This is part two of my conversation with Ikram Carpan.

And part one, Ikram gave me a new perspective on child development. It's all about letting young people be involved in their own decision making and problem solving--and creating a need for them to learn. 

•  If you'd like to reach out to Ikram to talk about his community development ambitions, you can reach him at: [email protected]

He also talked about growing up in Russia, Bangladesh and Turkey, and coming to Canada after his family was targeted by the Turkish government for being involved with the Gulen movement.

In part two, Ikram talks about arriving in Canada, about his teaching philosophies, and his thinking about how people of all races and religions can find a common humanity. As I said in part one, It is a fascinating young man. And I think you'll enjoy part two. 

Highlights

[2:20] Starting Life & Building Connections in Canada
Ikram shares his initial experience of moving to Canada, from quickly making friends to obtaining his permanent residency. He contrasts his relatively smooth transition to those of his friends who faced challenges, highlighting the varying journeys immigrants go through upon their arrival.

[4:20] Addressing Problem Solving in Education
Ikram speaks about the need to change the way young people are educated. He stresses the importance of guiding them in how to approach problems and the process of finding solutions. He also draws a distinction between external rewards and intrinsic motivations.

[15:40] Learning through Guided Freedom & Curiosity
Ikram shares his philosophy of education. He believes in guiding students' inherent will and curiosity toward constructive outcomes. Instead of spoon-feeding knowledge, he prioritizes asking the right questions, instilling responsibility, and fostering a love for learning.

[21:00] Redefining Education & Nurturing Souls 
Ikram passionately speaks about the true essence of education. He believes it's not just a profession but a responsibility to guide, nurture, and shape the future. 

Ikram discusses the importance of nurturing and connecting with the soul rather than the mind. He believes that to truly reach out to others, especially children, one has to connect at a soulful level.

[28:00] Embracing Diversity in Waterloo Region 
Greg introduces the topic of the Waterloo Region in Canada and its growing multiculturalism. Ikram responds by discussing personal perspectives, biases, and the importance of seeing beyond surface-level differences to connect with the souls of individuals.

Ikram passionately conveys the notion that by understanding oneself, being empathetic, and fostering a mindset of personal accountability, we can cultivate a better world. He emphasizes the importance of joy, understanding, and genuine interactions in creating harmonious relationships.

[34:40] Influence of Literature & Self Reflection
Ikram recalls a thought-provoking quote by Turkish scholar and reflects on the way individuals interpret texts differently, drawing inspiration from both the Quran and his own Islamic background.

Ikram and Greg discuss the importance of being open-minded and not rigidly holding on to certain truths. They explore the idea that interpretations of religious texts, like the Quran and the Bible, can differ based on an individual's mindset.

[42:00] Teaching & Embracing Community Greg compliments Ikram's perspective and wisdom at a young age. Ikram's aspirations to learn from local institutions like YMCA and his endeavors to make a positive impact in the Kitchener-Waterloo region are discussed.

This is the first part of my two-part deep conversation with Ikram Carpan.

Ikram came to Waterloo Region from Turkey during the COVID-19 pandemic, reconnecting with members of his family who fled to Canada after being targeted by the Turkish government for being followers of Fethullah Gulen.

Ikram is a fascinating young man, who grew up in Russia and Bangladesh, and studied in Turkey before coming here. He has a passion for teaching and child development - and his life experiences have given him a unique perspective that he uses to try to improve the lives of those around him.

Ikram got me to see many things from a new point of view—and he will do the same for you.
 

Highlights:

[2:40] Ikram's Active Day & Initial Impressions Greg welcomes Ikram to the podcast.

[3:40] Energy & Involvement with Grand River Friendship Society (Summer Camps & Activities

[5:20 ] Empowering the Youth
Ikram discusses the importance of empowering the younger generation, emphasizing the challenges of breaking away from over-dependence on technology and helping them think for themselves.

Ikram shares his philosophy on teaching, emphasizing the importance of fostering independent thought rather than mere rote learning. He believes in creating mechanisms for the youth to recognize and pursue what's beneficial for them.

