What led you to become an RSW (registered social worker) and a mental health therapist?

I would say that the values of social work were instilled in me from an early age. My parents were very active in the community, and they created an environment where social justice and community development were openly discussed and engaged in. I believe, that being exposed to volunteering, and various forms of political and social activism shaped my who I am. My path towards social work really started to take shape in high school when I started contemplating a career in mental health and psychology. It was actually a high school teacher who suggested exploring social work. I still remember her looking over the desk at me and saying “You fight for causes not just individuals.” This always stuck with me. As I continued by educational and professional career, I focused on helping individuals, families and communities. I recognize the need to use a framework that incorporates the larger context that impacts individuals and also the need for culturally sensitive and responsive services. That’s what I try to do in my practice.

Your professional interest centers around “Mental Health, Cultural Humility and Social Justice.” Could you explain those three interests and how you use them in your work?

For me, mental health wellness is essential for healthy human development and experience. Yet it is something that we still struggle with acknowledging and accepting. This is particularly salient in many minority communities. This is why cultural humble/sensitive services are so crucial. In order to help bridge this gap and increase awareness, individuals need to feel comfortable in seeking services. Having a common cultural piece can help do this.

How and why did you create Revive Counselling?

The simple answer is out of need and passion. Sadique Pathan (co-founder of Revive) and I were both working for the Primary Care Network and we started talking about the need for mental health services in the Alberta Muslim community. In addition, both Sadique and I have busy lives outside of work with our families and community commitments. Sadique, of course also works with Islamic Relief, so we found the concept of having our own practice and the flexibility that would come with that very appealing. We are really able to cater our services to the clients sitting across from us. We feel that we can be agents of change in our clients lives through Revive.

What is the most difficult aspect of operating and managing Revive Counselling? I think when you enter into a helping field such as therapy one of the biggest challenges is accepting your own limitations and maintaining boundaries. We want to be able to help everyone but sometimes it’s just not possible. It’s is very hard to see anyone suffering.

 Would you say you reached all of your goals since you started or do you have more to achieve? While I am happy with what I have achieved so far, I still have a lot more work to do.

Where can people learn more about Revive Counselling? People can learn more about us on our website (www.revivecounselling.ca) and our social media (Facebook and Instagram).

The post Moona Khan appeared first on Jalya.

Mubarek is a proud Uyghur and a highly skilled financial planner. Mubarek studied accounting at MacEwan University. Since then, Mubarek has become an accredited financial planner and specializes in investments and retirement planning. The reason Mubarek chose to specialize in investments and financial planning was that she witnessed how vulnerable people can become with their personal finances due to a lack of financial knowledge. Mubarek’s passion is to empower people with financial literacy to make informed financial decisions.

What inspired you to choose a career in finance and investments?

Investment has always been my passion, and what inspires me to continue to be in this industry is the ability to make a difference in someone’s life.

What’s the most difficult aspect of being a financial planner?

Most difficult aspect is the emotional support, its hard to see your client going through major life events.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a financial planner?

I have the privilege of witnessing their milestone event in their journey (buying their first home, getting the dream job, starting a business, retire with comfort) and most importantly being part of it and contributing to their goals.

What advice would you give to the youths in our community aspiring to start a career in finance?

To be more involved in their family finances, for example, having a joint meeting with their family financial advisors. The earlier you learn about it, the better off people are down the road.

In your opinion, what do you think are the most difficult financial problems in our community today? and what advice would you offer to help deal with that problem/problems?

Finance is the one of the leading stress in our society, yet not enough people know about it or talk about it. In my opinion there are these are the three biggest problems in our community right now:

1)Financial literacy, not spending enough time to learn about financial wellbeing

2) lack of plans for emergency, education, retirement

3) signing lending application without considering the consequences

My advice on how to deal with these problems is to get educated on them on through outside sources. There is a tremendous amount of support available through various channels,(new to Canada programs, financial podcast, school programs) and having a plan and then implementing the action, could be as easy as monthly budget, maintain a good credit score.

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What inspired you all to create Dukhan Body Smoking Spa?

