Whitehorse – World Religion Confrence https://worldreligionsconference.ca Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:32:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://worldreligionsconference.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/cropped-synotech-32x32.png Whitehorse – World Religion Confrence https://worldreligionsconference.ca 32 32 Kindness and Kinship https://worldreligionsconference.ca/kindness-and-kinship/ Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:25:02 +0000 https://worldreligionsconference.ca/?p=3003 Tel: 1-877-767-1965 or 604-767-1965
Email: info.bc@ahmadiyya.ca]]>

15th World Religions Conference Whitehorse

Moderator

Larry Begnell, Member of Parliament 

Larry Bagnell served as Yukon’s representative in Ottawa for over a decade, served as a federal Member of Parliament from 2000-2020 retired in 2021. During his time as a Liberal MP, Larry was appointed to the Privy Council and served as Parliamentary Secretary to both the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, and the Minister of Natural Resources. Larry also sat on many Parliamentary Committees, developing expertise in the areas of Transport, Defence, Industry, Veterans Affairs, Justice & Human Rights, and Aboriginal Affairs.

Larry Bagnell served as Yukon’s representative in Ottawa for over a decade, served as a federal Member of Parliament from 2000-2020 retired in 2021. During his time as a Liberal MP, Larry was appointed to the Privy Council and served as Parliamentary Secretary to both the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, and the Minister of Natural Resources. Larry also sat on many Parliamentary Committees, developing expertise in the areas of Transport, Defence, Industry, Veterans Affairs, Justice & Human Rights, and Aboriginal Affairs.

Speakers

Indigenous Perspective
Mr. Phillip Gatensby
Tutchone and Tlingit Raven’s Tail Weaver

For over twenty-five years Phillip has worked with human beings using a value- based transformational approach to human development. This approach is facilitative in nature, drawing on life experiences, Tlingit values, counseling techniques and the unique perspective of having emerged victorious both from residential school and the correctional system.  It is based on the idea of creating healing opportunities that people may draw on their own resources to make healthy choices for themselves, their families and their communities. Phillip has applied this approach across North America, and Europe, in diverse settings with people of all ages, from all walks of life. Street people, Christian groups, gangs and Supreme Court judges have equally found great value in this vision-driven combination of universal truths and modern principles. The approach is profound in its inherent simplicity and powerful in its unfailing ability to transform the lives of those who choose to participate.

Christian Perspective
The Right Reverend Frances Kitson

Reverend Frances Kitson began her ministry at Whitehorse United Church in August of 2023. Originally from Vancouver, Frances moved to the Yukon from small-town central Saskatchewan (Lanigan), where she spent 2.5 years completing her ministry internship and learning about community, the power of small, and the beauty of the prairie skies. Particular passions in ministry include children and families, building trust and relationship, wrestling with challenging scripture passages, and creating a healthy culture around stewardship and money. She’s also a member of the United Church General Council Theology, Inter-Church and InterFaith Committee. Frances has completely fallen in love with the local mountains and forests, and loves salsa dancing,cheese, and her two cats.

Islam Perspective
Maulana Umran ul Haq Bhatti

Umran ul-Haq Bhatti is a Missionary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at. Umranacquired his degree in Islamic Theology and Comparative Religions in 2013, Canada.He has served in Ghana,Atlantic Canada, and Toronto. During his 4 yrs in Atlantic Canada he was a monthly columnist writing for the local newspaper in removing misconception about the peaceful teachings of Islam and building bridges in the community. Currently he is the Imam of the Baitur Rehman Mosque in Delta, BC.He served as an Imam and Missionary for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Calgary branch at Baitun Noor Mosque from 2013- 2015.For the last 4 years he was serving Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Jamaica, West Indies, in the capacity of Missionary in Charge. He was recently appointed to serve the British Columbia chapters and the community based around Baitur Rahman Mosque.

