About RYLI
The Regina Youth Leadership Institute is an emerging initiative based in Regina, Saskatchewan—designed to address one of the most urgent needs facing our communities today: the holistic development of young leaders.
What would it take to create a space that truly attends to the full well-being of our youth— body, heart, and soul? A space that doesn’t just keep them busy, but imbues them with a sense of purpose?
Ongoing Origins
The Regina Youth Leadership Institute (RYLI) is emerging at a critical juncture in our collective histories — a time marked by the collapse of Empire, the fragmentation of global certainties, and the stirring of new, uncertain futures. In this moment of profound transition, we believe the role of Muslim youth is not to merely inherit the world as it is, but to participate in its reimagining.
The seeds of RYLI were planted through decades of quiet struggle, tireless community building, and the longing for spaces where young Muslims could be nurtured into leaders of conscience, courage, and ihsan. But it was in 2024, with the acquisition of a permanent home by Darul Falah Islamic Center —
made possible by funds raised from across Canada — that the conditions for something new were made possible.
This signaled the beginning of a reimagining: of the mosque not only as a place of worship, but as a locus of education, healing, and communal
stewardship. RYLI stands as one expression of that vision — an institute grounded in the prophetic tradition, committed to developing young Muslim
leaders who can carry the weight of this historical moment with clarity, humility, and strength.
This is still the beginning. RYLI’s story is being written in real time, through the lives of those who walk through our doors, the questions we dare to ask, and the futures we choose to build, together.
Vision: A Holistic Hub
We envision a thriving and inclusive community space where young people are not only welcomed but empowered to lead with purpose, integrity, and compassion.
We believe that when youth are given the tools, trust, and space to grow, they rise to the challenge and lead in transformative ways. By fostering creativity, encouraging dialogue, and supporting personal and collective growth, we strive to create an environment where every young person feels seen, heard, and capable of driving meaningful change.
is an Associate Professor in the Department of Justice Studies at the University of Regina and a recipient of the 2024 CTL Teaching Award. Recognized as a President’s Teaching Scholar, he holds a PhD in Criminology from Simon Fraser University and a Master’s in Conflict Transformation. His research focuses on restorative justice, decolonized education, and youth justice. He serves on several boards, including the Institute for Justice, Decolonization and Peace and the Saskatchewan Restorative Justice Network. A certified Nonviolent Communication trainer, he facilitates workshops on compassionate communication and contemplative practice in both academic and community settings.
is an educator, poet, and youth worker from Johannesburg, South Africa. Having been involved as a student activist with the national Muslim Students Association, the WoW Futurist Collective and Student Action 4 Palestine, Aasif moved to Regina in February to take on the role of Youth and Community Engagement Officer through the Regina Youth Leadership Institute. Aasif holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Witwatersrand and a BA(Honours) in the Study of Islam from the University of Johannesburg.
originally from Mauritius, has lived in Regina for over six years and works in the IT field. As a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and a member of the youth-led fellowship program, she encourages others to take meaningful steps forward with trust in Allah’s plan. Her message is simple: whether it’s sending an email or applying for a job take the step.
is a pre-med student at the University of Regina, majoring in psychology and minoring in English. She served as the student council president at Regina Huda School and is the youngest person in Canada to work with CBC’s Creator Network, where she has shared powerful stories about OCD and mental health topics that are deeply personal to her and that she advocates for at every opportunity. Fiona is passionate about photography, video directing, and poetry, and is currently working on her first book.
is a Grade 12 student at Winston Knoll Collegiate. In his free time, he enjoys trying out new things like cooking and running. He serves as the leader of the Muslim Student Association and the vice-president of the Student Representative Council (SRC) at his school. Ariq is passionate about bringing people together, which is a key reason behind his involvement in RYLI. He finds the initiative unique and appreciates that it’s directly geared towards Muslim youth, believing it has the potential to be beneficial for everyone involved.
is a second year pre-law student at the University of Regina dedicated to justice, discipline and meaningful impact. He is passionate about mentorship and believes strongly in the importance of developing ethical, well informed leaders. In his free time he likes working out. For Naveed being part of RYLI is about more than giving back its about helping shape the future of the ummah by guiding youth toward responsibility, fairness and strong leadership rooted in values.
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