Canada, July 2026. As part of its ongoing Halaqah Across America initiative, Dompet Dhuafa USA successfully organized a series of Islamic educational gatherings in three Canadian cities, Ottawa, Montreal, and Kingston, from July 5 to 8, 2026. The program brought together more than 180 participants from the Indonesian Muslim diaspora to explore practical Islamic teachings on zakat, waqf, Islamic inheritance, charitable giving (ZISWAF), and family financial management.
Designed to strengthen Islamic literacy while fostering unity within Muslim communities abroad, the Halaqah series welcomed professionals, entrepreneurs, academics, students, and families who sought to deepen their understanding of how Islamic values guide both personal worship and everyday financial decisions.
The sessions were led by Prof. Dr. Murniati Mukhlisin (Madam Ani), a professor of Islamic economics, alongside Sitti Sahro Locke, Executive Director of Dompet Dhuafa USA.
Understanding the True Purpose of Zakat
The first gathering took place at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Ottawa and welcomed approximately 50 participants from Syiar Montreal and the Indonesian Muslim community in Ottawa. The event was also attended by Mariam Rahmania, the wife of the Indonesian Ambassador to Canada.
In his opening remarks, Minister Counsellor Rezak Akbar Nasrun highlighted the active role of the Indonesian diaspora in strengthening community ties while promoting Indonesian culture throughout Canada.
During her presentation, Madam Ani encouraged participants to reflect on the spiritual significance of zakat. She explained that its greatest impact is experienced not only by those who receive it but also by those who fulfill the obligation.
“Our wealth does not truly belong to us except as a trust from Allah. Zakat is not a reduction of wealth because it is the rightful share of others. Through fulfilling this obligation, we attain blessings, peace of mind, and a stronger relationship with Allah.”
Her message reminded participants that zakat is a means of spiritual purification, gratitude, and social responsibility. It encourages Muslims to view wealth as a trust that should benefit both individuals and society.
Strengthening Muslim Families Through Islamic Financial Principles
The Halaqah continued in Montreal, where members of the Indonesian Muslim community gathered to discuss Islamic family financial management through the principles of ZISWAF (Zakat, Infaq, Sadaqah, and Waqf) and Islamic inheritance law.
Madam Ani explained that Islam provides comprehensive guidance not only on earning wealth but also on managing, preserving, and distributing it with justice and wisdom.
She emphasized that understanding inheritance, wills, and gifts is essential for maintaining family harmony and preventing disputes. These principles provide legal certainty, protect the rights of heirs, and encourage fairness across generations.
The discussion resonated strongly with participants because it addressed practical issues faced by Muslim families living in multicultural societies.
Promoting Islamic Financial Literacy for Stronger Communities
The Canadian leg of the Halaqah concluded at the Islamic Society of Kingston, where nearly 100 participants from diverse professional and educational backgrounds attended the session.
The discussion emphasized that Islamic financial literacy is an essential foundation for building resilient families and empowered communities. Participants explored how financial stewardship in Islam extends beyond economic planning and reflects accountability to Allah, ethical decision making, and compassion toward others.
The session also highlighted the role of zakat, waqf, sadaqah, and other forms of Islamic philanthropy in alleviating poverty, supporting education, strengthening social welfare, and fostering sustainable community development.
Representing Dompet Dhuafa USA, Sitti Sahro Locke introduced the organization’s humanitarian initiatives, including disaster response, community empowerment, and support for new Muslims. She encouraged participants to continue contributing through ZISWAF as a meaningful way to create lasting social impact.
Strengthening Partnerships with the Indonesian Diaspora in Toronto
The Canadian leg of Halaqah Across America concluded with a visit to the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Toronto (KJRI Toronto), where Dompet Dhuafa USA met with Consul General Vevie Damayanthi to discuss opportunities for strengthening Islamic education and humanitarian collaboration within the Indonesian diaspora.
During the meeting, Sitti Sahro Locke, Executive Director of Dompet Dhuafa USA, presented the organization’s humanitarian initiatives, including disaster relief in Indonesia, support for new Muslims through Qur’an distribution and Islamic chaplaincy programs in correctional facilities across the United States, and international humanitarian assistance. The discussion also explored ways to encourage greater participation from the Indonesian diaspora in supporting zakat, sadaqah, and qurbani programs that benefit vulnerable communities in Indonesia.
The visit reflected Dompet Dhuafa USA’s commitment to building meaningful partnerships with Indonesian diplomatic missions and diaspora communities, ensuring that Islamic education is accompanied by sustainable humanitarian action and community empowerment.
Bringing Relevant Islamic Knowledge Across North America
Through Halaqah Across America, Dompet Dhuafa USA continues to provide accessible and practical Islamic education for Muslim communities across North America. By addressing topics that directly influence everyday life, including charitable giving, wealth management, inheritance, and financial ethics, the program encourages participants to integrate Islamic principles into their personal, family, and professional lives.
Following the successful gatherings in Canada, Halaqah Across America will continue in several cities across the United States. The program aims to expand opportunities for Muslim communities to strengthen their understanding of Islam while cultivating generosity, responsibility, and service to others.
Through initiatives such as Halaqah Across America, Dompet Dhuafa USA remains committed to empowering Muslim communities with knowledge that inspires faith, strengthens families, and contributes to a more compassionate and resilient society.
