The Centre for Resilience and Social Development
Meet Our Team
Executive Director
Farah Aw-Osman
Farah Aw-Osman has over 30 years of community work experience. He is a founding member of the Somali Centre for Family Services in Ottawa. A former employee of Jewish Family Services, Canadian Friends of Somalia and Dr. Ummad Foundation. Currently, he is the Executive Director of the Centre for Resilience and Social Development (CRSD). Farah has worked extensively to help the Refugees and Immigrant Communities in Canada and abroad tackle issues relating to youth justice, radicalization, employment, mental health and addictions, anti-racism, settlement &integration as well as civic and diaspora engagements
Deputy Executive Manager and Director
Fartun Farah
Fartun Farah is the Executive Deputy Manager at CRSD, where she provides oversight and leadership in both administrative and financial operations. With a strong background in international community development, Fartun brings valuable global perspective and experience to her role. She holds a diploma in Community Justice and currently pursuing Bachelor in Human Services. She is dedicated to advancing equitable, accountable, and culturally responsive practices within the organization. Her work ensures that CRSD’s programs are managed with integrity, efficiency, and a commitment to community impact.
Director - Programs, Services & Partnerships
Mandi Pekan, MA, RP
Mandi Pekan is a Registered Psychotherapist, educator, trauma trainer, and community leader with over 15 years of experience in community development and trauma-informed practice. In her executive role at (CRSD), Mandi oversees and supports a wide range of culturally responsive prevention, intervention, mental health, and youth development programs that serve Black, racialized, immigrant, and refugee communities. Her work is grounded in an embodied social justice framework that examines the systemic, relational, cultural, and political impacts of trauma, violence, and healing. Mandi is deeply committed to advancing community-based, non-carceral approaches that move away from youth criminalization and toward dignity, safety, and collective care. Throughout her career, she has provided leadership, training, and consultation to numerous community, education, justice, and health initiatives across Ontario. Mandi is recognized for her work in trauma-informed systems change, youth justice advocacy, culturally responsive care, and interdisciplinary collaboration, helping to shape conversations and practices surrounding healing, equity, and community well-being.
Reg Psychotherapist (Q) - Clinical Team Lead
Faith M, MA, RP, Ph.D(c)
Faith M is the clinical team lead at CRSD. She is part of the Youth and Community Justice Team and supports members of the team with critical cases. Her clinical work is a unique blend of various therapeutic modalities, carefully tailored to meet the individual needs of each client. At the core of her practice is a person-centered approach to therapy, enhanced by elements of psychodynamic theory, childhood attachment, poly-vagal somatic theory, and dialectical behavioral therapy. This eclectic mix aids in the healing process of her clients. When working with youth, Faith particularly enjoys incorporating creative arts and hip hop/rap music therapy into her sessions. Her practice is grounded in a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and anti-oppressive framework, reflecting her deep understanding and empathy towards the challenges faced by new immigrants and people of color in Canada. This understanding stems from her personal background as a child of refugee parents. Faith’s experience is diverse, encompassing work with children, adults, couples, and families. She has also actively participated in community empowerment programs for youth and young adults in Ottawa, demonstrating her commitment to social betterment. Academically, Faith holds a BSc in Health Science and a MA in Psychotherapy, Counselling and Spirituality with a specialization in Couples and Family Counselling from Saint Paul University. She is currently advancing her studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Social Research, focusing her project on youth homelessness prevention, interventions, and increasing access to justice for other vulnerable populations.
Youth and Community Justice - Team Lead
Mariam Salad, BCYC
Mariam studied at the Univeristy of Victoria where she received her degree of Bachelors of Child Youth Care (BCYC). Mariam worked as an Education Assistant for a few years where she gained experienced working with children and youth with disabilities and neurodiversity. She has a passion supporting young people and families impacted by systemic barriers, specifically the criminal legal system.
Clinical Practice Lead
Lydia Kienge, MA, RP(Q)
Lydia Kienge is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) passionate about creating safe, compassionate spaces where people feel heard, valued, and supported. She holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Communication & Media Studies from Carleton University. With experience in clinical, community, and cross-cultural settings, Lydia has supported children, youth, families, and individuals through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. She draws on evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution-Focused, and Emotion-Focused Therapy, while integrating anti-oppressive, anti-Black racism, harm reduction, and trauma-informed frameworks into her work. As Clinical Practice Lead, Lydia partners with the team to ensure services are collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in empathy. Outside of work, she enjoys connecting with her community, exploring creative outlets, and learning about the many ways people find healing and meaning in their lives.
Youth and Family Caseworker
Khadra Ali, BSc (Hons) Nursing, SSW
Khadra Ali is a dedicated Family and Youth Caseworker at the Centre for Resilience and Social Development (CRSD). She is passionate about bridging the gap between youth and their families, supporting them in addressing social challenges, and recognizing the lasting impact of trauma. Having immigrated from Kenya to London, UK, as a young girl, Khadra brings valuable lived experience in navigating multiple systems while overcoming the challenges often faced by immigrant children. She previously worked as a Registered Nurse in London, UK, after earning her Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Nursing. More recently, she completed her Social Service Worker Diploma at Algonquin College. Khadra is committed to serving placed at-risk youth and their families by connecting them with essential resources and fostering success in both school and community life. She is also deeply passionate about helping to restore and strengthen relationships between youth and their parents or guardians. By facilitating dialogue in safe and supportive spaces, she works to address underlying issues and promote effective communication strategies that build lasting family resilience.
