From May 9–11, GRFS middle school mentors took part in a meaningful mentor development camp. The camp took place at the Abatolian Heritage Federation facility, bringing together mentors for a weekend of growth and connection. This enriching weekend brought together around 30 mentors from Ottawa, Toronto, and Kitchener-Waterloo to grow, connect, and reflect. The camp...
On April 26, 2025, we came together to celebrate something truly powerful—the strength, love, and resilience of women across all backgrounds. The evening was filled with inspiring talks, vibrant cultural dances, and delicious Turkish snacks that brought comfort, joy, and connection to everyone in the room. We were especially honoured to be joined by Loreena...
This May 10th, let’s come together to honour the love, strength, and resilience of all moms—especially the incredible single mothers in our community. In collaboration with the African Canadian Association of Waterloo Region & Area (ACAWRA) and the Grand River Friendship Society (GRFS), this heartwarming event is all about celebrating motherhood in all its forms....
We were delighted to host Mayor Jan Liggett of Cambridge and Mayor Natasha Salonen of Wilmot at the Grand River Friendship Society (GRFS) campus in Baden for a warm and engaging breakfast meeting. Our Chair Selim Budak, board member Leon Kehl, executive director Cumali Sahin, director of public relations Berat Berberoglu, and dedicated volunteers welcomed...
A weekend full of energy, learning, and brotherhood! Our middle school boys came together for an unforgettable March Camp, packed with activities that strengthened both minds and friendships. 🔥 Camp Highlights: ✅ Football matches to keep the spirit alive ✅ PlayStation FIFA tournament for some friendly competition ✅ Iftar & Suhoor, sharing meals in a...
For three unforgettable days, our high school boys came together for an exciting and enriching March Camp, filled with learning, bonding, and fun! 🔹 Daily Highlights: ✅ Iftar meals provided by generous families, with parents on duty each day ✅ Seminars offering valuable insights and life lessons ✅ Qur’an Hour, fostering spiritual growth ✅ Social...
Today, we celebrate the strength, grace, and resilience of women everywhere. From every walk of life, in every role they embrace, women shape our world with courage and love. Let’s honour their voices, uplift their dreams, and continue the fight for true equality. Because when women rise, humanity rises! As Rupi Kaur beautifully said: “what’s...
We were honoured to celebrate Black History Month with the African Canadian Association of Waterloo Region and Area (ACAWRA) at Grand River Friendship Society (GRFS)! Our Executive Director, Cumali Sahin, and Board Members warmly welcomed ACAWRA representatives Mamuzo Nwokoro and Nora Ngozi Agwu. The event began with a presentation from our Director of PR, Berat...
We had a wonderful visit to the Coalition of Muslim Women today! Our Executive Director Cumali Sahin and Director of PR Berat Berberoglu engaged in an insightful conversation with Executive Director Fauzia Mazhar, COO Sarah Shafiq, and Director of Programming and Services Wisam Osman. Together, we explored ideas for future partnerships, fostering collaboration to create...
We were honored to welcome Liberal Party MP Valerie Bradford (Kitchener South-Hespeler) to the Grand River Friendship Society (GRFS) campus in Baden, ON. It was an inspiring meeting where we discussed future initiatives, community engagement, and the incredible progress we have made together. MP Bradford presented a special certificate of recognition to GRFS, acknowledging our...
