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On June 28, 2025, the Foundation for a Path Forward and Coding in Colour hosted the second session of the Transformative AI training series — a free, hands-on program designed to help nonprofit staff, community leaders, and frontline professionals understand and harness the power of AI in their day-to-day work.<figure id="figure-h6evcd3unbmcj1i1xs"><img id="h6evcd3unbmcj1i1xs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6rmgr3tqdmFat14hbEicVvAQfXBsBapkaWk9LAl9VUqsmiCJpGvR5HKJFF35X5Hc.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Over the two-hour online training, participants explored how to use tools like ChatGPT to write faster, plan smarter, and focus more deeply on their mission. With real-life demos, accessible language, and no technical background required, the session offered a welcoming space for professionals to learn how AI can work for them — not against them.Led by instructors Yusuf Siraj and Sabrina Smai, the session emphasized practical, responsible, and values-based uses of AI. The training helped demystify AI’s role in nonprofits, highlighting real-world applications in program management, communication, and decision-making.Building on the success of the first session held earlier in June, this second session showed continued interest across sectors in building future-ready digital skills — especially in organizations that serve racialized and equity-seeking communities.As AI becomes more embedded in the tools we use daily, the Transformative AI program ensures that those advancing justice, inclusion, and equity aren’t left behind.More sessions and in-depth learning options are on the horizon as the Foundation works to support changemakers who want to lead in an AI-powered world — thoughtfully, ethically, and with impact.

Foundation's Second Transformative AI Training for Nonprofit Leaders to Build Tech Confidence and Capacity

On June 14, 2025, Foundation for a Path Forward and Coding in Colour successfully hosted the inaugural Transformative AI professional development session—a groundbreaking free training designed for nonprofit professionals, community leaders, and frontline staff ready to navigate and lead in an AI-powered world.<figure id="figure-8vk9k9vfkmcanxdqf"><img id="8vk9k9vfkmcanxdqf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aIlRks9x6USAv7kwPYW9lAxhwmLW9tmEIVKM034PblhQ8FkrAH3R27zE36tOuFZ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aIlRks9x6USAv7kwPYW9lAxhwmLW9tmEIVKM034PblhQ8FkrAH3R27zE36tOuFZ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>With over two hours of engaging hands-on learning, participants explored how artificial intelligence can be used as a practical tool to supercharge their work—whether in managing programs, writing grants, planning outreach, or advocating for their communities. The session welcomed participants of all technical backgrounds and was structured to be immediately applicable, empowering attendees with real-world tools to streamline tasks, amplify their missions, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.The training featured an exceptional lineup of speakers:<ul><li>Sabrina Smai, AI entrepreneur and former Microsoft AI innovator, brought her expertise from 32 hackathons and years of pioneering real estate tech, sharing insights on using AI to boost productivity and innovation.</li><li>Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmed, University of Toronto professor and MATRA AI co-founder, delivered a research-driven take on AI safety, security, and ethical deployment in public-facing services.</li><li>Yusuf Siraj, co-founder of Foundation for a Path Forward and lead instructor at Coding in Colour, grounded the session in community relevance and practical, day-to-day applications for nonprofit teams.</li></ul><figure id="figure-9ilg3grinlmcantlq0"><img id="9ilg3grinlmcantlq0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31MSp4dgl65qvzTer3QEEGvnXz2lfaeZJedAPsj45ZHkXqA99ERTu7uP2qP0fnlb.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31MSp4dgl65qvzTer3QEEGvnXz2lfaeZJedAPsj45ZHkXqA99ERTu7uP2qP0fnlb.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>Participants walked away with a strong foundation in AI concepts and confidence in their ability to integrate tools like ChatGPT into their daily workflows. The course also sparked crucial conversations about staying relevant in a changing world and how to use AI ethically and effectively to serve diverse communities.All attendees received certificates of completion, and the overwhelmingly positive feedback has laid the groundwork for more advanced sessions later this year. The next Transformative AI session is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, 2025, and registration is already open.For those who believe in leading with purpose and staying ahead of the curve, Transformative AI marks the beginning of a learning journey that centers innovation, inclusion, and impact.