Sikh Faith Perspective
Ms. Navdeep Kaur

Navdeep Kaur is a Yukon Resident. She is passionate about social justice issues. She has been advocating for women issues and human rights issues and helping new immigrants to Yukon by volunteering at Guru Nanak Sikh Organization Of Yukon. Navdeep Kaur is currently the president of the organization

Jewish Faith Perspective
Mr. Rick Karp

Rick Karp was born and raised in Ottawa and went to Carleton University for his undergraduate work before moving to Kingston Ontario to go to Queen’s University for a Degree in Education. Before coming to Whitehorse Rick taught High School in Picton Ontario for close to fourteen years. During his teaching career he returned to Queen’s to study for a Master’s Degree in Education.Rick and his wife Joy came to Whitehorse in 1985 to open the first McDonald’s Restaurant in the north of Canada, and at that time, the most remote McDonald’s in the Country. They owned and operated the franchise until 2000.  In 2002, Rick designed and built a hair salon and retail shop, Hair Sensations in Whitehorse, which he and his wife operated until 2016.He became the President of the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce in 2004 and remained in that position until July 2018, when he retired.Rick and his wife Joy have two grown children, and two grandchildren, who live in Vancouver B.C. 

Buddhism Perspective
Mr. Rick Buchan

Rick Buchan and his family moved to Whitehorse in 1988. As a lawyer, Rick has devoted his professional practice primarily to the field of dispute resolution, including serving as a mediator, arbitrator, and adjudicator. Since the early 1970s, Rick has explored various traditions of Eastern philosophy and related practices of meditation and yoga, which he has been authorized to teach to the public. After moving to Whitehorse, Rick encountered the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, which rekindled his deep interest in studying, contemplating, and meditating on its profound principles of equanimity and compassion. As a member and director of Yukon’s Vajra North–Rigdrol Dechen Ling–Society, Rick is one of several senior practitioners offering regular mindfulness meditation practices to the public.

Bahi`a Perspective
David Jensen

Born and raised within the Baha’i Faith. Brief near death experience as a child. Jensen Advocated for racial equality as child in civil rights South Carolina and apartheid South Africa. Served at Baha’i World Centre for a few years in the Holy Land. Has lived in Yukon and Alaska for past 35 years. He is adopted Deisheetaan Tlingit, wife of 35 years is Dawklaweidi Tlingit, his daughter currently is an associate professor at University of Southeast Alaska Juneau. His passion is the purpose of the physical and spiritual realities.

Program

  • 5:30PM Arrival of guests (Registration, Light Coffee & Tea Refreshments, Exhibition )
  • 6:00 PM Beginning Prayers 
  • 6:05 PM Welcome Remarks by Dignitaries
  • 6:15 PM Intro of WRC Canada & Moderator By Mr. Rizwan Saeed Peerzada 
    • Regional President BC & Yukon
    • Time allocated to all speakers 9 to 10 minutes minutes
  • 6: 25 PM Indigenous Perspective
    • Mr. Phillip Gatensby 
  • 6: 33 PM Protestant Christians Perspective
    • The Right Reverend Frances Kitson
  • 6:41 PM Islam Perspective
    • Maulana Umran Bhatti
  • 6:49 PM Sikh Faith Perspective 
    • Ms. Navdeep Kaur
  • 7:07 PM Anglican Christians Perspective
    • The Right Reverend Lesley Wheeler-Dame
  • 7:15 PM Jewish Faith Perspective
    • Mr. Rick Karp
  • 7:23 PM Buddhism Perspective
    • Mr. Rick Buchan
  • 7:31 PM Bahi`a Perspective  
    • Mr. David Jensen
  • 7:39 PM Award Presentation By Mr.Rizwan Peerzada
  • 7:46 PM Moderator`s vote of thanks
  • 7:56 PM Vote of Thanks By Mr. Rizwan Peerzada, 
    • Regional Coordinator & President  Ahmadiyya BC & Yukon
  • 8:00 PM Dinner
  • 8:30 PM Those are interested in Q/A , Please stay after dinner

Map

Registration

]]> Healing a Polarized World https://worldreligionsconference.ca/healing-and-polarized-world/ Sat, 22 Jun 2024 08:48:29 +0000 https://worldreligionsconference.ca/?p=2606 Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Tel: 604-767-1965
Toll Free: 1-877-767-1965
Email: info.bc@ahmadiyya.ca]]>

Healing a Polarized World

  • Day: Feb.29, 2024 @6:00 PM
  • Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Tel: 604-767-1965
  • Toll Free: 1-877-767-1965
  • Email: info.bc@ahmadiyya.ca

Moderator

Larry Begnell, Member of Parliament

Larry Bagnell served as Yukon’s representative in Ottawa for over a decade, served as a federal Member of Parliament from 2000-2020 retired in 2021. During his time as a Liberal MP, Larry was appointed to the Privy Council and served as Parliamentary Secretary to both the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, and the Minister of Natural Resources. Larry also sat on many Parliamentary Committees, developing expertise in the areas of Transport, Defence, Industry, Veterans Affairs, Justice & Human Rights, and Aboriginal Affairs.

