Amal Foundation

The Foundation

Mission

Based in Montreal, Fondation Amal is a non-profit organization striving to enable all children with physical or mental disabilities to live life to the fullest in an inclusive world. In Canada, the number of children living with a disability reaches more than half a million.

Our mission: To enrich their quality of life through advocacy and fundraising.

The activities of Fondation Amal are built around HOPE:
• Heighten awareness for chronic diseases and disabilities that
affect children aged 0-17 yrs.
• Organize interactive fundraising activities that highlight current
trends and celebrate our local culture.
• Provide financial support to Canadian partner charities that share
our mission and values.
• Empower today’s young donors to foster a new generation of
philanthropists.

History

Fondation Amal was founded in 2012 by a group of friends who decided to combine their passion for organizing events with their philanthropic spirit and sense of civic duty. Amal means ‘purity’ in Mohawk and ‘hope’ in Arabic. Embodying two values synonymous with childhood, it was only fitting for Amal to become the name of our organization.
Our goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of children affected with chronic diseases and disabilities, and to rekindle their hope and love for life.

The Team

Board of directors

SHERIN AL-SAFADI

CO-FOUNDER, PRESIDENT, B.Sc., M.B.A., Ph.D.

A dedicated philanthropist and sports enthusiast, Sherin believes that no goals can be achieved without passion and a thirst for knowledge. Sherin is currently pursuing a career within the pharmaceutical industry.

    • JENNY THERRIAULT-TANZER

    CO-FOUNDER, VICE-PRESIDENT, B. Sc, M.B.A.

    Committed to advertisement & entrepreneurship Jenny is a strong believer in continuous personal enrichment. Fondation Amal gives her the opportunity to expand her knowledge in the non-profit sector and give back to the community.

    • Mirella Mokbel

    CO-FOUNDER, B.A., M.B.A.

    Strategist, ad geek and musicaholic combined with an interest in psychology of behavior. As a believer in what you put out in this universe comes back to you; she supports the positive energy that Fondation Amal is transmitting.

    • KLEMEN FERJAN

    CO-FOUNDER, B.Eng., M.B.A.

    Discovered the fascinating world of aviation through ICAO (Alternate Representative) and IATA (Consultant). Holds an MBA degree, admires Fondation Amal, mentors young entrepreneurs, and is an avid judo instructor.

    • ROULA CHALLAH

    SECRETARY & EVENTS COMMITTEE CHAIR, B.A.

    With over 17 years work experience in Corporate Event Management, and her family background that excelled in the field of philanthropic activities; she is a strong believer in giving to the deprived ones and sharing of God’s blessing with others.

    • Executive Committee

    JUAN-LUIS MARTINEZ ESQUIVIAS

    LOGISTICS COORDINATOR, B.Eng., M.B.A.

    A passionate, caring, committed leader who now puts his experience in operations/project management acquired working for companies such as GM and Schneider Electric to support Fondation Amal's noble cause!

    • RENATA BAHOUS

    VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR, B.Sc., M.Sc.

    Renata is completing her M.Sc. in Human Genetics at McGill. She enjoys volunteering and meeting people from different walks of life. She supports the mission of Fondation Amal to make a difference in the community.

    • ELAINE LAM

    SPONSORSHIP COORDINATOR, B.Eng.

    Elaine is technology savvy and loves working with computer systems. Besides her "geek side", she is athletic, loves martial arts and is a foodie at heart. She contributes her skills to help in the growth of Fondation Amal.

    • VALÉRIE VERSCHELDEN

    COMMUNICATIONS AGENT, B.A.A.

    Valerie is known for her patience, listening & creativity, which helps her in her career in marketing. She loves challenges and getting out of her comfort zone and considers it important to help when we are able to do so, that's why she joined Fondation Amal.

    • CATHERINE DEFOY

    TRANSLATOR

    Having overcome a handicap as a child, Catherine knows the importance of providing support to other children and families in time of illness. Working for Air Canada, Catherine lends a hand from all around the world.

    • MARCO DISCEPOLA

    FUNDRAISING STRATEGIST

    Marco grew up with both parents battling cancer. His experience led him to join Foundation Amal in 2013 after his father, unfortunately, lost his battle. Since then, he shares his entrepreneurship skills and philanthropic passion to help find creative ways to support the Foundation's goals and mission.

    • Our Philosophy

    Fondation Amal is an extremely active foundation that likes to do things differently. We believe that the secret to successful fundraisers lies in creating a festive ambiance highlighted by a unique theme derived from current trends and celebrating our local culture. Every fundraiser presents us with an opportunity to raise the bar even higher. Our events not only bring together local partners and businesses, but also attract a younger audience. By reaching out to this youthful target market, Fondation Amal strives to foster a new generation of philanthropists and recognize the impact of today’s young donors.