Jaffari Village Residences
Al Mahdi Islamic Community
Centre
Al Abbas Islamic CentreA public map of what Shia communities are building
Across Canada and around the world, Shia communities are planning and building new centres, schools and homes. Most of that work is invisible until opening day, so the people it will serve rarely get a say, and good ideas in one city never reach another.
Safinah Directory changes that.
We profile coming-soon and under-construction projects in one place, collect structured feedback from the people they will serve, and publish what we learn.
Organisers get real input before plans are final. Communities get a voice. Funders and cities get clear evidence of what these projects contribute.
Our name.Safinah (سفينة) is Arabic for ship. In Shia tradition, the Ahl al-Bayt are described as a ship of salvation, and we see every community project as a vessel that carries people forward together.
Every voice carries wisdom. Every memory carries faith.
We exist to bridge generations, foster meaningful participation in capital development projects, and make sure every contribution is seen, valued and remembered.
Preserve voices
Capture and archive the stories, reflections and experiences that shaped our communal spaces.
Participation
Invite youth, elders and families to share feedback that influences future mosque and community developments.
Connect generations
Bridge the wisdom of our elders with the creativity of our youth through storytelling.
Four promises to every community.
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Accurate profilesApproved by each organisation before publishing.
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Open resultsSurvey findings published as combined totals.
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Privacy firstNo sale or sharing of personal data.
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Open to allProjects that serve members and neighbours alike.
Zaminali Okera founded The Global Safinah Project to connect communities through memory. Guided by his East African heritage and inspired by the spirit of collective giving that defines the Khoja community, his work bridges architecture, storytelling and social impact.
Every voice, every reflection and every story adds to this living archive. Share your story, shape tomorrow, and help preserve our legacy.
Supported by the Sprout Fellowship
Safinah is supported by the Sprout Fellowship by TakingITGlobal, empowering youth-led initiatives. TakingITGlobal supports this project through the fellowship and does not operate the platform.
Better data on faith-based community infrastructure.
We work with community organisations, municipalities, researchers and funders who want a clearer picture of what these projects contribute.