 

Larry’s dedication to Yukon has roots that can be traced back to long before his time as a Member of Parliament. In 1999, he was recognized with the City of Whitehorse Volunteer of the Year Award. This award recognized his incredible service to the community, including his service as President of the Yukon chapter of the United Way, President of Yukon Learn (Literacy), and President of the Skookum Jim Friendship Center. In addition, Larry has sat on the Boards for the Miles Canyon Historic Railway Society, the Yukon Science Institute, and the Commissioner’s Potlatch.

Despite his many accomplishments, his most important role began however, when he and Melissa were blessed with the birth of their first child Aurora, in October 2008 and their second child, Dawson born in November 2011.

Larry is also a graduate of the University of Toronto with Bachelor’s Degrees in both Arts and Science.

Speakers

Indigenous Perspective
Mr. Phillip Gatensby
Tutchone and Tlingit Raven’s Tail Weaver

For over twenty-five years Phillip has worked with human beings using a value- based transformational approach to human development. This approach is facilitative in nature, drawing on life experiences, Tlingit values, counseling techniques and the unique perspective of having emerged victorious both from residential school and the correctional system.  It is based on the idea of creating healing opportunities that people may draw on their own resources to make healthy choices for themselves, their families and their communities. Phillip has applied this approach across North America, and Europe, in diverse settings with people of all ages, from all walks of life. Street people, Christian groups, gangs and Supreme Court judges have equally found great value in this vision-driven combination of universal truths and modern principles. The approach is profound in its inherent simplicity and powerful in its unfailing ability to transform the lives of those who choose to participate.

Christian Perspective
The Right Reverend Frances Kitson

Reverend Frances Kitson began her ministry at Whitehorse United Church in August of 2023. Originally from Vancouver, Frances moved to the Yukon from small-town central Saskatchewan (Lanigan), where she spent 2.5 years completing her ministry internship and learning about community, the power of small, and the beauty of the prairie skies. Particular passions in ministry include children and families, building trust and relationship, wrestling with challenging scripture passages, and creating a healthy culture around stewardship and money. She’s also a member of the United Church General Council Theology, Inter-Church and InterFaith Committee. Frances has completely fallen in love with the local mountains and forests, and loves salsa dancing,cheese, and her two cats.

Maulana Shakoor Ahmad
Islam Perspective

Shakoor Ahmad graduated from Jamia Ahmadiyya Canada in 2010.For the past eleven years served in East Africa, Western Ontario region, Toronto and Saskatoon. Shakoor father of three childern. Currently serving in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Vancouver.

Sikh Faith Perspective
Ms. Navdeep Kaur

Navdeep Kaur is a Yukon Resident. She is passionate about social justice issues. She has been advocating for women issues and human rights issues and helping new immigrants to Yukon by volunteering at Guru Nanak Sikh Organization Of Yukon. Navdeep Kaur is currently the president of the organization

Christian Anglican Church Perspective
The Rt. Rev. Leslie Wheeler-Dame

Lesley Wheeler-Dame was elected on the first ballot as coadjutor bishop of the diocese of Yukon on May 4, 2019. She succeeded the Rt. Rev. Larry Robertson as bishop upon his retirement and was consecrated as bishop of Yukon on August 26.Born in Windsor, Ont., Bishop Wheeler-Dame began her career as a social worker and moved to Yukon in 1996 to work for the provincial government. In 1997, she began serving as a lay minister-in-charge, followed by her ordination as a deacon and then priest. She has a bachelor’s degree in theology and served as an incumbent and regional dean in Alberta and archdeacon in Yukon before her election as bishop.

Jewish Faith Perspective
Mr. Elisha Sidoun

Elisha Sidoun was born in Montreal yet immigrated to Jerusalem before the age of ten. He moved to the Yukon in 2017 to work for the Ta'an Kwach'an Council First Nation and is now working as a Ministerial Advisor for the Yukon Government. He has a Master's Degree in Conflict Resolution as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science, both from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Elisha mostly enjoys being out on the land. He is glad to present the Jewish perspective at the World Religions Conference.

Buddhism Perspective
Mr. Rick Buchan

Rick Buchan and his family moved to Whitehorse in 1988. As a lawyer, Rick has devoted his professional practice primarily to the field of dispute resolution, including serving as a mediator, arbitrator, and adjudicator. Since the early 1970s, Rick has explored various traditions of Eastern philosophy and related practices of meditation and yoga, which he has been authorized to teach to the public. After moving to Whitehorse, Rick encountered the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, which rekindled his deep interest in studying, contemplating, and meditating on its profound principles of equanimity and compassion. As a member and director of Yukon’s Vajra North–Rigdrol Dechen Ling–Society, Rick is one of several senior practitioners offering regular mindfulness meditation practices to the public.

Bahi`a Perspective
David Jensen

Born and raised within the Baha’i Faith. Brief near death experience as a child. Jensen Advocated for racial equality as child in civil rights South Carolina and apartheid South Africa. Served at Baha’i World Centre for a few years in the Holy Land. Has lived in Yukon and Alaska for past 35 years. He is adopted Deisheetaan Tlingit, wife of 35 years is Dawklaweidi Tlingit, his daughter currently is an associate professor at University of Southeast Alaska Juneau. His passion is the purpose of the physical and spiritual realities.

Program

  • 5:30PM Arrival of guests (Registration, Light Coffee & Tea Refreshments, Exhibition )
  • 6:00 PM Beginning Prayers 
  • 6:05 PM Welcome Remarks by Dignitaries
  • 6:15 PM Intro of WRC Canada & Moderator By Mr. Rizwan Saeed Peerzada, Regional President BC & Yukon. Time allocated to all speakers 9 to 10 minutes minutes
  • 6: 25 PM Indigenous Perspective – Mr. Phillip Gatensby 
  • 6: 33 PM Protestant Christians Perspective. The Right Reverend Frances Kitson
  • 6:41 PM Islam Perspective – Maulana Shakoor Ahmad
  • 6:49 PM Sikh Faith Perspective – Ms. Navdeep Kaur
  • 7:07 PM Anglican Christians Perspective. The Right Reverend Lesley Wheeler-Dame
  • 7:15 PM Jewish Faith Perspective – Mr. Elisha Sidoun
  • 7:23 PM Buddhism Perspective – Mr. Rick Buchan
  • 7:31 PM Bahi`a Perspective  – Mr. David Jensen
  • 7:39 PM Award Presentation By Mr.Rizwan Peerzada
  • 7:46 PM Moderator`s vote of thanks
  • 7:56 PM Vote of Thanks By Mr. Rizwan Peerzada,  Regional Coordinator & President  Ahmadiyya BC & Yukon
  • 8:00 PM Dinner
  • 8:30 PM Those are interested in Q/A , Please stay after dinner

Map

Registration

]]> The Contribution of Religions to World Peace? https://worldreligionsconference.ca/the-contribution-of-religions-to-world-peace/ Mon, 13 Mar 2023 18:13:59 +0000 https://worldreligionsconference.ca/?p=1821 Venue: Lewis Hall, Whitehorse United Church
Address: 601 Main St, Whitehorse YT Y1A 1M6]]>

The Contribution of Religions to World Peace?

15th World Religions Conference

Topic: The Contribution of Religions to World Peace?

Date: Monday, October 19th, 2020
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Venue: Lewis Hall, Whitehorse United Church

Address: 601 Main St, Whitehorse YT Y1A 1M6

Tel: 604-767-1965
Toll Free: 1-877-767-1965

Email: info.bc@ahmadiyya.ca

Moderator

Mr. David Coleman

David Coleman has been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints since birth. He has served in many capacities in the church including a two year mission in Peru.  He has also served as a Teacher, a scout leader, a counsellor to the Bishop, five years as a Bishop, a counsellor to other leaders and is now serving as the Stake President for the Prince George BC Stake. This role covers congregations in Burns Lake, Vanderhooof, Prince George, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House and Bella Coola. He is happily married to his wife Laurel and together they have four children and ten grandchildren. 

Profiles

Christian LDS Perspective
Mr. Jon Duncan

Jon Duncan is a lawyer in Prince George and member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  They have three children.

Christian Our Savior`s Lutheran Church Perspective
Pastor Fleming Blishen

Fleming Blishen have been the pastor at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Prince George for the past 10 years. He is married to Vanessa and have three adoptive children – Hunter, Mila and Daxton.Pastor Blishen been part of the Christian tradition from birth, first as a participant through his parents and in baptism as an infant, and then through my own confession of faith at confirmation when he was a teenager. More specifically he has been part of the Lutheran Church both here in Canada and in Denmark. All this is to say that Fleming  thoroughly indoctrinated into a certain version of Christianity. There are many other versions, each focusing on a different aspect of who God is in Jesus. It’s through Jesus that we find ourselves connected to Judaism and Islam as Abrahamic faiths. Over the years I’ve come to appreciate the ways in which God is revealed in so many other faith traditions throughout the world. May our time together be part of the ongoing work of manifesting the Divine will in this world.

