In the wake of Dr. Lamia Ben Jamaa’s passing on September 27, 2023, the Canadian Muslim community mourns the loss of a remarkable woman whose contributions to education and community development have left an indelible mark on society. Dr. Ben Jamaa’s journey, from her humble beginnings in Tunisia to her distinguished academic and professional achievements in Canada, is a testament to her unwavering commitment to service and empowerment.
Arriving in Canada in 1986 on a scholarship from the Canadian International Development Agency’s Technology Transfer program, Dr. Ben Jamaa embarked on a journey that would see her excel in academia and become a beacon of hope for countless individuals. With degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Toronto and a subsequent career as a professor at Seneca College, Dr. Ben Jamaa’s academic prowess was matched only by her passion for community development.
Throughout her 35 years of dedicated service, Dr. Ben Jamaa played a pivotal role in advancing the Muslim community in Canada. As Chairperson of the Managing Board at Olive Grove School and Manager of MAC’s Al-Huda Schools, she spearheaded initiatives aimed at providing high-quality Islamic education to thousands of children across the country. Her tireless efforts in promoting education, empowering women, and fostering a sense of community cohesion have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Despite her valiant battle with cancer, Dr. Ben Jamaa remained steadfast in her commitment to serving others. Her courageous fight against this formidable foe served as a testament to her resilience and unwavering dedication to her community. In a final act of selflessness, she bequeathed a significant portion of her estate, totaling $840,000, to support educational programs, ensuring that her legacy of empowerment and enlightenment would endure beyond her lifetime. This act of philanthropy embodies the essence of the Islamic tradition of waqf, an enduring charitable endowment aimed at enriching the lives of others.
The establishment of the Dr. Lamia Ben Jamaa Endowment Fund represents a fitting tribute to her memory and a continuation of her life’s work. Inspired by the principles of waqf, this fund seeks to empower Muslims in their educational pursuits, thereby perpetuating Dr. Ben Jamaa’s vision of a society where knowledge is accessible to all.
As we reflect on Dr. Ben Jamaa’s remarkable life and legacy, let us heed the call to action and contribute to the growth of the endowment fund. By matching her initial donation and expanding the fund’s reach, we can ensure that her impact on education and community empowerment continues to reverberate far into the future.
In honoring Dr. Ben Jamaa’s legacy, we pay tribute not only to her remarkable achievements but also to the enduring spirit of generosity and compassion that defined her character. May her memory serve as a source of inspiration and guidance for us all as we strive to build a more inclusive and enlightened society.
“إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ” “And We shall certainly test you with something of fear and hunger and loss of property, lives and crops; but give glad tidings to the steadfast, who say, when afflicted with a calamity: ‘We belong to Allah and to Him shall we return.'” – Quran 2:155-156