The inspiration behind creating an all-women spa stems from a profound admiration for Sudanese beauty treatments and a deep love for blending cultures while preserving traditions. My family’s fascination with the rich heritage of Sudanese spa practices ignited a desire to share these rejuvenating techniques exclusively with women, fostering a sense of empowerment and community. By infusing diverse cultural elements and maintaining the authenticity of ancient traditions, the spa aims to provide a holistic experience that celebrates both individuality and unity.

What makes Dukhan Body Smoking Spa different from other Spa’s?

The body smoking spa is a true gem that stands as the pioneer of its kind across North America! What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to offering an unparalleled experience, deeply rooted in the traditions of Sudan and other parts of East and Northern Africa. Our spa is a haven where culture and relaxation intertwine, where you’ll embark on a journey that’s both rejuvenating and enriching. At our spa, we bring the authentic and unique spa services of Sudan and its surrounding regions to your doorstep. Our treatments are a celebration of the vibrant heritage of East and Northern Africa, transporting you to a world of soothing rituals and age-old secrets for rejuvenation. As the first of its kind in North America, we take immense pride in introducing you to a world that was previously unseen and unexperienced in this part of the world.

As Dukhan, is a cultural tradition of Sudan and parts of East and Northern Africa, could you explain its significance and how it works? 

Our signature Smoke Bath treatment is an exquisite fusion of ancient traditions and modern wellness, designed to envelop you in a transcendent experience. This unique ritual employs a blend of two remarkable elements: the aromatic richness of frankincense and the soothing essence of acacia wood. As these elements intertwine, they create a symphony of scents that permeate the body, releasing natural oils that bestow a radiant, golden glow upon the skin. Notably, the acacia wood used in the treatment boasts inherent anti-aging, antifungal, and skin-tightening benefits, enhancing the overall health and vitality of your skin. As the fragrant smoke gently envelops you, it calms the mind and imparts a deep sense of relaxation and zen, allowing you to escape the stresses of everyday life. But our Smoke Bath treatment offers more than what can be put into words. The synergy between the fragrant components and the artful technique of our therapists creates an experience that transcends mere description. It’s an encounter that must be felt and lived to truly understand its transformative power.

 What has the reaction been from your clients, to the services and the Sudanese environment you have created?

The response from our clients has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the remarkable impact of our unique services. People from diverse backgrounds and walks of life have shown a keen interest in experiencing the transformative offerings we provide. Our spa has truly become a haven where cultural boundaries dissolve, and the allure of our authentic treatments resonates with individuals seeking something extraordinary. Within the Sudanese community, the gratitude we’ve received has been especially heartwarming. Our spa has become a cherished sanctuary that not only offers rejuvenation but also serves as a comforting reminder of home. The sense of familiarity and connection we provide has touched the hearts of our Sudanese patrons, creating a space that feels like an extension of their heritage. The universal appeal and the sense of belonging we’ve fostered are testaments to our commitment to excellence. We’re humbled by the positive feedback and the diverse tapestry of lives we’ve touched. Our spa continues to be a place of unity, celebration, and transformation for all who step through our doors.

What’s next for Dukhan Body Smoking Spa, do you feel you all have achieved your goals that you wanted to with the business? And what future goals are left?

The journey of the Body Smoking Spa is an exciting one, as we set our sights on expanding and growing our unique concept. Our vision goes beyond boundaries, aiming to reach every corner of Canada and even beyond, with hopes of sharing our extraordinary services on a global scale. Central to our mission is the aspiration to share the rich tapestry of Sudanese culture with the world in a truly exceptional and uplifting manner. Through the art of body smoking and other authentic treatments, we aim to offer a window into the beauty, traditions, and heritage of Sudan that might otherwise remain hidden. Our goal is to create a platform that not only pampers and rejuvenates but also educates and inspires, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the cultural treasures we hold dear. As we take these steps forward, we remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence and authenticity. Our drive to expand is fueled by the profound impact our spa has on those who experience it. With each new location, each new individual introduced to the wonders of Sudanese spa traditions, we inch closer to our aspiration of creating a more connected and culturally enriched world.

Where can people find you online?

