Compassion first consulting
Mission
Our mission is to empower organizations and individuals by providing expert consultation, impactful keynotes, and interactive workshops that focus on best practices in support for newcomers. We are dedicated to fostering cultural understanding, promoting inclusive practices, and equipping communities to effectively serve marginalized populations. Through collaboration and compassion, we strive to create meaningful connections that lead to positive change for those affected by conflict and displacement
Approach
Our services provide comprehensive consulting to identify gaps and offer insights based on professional and lived experience in cross-cultural communication, immigration, conflict trauma, intersectional feminism, and diaspora support. We help refine settlement processes for newcomers from conflict zones and the organizations serving them. Through workshops, keynote speaking, and consulting, we deliver insights, motivation, and knowledge building for your events, programs, and support systems
Why Us
With 20+ years of experience in development and 34+ in settlement services; we offer firsthand knowledge of simple steps and considerations to enhance your program or enlighten your audience, on the difference that comes with a compassionate approach. The foundation of solution oriented dialogue, support, dignified resettlement, and overall unity is compassion. Let us support and strengthen your mission.
Mari Sharif
Mari Sharif arrived in Canada as a refugee in the early 1980s, bringing with her a deep understanding of the challenges faced by newcomers. A graduate of the Settlement Program at George Brown College, Mari began her career at Catholic Cross-Cultural Services, a leading non-profit supporting newcomers in Canada. For 12 years, she worked directly with immigrants as a Settlement Worker, before transitioning to management roles. She spent a decade as the Manager of Settlement Services and later led Settlement Integration Place for over ten years.
Since retiring, Mari has become a sought-after freelance consultant, recently presenting her expertise to newcomer arrivals in Calgary. With over 34 years of experience and her own lived journey as a refugee, Mari offers a unique and compassionate perspective, deeply committed to improving the settlement process for immigrants in Canada.
Mina Sharif
Mina Sharif was raised in Canada as part of the Afghan diaspora and moved to Kabul in 2005, where she lived for 14 years until 2019. During her time in Afghanistan, she founded Sisters 4 Sisters, a nationwide mentorship program dedicated to empowering Afghan women and girls.
Mina is a recognized content creator for the Afghan diaspora, using her platform to bridge cultural gaps and promote a deeper understanding of Afghan life. She co-authored The Diaspora Journal and writes The Hyphenated Blog which explores the complexities of identity and belonging among displaced communities. As an accomplished author, media producer, and advocate, her work has been featured in numerous publications, as well as on TV, podcasts, and radio programs. Mina’s voice and expertise continue to shape conversations on conflict-affected populations, women's rights, and systems of uplifting marginalized voices.
What we offer
Consulting
- Intercultural Communication
- Settlement Policy Development
- Inclusivity Policy Advisory
- Outreach and advocacy
- Fundraising
Workshops
- Newcomer Settlement Services best practices
- Diaspora Youth Support Services
- Stress Management throughout integration processes
- Cultural Awareness for service providers
Keynotes
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Newcomer Rights
- Diaspora Identity
- Advocacy Tools
- Cultural Awareness
Global Solidarity: Empowering Women Across Borders
Empowering Newcomers: Effective Strategies for Serving Marginalized Communities
Diaspora Identity: Healing and Connecting with Host Countries
I deliver talks on empowering women globally, focusing on intersectionality, practical strategies for skill-building, and empathy. My work was featured in the 2022 book We Are Still Here, with a foreword by Margaret Atwood. As the founder of Sisters 4 Sisters, a mentorship program for marginalized Afghan women and girls, I am dedicated to
I deliver talks on empowering women globally, focusing on intersectionality, practical strategies for skill-building, and empathy. My work was featured in the 2022 book We Are Still Here, with a foreword by Margaret Atwood. As the founder of Sisters 4 Sisters, a mentorship program for marginalized Afghan women and girls, I am dedicated to creating positive change. I've spoken on women's rights at prestigious venues such as York University, the Toronto Public Library, and Teen Vogue.
Diaspora Identity: Healing and Connecting with Host Countries
Empowering Newcomers: Effective Strategies for Serving Marginalized Communities
Diaspora Identity: Healing and Connecting with Host Countries
I developed an interactive presentation on diaspora disconnect and cultural identity reconnection, which has been well-received by diverse audiences, including schools, libraries, and universities. I've been a guest on multiple platforms discussing the topic and was the co-host of the Diaspora Passing podcast. Additionally, I've contribut
I developed an interactive presentation on diaspora disconnect and cultural identity reconnection, which has been well-received by diverse audiences, including schools, libraries, and universities. I've been a guest on multiple platforms discussing the topic and was the co-host of the Diaspora Passing podcast. Additionally, I've contributed articles on cultural identity to platforms like Al Jazeera, co-authored The Diaspora Journal, and have an upcoming award-nominated short story collection
Empowering Newcomers: Effective Strategies for Serving Marginalized Communities
Empowering Newcomers: Effective Strategies for Serving Marginalized Communities
Empowering Newcomers: Effective Strategies for Serving Marginalized Communities
As a refugee raised in Canada and having spent nearly two decades in Afghanistan, I offer a unique perspective on the refugee experience. Passionate about advocacy, I regularly engage diverse audiences to promote dignified and welcoming reception for those newly exiled due to conflict. Additionally, I lead tailored workshops for organizat
As a refugee raised in Canada and having spent nearly two decades in Afghanistan, I offer a unique perspective on the refugee experience. Passionate about advocacy, I regularly engage diverse audiences to promote dignified and welcoming reception for those newly exiled due to conflict. Additionally, I lead tailored workshops for organizations dedicated to supporting newcomers, offering valuable insights and best practices.
Driving Change: Best Practices for Effective Aid Work
Empowering Newcomers: Effective Strategies for Serving Marginalized Communities
Empowering Newcomers: Effective Strategies for Serving Marginalized Communities
I’ve partnered with celebrities, businesses, and individuals to enhance fundraising efforts for communities in need. My presentations provide insights into beneficiary needs, communication strategies, and effective fundraising techniques for both small and large-scale initiatives. My volunteer work has been recognized by publications like
I’ve partnered with celebrities, businesses, and individuals to enhance fundraising efforts for communities in need. My presentations provide insights into beneficiary needs, communication strategies, and effective fundraising techniques for both small and large-scale initiatives. My volunteer work has been recognized by publications like Al Jazeera, BBC, and CTV, and I’ve shared my expertise with organizations such as META