CBC’s Fresh Voice contest. His radio piece on life at Al-Rashid Islamic Institute aired nationally on CBC Radio’s Sounds Like Canada.
During the summer of 2005, Sikander made a notable entrance as a general assignment reporter at the renowned Toronto Star daily newspaper with two front-page stories, later publishing close to 40 articles on diverse topics. He spent the summer of 2007 at The Montreal Gazette, where he contributed captivating front-page stories.
In 2008, Sikander graduated with distinction, completing his BA with a specialization in journalism, encompassing print, radio, and television. His passion for writing continued, and he served on the community editorial board of the Kingston Whig-Standard, sharing his perspectives through opinion pieces.
Since then, Sikander has contributed as a freelance writer to major publications like The Globe and Mail and the National Post.
Through his background in journalism, Sikander brings a unique perspective and powerful storytelling ability to his consulting work. By working with Sikander, you can harness the strength of compelling narratives and effective communication strategies that will elevate your organization’s impact. Contact him today.
❖ Teacher
Starting during his time at Al-Rashid, Sikander would assist and tutor his fellow classmates, laying the foundation for his passion for teaching. Following his graduation, he served as a teaching assistant in an online Arabic language program, further honing his instructional skills.
Sikander’s teaching endeavors extended to mosques and Islamic organizations. He taught Qur’an and basic Islamic studies at a mosque in Montreal and, together with his wife, conducted a successful summer intensive course for children at the Islamic Society of Kingston during the summer of 2006. They expanded their teaching efforts by offering weekend classes to local children.
During his time in Toronto, Sikander and his wife taught weekday evening classes at an Islamic school, sharing their knowledge and guidance. As an imam at the Islamic Society of Kingston, Sikander played a vital role in teaching Qur’anic studies and tajweed from 2010 to 2014. Additionally, he served as the principal of the ISK Evening & Weekend School, overseeing a student body of over 100 and managing a team of 13 teachers.
Nowadays, Sikander visits the Kanata Muslim Association’s Hikmah Saturday School weekly to lead prayer and connect with students. He has been invited to public and Catholic schools to speak to students about Islam and Muslims.
Sikander also serves as volunteer Spritual Care Worker with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board.
His expertise and experience make him an ideal choice for speaking engagements at schools and youth events, where he can inspire and engage young minds. Invite him today!
❖ Marketer
Starting in 2009, Sikander ventured into the field of marketing and communications, initially managing external communication for a lost-and-found recovery firm. He successfully launched an e-newsletter and crafted various materials to enhance communication effectiveness.
In June of the same year, Sikander transitioned to an Islamic finance firm in Toronto, taking on responsibilities for communications and marketing. Building on his skills, he developed impactful strategies to promote the firm’s services.
Currently, alongside his role as an imam, Sikander serves as a marketer and communications consultant for the Kanata Muslim Association. He prepares engaging weekly newsletters, designs flyers and graphics, and manages social media accounts, fostering effective communication channels.
Reach out to Sikander to elevate your organization’s messaging and outreach.