If you are Ready to experience the captivating allure of our Body Smoking Spa then Don’t miss out on this unique journey of cultural rejuvenation! You can Book your appointment today by visiting our website at www.bodysmokingspa.com or connect with us on Instagram or Facebook @bodysmokingspa. Your path to radiant skin, deep relaxation, and a taste of Sudanese culture awaits – reach out now and embark on an unforgettable spa experience! Also don’t forget to Look out for our presence at various vendor events throughout the city, where we offer exclusive discounts on our exceptional products and services. It’s a chance to experience the magic of our Body Smoking Spa firsthand and take advantage of special offers that make your journey of relaxation and cultural exploration even more rewarding. Keep an eye on our Instagram @bodysmokingspa and our website www.bodysmokingspa.com for updates on upcoming events – we can’t wait to meet you!

The post Mozan, Sarah, Nada and Muhab- Dukhan Body Smoking Spa appeared first on Jalya.

What makes you passionate about writing?

My mother has a master’s degree in literature and works as an English teacher, so I have had the fortune of being raised with a love for reading and writing. When I was a baby, I lived steps away from the local library, and my mother would take me there every single day. Those frequent library trips led to me finishing the entire children’s section by the time I was two years old, and after moving to another city with another library, I finished their children’s section by age four. My love of books only grew stronger as I moved into chapter books, but no matter how many books I read at that age, I could never find a story with someone like me. Why weren’t there any Muslims or South Asians in the books I read?

Alhamdulillah, writers from various backgrounds across the world have been working very hard to fill that gap, and diverse literature has become much more prominent and accessible within the last five years. There is still a lot of work to be done, though, and I would like to support this cause by sharing my story through poetry and books. I have been writing poetry since I was ten years old and I have recently started looking into the publishing process for children’s books. I am especially interested in contemporary middle grade stories that focus on pressing issues that Muslim children have to deal with in this day and age. These books can serve as a guide for young Muslims on how to deal with the unique struggles they face in school, at home, or even within themselves.

Your First Poetry Book is out now, “In Search of Peace” What inspired you to write it?

Oftentimes in life, we find ourselves caught in cycles. This includes cycles of sin, cycles of depression, cycles of frustration with ourselves, or anything else that hurts our soul. It can be difficult to escape these cycles, but most definitely not impossible. “In Search of Peace” brings to words the journey of breaking free from such cycles with the help of our religion. The teachings of Islam can help us shift our mindset from that of hopelessness to hopefulness, and from there, we can work towards navigating the challenges of becoming a better version of ourselves. “In Search of Peace” emphasizes Allah (swt)’s everlasting presence throughout the entire journey, including in our most trying moments, as well as His mercy and compassion when we start to slip. Once again, it’s definitely not easy, but I hope the book inspires the belief in others that change is possible, no matter how many times we fall back into our old ways. Anything is possible if Allah (swt) is by our side.

I’ve wanted to write this book since I was fourteen after undergoing such spiritual challenges on my own, but it took a long time for the right words to come to mind in order to convey this message. I hope that anyone who is struggling with believing in themselves can take away something from this book and feel even a little more confident in their ability to improve and thrive against any challenge in their life.

What is your writing process like?

I hate brainstorming and planning ahead with my writing for some reason. Whenever I used to take tests in school that involved writing a story, I would write the story first, then fill out the required brainstorming page! I find it much more fun to just come up with things as I go. It’s almost like a little suspenseful journey in itself, not knowing what’s coming up next and simply enjoying the creative process.

My writing inspiration comes from anything that happens in my day-to-day life that I find interesting. From a failed test, to a sudden rainstorm, to an interaction with a friend, I enjoy looking at the meaning behind everything and finding a lesson in it, no matter how small. “In Search of Peace” was based off of these types of little moments in my life that added up to create one big spiritual journey.

Who are some of your favourite authors and books, and how have they influenced your writing?

When it comes to books regarding spirituality and reflection, I love Asmaa Hussein and Yasmin Mogahed’s works. It’s extremely difficult to be vulnerable and expose your challenges to the entire world, but in doing so, these incredible women have helped tens of thousands of people work towards healing themselves and developing a stronger relationship with Allah (swt). Their efforts have displayed the sheer power of words that is sometimes underestimated or underappreciated. I still love writing for fun, but to be able to use my words to support others through challenging times, like they have, is a big goal of mine.

