Walid fled Lebanon during the Civil War in 1982, came to Canada in search of a safe and peaceful life. He joined the University of Alberta in 1983, where he worked as a service provider with the Facilities & Operations Department. During his time at the University of Alberta, he served on the Non-Academic Staff Association as a board member for 25 years. Walid spent a healthy 38 years at the University of Alberta and decided to hang up his keys in September of 2021, to start the journey of retirement.
In 1985, Walid officially became a Canadian Citizen and shortly after he met his wife, Layla. They tied the knot in 1987 and have three children. In 2004, Walid was presented the University Of Alberta Board Of Governors’ Award of Distinction, for his special service to students & staff. In 2005, Walid was presented with the Alberta Centennial Award. A one-time medal commemorating the province’s centennial was bestowed upon 26 University of Alberta-affiliated leaders.
Walid enjoys to be heavily involved in the Lebanese, Arab and Muslim Community events, associations and volunteering wherever he can to lend a helping hand. He served as the Chairman for the Parent’s Council during the years his children were in grade school.
Since 2003, Walid has served as the Committee and Finance Chair for the Edmonton Muslim Achievement Awards Night (EMAAN). This committee recognizes the student stars in the Muslim Community. He has been a Board Member on the World Lebanese Cultural Union, Edmonton Chapter, where he partakes in organizing events for the Lebanese Community for 25 years. Walid and his family were recognized for their outstanding contributions towards this association.
In 2010, he started the Al-Arz Arab Sports Club that consists of women and men’s soccer teams. Walid was recognized for his dedication & leadership role with the Arabian Knights dance group, by the Canadian Arab Friendship Association (CAFA), and the Arab Pavilion at the Edmonton Heritage Festival.
He also was awarded the Outstanding Member in the Fundraising Committee that funded the Islamic School project from the Edmonton Islamic Academic (EIA).
NCCAR is Celebrating November - Lebanese Heritage Month under the patronage of the Embassy of Lebanon, Ottawa.
Want to support NCCAR? Donate Now!
Your support is vital for our mission. By clicking this link Canadahelps.org you can make a donation today and join us in our journey towards positive change.
For more information about NCCAR and our upcoming events, please visit our website at www.nccar.ca. Media Contact: NCCAR Communications Email: [email protected] or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @NCCAR_.