[14:40] Encouraging Self-driven Motivation
Instead of external enforcement, Ikram speaks about the value of self-motivation, describing how student are more engaged when they discover things on their own.

[17:20 ] Parental Influence & Cultural Perspectives
Diving into the cultural aspects, especially within the Turkish community, Ikram talks about the sometimes counterproductive impact of over-nurturing parents on their children's independence.

Ikram highlights the necessity of letting children solve their problems, allowing them to develop essential life skills and encouraging growth -- promoting genuine interest in learning rather than forced involvement, emphasizing the power of self-driven motivation.

[20:00] Origins and Influence of Teaching in Ikram's Life
Ikram shares his birthplace, Russia, and how his father's profession as a teacher in Turkish schools influenced him. This journey of teaching was interwoven with the broader context of the Gulen movement.

The origins and the distinctiveness of the Gulen movement are discussed. Fethullah Gulen, a religious leader from the Turkish community, innovatively bridged secular and religious teachings, which was revolutionary during the 1960s and 1970s.

Ikram touches upon how Gulen's unique approach influenced various individuals, including his father.

[28:40] Ikram's Multifaceted Background
Growing up in Russia, living in Bangladesh, and studying in Turkey, Ikram has a diverse educational and professional history.

[30:20] Persecution, Politics & Family’s Escape
Ikram recounts the reasons behind his family's move from Bangladesh, referencing specific threats from the Turkish government. 

Ikram speaks of the arrests that plagued his friends and family back in Turkey. 

Witnessing firsthand the tragic stories of his homeland has given Ikram a unique perspective on life. He emphasizes the importance of understanding, compassion, and the lessons learned from such experiences.

[34:20] Building vs. Destroying & New Beginnings in Canada 
Ikram draws a distinction between the ease of destruction and the effort required to build. He shares his commitment to building, fostering positive relationships, and finding joy in the process. His journey to Canada, while challenging, has been transformative and rewarding.

Marjorie Knight. Marjorie is an anti-poverty advocate and a two-time candidate for the Ontario NDP in Cambridge. She is a family outreach worker for the House of Friendship and a founder of Rhythm and Blues Cambridge, which works to provide a safe engaging space to empower, inform and inspire the Black community in Cambridge.

In this deep conversation between Marjorie discusses her experiences as a single black mother in Canada, who despite being well educated and having rich work experience, struggled for years in poverty because she would only be hired for minimum wage work. 

Marjorie shares about passion for her outreach work, her years of activism, the vitrol she faced on the campaign trail, and her work with Rhythm and Blues Cambridge.

• Learn more about Rhythm and Blues Cambridge
• Watch this profile of Marjorie entitled A Tenacious Life, which is part of the Citizens of Cambridge video series by The Blend Media Group

Highlights of this episode:

[00:01:20 - 00:02:00] Introduction & Marjorie's Multiple Roles
Marjorie Knight's rich life in Cambridge is introduced, shedding light on her many roles. As an anti-poverty advocate, Ontario NDP candidate, family outreach worker, and a mother and grandmother, she embodies a plethora of experiences.

[00:03:40 - 00:05:40] Personal Growth & Professional Commitment
Returning to university in her 50s, Marjorie pursued her passion for social work and outreach. She reflects on her day-to-day experiences at the House of Friendship, emphasizing the institution's mission of building a thriving, inclusive community.

[00:07:20 - 00:11:40] Immigration, Job Challenges & Societal Biases
Detailing her migration journey from Canada to Jamaica and back, Marjorie confronts the employment biases she faced in Canada. Despite significant professional experience in Jamaica with distinguished guests, she grappled with discriminatory practices and justifications like the "lack of Canadian experience."

[00:14:40 - 00:19:00] Overcoming Hardships & Community Solidarity
Facing financial lows and the subsequent hurdles of the Ontario Works welfare system, Marjorie found solace and support from her community. Whether it's church members assisting her during trying times or neighbors offering tangible help, the power of community shines through.

[00:22:00 - 00:26:00] Advocacy, Education, & Breaking Stereotypes
Marjorie delves into her advocacy for fair educational practices, addressing issues like the high cost of school uniforms and their accessibility. Additionally, she highlights the systemic biases immigrants face in Canada, addressing stereotypes and misinformed perceptions tied to one's country of origin.

[00:27:20 - 00:31:40] Systemic Change, Life Reflections & Political Path
A passionate call for systemic change, Marjorie underscores the pressing need for reforms in education and immigration systems. She provides a personal lens, juxtaposing her life decisions with experiences in Canada, and offers insights into her political journey, emphasizing the importance of voting.

[00:34:00 - 00:38:40] Addressing Racism, Collective Action & Political Involvement
Addressing the multifaceted challenges of racism, Marjorie emphasizes the role of youth and collective action. She reflects on her firsthand experiences with racism, the significance of speaking out, and her journey into politics.

[00:41:40 - 00:48:00] Community Engagement, Black History Month & Upcoming Projects
Marjorie shares her pivotal role in launching local cultural celebrations, including the first Black History Month.

This is Part 2 of a deep conversation with K. Fran Davis, who's Haudenosaunee  from the Grand River Territory. She is an Indigenous consultant, researcher, teacher, and owner of Indigenous Learn: Two Row Education Services. 

In this episode we talk about the struggles Indigenous and Non-Indigenous people have with accepting the realities of the Residential School System, the intergenerational trauma caused by residential schools, and how Kelly strives to turn anger into compassion as part of the ongoing pursuit of reconciliation.  

In Part 1, we learned a bit about Davis' life story and her journey to becoming an Indigenous educator. We also talk about the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Haldimand Tract, and the continuing effect of colonial policies.

• Learn more about Davis' teaching services at  https://indigenouslearn.com/
• Find more content from Davis, including "Rights of Passage: A Reconciliation Podcast" at:  https://indigenouslearn.com/publications%2Fevents
• Davis recommends you watch Indian Horse available on Netflix 

Thanks to John Green, who reached out all the way from London, England, to volunteer to edit Series 2 of Deep Conversations with Strangers. John is a Freelance Audio Engineer and if you'd like to reach out to him to do some work for you, you can reach him at: [email protected] 

This is part one of a two-part deep conversation with K. Fran Davis, who's Haudenosaunee  from the Grand River Territory. She is an Indigenous consultant, researcher, teacher, and owner of Indigenous Learn: Two Row Education Services. 

In this episode, we learn a bit about Davis' life story and her journey to becoming an Indigenous educator. We also talk about the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, the Haldimand Tract, and the continuing effect of colonial policies.

• Learn more about Davis' teaching services at https://indigenouslearn.com/
• Find more content from Davis, including "Rights of Passage: A Reconciliation Podcast" at: https://indigenouslearn.com/publications%2Fevents
• Davis recommends you watch Indian Horse available on Netflix

In part two, we're going to talk about the struggles Indigenous and Non-Indigenous people have with accepting the realities of the Residential School System, the intergenerational trauma caused by residential schools, and how Kelly strives to turn anger into compassion as part of the ongoing pursuit of reconciliation.

Thanks to John Green, who reached out all the way from London, England, to volunteer to edit Series 2 of Deep Conversations with Strangers. John is a Freelance Audio Engineer and if you'd like to reach out to him to do some work for you, you can reach him at: [email protected] 

In this deep conversation with Geraldine Stafford (the first civilian Manager of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion with the Waterloo Regional Police Service) we talk about her role in engaging police officers and community members to increase awareness, empathy and equity. 

We discuss the challenges police have building trust among racialized groups, and their ongoing efforts to foster trust. Geraldine also speaks about importance of having diverse voices at the table in our institutions and government and gives her perspective on the responsiblities we have as individuals in creating a sense of belonging in our diverse communities. 

Geraldine Stafford Bio:
As the first civilian Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at Waterloo Regional Police Services, Geraldine Stafford is used to blazing trails, literally. A native of Kitchener, she first made her mark in the region as a standout student and track athlete, attending (the then all-girls school) St. Mary’s High School. She spent the past 30 years living outside the Region having an accomplished career working for City of Brampton, The Ministry of the Attorney General, and most recently Bell Canada.  As an entrepreneur, Geraldine founded her own record suspension (criminal pardon)  business and for the past 20 years has worked with young people, facilitating applications to set aside their criminal record.  Specializing in equity, social and criminal justice, Geraldine has assisted young people get a fresh start in life and has facilitated and  tailored workshops and pro-bono clinics to educate young people about their rights within the legal and criminal justice system.

Empowerment of young people is her passion, particularly young women,  where she has coached girls travel basketball for over 10 years, offering her unique mentorship opportunities in terms of leveraging sport to finance education, finding ones own passion and strategies for bringing forth your whole and authentic self whether to social or professional settings. 

A sought-after speaker, in 2022, she was named as one of the Top 100 Black Women to Watch in Canada for her dedication in promoting diversity and inclusion for all. Geraldine is an accomplished professional who brings stories of resilience, hope and making it all odds, where her mandate for every speaking engagement is to inform, inspire, surprise and delight.

Twitter: LegalGeraldine

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldinelstafford/

Thanks to John Green, who reached out all the way from London, England, to volunteer to edit Series 2 of Deep Conversations with Strangers. John is a Freelance Audio Engineer and if you'd like to reach out to him to do some work for you, you can reach him at: [email protected] 

A deep conversation with Abiha Syed. 

Abiha immigrated to Canada, and Waterloo Region, 28 years ago, and has spent many of those years building connections between the Muslim community and the larger community. She is a co-founder and co-chair of the Muslim Woman of Cambridge and a Community Engagement Coordinator for Immigration Partnership Waterloo Region. Abiha was recently honored by YWCA Cambridge with a Woman of Distinction Award for her efforts supporting vulnerable people during the COVID 19 pandemic. 

The Muslim Women of Cambridge is a group of passionate women whose vision is to inspire and promote a culturally inclusive and respectful community. They strive to empower Muslim Women and are dedicated to making positive changes through community engagement—bridging the gap between the Muslim community and the larger community. 

To learn more about the Muslim Women of Cambridge visit mwcambridge.net. 

Immigration Partnership, where Abiha works,  is a collaborative of over 60 partner organizations working together to empower immigrants and refugees to successfully settle, work and belong in  Waterloo Region. They help build a welcoming, dynamic community through leadership, collaboration, research, engagement, education and advocacy.

To learn more about Immigration Partnership visit immigrationwaterlooregion.ca.

I’d like to thank Immigration Partnership for supporting my efforts with this podcast, and Abiha particularly for allowing me to interview her about her life story.

Visit: webpage for this episode. 

A deep conversation with Kathy Foster about her life story. Kathy is a resident of Supportive Housing of Waterloo. Her personal tragedy triggered a period of homelessness that lasted 18 years. She spent most of that time on the streets of Waterloo Region. 

In this episode of Deep Conversations with Strangers, Kathy courageously shares a story of loss and learning.  

At Supportive Housing of Waterloo, they believe housing is a fundamental right for everyone. Beyond affordable housing, they help people transform their lives by providing programs, services, and support for homelessness, addiction, and mental and physical health issues. 

By donating to SHOW, you can make a meaningful difference in people's lives by helping to give them the dignity of having a safe place to call home. Thank you to the staff at supportive housing of Waterloo for connecting Deep Conversations with Strangers with Kathy.

Supportive Housing of Waterloo website: www.showaterloo.org

Visit: webpage for this episode.

New Hamburg resident Allan Strong spent his career in the mental health sector, working within local agencies to support some of the most vulnerable people in our community. He helped start the groundbreaking Skills for Safer Living program. His mission to improve mental health resources in the community was driven by personal experiences. He spent much of his youth taking care of his mentally ill mother. Then, as an adult, Allan was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder Type 2 and also attempted suicide several times.

Visit: webpage for this episode.