What are your future goals as a writer and teacher? What areas would you like to teach, and do you have any plans to write more books?

Inshallah, as an English teacher, I hope to encourage children to utilize the power of self-reflection in order to become the best in whatever they choose to do. I also hope to break the myth prominent among students that English, as a subject, is useless and boring, and instead help them work towards a stronger relationship between themselves and the words they write. English isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but strong writing and thinking skills can later translate to success in science, math, or whatever a student chooses to pursue, even though they don’t see that connection yet as young teens.

As a writer, I hope to Inshallah continue writing as much poetry as possible, but I also want to contribute to the world of children’s chapter books one day. I especially want to write about characters that are confident in their religious identity and use their strength of faith to tackle challenges in their life.

The post Aimen Khan appeared first on Jalya.

What interested you in becoming a writer and then creating Freeverse Editing?

I have always had a deep passion for writing since I was young. To me, writing is the most eloquent form of expression. I love the deep intricacies of wording and communication, and I’ve always been one to really delve into the characteristics of what makes strong writing. Through my undergraduate degree in business, I wrote a multitude of papers for various courses and really discovered my talent and passion for writing and editing. I began writing poems and performing spoken-word poetry in my spare time. Since then, I have broadened my horizons- having written business blogs, commercial scripts, speeches, website content, and more. I have expanded my editing services to academic papers, resumes, and personal statements.  

Writing, at times, can be downright monotonous. What are the ways through which you can dispel boredom while writing? What is your writing process like?

Like most hobbies, passion is critical. The most important thing when it comes to writing is to be truly passionate about it. When it comes to my own personal writing- I use a multitude of approaches. I can tend to be one to quickly jot down ideas as they come to me and let them build over time, until these scattered ideas become enough for a concrete idea that I turn into a written piece. Other times, I will have the same reoccurring thoughts over time and conceptualize a way in which I can turn these thoughts into a written piece that takes me only minutes to write. The beauty of writing is that writing can be completely figurative- as it can contain a deep concept without explicitly explaining that concept. I like to let my thoughts brew and then bring everything together to create a piece. For me, writing never gets boring because I keep variety in my writing. As well, I like to write on many different topics that require fresh thoughts and ideas consistently.

What inspired you to start writing poetry? Who are some of your favourite poets? Why do you like their work?

In school I loved to read Shakespeare. I’ve loved the eloquence of the writing paired with the deeper concepts of love, life, and death. As I’ve gotten older and become closer to my religion, I have taken a great appreciation for the infinite eloquence of the writing in The Holy Quran and the Ahadith of The Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him. Reading Quran and Hadith have majorly increased my intellectual capability, while vastly advancing my writing style.

What is your writing Kryptonite? What is the most difficult part of your artistic process? What are common traps for aspiring writers? Have you ever gotten writer’s block, and how have you dealt with it?

I would say that writing on short timelines is a very difficult task. It can be done, but the best writing is writing that comes over time and is not something that is spewed out in the matter of minutes or hours. I tend to not get writers block on a personal level because I do not put time constraints on my personal writing. As for my professional writing for Freeverse, I ensure that I get a good idea from my clients of their expectations and what subject matter they want me to cover in the writing. This has been my tried-and-true formula to avoid writers block and produce quality work.

Who is your biggest writing/literary inspirations? Whom do you aspire to be like, and what is your main goal for Freeverse Editing? 

My goal for Freeverse is to grow a large clientele and become a one-stop-shop for all things writing and editing related. We can write anything excluding academic papers! Whether it be a movie script, commercial, website, social media post, or other, we are your go to! 

Where can people learn more about you and Freeverse Editing? 

Currently I can be found on Instagram @freeverseediting or contacted via cellphone at (780) 966-6246. Admittedly, my Instagram has lacked activity but stay tuned for some exciting developments coming soon!

The post Maher Handous appeared first on Jalya.

You have had an extensive education in Religious studies, Christian-Muslim Relations, Social Work and in Pyscho-Spiritual Education; What was the reason for choosing these areas for your education, and what was the connection between these fields?

