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Henna Khawja

women’s work

Professional Background

Henna Khawja is a dedicated and experienced social worker, renowned for her profound commitment to social justice and community well-being. With a rich history of working across various sectors, including nonprofit organizations, community programs, and corporate environments, Henna has carved a niche for herself in the field of social work. Currently, she serves as the Sexual Violence Prevention & Response Coordinator at the University of Toronto, where she provides invaluable support to faculty, staff, and students, ensuring that violence prevention measures are effectively implemented and tailored to the needs of the university community. Henna's impressive body of work spans internationally, with experiences that have taken her from the vibrant cityscapes of Toronto and Chicago to the diverse communities of Dallas, Islamabad, and Zanzibar, showcasing her adaptability and global perspective on social issues.

Education and Achievements

Henna possesses a strong academic foundation, having pursued her Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) with a focus on Social Justice and Diversity at the esteemed University of Toronto, where she also completed a Collaborative Master Degree in South Asian Studies (SAS). This unique combination of education allows her to approach her work with a deep understanding of cultural nuances and the complexities of social justice.

Her academic journey also includes earning a Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W.) with a minor in Sociology, concentrating on Feminism, from Ryerson University. Additionally, Henna enhanced her language skills by attaining a Certificate in French Proficiency from McGill University, further expanding her ability to engage with diverse communities.

Notable Contributions

Throughout her career, Henna has developed top skills in several critical areas of social work, including nonprofit organization management, program development, and trauma-informed counseling. Her commitment to survivors of domestic and gender-based violence is particularly notable, as she actively champions their rights and works to empower them through various support mechanisms.

In her previous roles, Henna has held positions such as the Clinical Director at the Islamic Family and Social Services Association (IFSSA), where she oversaw programs and services aimed at enhancing the well-being of marginalized communities. As a Psychotherapist in Private Practice at WellNest Psychotherapy Services, she demonstrated her expertise in providing therapeutic support tailored to the unique needs of her clients. Her work as an Outreach Coordinator at CAIR-DFW further solidified her skills in community engagement and advocacy, particularly in combating Islamophobia and promoting anti-racism education.

Henna's extensive experience also includes her time as a Trauma Counsellor and Advocate at The Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic, where she played a critical role in supporting individuals impacted by trauma. She has collaborated with various organizations to design and implement programs, including her work as a Gender Specialist at Youth Challenge International, focusing on empowering youth through community-based initiatives. Henna's dedication to social change is evident in her involvement as a member of the Board of Directors at several organizations, including Momentum Walk-In Counselling and the Centre for Equality Rights in Accommodation (CERA).

As a consultant and facilitator at HEART Women & Girls, she worked diligently to promote awareness and safety for women and girls, emphasizing the importance of community support in addressing issues of violence. Her role as a Crisis Care Counsellor at Shepell.fgi showcased her ability to provide immediate and effective support to individuals facing crises, further highlighting her diverse capabilities within the field of social work.

Henna’s dedication to youth engagement is evident from her early career roles, including positions at India Rainbow Community Services and her practicum experiences at organizations such as the Children's Aid Society of Toronto and The Aga Khan Foundation. These experiences underscore her longstanding commitment to uplifting vulnerable populations and advocating for systemic change.

Conclusion

With her extensive background in social work, advocacy, and counseling, Henna Khawja has established herself as a prominent leader in the field. Her global experiences, combined with her comprehensive education, equip her with the unique perspectives and skills necessary to drive meaningful change. As she continues her important work at the University of Toronto, Henna remains a vital proponent for social equity, trauma-informed care, and the empowerment of those affected by violence. Her journey exemplifies the profound impact that a dedicated social worker can have in fostering safe and inclusive communities.

tags':['social worker','University of Toronto','sexual violence prevention','nonp

Henna Khawja
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Location

Mississauga, Ontario, Canada