Youth Outreach and Justice Worker
Dante Garcia
Dante Garcia is a Youth Justice Worker with a diploma in Community and Justice Services from Algonquin College. Raised in Ottawa’s east end in a culturally diverse family, he uses his lived experience and professional training to support at risk and justice involved youth. He has done placement with the Centre for Resilience and Social Development (CRSD) and worked at Evolving Youth Care, and Confederation Court Community House, focusing on crisis intervention, resilience, and life skills. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Dante is dedicated to breaking down barriers, disrupting cycles of criminalization, and helping youth build safer, more stable futures
Youth Outreach Worker
Faisal Dakhil
Faisal Dakhil is a Youth Justice Worker with a diploma in Community and Justice Services. Raised in a diverse community, he brings a strong understanding of the challenges facing systemic placed at-risk and justice-involved youth. He is passionate about supporting young people through empathy, communication, and practical guidance, with a focus on building life skills and promoting positive change. Committed to reducing barriers, Faisal aims to help youth create safer, more stable futures.
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Clinical Social Worker - On Maternity Leave
Sarah Yassin, BSW, RSW
Sarah Yassin is a clinical Social Worker at the Center of Resilience and Social Development (CRSD). She is a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of ethical and evidence-based practice. Sarah has acquired a Bachelor of Social Work from Carleton University in February 2020. She has a deep passion for promoting mental health and social well-being and has committed her career to helping individuals and families navigate various challenges. She is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their concerns, identify coping strategies, and work towards positive change.
Registered Psychotherapist
Manal Elwan, MA, RP
Manal is a certified psychotherapist specializing in mental health. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults. Her work experience and training focused on racialized discrimination, Human trafficking, crisis intervention, trauma-focused therapy, domestic violence victims, addiction and homelessness, acculturation, integration, and struggles facing newcomers to Canada. Manal has experience helping individuals manage low motivation, anxiety, social-emotional difficulties, body image issues, depressive symptoms, stress and much more. She believes in an individualized and collaborative approach where individuals have the opportunity to actively engage and reflect on their goals. Manal is a member of the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario (CRPO)
Youth and Family Outreach Worker - Team Lead
Sarah Hassan, BA, SSW
Sarah is a dedicated Youth Outreach Team Lead and Registered Social Service Worker with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (concentrating in Social and Personality Psychology) and a diploma in Social Service Work. She has professional experience working as an Addiction Support Counsellor through a harm reduction model and now leads a team in delivering culturally responsive and trauma-informed support to youth. Raised in an immigrant household, Sarah possesses a deep understanding of diverse cultural backgrounds and the unique challenges faced by families. She is passionate about empowering youth and families, committed to providing meaningful support, and fostering resilience and positive development within the community.
Student and Family Justice Worker
Gloria Mianitse
Gloria Mianitse is a YOW with a bachelor’s in Human rights and Social Justice. She was born in Congo, raised in Uganda, and immigrated to Canada in 2017. She is dedicated to making a positive impact. With an understanding of social services and a particular interest in children’s rights, Gloria strives to empower and advocate for individuals in need. She brings a strong academic foundation and passion for advocating for the well-being and protection of youths and marginalized communities. As an outreach worker, she is committed to ensuring that the rights of every child are upheld, fighting for justice and that they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Let's work together to create a brighter future for the next generation
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Mental Health Clinician - Team Lead
Dylan Bartley, MSW, RSW
Dylan Bartley is a Registered Social Worker (RSW), Psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. Of Caribbean heritage, he has supported youth and their families in schools, community programs, addictions services, and family services. Using narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural, and solution-focused approaches, Dylan helps youth manage emotions, cope with environmental stressors, recognize strengths, and re-author experiences in ways that build resilience. He is committed to culturally responsive practices and advancing the mental health of Black, racialized, and refugee youth.
Youth Outreach Worker
Abdulasis Mubarak
Abdulasis Mubarak, a YOW from the CRSD. He’s always had an innate desire to help others and to make a difference in peoples lives. This deep rooted passion is what drew him into the field of social work and allow him to fulfill those desires. It brings him great joy to the see improvement in people so lives no matter the size.
Clinical Youth Worker
Kassandra Kayhan-Fernandez
Kassandra is currently completing a Bachelor of Social Work at Carleton University. She holds a Bachelor of Psychology and has been working with youth for over a decade in a variety of settings. She is particularly interested in supporting young people's mental health and building on their strengths, supporting them to grow in positive and meaningful ways. When she is not in work or school, Kassandra spends her time at the gym, painting and visiting her friends and family.