When I was still a teen in high school, I lost my mother to cancer. That loss, as well as witnessing the faith that my mother expressed through her struggle with her illness, made me give deep consideration to religion in my later teens and early adulthood. Through her struggle, I recognized the resiliency and strength that are born of spirituality and faith. Since then, I have been passionate about the intersections of spirituality, mental health, and well-being.

Traditionally chaplains are thought of as Christian roles. Can you tell us why you chose to become a Muslim Chaplain and any special highlights or experiences you had while working for the hospital?

I certainly did not set out to become a chaplain. However, as I continued to pursue my interest in religion and mental health, I found in chaplaincy the type of work I was always interested in. After I finished my BA in Religious Studies, I knew that I wanted to pursue a master’s degree, but I could not find a program that spoke to my interests. Most academic programs in Islamic Studies focus on the history of Islamic thought, philosophy, and theology. While I am fascinated with this history, my goal in studying was to learn about religion to help people not just educate them. It was at this time that a friend suggested that I look into a new program at Hartford Seminary focusing on “Islamic Chaplaincy.”

I really did not know what chaplaincy meant at the time, but as I looked through the course offerings I saw classes that said “Muslim Mental Health” and “Addiction and Spirituality” and I felt like I finally found the program that I was looking for.

It would take too long to even try to summarize all that I gained from my studies at Hartford Seminary and the later training I completed as a hospital chaplain. I still carry and reflect upon these experiences and have shared some of these through publications and even at the recent Mosquers event. If someone would like to read about my experience as a Muslim chaplain in a hospital, I’d encourage them to read my chapter in Mantle of Mercy: Islamic Chaplaincy in North America.

You currently serve as a Youth Mental Health Lead and counsellor; why did you choose to work with youths?

I know what it is like to be a young person who is struggling. When my mother was struggling with cancer, and then later after she passed, I did not know who I could turn to. Most of my friends were too involved in their own lives or having fun. I used to resent them for that, but only later realized that, like me, they were just kids. They did not know how to support someone through grief.

I care about youth in need because I was one. I am what others in my field call a “wounded healer.” I don’t want others to go through what I experienced alone.

You also do a lot of interfaith work for the community regarding mental health, including classes, volunteer counselling, workshops and conferences. Can you tell us about some of those events and what people can expect when they go to them?

I first started getting involved in interfaith programs, dialogues, and initiatives in 2005. This was, of course, shortly after 9/11, and many non-Muslims were receiving inaccurate information about Islam and Muslims. At that time, interfaith was about correcting misconceptions. While misconceptions are still a major purpose for interfaith work, there is also something deeply spiritual about engaging with others at a human level where, despite your differences, you can still identify with and respect another person’s faith commitments as something that gives their life meaning, hope, and purpose.

Where can people find you or learn more about the community events you volunteer for, and do you have any coming up?

Presently, I am mostly engaged in providing professional workshops and training within our community around spirituality and mental health. Sometimes this is through IslamicFamily, or REACH Edmonton. The next event that I am scheduled to speak at is a chaplaincy training event hosted by ISNA in Chicago. I am not very active on social media, but I do have an Instagram account that people can follow if they are interested: @Ibrahim.J.Long They can also follow @TheGreenRoomYEG to learn about events I am involved in through Islamicfamily.

The post Ibrahim J. Long appeared first on Jalya.

Majda Al-Sufi is a registered Dental Assistant and the owner of Amarah Jewellery. Growing up, Majda has always been enamoured with jewelry. Majda is a very nostalgic person and feels that jewelry has the power to take people back to a specific time in their lives. Majda created Amarah Jewellery because she found it difficult to find timeless everyday pieces all in one place.  So Majda created her jewellery business and named it after her daughter Amarah.

Tell us about yourself  

 I’m a registered dental assistant by trade, which takes up most of my time! On my off days, I love to spend time with my family and friends and catch up on life; if I’m not doing that, I’m seeing what the next thing I want to change in my house (interior decorating and DIY is my second baby) my faith and religion is at the centre of my life I wouldn’t be where I am today without Allah SWT.

Why did you become an entrepreneur, and why did you choose jewelry as your business ?

