This in-person session aims to provide frontline workers, counsellors, chaplains, and other care providers with the essential knowledge of Islam and Muslims that will better enable them to provide culturally sensitive care to diverse Muslims. Areas of discussion will include an overview of Islam and Muslims with an emphasis on Edmonton’s Muslim demographics and contemporary issues affecting the community.

Participants will:

• Gain a better understanding of Islamic cultures and values

• Learn about Muslim demographics and current social issues in Edmonton

• Learn about the most highly-recommended approaches for the care of Muslim clients through instructor's first-hand experience and published research

• Develop cultural competencies through guided lessons and cases studies

Although the webinar is specifically focused on working with Muslim clients, the competencies developed through the workshop will also better enable the attendee to extend their cultural awareness capacity when working with any multi-cultural and multi-faith setting.

About the Facilitator:

Ibrahim J. Long, MA, GCIC, is a professional multi-faith chaplain and educator with over 10 years of experience supporting diverse individuals and families in educational, healthcare, community-based, and correctional institutions. He is a passionate advocate for the integration of spirituality and mental health and has received several recognitions for his active community work and published research on the care of Muslim clients. Ibrahim serves as the Youth Wellness Lead and Chaplain for the Islamic Family and Social Services Association (IFSSA). Presently, he is pursuing a Masters in Social Work with a specialization in Community-Informed Practice for Health and Well-being.