Clinical Social Worker
Rida Riaz, BSW, MSW
Rida is a Registered Social Worker who supports youth and families in navigating systematic barriers, emotional distress, trauma, and life transitions. She has a particular interest in working with those who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, such as anxiety, low mood, or challenges related to interpersonal relationships or identity. Her approach is warm, relational, and grounded in a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens. Rida recognizes that mental health does not exist in isolation, and she thoughtfully considers the impact of systems, culture, and lived experience in her work. She is committed to creating a space where clients feel safe to show up as they are, without judgment and at their own pace. Rida draws from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) while utilizing an intersectional lens to meet each person’s unique needs. She places strong value on the therapeutic relationship and works collaboratively with clients to build insight, strengthen coping strategies, and foster a deeper sense of self-understanding. She believes that healing is not about “fixing,” but about reconnecting with oneself, others, and moving forward with self-compassion . Alongside her clinical work, Rida is deeply passionate about accessibility, advocacy, and supporting individuals in navigating systems that can often feel overwhelming or exclusionary.
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Youth and Family Worker - Team Lead
Nefissa Bedri, BHSc
Nefissa Bedri is a passionate Youth and Family Worker with an Honours Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences and a minor in Psychology. She has professional experience as a researcher in clinical and community health, where she focused on mental health issues and the experiences of racialized communities. Beyond research, Nefissa has been actively involved in community development, managing initiatives and building networks that empower youth and women. Originally from Ethiopia, she brings a deep understanding of cultural diversity and the challenges faced by immigrant and racialized families. At CRSD, she is committed to supporting children, teens, and communities in Ottawa through advocacy, mentorship, and innovative approaches to care.
Youth Employment Success Coach - EYTE
Sumaya Farah
Sumaya is a Youth Employment Success Coach at Empowering Youth Through Employment (EYTE), where she plays a role in helping young people gain the experience they need to overcome barriers to employment. With a welcoming approach, she supports and mentors youth throughout their job search journey, ensuring they feel confident and prepared. Outside of her professional life, Sumaya enjoys long walks to recharge and loves experimenting in the kitchen with new recipes, always eager to try something different.
Gender-Based Violence Consultant
Iqra Nasim
Iqra Nasim is a fourth-year BSW student at Carleton University. She supports the "Weaving Threads of Change: Transformative Responses to GBV" research project, on behalf of the CRSD. She has experience working in the GBV sector, and in a Muslim women’s transitional home. Iqra is dedicated to providing culturally responsive care and engaging in critical analysis of systems of oppression. In her role as a research consultant, she is committed to ensuring that marginalized voices are heard and represented in research, and that survivors receive services that empower them.
Student and Family Advocacy Coordinator
Sofia Mohamed
Sofia Mohamed joined CRSD in 2025, driven by her love for mental health advocacy and community healing. She blends her background in crisis support and mentorship to build safe, empowering spaces for youth and families. Outside of work, she writes about mental wellness to spark real talk and challenge stigma. And when she’s not doing that, she’s likely chasing a badminton match or adding spice to her plate—because she believes life (and advocacy) should always have some kick.
Student and Family System Navigator
Fadumo Musse
Fadumo holds a Social Service Worker (SSW) diploma, a Bachelor of Human Services (BHS), a Bachelor of Education in History and Geography, and a Bachelor of Security Studies and Criminology. With over 10+ years of professional experience in the social services field, I have supported newcomers, refugees, youth, and families through settlement assistance, advocacy, and community-based programming. My interdisciplinary background in social work, education, and criminology equips me with the skills to address both individual and systemic challenges while promoting community safety and integration.'
Youth Outreach and Justice Worker
Melissa Cadet
Melissa is a youth outreach worker with a deep passion for where education, mental health, and advocacy intersect for children and youth. She has an honours bachelor degree from the University of Ottawa in International Development and Globalisation, and is currently pursuing her master’s in Education and International Development at University College London. She plans on using this master’s to play an active role in ensuring that children's freedoms are protected even in the worst of crisis situations. As a first generation Haitian immigrant, she possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges most marginalised youth face, and is motivated to play an active role in their betterment. With over five years of experience working in underserved communities as a youth worker and educator, Melissa is committed to dedicating her life’s work to ensuring that the deep rooted issues children and youth face are rectified and remedied. It brings Melissa great joy to see children and youth fulfil their full potential in spite of any systemic barriers, and she is enthused towards doing the work that facilitates that goal
Mental Health Clinican
Xavier Sawyers, MA, RP(Q)
Xavier Sawyers is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with experience supporting youth and adults through culturally responsive counselling. She is passionate about serving racialized communities and is committed to providing safe, supportive spaces for clients to explore their well-being and resilience. Xavier integrates evidence-based approaches to meet clients where they are and is eager to continue growing her skills in trauma-informed and community-based care.
Youth and Family Worker
Sarah Gelle
Sarah recently joined as a youth outreach worker, bringing a background in Public Health, Research, and community engagement. She has experience in supporting newcomer families and youth, with a strong focus on building connections and promoting well-being. Passionate about young people, Sarah strives to create safe and inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive.