We are a group of students and professionals who have worked together to build an organization imploring youth to work with the community to help strengthen the refugee and immigrant population through unity and integration.
Founded in December 2015, we embarked on a journey to re-establish the way nonprofits work, and to strengthen the communities they are involved with. We believe that modern day obstacles and problems need modern day solutions, thus the creation of The Refugee Centre and its sister NPO DevBloc.
With an academic background in mathematics, statistics, political science and cybersecurity, Abdulla Daoud leads The Refugee Centre in its various roles to help strengthen the refugee and immigrant population in Canada. Abdulla Daoud oversees the staff and the Centre’s programs to maintain its efficiency and success. Coming from a refugee and migrant upbringing himself and several years of experience in social and political advocacy for the community, he will ensure that The Refugee Centre’s operations and goals are met.
Anissa combines a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from Concordia University with a Nursing degree to focus on the health needs of the community. This paired with her corporate human resources experience in the IT world makes Anissa a perfect fit for the role of Mental Health Coordinator.
A current Mechanical Engineering student with a passionate, long history in helping the refugee community in Montreal, and a strong background in aiding the refugee population through education and job training, Kinan helps maintain TRC's foundation in preparing the immigrant and refugee population in Canada for the current workplace. He works with both TRC and DevBloc to build and create a stronger refugee and immigrant workforce.
Jude holds a master's degree in Art Therapy from Concordia University. She is driven to work with newcomers and refugees, and is dedicated to integrating wellness services and art therapy programs to support the accessibility of mental health care.
Natasha graduated from McGill University and is involved in multiple initiatives and organizations that help to serve the Montreal community. She uses her creativity to maintain a transparent means of communication with our clients and those who support our work. She also coordinates and organizes TRC's language classes.
Lauren is a graduate of Political Science and Immigration studies at Concordia University. She has worked with many organizations in both a global and local context that support refugees and asylum seekers. Her experiences and schooling have given her a unique perspective on the importance of creating a safe passage for all.
Alina is a Political Science and Immigration studies graduate from Concordia University. She has been active in the community through organizing and carrying out refugee sponsorship, and is beyond excited to be a part of TRC!
Me Pierre-Luc Bouchard is a proud member of the Québec Bar Association. He has vast experience with refugees and immigration matters. He works with our team to provide the important legal information needed to develop our applications more accurately. Pierre-Luc also offers legal advice and training on business matters, and training on starting a business here in Montreal.
Currently a Master of Law student at the University of Sherbrooke in their Transnational and Common Law program, Me. Jackson has a background in international law. He has a particular interest in the legal, socio-cultural and political-economic conditions of Black people, immigrants and other social minorities both internationally and domestically.
David Cerenzia is the holder of a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Edinburgh, and an Honours History degree specializing in Political Science from the University of Guelph. He has worked with refugees and people experiencing homelessness in Canada, social entrepreneurs and innovators in the United Kingdom, and human rights leaders in Norway. At TRC, David employs his passion for research on a variety of projects, from climate-induced migration to the strategic use of immigration as an economic stimulus.
Phil is a McGill student studying Psychology and Marketing. He loves being outdoors, taking photos, and painting. He is thrilled to play a role in TRC’s projects and looks forward to contributing further!
Jane is a Montreal-based graphic designer that loves to help others create visual and eye-catching solutions. She assists TRC with both their graphic and web design needs.
Reem is currently in her final year at Concordia University specializing in Community Development. She has always been passionate about finding ways to create sustainable change and start conversations in society.