I’ve always wanted to be a business owner, and for many of us, I think it’s finding the time to branch out and bring our ideas to life, the desire for creative independence, and financial freedom! I started to brainstorm in 2019, and when the pandemic hit, and the world stopped, it was time to bring those ideas to life!

What have been the biggest challenges with creating and operating Amarah Jewelry?

Time management! I wear many hats throughout the week, making it difficult to put as much time as I would like into Amarah Jewelry.

Have you achieved everything you would like to accomplish with Amarah Jewelry? What goals are left?

I haven’t even scratched the surface of what I want to reach with Amarah Jewelry! I have big goals and plans I have to execute asap! This next year is dedicated to Amarah Jewelry, so stay tuned!

Where can people find you on social media?

 @amarahjewelry

The post Majda Al-Sufi appeared first on Jalya.

You have a great amount of education in acting studies, from the Citadel theatre, online

voice acting workshops, and audio engineering; which would you say has been the most

interesting experience, and which did you learn the most from (or what did you learn

from each of them that has made you a better actor?)

Acting classes at the Citadel were undeniably the most intriguing and enjoyable experience for me. These classes played a pivotal role in establishing the foundation for my voice acting career. While other classes were conducted online, the in-person atmosphere of the acting classes, particularly the opportunity to perform alongside a live partner, created an incredible and unforgettable experience.

What piece of work or works are you the proudest of?

I have gained significant experience in various areas of voice acting, including E-Learning, radio advertisements, toy commercials, and character work. Among my accomplishments, the project that fills me with the most pride is my Dunkin Donuts commercial.

It’s so much fun to watch you re-enact old and new anime videos on social media;

anime and cartoons must have had a big impact on the reason you choose to venture

into voice acting. Do you have a list of favourite anime and cartoons?

Absolutely! I was drawn to voice acting because of my fascination with behind-the-scenes content from Disney, Anime, and Pixar films. The idea of an actor, hidden behind a microphone, lending their voice to the characters on screen and breathing life into them always captivated me. Among my favorite Anime are Attack on Titan, Death Note, and Demon Slayer.

With your journey so far, how have you grown as an actor, and is there any field or

a genre of acting that you would like to try that you haven’t yet?

I am continuously evolving as an actor with every audition I undertake. I immerse myself in the character’s perspectives and strive to portray them in a manner that best aligns with the scene. Voice acting has become a significant part of my life, and I dedicate a considerable amount of my spare time to honing my skills in this field. The concept of motion capture acting has always fascinated me. It involves capturing physical movements and facial expressions, which are then translated into digital animations, as seen in movies like “Planet of the Apes” and “The Lord of the Rings” for the character Smaug.

Where can people find you online, and is there any piece of advice you would like to

give to aspiring actors or artists?

These are all the socials that I post content to:

Website: https://aligoharvo.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ_8crplm0WWJpzoEm-QhMQ

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KeybladeAli

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aligoharvo/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@keybladeali

My advice would be to pursue your dreams and passions. Reflecting on my own journey in voice-over, it has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, challenges, and successes. This experience has taught me the importance of perseverance, the beauty of embracing vulnerability, and the fulfillment that comes from following one’s true passion. Although I have a desk job from 9 to 5 that pays the bills, it doesn’t provide the same sense of fulfillment that voice-over work does. I owe my gratitude to my wife, mother, and late father, who supported me throughout this journey. My father, who is no longer with us, helped me build my studio and would watch and share my online videos with his friends. I am committed to continuing my work in this field and making myself, my friends, and my family proud.

The post Ali Gohar appeared first on Jalya.

Tell us about yourself

I was born and raised in a small community called Lac La Biche, located north of Edmonton. Growing up in a close-knit community instilled in me a strong sense of community and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

After completing my high school education, I moved to Edmonton to pursue my Bachelor of Science Degree. During this time, I developed a deep motivation to serve my community in a meaningful way, which led me to choose a career as a chiropractor. To fulfill my aspirations, I pursued my doctorate in chiropractic in San Jose, California. It was an enriching experience that allowed me to further expand my knowledge and skills. However, my love for the multicultural community of Edmonton drew me back to my roots. I returned to the city to establish Form Health, a clinic where I could combine my passion for chiropractic care with my commitment to serving the community I hold dear.

