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

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.

Mandi Pekan is a Registered Psychotherapist, educator, and trauma trainer with over 15 years of experience in community development. In her executive role at the CRSD, Mandi oversees and supports all the programs and services that focus on the needs of equity-deserving communities. Her approach is deeply rooted in an embodied social justice, focusing on the systemic, relational, cultural, and political impacts of trauma and healing. Mandi is committed to advocating for systemic change, particularly in promoting community-based alternatives to youth criminalization and incarceration. Her leadership has been instrumental in shifting narratives. She has informed and provided consultation to numerous initiatives, including Alternatives for Safer Ottawa: Non-Police Mental Health Crisis Response, Rethinking Youth Violence and From Punishment to Prevention (Street/Gun Violence).

Faith Mottahedi 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Ihsan brings a wealth of expertise to our team, drawing from a background in career recruitment and banking, coupled with a dedicated commitment to fostering inclusivity within diverse communities. In his role as a program coordinator, he guides and mentors youth through their employment journey, ensuring a work environment that is both fair and conducive to growth. Beyond his professional endeavors at EYTE, Ihsan values familial moments as a dedicated father and pursues fitness, with a particular passion for basketball.

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.

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)

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.

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

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.

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.

Christopher is a YOW with lots of experience in the field of social work. Having been born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario in an immigrant household Christopher has a good grasp of the social lifestyles for teenage minorities growing up in the city. He has worked and volunteered in notable communities in Ottawa, the most notable experience being Debra Dynes. Having worked in the community and with the children and adults in the neighborhood, he developed a passion for helping people who are currently in a struggle of their own and joined the team at CRSD with hopes to guide as many children and teens as possible to a better, happier life, and hoping to change the communities in Ottawa suffering from violence, poverty or an unfair system placed upon them.

Yassin Samatar is a Youth Outreach Worker at the Centre for Resilience & Social Development (CRSD), where he plays a key role in the Rajo Project, an initiative dedicated to fostering healthy living as a foundation for resilient, thriving communities. Through his work, Yassin is deeply committed to empowering marginalized youth, helping them uncover their strengths and realize their full potential. His approach combines cultural sensitivity with a deep understanding of community dynamics, positioning him as a trusted and impactful presence in the lives of the young people he supports.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.'

Krystal is a Clinical Youth Worker, currently completing her Master of Social Work at Carleton University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and has extensive experience supporting children and youth in diverse settings, including her roles as a Youth Worker with BGC Ottawa and the YMCA Alternative Suspension Program. Krystal’s professional values emphasize fostering resilience, emotional growth, and adaptive coping skills through mentorship, programming, and inclusive environments. Her role as a group co-facilitator with the OCSB has provided experience in mental health education and targeted interventions. Fluent in English, Spanish and French, and shaped by her upbringing in an immigrant household, Krystal brings a multicultural perspective to her work, enabling her to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. She is committed to empowering communities, advocating for mental well-being, and fostering positive development in children and youth.

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

Abigail is a recent graduate from Carleton University's Masters of Social Work program. This degree, along with her diverse field experience, and lived experience has shaped her into a competent, grounded, and compassionate social worker, guided by integrity, professional practice, and culturally responsive care. Abigail approaches her social work practice through a trauma informed lens, centering empowerment, holistic support, and well being. She is dedicated to fostering resilience and carries a deep commitment to social justice and abolitionist values. Abigail is passionate about working in the community and acknowledges its healing power. She has a depth of experience working with racialized children, youth, and families. Through her work in schools and community settings, Abigail strives to provide youth with the knowledge, supportive space, and nurturing environment they require to explore and develop their identities, goals, and dreams. Her goal is to equip youth with the tools to decide who they want to be and become, how they want to show up in the world, and to foster confidence, resilience, and self-determination along the way. Abigail's work with youth has deepened her knowledge of youth development, including stages of growth, the impacts on development, common mental health challenges faced, risk and protective factors, and how to adjust interventions to suit different ages. Abigail understands that families play a central role in shaping a young person's well being. She engages with attachment based therapy models to foster stronger bonds, encourage open communication, and nurture emotional growth within the family unit. Additionally, she has a strong passion for program facilitation and community building, with a deep commitment to creating brave, intuitive, and healing centered spaces. Abigail finds joy in connecting with nature, creating through art and writing, and engaging with a reflective lens as part of her personal and professional growth

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.

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.