Core Team
Ms Sajida Hassan
Director and Founder of ICANSajida Hassan is the Director and Founder of Icon for Child and Adult Nurturing (ICAN), an organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults through research-based certified training programs. With over 20 years of experience in the field of Child Psychology, Sajida has worked closely with parents, teachers, and youth to offer a range of programs and services that promote positive healthy development and wellbeing.
Sajida received a Double gold medalist award for Clinical Psychology from Karachi University, where she secured first-class first position. Additionally, she holds a Master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Psychology from the Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, and has completed her Ph.D. in Child Psychology from the University of Leicester, UK, under the supervision of Prof. Panos Vostanis.
Sajida is currently an Honorary Visiting Fellow at the Department of Psychology, University of Leicester (UK). She has conducted several successful training programs in child and adolescent psychology for primary school teachers and parents since 2007. In addition, she has completed Art Therapy Foundation Course training from the British and Dubai Art Therapy Association and conducts healing art training courses.
Sajida has gained extensive experience through her work on various international research projects in collaboration with esteemed institutions, such as the University of Leicester, the Welcome Trust (UK), the Anna Freud Trust, and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) in partnership with WACIT (UK). Her exceptional research acumen and dedication towards her work has earned her the Rights for Time Network, University of Birmingham UK Research Award 2023, for her unique project aimed at exploring the journey of transformation from trauma to resilience over time.
ICAN has partnered with community schools across Pakistan to conduct data collection for the U-PASS literacy tool developed by Speech-Language Pathology Rehabilitation Sciences Institute University of Toronto and has conducted multiple literacy and parent and educator awareness workshops.
Sajida’s expertise and extensive experience in the field of Child Psychology make her a valuable asset to ICAN and our commitment to promoting the healthy development and wellbeing of children and adults. As the Director and Founder of ICAN, Sajida is dedicated to providing exceptional training programs and services that empower individuals to become effective caregivers and supporters, and to create a world where every child and adult can thrive and reach their full potential.
Ms Fatima Hassan
Assistant Director ICANMs. Fatima plays a critical role in the organization’s success. She provides invaluable support to the Director in developing and executing ICAN’s vision and strategy. Ms. Fatima is responsible for managing key operational and administrative functions, including overseeing training programs, managing staff, and ensuring that ICAN’s operations are running smoothly.
In addition to her operational responsibilities, Ms. Fatima is also deeply involved in ICAN’s outreach and partnership efforts. She works closely with stakeholders and partners to build relationships and collaborations that support ICAN’s mission of empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Overall, Ms. Fatima’s dedication and contributions are essential to ICAN’s success and its ability to make a positive impact on the lives of children and adults.
Professor Panos Vostanis
Partner WACIT - UKProfessor Panos is a highly experienced Child Psychiatrist with over 35 years of experience. He has been working with our team lead since 2005 and is the author of five books on the impact of trauma on child mental health. He has also published 246 research articles on various topics, including school-based mental health interventions. Currently, Panos is working on projects with NGOs and academic centers in Asia, Africa, and South America as part of the World Awareness for Children in Trauma program (WACIT). His clinical experience includes working with vulnerable children, young people and families, such as those in care, homeless, adopted refugees, and young offenders. His guidance and support for the WoW project, particularly for peer educators’ training, has been remarkable.
Email:panos@wacit.org
Ms. Shan e Zainab
Mphil Clinical Psychologist (Candidate)ICAN Focal Person
Shan-e-Zainab is psychology graduate from Bahria University. She has completed M.Phil (clinical psychology) from the highly prestigious Institute of Clinical Psychology (ICP) Karachi along with Diploma in Complementary therapy (NLP/ Hypnosis). Along with a professional degree she also has completed several certificate courses including managing children with Learning disability, healing with art therapy, Remedial teacher training for the children with Down Syndrome, Psychiatry certificate course and certified course on Trauma Informed Care etc. Mental health has always been her area of interest along with its advocation, therefore she has conducted several trainings courses for young women on-site and virtually regarding mental health and wellbeing including ‘positive psychology’ and ‘path towards healing’. She has also participated in several international researches under the subject of mental health and wellbeing. She has been associated with children for a decade now, has taught in various schools and carried out internships in various department of psychology. Above all, she is a passionate, hardworking and a zealous individual when it comes to the work and welfare of the society and community.