F4W’s Transformative AI - First Batch of Nonprofit Leaders Complete Groundbreaking Training

<figure id="figure-c102vji21kmc0mil31"><img id="c102vji21kmc0mil31" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31w9NNo2jwQXDZtXVFtfpVBLCwmNzqGns1cZFoo3frv76eZprDxAKov9Qer6y66l.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31w9NNo2jwQXDZtXVFtfpVBLCwmNzqGns1cZFoo3frv76eZprDxAKov9Qer6y66l.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>On June 11, 2025, over 100 community members gathered at UBC Robson Square for the Vancouver Police Department Hate Crime Forum—an evening dedicated to education, awareness, and collaboration in the face of rising hate and discrimination. The forum brought together law enforcement, legal experts, and the public for a rare and open conversation on how hate-motivated incidents are identified, investigated, and prosecuted in Vancouver.The Foundation for a Path Forward was honoured to support this vital initiative at every stage, working closely with VPD’s Diversity, Community, and Indigenous Relations Section (DCIRS) to ensure that the event reached and reflected the diversity of the communities it aimed to serve.The forum featured keynote remarks by Deputy Chief Constable Howard Chow, as well as presentations from VPD hate crime investigators, Crown Counsel specializing in hate crime prosecution, members of the Major Crime Section, and representatives from Victim Services. Attendees were invited to learn not only the legal definition of hate crimes under Canadian law, but also how cyber hate is investigated, what supports are available for victims, and what proactive programs the VPD runs to prevent hate in the first place.<figure id="figure-jzmjwocchlmc0mjanb"><img id="jzmjwocchlmc0mjanb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1fOmmKaR6y9cIwiFC74WVg6WcirQ5IXlaNW7UlAT6ceV8cA4M8IbG5uVcD3hva74.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1fOmmKaR6y9cIwiFC74WVg6WcirQ5IXlaNW7UlAT6ceV8cA4M8IbG5uVcD3hva74.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The atmosphere was both educational and deeply human. For many in attendance—including faith leaders, NGO staff, educators, and local residents—the forum provided a safe and welcoming space to ask questions, share concerns, and begin to build trust with police representatives. This wasn’t just about policy—it was about people.The Foundation for a Path Forward played a key role in the forum’s success. As a trusted community partner, the Foundation helped drive strong attendance through targeted community outreach, digital promotion, and multi-faith mobilization. In the weeks leading up to the event, the Foundation activated its network across Vancouver, extending invitations to faith leaders, cultural organizations, and grassroots groups. Its outreach efforts helped ensure a rich tapestry of lived experience and cultural insight was present at the event.Recognizing the importance of digital visibility, the Foundation also implemented a focused Meta (Facebook and Instagram) campaign to promote the forum, ensuring the event was seen by thousands across the region and generating meaningful community engagement.<figure id="figure-4u5ok5tl92mc0mkqto"><img id="4u5ok5tl92mc0mkqto" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23ZfvaTmQDy9jWNshNinxSNQ5PeXGJh4wC4N9ESGZjWpy0RyQ9tnmh8cwEOY2AI5.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23ZfvaTmQDy9jWNshNinxSNQ5PeXGJh4wC4N9ESGZjWpy0RyQ9tnmh8cwEOY2AI5.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Throughout the evening, many attendees expressed appreciation for the clarity and openness with which hate-related issues were addressed. Presenters walked the audience through complex questions—What qualifies as a hate crime versus a hate incident? How are digital threats pursued? What happens when someone reports?—in language that was accessible, practical, and deeply necessary.From the opening remarks to the closing conversations, the tone of the event remained anchored in collaboration, education, and prevention. The Foundation was proud to support the VPD in creating a space where communities could engage directly with law enforcement—not in conflict, but in partnership.<figure id="figure-vlowh9rjc5mc0mlik1"><img id="vlowh9rjc5mc0mlik1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eLBvYS9hrhIAupkBOZ7gXkrPtQ7ccosqWkcmZ1fcIL3TLU0M5IqEbqjqtPOjisT.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>As hate continues to evolve in both form and frequency, the Foundation for a Path Forward remains committed to standing alongside institutions like the VPD to ensure communities are not just protected, but empowered. Together, we can build a safer, more inclusive Vancouver—one rooted in justice, mutual respect, and collective resilience.

