In this episode of Islam & Earth in the Ashura Jumah of Muharram, 1445, Sr. Shehnaz Toorawa, a Certified Outdoor Educator shares insights on how engaging Muslim children and families in outdoor immersive experiences can enhance their connection to the Creator and instill a deep and authentic sense of khalifah within them.

Sr. Shehnaz is the co-founder and co-director of Earth Steps, where they believe Nature provides unmatched opportunities for learning and growth. For children, time in nature, especially in a variety of terrains and weather conditions, builds resilience, confidence, foresight and wisdom to face life's challenges. She explains how behavioural issues dissipate and unique strengths surface in natural settings where kids are free to be themselves.

Sr. Shehnaz shares about her personal journey into outdoor education and what led her to co-found Earth Steps. She also shares personal insights on the ways she overcame some challenges in trailblazing into a space which doesn't have a lot of Muslim presence.

Finally, she provides some practical advice on some simple ways that families can build a more nature-focussed approach within their lives, inshaAllah.

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Sr. Shehnaz Toorawa is the co-director of EarthSteps, an organization that provides nature immersion and outdoor education programs for children, youth, women and families. She is an educator, writer, avid hiker and nature enthusiast. She holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto and loves teaching in outdoor settings. She is a Girl Guides and Scouts leader and has taught homeschool nature programs at the Willow Park Ecology Center. She is a homeschooler and board member of the Toronto Muslim Homeschoolers. She loves organizing outdoor trips and adventures for children, youth and women. She believes a connection to nature deeply strengthens our connection to Our Creator.

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More info regarding Sr. Shehnaz's work can be found at:
Website - https://earthsteps.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/earth_steps/

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Islam & Earth is a podcast that explores topics and issues related to earth connections through an Islamic worldview.

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