Meet Asma

Asma is the Director of Research and Development at SMILE Canada, where she leads research-informed initiatives that support newcomer children and youth with disabilities and their families. Her work focuses on advancing culturally safe practices, improving service delivery, and promoting equity across healthcare, education, and social service sectors.

She completed her Honours Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto Scarborough, double majoring in Health Science and City Studies. Her research interests lie at the intersection of health and geography, with a focus on determinants of health, urban social policy, urban displacement, and inclusive urban design. Across her work, Asma is committed to creating healthier, equitable, and inclusive cities.

Meet Rania

Rania is the Director of Service Navigation at SMILE Canada, supporting immigrant, refugee, and newcomer families as they navigate systems and access the resources they need. In her role, she provides leadership in strengthening service navigation and ensuring families receive compassionate, culturally responsive, and accessible support.

Having completed medical school, Rania brings a strong healthcare-informed perspective to her work. Her background helps shape her commitment to advocacy, equity, and community care, especially for families who may face additional barriers when seeking support.

Meet Raian

Raian is the Managing Director at SMILE Canada, supporting communities that are often overlooked within the healthcare and education sectors, including Black immigrant communities, newcomer families, and communities facing systemic barriers. In her role, she helps lead initiatives that strengthen access, representation, and culturally responsive support for children, youth, and families.

She is a professional in the fields of developmental psychology and early childhood mental health and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Child Life and Pediatric Psychosocial Care. Raian has presented at the CMHO Conference and the EKO Spring Symposium on culturally responsive care and has been interviewed on Global TV about community programming and representation for Black Muslim youth and women.

Meet Sukaina

Dr. Sukaina Dada is the CEO and founder of SMILE Canada, as well as an occupational therapist and researcher working to advance equitable access for families navigating disability and healthcare systems. Her work focuses on disability inclusion, refugee and migrant health, and the power of storytelling to shape more just policies and practices.

As a frequent speaker on equity, accessibility, and community-centred systems change, Dr. Dada brings clinical, research, and community-based experience to her leadership. Through SMILE Canada, she continues to support work that strengthens access, representation, and culturally responsive care for children, youth, and families.

Meet Mahnoor

Mahnoor is the Director of Family Support at SMILE Canada, supporting newcomer and refugee families as they navigate services, resources, and community-based care. In her role, she helps strengthen family support initiatives that are accessible, culturally responsive, and rooted in compassion.

With an Honours Bachelor of Health Studies and a graduate certificate in Workplace and Health Promotion, Mahnoor brings a strong background in health, wellness, and community support. She is committed to helping families feel connected, supported, and empowered as they access the care and resources they need.

Meet Sabeeka

Sabeeka is the Director of Family Programs at SMILE Canada, bringing a strong background in community outreach and family support. In her role, she supports programs that help caregivers, children, and families access meaningful resources, guidance, and community-based care.

She is passionate about empowering caregivers, simplifying access to resources, and advocating for children with diverse needs within both family and community spaces. Sabeeka also enjoys mentoring younger community members and supporting their growth. She holds a Master of Child and Youth Care and serves as a Director on the Board of the Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care.