About
THE FOUNDER Ahmad Kabbara:
The Storyteller Ahmad Kabbara is more than an entertainer; he is an educator and a community builder. As a professional photographer, video producer, and part-time Imam, Ahmad combines the art of visual storytelling with the depth of ethical education. Known locally as "The Storyteller," he has traveled to masjids and schools across Ontario, Quebec, and the USA, captivating audiences with stories that revive Islamic heritage and inspire moral growth.
THE ORGANIZATION Powered by Mission Relief The Storyteller Academy is a flagship initiative of Mission Relief, a registered non-profit organization established in 2020. Our mandate is to provide accessible educational and humanitarian support to families in need. When you support the Academy, you are supporting a structured, transparent, and community-focused non-profit dedicated to the next generation.
We believe in empowering children to embrace their unique identities,
define their own future, and positively impact the world.
Our Mission
Reviving Heritage. Building Character. Connecting Community.
The Mission: The Storyteller Academy is a mobile educational initiative on a mission to revive the timeless tradition of the "Hakawati" for a modern generation. We travel to neighborhoods across Ottawa to create a unique "third space"—where children connect with their values, teenagers gain real-world leadership skills, and parents build a stronger community network.
Our Three Pillars:
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1. Education through Imagination: We use the art of storytelling and hands-on crafts to instill ethical values, Islamic history, and moral courage in children ages 6–13.
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2. Youth Empowerment: We don’t just serve children; we train leaders. Our volunteer program mentors high school students (14+) in event management, public speaking, and community service.
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3. Accessible Community: Powered by Mission Relief (Est. 2020), we ensure that high-quality educational programming is accessible to every family, regardless of financial means.
Our Vision
From Ottawa to the Nation.
The Vision: To establish The Storyteller Academy as Canada’s premier mobile institution for cultural education and youth leadership. We envision a future where the "Hakawati" tradition is revived in every major city across the country, serving as a pillar that connects the next generation to their heritage, their values, and each other.