Protestant Christians Perspective
Elizabeth Roberts

Elizabeth Roberts, AKA Beth, is representing Whitehorse United Church . Beth who identifies as a farmers daughter, sister, wife, mom, grandma, retired Tuberculosis (TB) nurse, story teller and long time member of Whitehorse United Church, was one of the folks who worked together to establish the Whitehorse United Church Social Justice Committee.  Drawing on her love of stories that parallel the scriptures she will reflect on her experiences with the Social Justice Committee  as they worked together to promote a”Just Society” 

Baha’i Perspective
Mrs. Charlotte Wenninger

Charlotte Wenninger has been a member of the Baha’i community for over 35 years.  She has served for many years as one of the elected, nine members on the local governing body of the Baha’is of Prince George.  She has served as a chairman of the Interfaith Chaplaincy Committee at UNBC and is active in interfaith activities.  She is married and has raised four daughters and now has nine grandchildren.  She has a keen interest in sharing her religion with others and learning about all aspects of spirituality, especially the harmony of science and religion.

Hindu Faith Perspective
Dr. Pranesh Kumar, PhD

Dr. Pranesh Kumar was born in a Hindu family of a Northern Indian State of Utter Pardesh. He was keen interest in literature religion, culture, science and its global impact, in particular on human society. He is fascinated by the diversities which he experienced during the vast travels, interactions with people and observing their social, cultural and religious events. Kumar values life in any form and believes in very ancient, preached and practiced Sanskirt saying  “ Vasudhaeva Kutumbukam” meaning the “ Entire world is one family. 

Imam Umair Khan
Islam Perspective

Umair Khan was raised in Toronto and New York as a child and spent his adolescent years in Calgary. After graduating from High School in Calgary, he attended Jamia Ahmadiyya (Missionary training school of the community, in Ontario) which is a 7 year program. He graduated from Jamia Ahmadiyya in 2012 and then was given the opportunity to serve as a Trainee Missionary in Sierra Leone (West Africa).

He served as an Imam and Missionary for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Calgary  branch at Baitun Noor Mosque from 2013- 2015.For the last 4 years he was serving Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Jamaica, West Indies, in the capacity of Missionary in Charge. He was recently appointed to serve the British Columbia chapters and the community based around Baitur Rahman Mosque in Delta, & Surrey BC. He is currently living in Delta with family (wife and 2 children)

Sikh Perspective
Dr. Balbinder Singh Deo, PhD

Dr. Balbinder Deo worked in academic and industrial organizations for more than 29 years. He joined School of Business, UNBC Prince George campus faculty member in 2002. Prior to UNBC, Dr. Deo worked at University of Saskatchewan, University of Manitoba, and at Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana, India. In addition to his work experience in academic institutions, he also worked on various industrial projects and submitted research reports to both private and public sector organizations. 

Jewish Faith Perspective
Rabbi Laura Duhan Kaplan

Rabbi Laura Duhan-Kaplan is Director of Inter-Religious Studies and Professor of Jewish Studies at the Vancouver School of Theology, and the former rabbi leading Or Shalom Synagogue. She lives in Vancouver with her husband and musical partner Charles, their young adult children and a changing array of companion animals.