Foundation Collaborates with VPD on the First VPD Hate Crime Forum

<figure id="figure-biq4hquj8vfmc0jkhbm" class=""><img id="biq4hquj8vfmc0jkhbm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eJmIt056rB8trwDXnm351WPBYBK6QO5sgt8cJleZnXG3JfozbjuESDbMOPznCRg.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1eJmIt056rB8trwDXnm351WPBYBK6QO5sgt8cJleZnXG3JfozbjuESDbMOPznCRg.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>On June 9 and 10, 2025, the Foundation for a Path Forward hosted municipal leaders, public safety officials, researchers, and civil society partners at Brampton, Ontario, for a landmark Strong Cities Network (SCN) Conference. Co-organized with the City of Brampton and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, the two-day gathering focused on city-led responses to hate, polarization, and extremism across the Peel Region, offering a uniquely local lens on global challenges.The event opened at Brampton Council Chambers with a Smudging Ceremony and land acknowledgment led by Regional Councillor Gurpartap Toor, reminding participants of the Indigenous foundations upon which discussions of equity and reconciliation must rest. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Strong Cities Executive Director Eric Rosand delivered opening remarks, setting the tone for an urgent yet collaborative convening shaped by shared responsibility and hope.In the opening panel, community safety practitioners and civic leaders explored the pressures facing Peel communities—from rising digital hate to the cascading effects of international conflicts. Speakers from Victim Services of Peel, CIVIX, and the City of Brampton unpacked how local polarization is often shaped by wider social and geopolitical dynamics, challenging cities to adopt agile, coordinated approaches rooted in care and accountability.The following session brought together actors across government levels and sectors to examine whole-of-society strategies for prevention. Featuring voices from Peel Regional Police, Public Safety Canada, and the Canadian Centre for Safer Communities, the discussion reaffirmed the value of inter-agency coordination and community-based trust-building, especially during times of global uncertainty.The day concluded with a vibrant networking reception in Brampton City Hall’s atrium and conservatory, where local organizations showcased their prevention work, and attendees made meaningful cross-sector connections.<figure id="figure-au2lbczszmmc0lch9x"><img id="au2lbczszmmc0lch9x" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/aVmy0SzQU2n1yBRxeA6d7rN153rD7zYHxXevo1Vc8kTJ7sDAALvj2I2ChfxrN56d.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/aVmy0SzQU2n1yBRxeA6d7rN153rD7zYHxXevo1Vc8kTJ7sDAALvj2I2ChfxrN56d.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The second day unfolded at Alderlea, a historic heritage venue in the heart of Brampton. Opening remarks by Marlon Kallideen, Eric Rosand, and Tariq Tyab, Co-Founder of the Foundation for a Path Forward, framed the day’s sessions around action, data, and local storytelling. Their remarks were followed by a keynote from Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner, who emphasized the province’s commitment to community safety and hate prevention.A compelling presentation by Councillor Rowena Santos highlighted Brampton’s diverse demographics and cultural richness, setting the stage for in-depth discussions on the city’s social fabric. This was followed by Caroline Wade of the Strong Cities Network, who offered an evidence-based overview of the digital hate landscape in Peel—one that increasingly blurs the boundaries between online incitement and offline harm.One of the most powerful moments of the conference came during the panel on Understanding the On- and Offline Hate Landscape, moderated by Councillor Michael Palleschi. Panelists, including Dr. Barbara Perry, Abokar Mohammed, Feras Ismal of Peel Police, and Yusuf Siraj, Co-Founder of the Foundation, brought forward insights on how hate manifests, multiplies, and metastasizes across platforms and communities. They emphasized the need for tech literacy, cultural sensitivity, and trauma-informed support to guide local responses.This momentum carried into a focused presentation from Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah and Councillor Toor, spotlighting regional anti-hate initiatives already underway. A subsequent panel discussion explored policy and programming innovations from across the region, featuring experts from Safe City Mississauga, the City of Brampton’s Equity Office, and the Interfaith Council of Peel.Participants then engaged in breakout sessions designed to surface five concrete steps that could be taken to enhance Brampton’s anti-hate ecosystem—whether through policy, training, communications, or partnerships. The groups’ brief-backs highlighted the need for sustainable funding, clearer communication channels between communities and institutions, and improved data collection on hate incidents.The day closed with reflections on next steps and a networking lunch, leaving space for both momentum and relationship-building. Through every session, the Foundation for a Path Forward played a central role in guiding discussions, anchoring them in local expertise and lived experience, and amplifying strategies that blend prevention with inclusion.<figure id="figure-m82raruejcmc0lda5j"><img id="m82raruejcmc0lda5j" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/29YrhV94Fvs0xtyRL8WZsvHo3UyCMWKgj8kyE3ERcTewJklZS04xmjIZNyFCwtI2.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>By hosting this important gathering, the Foundation helped solidify Brampton’s place as a national leader in municipal responses to hate and extremism. As Strong Cities continues to foster global partnerships and local resilience, the Foundation remains committed to supporting Canadian communities in building safer, more cohesive futures—one city at a time.

