Tima Kurdi

After seeing first hand the conditions her family was living in while trying to flee the Syrian war, Tima Kurdi, a hairdresser, mother, and Canadian resident of many years was unsuccessful in trying to sponsor her brother, his wife and their two boys safely into Canada as refugees. While trying to find a way to get them out of danger, Tima received the news that time had run out – her sister-in-law, Rehanna and two nephews, Alan and Galeb had drowned while trying to cross by sea into Greece. The image of Tima’s 3-year-old nephew, lifeless on the beach caught the media’s attention became a turning point in the refugee crisis – people were now unable to ignore – innocent people were suffering.

Tima now uses her personal tragedy as a catalyst to connect, inspire and activate her audience. Her main mission is to plant the seed of hope within the heart of everyone listening and her impassioned plea for action is unforgettable.  Tima’s main argument is simple – tragedy should not be a pre-requisite for positive social action. Raise your voice; speak out against violence and suffering. Tima has dedicated her life to sharing her story and creating a better world for tomorrow. Though not a politician, nor someone in a position to change the laws directly, her voice was heard in the discussion around the world and contributed to lives being saved – Tima tells us everyone has this same power within themselves – their voice.