Program

  • 5:55 PM Announcement by Rizwan Peerzada
  • 6:00 PM Recitation of the Holy Qur’an
  • Welcome Remarks by President of The Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints Church
  • 6:10 PM Introductory Remarks & Moderator Introduction Mr. Naeem Ahmad Lakhan, Regional President BC
  • 6:20 PM Naeem Ahmad Lakhan, Regional President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama`at BC will present introductory remarks and Introduction to moderator by Rizwan Peerzada. He will request to moderator to start the session by reading her biography.
  • For Chair / Moderator
  • A: Read guideline
  • B: Introduce speaker by reading their speaker biography as turn come.
  • Speakers are requested to consider the following Guidelines:
  1. Each speaker is requested to observe a strict 10 minutes time limit
  2. Speakers are requested to speak on the topic from their religious perspectives, philosophical & religious traditions and Holy Books.
  3. Speakers are requested not to make any comparisons with other faiths and only speak with reference to their own faiths
  4. Speakers are requested to be present during the entire conference and be available for a Questions/Answer session at the end.
  5. Speakers are expected to be available during the refreshments break to answer informal queries of the attendees and to mingle and chat with the general audience at the conclusion of the conference.
  6. Please inform the audience that they have two forms. One is a question card for the Q/A session; it will be collected by volunteers later on. Second is a brief survey form to collect data from the audience.
  7. Introducing dignitaries
  • Speakers Panel         (Time Allocated 10 minutes)
  • Christianity                  Pastor Fleming Blishen
  • Baha’I                          Mrs. Charlotte Wenninger
  • Hindu Faith                  Dr. Pranesh Kumar, PhD
  • Islam                           Imam Umair Khan
  • Christianity                  Mr. Jon Duncan, The Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints Church
  • Sikh Faith                     Dr. Balbinder Singh Deo, PhD
  • Jewish Faith                 Rabbi Dr. Laura Duhan Kaplan
  • 7:20 PM Concluding Remarks by Moderator
  • 7:27 PM Vote of Thanks by President Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Prince George 

Map

]]> How to Establish a Just Society? https://worldreligionsconference.ca/how-to-establish-a-just-society/ Mon, 13 Mar 2023 17:52:58 +0000 https://worldreligionsconference.ca/?p=1802 Venue: Lewis Hall, Whitehorse United Church
Address: 601 Main St, Whitehorse YT Y1A 1M6]]>

How to Establish a Just Society?

10th World Religions Conference Victoria

Topic: How to Establish a Just Society?

Registration Starts: 4:30 PM

Date: Thursday, March 5th, 2020
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Venue: Lewis Hall, Whitehorse United Church

Address: 601 Main St, Whitehorse YT Y1A 1M6

Tel: 604-767-1965
Toll Free: 1-877-767-1965

Email: info.bc@ahmadiyya.ca

Moderator

Larry Begnell
Member of Parliament

Larry Bagnell served as Yukon’s representative in Ottawa for over a decade, sitting as a federal Member of Parliament from 2000-2020. During his time as a Liberal MP, Larry was appointed to the Privy Council and served as Parliamentary Secretary to both the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, and the Minister of Natural Resources. Larry also sat on many Parliamentary Committees, developing expertise in the areas of Transport, Defence, Industry, Veterans Affairs, Justice & Human Rights, and Aboriginal Affairs.

Prior to politics, Larry had a lengthy career in the federal government, which culminated in his appointment as the Director for the Yukon of Industry Canada.  During this time, he managed programs in economic development, science and technology, tourism, small business, innovation, industrial development, and international trade, and led a number of Trade Missions. His legislative skills were well utilized and Larry played a key role in the creation of the Yukon’s new Municipal Act. He would also go on to become the Executive Director of the Association of Yukon Communities it was through this work that Larry became well known for being a tireless and reliable advocate.

Larry’s dedication to Yukon has roots that can be traced back to long before his time as a Member of Parliament. In 1999, he was recognized with the City of Whitehorse Volunteer of the Year Award. This award recognized his incredible service to the community, including his service as President of the Yukon chapter of the United Way, President of Yukon Learn (Literacy), and President of the Skookum Jim Friendship Center. In addition, Larry has sat on the Boards for the Miles Canyon Historic Railway Society, the Yukon Science Institute, and the Commissioner’s Potlatch.

Despite his many accomplishments his most important role began however, when he and Melissa were blessed with the birth of their first child Aurora, in October 2008 and their second child, Dawson born in November 2011.

Larry is also a graduate of the University of Toronto with Bachelor’s Degrees in both Arts and Science.

Profiles

Indigenous Perspective
Alestine Andre

Alestine Andre, a Gwichya Gwich’in and former residential school student from the Tsiigehtchic area in the NWT, has a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies from UVIC. Her thesis was based on late Mrs. Ruth Welsh’s plant medicine knowledge. From 1994-2017, Alestine worked alongside Gwich’in Social and Cultural Institute staff with Gwich’in Elders on over 100 research projects documenting their vast knowledge of the land, culture, history and language. Alestine has travelled extensively around the world. Since the late 1970s, Alestine has been returning to her family’s fish camp on the Mackenzie River every August. Today Alestine is retired and lives in Whitehorse.