Foundation Hosts the Strong Cities Network Conference in Brampton, Ontario

<figure id="figure-88m7be7mdmmc0golj7"><img id="88m7be7mdmmc0golj7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Jz3oqrcrWtX127wmS7Lb5TIBfAX55QEotyWtsFW3IEk5DLaGiWdA3bbrCE8tm2.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Jz3oqrcrWtX127wmS7Lb5TIBfAX55QEotyWtsFW3IEk5DLaGiWdA3bbrCE8tm2.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>From May 14 to 15, 2025, the Foundation for a Path Forward proudly joined mayors, municipal leaders, civil society actors, and national officials from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) for the Strong Cities Regional Workshop on Advancing City-Led Strategies to Prevent Hate, Extremism, and Polarisation. Hosted at the Kenzi Rose Garden Farah Hotel in Marrakech, Morocco, the two-day workshop was organized by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue’s Strong Cities Network and supported by the European Union through the STRIVE Cities Initiative.The Foundation’s presence in Marrakech underscored its growing international engagement and its commitment to community-based solutions for preventing hate and extremism. Represented by Founder Tariq Tyab, the Foundation contributed to a global exchange of strategies and insights grounded in lived experience, community partnership, and digital resilience.<figure id="figure-iu2o0hu4vcmc0glqm4" class=""><img id="iu2o0hu4vcmc0glqm4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fEeWJ8q6UH1J5BNzIAqXgyBWY8bc8PmnthEFkXQg7eyzHqmNguojcJbp3cU8IAir.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 15% 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionx="15%" data-positiony="100%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fEeWJ8q6UH1J5BNzIAqXgyBWY8bc8PmnthEFkXQg7eyzHqmNguojcJbp3cU8IAir.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 15% 100%;"></figure>The workshop opened with remarks from Mohamed El Idrissi, Deputy Mayor of Marrakech, and Eric Rosand, Executive Director of Strong Cities. Their welcome set the tone for a series of interactive, multilingual sessions held in Arabic, French, and English, designed to foster collaboration across borders and cultures.One of the event’s key strengths was its structure—blending high-level plenary panels with case studies, breakout discussions, and strategy-building sessions. Early sessions spotlighted the regional threat landscape, with mayors and local officials from Libya, Iraq, and Tunisia discussing city-level responses to challenges such as digital radicalization, climate-driven displacement, and political unrest. These conversations emphasized the importance of embedding prevention work within local governance, rather than treating it solely as a security issue.Another highlight was the session on national-local cooperation (NLC), where speakers explored how cities and national governments can collaborate on prevention efforts. Guided by a six-pillar framework—trust, inclusivity, coordination, communication, capacity, and sustainability—this discussion laid the groundwork for practical and scalable collaboration across jurisdictions.<figure id="figure-4kwfa64e6mc0gp2jq"><img id="4kwfa64e6mc0gp2jq" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3atsVbeXUcPu7uFTgXSbHN5rKnTW7KO89YnmlYqSvrPb0mDMqoDGCQqy9AIJmYnC.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 90%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="" data-positionX="50%" data-positionY="90%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>The Foundation for a Path Forward was featured prominently in Plenary Session 4: Enhancing Digital Resilience at the City Level. In this session, Tariq Tyab presented Canada’s local response to digital hate and online harms, drawing on the Foundation’s work in combating misinformation, promoting digital literacy, and empowering racialized communities. Alongside officials from Rabat and Libya, Tyab offered real-world insights into the role of municipalities in mitigating online threats before they spill into offline violence.Sessions throughout the two days covered a wide spectrum of prevention strategies. A plenary on youth engagement spotlighted Strong Cities’ Young Cities initiative and examples such as Fes’ adoption of a Youth Council, while a subsequent panel on urban planning highlighted how inclusive city design can protect public spaces and counter hate-driven violence. A powerful session on empowering women local leaders offered space for dialogue on gender-based threats, representation, and the unique contributions of women to peacebuilding and resilience.Participants also worked together in breakout sessions, including case studies on crisis management and early warning mechanisms. These exercises allowed municipalities to exchange tested practices and develop new recommendations tailored to their local contexts. The workshop closed with a forward-looking plenary in which participants reflected on learnings and outlined next steps, solidifying a shared commitment to building safer, more inclusive cities.Throughout the event, the Foundation for a Path Forward shared lessons from its Canadian context—particularly around online hate, youth resilience, and community trust-building—while learning from peers across the MENA region. The conversations and partnerships forged in Marrakech reaffirmed the global relevance of local leadership in preventing polarization.<figure id="figure-4t93yyfw0omc0gmopo"><img id="4t93yyfw0omc0gmopo" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1fCVCRGBS7vdpDaf0qFGDPqGJ43k5K0e4naDobcFmrA317seSkRwEww8pSG5WCze.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 70%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="70%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1fCVCRGBS7vdpDaf0qFGDPqGJ43k5K0e4naDobcFmrA317seSkRwEww8pSG5WCze.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 70%;"></figure>As Strong Cities continues to convene and connect cities around the world, the Foundation looks forward to deepening its contributions to this international network. The workshop was not only an opportunity to share strategies, but also a reminder that community safety is inseparable from equity, inclusion, and collaborative governance—values the Foundation remains committed to advancing, both at home and abroad.