Outside of my professional endeavours, I enjoy exploring the vibrant local scene. You might find me staying active in the River Valley or at a local restaurant savouring the diverse culinary offerings Edmonton has to offer. I also have a deep appreciation for the arts and enjoy attending performances and cultural events in the city.

What makes you passionate about Chiropractic Care?

I’m deeply passionate about enhancing people’s lives through conservative methods that don’t rely on drugs or surgery. What I find truly fulfilling is the ability to provide care to individuals of various ages and different stages of life. One of the aspects I appreciate most about my profession as a chiropractor is the opportunity for continuity of care, which allows me to build lasting relationships with my patients—a unique aspect not often seen in other medical professions.

What’s the most difficult aspect of Chiropractic Care?

There are a few…

Preconceived notions: Dealing with preconceived notions and misconceptions about chiropractic can be a recurring challenge. Overcoming skepticism and educating patients about the benefits and effectiveness of chiropractic care requires unwavering patience and effective communication.

Scope of practice limitations: Chiropractors often have limitations in their scope of practice, which can restrict certain treatment options. For instance, not being able to prescribe medications or refer for certain diagnostic tests may hinder the ability to provide comprehensive care, especially in cases where additional interventions could be beneficial.

Regulatory changes: Political and regulatory changes can impact the profession and create challenges. Revoked privileges or changes in regulations, such as restrictions on referring for X-rays, can disrupt the workflow and require adaptation to continue providing quality care.

Physical and mental demands: Chiropractic care can be physically demanding due to the nature of manual therapies and the need to perform repetitive movements. This can lead to strain and fatigue over time. Additionally, the mental demands of diagnosing and treating patients, managing complex cases, and staying updated with advancements in the field can be mentally taxing.

As the Director and CEO of “Form Health Edmonton,” what are your goals for the clinic?

My goals for the clinic are simple yet impactful: to provide evidence-based, top-notch care to our patients.  That and this year we made a vested effort to give back to our wonderful community.  With events like summer solstice yoga with proceeds going to Kids Kottage and a boxing class to raise money to “fight for women’s health,” we are committed to raising awareness of local causes.

As someone who has a strong social media following for both yourself and your clinic, what advice would you offer to fellow Edmonton businesses on how to approach social media and the type of social media plan to create?

Social media has been a powerful tool for me to shape the narrative about chiropractic in a visually appealing, relatable, and easily understandable manner. It has provided me with a platform to showcase my genuine personality and consistently engage with my audience. Building a successful social media presence hasn’t happened overnight; I have been creating content since the early days of my career, which spans over eight years. It’s a journey of consistency and authenticity that has allowed me to connect with a wider audience and share the benefits of chiropractic care in a captivating way.

Where can people find you online and learn more about “Form Health Edmonton”?

They can follow me on my socials @drmeccafayad or @formhealth.ca or on our website formhealth.ca.  We are a multidisciplinary clinic in the heart of downtown located in Unity Square.  Our team has grown to 5 massage therapists, 3 chiropractors and 1 physiotherapist.

The post Dr. Mecca Fayad appeared first on Jalya.

Tell us about yourself

My father, Mohamed Mustapha, brother and I opened Laziza in 2011. We are Palestinian, and I personally have been in the culinary industry for almost 19 years now.

What were the biggest challenges in creating and now running Laziza?

My biggest challenge starting Laziza would probably be building a customer base over the years and the long hours my family and I have put into starting and continuing for the past 12 years.

What makes Laziza unique from other Mediterranean restaurants?

 What makes Laziza unique is the variety of halal international foods that we have to offer. We make Italian (Pizza & Pasta), Middle Eastern (Shawarma, Humus, and Fattoush), to Canadian classics such as poutine.

What’s your favourite item on your menu? Or what do you recommend to a first-time customer?

For a first-time customer, I recommend trying our Pizza and Lasagna; our other popular menu items are burgers, donairs, salads, steaks and our stir-fry.

Who has been your biggest inspiration?

My biggest inspiration is my father, who has been in the food industry for over forty-five years. He has taught me everything I know about running our business and serving our community.

Where can people find Laziza online?

You can find Laziza on Instagram or check out our website at www.laziza-edmonton.com

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