Bahi`a  Perspective
Linda Thorseth

Linda is a member of the Baha’i community of Whitehorse. Her background is as an Art Educator and Artist. She has used her degrees in Art Education and Fine Art to facilitate workshops for people of all ages. Her passion is to work with others to get in touch with the beauty of who we all are. In the Baha’i teachings it says “regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit there from.” Her lifework and joy are to be part of these experiences.”

Protestant Christians Perspective
Elizabeth Roberts

Elizabeth Roberts, AKA Beth, is representing Whitehorse United Church . Beth who identifies as a farmers daughter, sister, wife, mom, grandma, retired Tuberculosis (TB) nurse, story teller and long time member of Whitehorse United Church, was one of the folks who worked together to establish the Whitehorse United Church Social Justice Committee.  Drawing on her love of stories that parallel the scriptures she will reflect on her experiences with the Social Justice Committee  as they worked together to promote a”Just Society” 

Imam Umair Khan
Islam Perspective

Umair Khan was raised in Toronto and New York as a child and spent his adolescent years in Calgary. After graduating from High School in Calgary, he attended Jamia Ahmadiyya (Missionary training school of the community, in Ontario) which is a 7 year program. He graduated from Jamia Ahmadiyya in 2012 and then was given the opportunity to serve as a Trainee Missionary in Sierra Leone (West Africa).

He served as an Imam and Missionary for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Calgary  branch at Baitun Noor Mosque from 2013- 2015.For the last 4 years he was serving Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Jamaica, West Indies, in the capacity of Missionary in Charge. He was recently appointed to serve the British Columbia chapters and the community based around Baitur Rahman Mosque in Delta, & Surrey BC. He is currently living in Delta with family (wife and 2 children) 

Buddhism Perspective
Mr. Rick Buchan

Rick Buchan and his family moved to Whitehorse 24 years ago, and since then has carried on his profession as a lawyer and has dedicated his skills volunteering with many community organizations.  As a lawyer, Rick’s principal focus is in dispute resolution, including acting as a mediator, arbitrator and adjudicator.  Having studied various traditions of Eastern philosophy and meditation in the 1970s, Rick trained in practices of yoga, meditation and philosophy, which he was authorized to teach to the public.  In Whitehorse, Rick encountered Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism, rekindling his deep interest in studying, contemplating and meditating on its profound principles and practices and integrating these into the daily life of a professional and family person.  As a member and director of Yukon’s Vajra North–Rigdrol Dechen Ling–Society, Rick is among a group of leaders offering weekly mindfulness meditation practices to the public. 

Catholic Christians Perspective
Mr. Michael Dougherty

Michael Dougherty co-chairs the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Cathedral Social Justice Committee.  His roots in social justice date from the 1960’s leading an inter-racial youth group for the National Conference of Christians and Jews in Missouri through staffing the Inter-Church Committee for World Development Education in Manitoba in the 1970’s to organizing the ecumenical Prince Albert Sanctuary Society supporting refugees in Saskatchewan during the 1980’s and 90’s as a human rights observer in Chiapas, Mexico. Currently he serves as the secretary of the Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition, member of the Yukon Human Rights Commission and the Ta’an Kwäch’än Judicial Council.

Jewish Faith Perspective
Mr. Rick Karp

Rick Karp was born and raised in Ottawa and went to Carleton University for his undergraduate work before moving to Kingston Ontario to go to Queen’s University for a Degree in Education. Before coming to Whitehorse Rick taught High School in Picton Ontario for close to fourteen years. During his teaching career he returned to Queen’s to study for a Master’s Degree in Education.Rick and his wife Joy came to Whitehorse in 1985 to open the first McDonald’s Restaurant in the north of Canada, and at that time, the most remote McDonald’s in the Country. They owned and operated the franchise until 2000.  In 2002, Rick designed and built a hair salon and retail shop, Hair Sensations in Whitehorse, which he and his wife operated until 2016.He became the President of the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce in 2004 and remained in that position until July 2018, when he retired.Rick and his wife Joy have two grown children, and two grandchildren, who live in Vancouver B.C. 

