Mr. Speaker, on April 2, Don Valley West mourned the loss of Safia Parveen, a formidable community leader and advocate for the Thorncliffe Park neighbourhood in my riding.
Recognizing the significant benefit that nature can have on our mental health, a decade ago Safia launched the Thorncliffe Wellness Café Group, connecting newcomers with each other and their natural environment. Having been a newcomer to Canada herself, Safia knew the toll that coming to a new country can take on even the healthiest person.
Safia's commitment to improving the mental and emotional health of newcomer women was remarkable. With endless compassion, she guided countless women, helping them to stay healthy and contribute to our community.
I was proud to honour Safia and other volunteers of the Thorncliffe Wellness Café Group at my annual New Year's levee this past January on their 10th anniversary
To Allah she belongs and to Allah she returns.