Foundation for a Path Forward Participates in Strong Cities Regional Workshop in Marrakech

<figure id="figure-7k0ou9k7x5mcc6b9sm" class=""><img id="7k0ou9k7x5mcc6b9sm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1dK4ergPiDDuUk5befTRREhWv5kJe2Fr8qrYDL1R7JtfiRFBEbR4izklcEMuasqC.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/1dK4ergPiDDuUk5befTRREhWv5kJe2Fr8qrYDL1R7JtfiRFBEbR4izklcEMuasqC.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>On April 22, 2025—World Earth Day—over 500 faith leaders, environmental advocates, and community members gathered at St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church in downtown Vancouver for Saving Our Planet: Faith in Action 3. Hosted in collaboration with the Interfaith Climate Alliance and St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church, and led in large part by the Foundation for a Path Forward, the event served as both a moment of reflection and a powerful call to action.<figure id="figure-sglyuip25zmcc7fws2"><img id="sglyuip25zmcc7fws2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2c6012butJ6HMGA1xk8qqswh7deSzy4NvIdAxMgLMb5cL8JKdrsDMdtV9sqa5tII.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2c6012butJ6HMGA1xk8qqswh7deSzy4NvIdAxMgLMb5cL8JKdrsDMdtV9sqa5tII.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The evening opened with a heartfelt land acknowledgment by Norm Leech, followed by welcoming remarks from MP Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services. The stage was soon filled with voices from across faith traditions, each offering unique perspectives on ecological responsibility and the moral imperative to act.<figure id="figure-99sqzox5pumcc7ikiv"><img id="99sqzox5pumcc7ikiv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bTjr00ePISEvDhOs2aJEcK3v9UxWoVXxglv6O1yafznRyhkpyGS7IcxZjPfwULs.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bTjr00ePISEvDhOs2aJEcK3v9UxWoVXxglv6O1yafznRyhkpyGS7IcxZjPfwULs.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 55%;"></figure>The Interfaith Dialogue Panel brought together Imam Yasir Khan, Rabbi Laura, Tamiko Suzuki, Jet Takaoka, and Rev. Rhian Walker, whose dialogue underscored how deeply climate justice is woven into spiritual teachings across cultures. Their insights invited attendees to not only think critically about the climate crisis, but to reimagine stewardship as a shared spiritual duty.One of the most impactful moments of the event came during the keynote addresses. Imam Yasir Khan, a longtime partner of the Foundation for a Path Forward, delivered a moving talk on the theological and communal imperatives for environmental action within Islamic thought. Filmmaker and activist Avi Lewis followed with a stirring call for systemic transformation, while Norm Leech reminded participants of the ancestral knowledge Indigenous communities bring to climate leadership.<figure id="figure-bhy600kaubmcc82po9"><img id="bhy600kaubmcc82po9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fNSroZi7qy0degifL8olHCGgUQbOzoIw78pwcGx14jH5YSs5TYl6FD6XlZvgKvJ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>The program closed with a hands-on advocacy panel led by Flossie Baker, Liam Maclure, and Mari Piggott, who facilitated a community workshop on practical next steps. From rethinking local engagement to organizing around policy, the conversation shifted toward implementation—just as the event's theme promised: “Beyond Awareness—Take Action.”Throughout the evening, the Foundation for a Path Forward played a key role in convening diverse voices, centering racial equity, and supporting interfaith collaboration. With its continued focus on building inclusive, values-driven responses to urgent social issues—from online hate to climate breakdown—the Foundation remains committed to creating bridges between communities and catalyzing collective change.As the evening concluded with a final call to action under the Green Canopy Initiative, one thing was clear: the seeds of collaboration had been planted. And with continued partnerships rooted in faith, justice, and shared humanity, those seeds will grow.

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