Our Team

Our Leadership, Staff, and Community

At Horizon Academy Institute (HAI), our effectiveness stems from the dedication of our governance, professional staff, and robust community partnerships. Our shared commitment is driven by our Vision: “Developing Leaders through Transformational Learning,” and our Mission to provide programs and services in education and leadership development through the universal values of Islam and modern best business practices. We aim to foster a culture of effectiveness, innovation, and trust while building a new generation of competent, knowledgeable, and value-driven leaders.

 

Our Team Philosophy

To visualize the structure of Horizon Academy Institute, consider it like a thriving orchard:

  • The Board of Directors acts as the land surveyors and planners, setting the coordinates (strategic plan) for expansion and ensuring the land is used optimally.
  • The Executive and Operational Leadership are the head gardeners and supervisors, translating those plans into daily action, nurturing new growth (new Principal, Executive Director), and ensuring specialized care (Youth Leadership).
  • Finally, the Teachers and Community are the dedicated cultivators and the nourishing soil, providing the daily instruction, support (Parents/Donors), and manpower (Interns/Volunteers) necessary for the fruit (the next generation of leaders) to ripen successfully.

The Institute’s Governing Body

The Board of Directors is responsible for guiding the long-term strategy of the Institute.

  • Strategic Oversight: This body oversees the comprehensive Strategic Plan 2025–2030, which involves assessing current progress and setting goals for the next five years.
  • Historical Leadership: The leadership group includes individuals who held key positions, such as the Chair of the Institute when the partnership with Palliser Regional Schools was established in 2017. This partnership was viewed as crucial for developing the intellectual minds of the future generation within the context of their unique history, preparing them for their roles in Canada and the world, and positively impacting a broader community.
  • Key Project Management: Board members are responsible for presenting critical reports, such as the annual “Year in Review”, and for overseeing major educational initiatives, including the multi-faceted Curriculum Project. This project aims to enhance educational quality, incorporate cross-disciplinary learning emphasizing personal growth and Islamic values, and move towards an Islamic Futuristic WorldView.
  • Professional Expertise: The Board includes individuals with professional designations (such as a Chartered Accountant and legal and doctorate qualifications).

 

Executive and Operational Management

Our professional management team is dedicated to implementing the Institute’s mission and improving daily operations:

  • Executive Leadership: The Institute recently recognized and promoted an individual to the role of Executive Director.
  • Academy Principalship: The Horizon Leadership Academy (HLA) appointed a new Principal to lead the full-time school.
  • Youth and Spiritual Leadership: The Head of Horizon Youth Leadership is responsible for the programs aimed at young leaders. This individual also participates in key community events, such as leading the Program Opening and Taraweih Prayers during the annual gala.

 

Our Educators and Community Support

Horizon’s dedication to service is upheld by its instructional staff and vast network of community partners:

  • Educators and Staff: We celebrate our Teachers and Principals who have been servicing the community for 19 years by providing Islamic, academic, and leadership courses. They are integral to the Curriculum Project’s goal of ensuring teaching methodologies align with best practices and moving toward Principles & Values-based teaching.
  • Parent Council and Community Partners:
    • Parents and the Parent Council are recognized for their support. They initiated the “Do Good Ranking,” which successfully encouraged students to prioritize charitable actions beyond academic performance.
    • We welcome and recognize various Education and Muslim Communities in Calgary and across the world including MCC, MAC, NCCM, and IISC.
  • Volunteers and Interns: The Horizon Leadership section involves a significant operational team, including 15 Interns plus 3 Volunteers.

 

Donors and Stakeholders: We recognize Donors & Stakeholders whose financial contributions are essential to supporting our students.