Hindu Perspective
Vaibhav Nandwana

Vaibhav was born in Hindu family . He was graduated from Fanshawe college London Ontario. Vaibhav Immigrated to Canada in 2012 and moved to Whitehorse 2016. He is married to Shefali Sharma and  have a 16 months old daughter Shaarvi Nandwana 

Sikh Perspective:
Gian Singh Sandhu

GIAN SINGH SANDHU is an author, entrepreneur, and social activist. Born in India, he immigrated to Canada in 1970 and spent most of his life working and serving the sawmilling community of Williams Lake, British Columbia. Sandhu is the founding president of two Gurdwaras (Sikh place of worship) and the World Sikh Organization of Canada (a leading human rights advocacy group). He has been instrumental in helping the Canadian Sikh community overcome enormous political and social challenges over the last four decades. His visionary leadership won him the regional Entrepreneur of the Year award in 1994 and nomination for the Entrepreneur of the Year National award in the same year. He is a recipient of the Order of British Columbia, the highest civilian award and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal for Community Service. Former CEO and president of a major forestry company in B.C., he currently works as a management consultant and residesin Surrey, British Columbia, with his wife, Surinder Kaur. In 2018, he published his first book“An Uncommon Road” How Canadian Sikhs Struggled out of the Fringes and into theMainstream. The Punjabi University, Patiala released the Punjabi version (Angahe Raah) of this book in November 2019. He has contributed a chapter in three books (Guru Nanak, Revealer of Truth (2019), ‘Guru Nanak, Guru Nanak, Jagat Guru, the founder of New World Order (2019),and ‘From Rabaab to Nagara (2019)’. He is diligently working on his next book scheduled to be released in late 2020 or early 2021.

Program

  • 4:30 PM Arrival of guests (Registration, Light Coffee & Tea Refreshments, Exhibition )
  • 5:00 PM Prayers for How to Establish A Just Society
  • 5:10 PM Welcome Remarks by Dignitaries
  • 5:20 PM Intro of WRC Canada & Moderator By Naeem Ahmad Lakhan, Regional President BC & Yukon
    • Time allocated to all speakers 10 minutes
  • 5:30 PM Indigenous Speaker Alestine Andre
  • 5:40 PM Bahi`a Perspective Linda Thorseth
  • 5:50 PM Protestant Christians Perspective Elizabeth Roberts
  • 6:00 PM Islam Perspective Umair Khan
  • 6:10 PM Buddhism Speaker Rick Buchan
  • 6:20 PM Catholic Christians Perspective Michael Dougherty
  • 6:30 PM Jewish Faith Perspective Rick Karp
  • 6:40 PM Sikh Speaker Gian Singh Sandhu
  • 6:50 PM Hindu Speaker Vaibhav Nanwanda
  • 7:00 PM Award Presentation By Rizwan Peerzada
  • 7:10 PM Moderator`s vote of thanks
  • 7:20 PM Vote of Thanks By Rizwan Peerzada, Regional Coordinator Ahmadiyya BC & Yukon
  • 7:30 PM Dinner
  • 8:05 PM Those are interested in Q/A , Please stay after dinner
  • 8:35 PM End

Map

]]> Is Religion Relevant in Today’s Society? https://worldreligionsconference.ca/is-religion-relevant-in-todays-society/ Wed, 08 Mar 2023 14:04:41 +0000 https://worldreligionsconference.ca/?p=1261 Venue: The Old Fire Hall
Address: 1st Ave. and Main St. Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4]]>

Is Religion Relevant in Today’s Society?

4th Interfaith Symposium

Topic: Is Religion Relevant in Today’s Society?

Registration Starts: 4:30 PM

Date: Tuesday, September 21st, 2010
Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Venue: The Old Fire Hall

Address: 1st Ave. and Main St. Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5G4

Tel: 604-767-1965
Toll Free: 1-877-767-1965

Email: info.bc@ahmadiyya.ca

Program

6:00pm Socializing & Light Refreshments
6:25pm Commencement
6:30pm Recitation from the Holy Scriptures
6:45pm Welcome Remarks by Dignitaries
6:50pm Introductory Remarks
7:00pm Aboriginal Perspective – [Mrs. Ann Smith]
7:20pm Buddhism Perspective – [Lama Lodro]
7:40pm Christianity Perspective – [Bishop Larry Robertson]
8:00pm Islamic Perspective – [Mr. Mubarak Nazir]
8:20pm Sikh Perspective – [Mr. Gian Singh Kotli]
8:50pm Refreshments
9:10pm Questions Session with Speakers
9:50pm Closing Remarks by Presiding Chair and Moderator
9:55pm Vote of Thanks: Mr. Ch.Mohammad Aslam Shad, Regional President, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, BC

Map

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