Email:Shanezainab97@gmail.com
Ms. Syeda Zeenat Rizvi
Research ManagerMore than six years in the volunteerism, a passionate individual with set of skills which empowers her professional career along with a renowned experience of working on youth development and education regarding mental health & well-being. She has obtained a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology and currently enrolled in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Diploma from Pakistan Association of Cognitive Therapist.
Along with her professional education, She is also associated with University of Leicester (UK) in multiple international research projects and has the honor to represent Pakistan by giving her services as Youth Adviser at World Awareness for Children in Trauma (WACIT). Moreover, she has worked in different health care sectors including Civil Hospital as an Intern Psychologist.
Besides trainings and research she has valuable experience in working with children & youth in various projects. For several years She has put in a lot of hard work for betterment of different areas across Pakistan. She has a diverse experience of working on youth empowerment and education. In this regard She has worked with different NGOs such as HIVE Pakistan.
Her biggest wish is to be a valuable resource and support to the community.
Mrs. Muskan Fatima
Finance ManagerMrs. Muskan Fatima is a highly qualified finance professional and a CA Finalist with extensive experience in the field. She has worked with some of the leading firms in the industry, including Furguson and Grant Thornton, where she has demonstrated a deep understanding of finance and accounting.
During her tenure at these firms, Mrs. Fatima has gained hands-on experience in auditing, accounting, and financial management. She has developed an exceptional ability to identify and analyze complex financial data, as well as a strong understanding of various accounting and financial reporting standards.
Mr. Muhammad Hassan Nasrullah
Legal AdvisorMr. Muhammad Hassan Nasrullah is a highly qualified and experienced advocate, with a Masters degree and Bachelor of Law degree to his name. He is a legal expert with a diverse range of experience in different areas of law, including civil, criminal, and family law.
With several years of experience in the legal field, Mr. Nasrullah has developed a deep understanding of the legal system and its intricacies. He is known for his exceptional legal knowledge, analytical skills, and attention to detail. He has a proven track record of successfully handling complex cases and providing effective legal advice to clients.
Mr. Hussain Ali Panjwani
IT ConsultantMr. Hussain Ali Panjwani is a seasoned digital transformation consultant who has helped numerous clients across various industries to successfully navigate the digital landscape. With a strong background in technology and business strategy, he has the expertise to identify and implement innovative solutions that drive business growth.
Throughout his career, Mr. Panjwani has worked with a wide range of clients, from startups to multinational corporations, across industries such as healthcare, finance, and retail. He has a deep understanding of digital technologies and trends, as well as the ability to tailor solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
As a consultant, Mr. Panjwani takes a holistic approach to digital transformation, focusing on everything from strategy and technology implementation to change management and employee training. He is a creative problem-solver who is able to identify opportunities for improvement and develop innovative solutions that drive business growth.
Mr. Panjwani is also known for his excellent communication and collaboration skills. He is able to work effectively with cross-functional teams, build strong relationships with clients, and communicate complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.
Members
Ms. Siddiqa Bano
Remedial Teacher (Read Dyslexia Teaching Diploma)MS. Siddiqa has been in the field of teaching since last nine years. She holds a diploma from the London Montessori Karachi and has achieved a Diploma in Teaching Practice from (ERDC). She completed her Diploma from READ, Dyslexia Institute Karachi and has been trained to work with children having Emotional problems. Apart from attending various child psychology and LD courses she has also conducted sessions for mothers on spending Quality time with Children and supporting children with learning difficulties through fun and play activities and interactive games.
Experience:9 yrs
Email:Siddiquabano14@gmail.com
Maheen Zahra
ASSOCIATE PSYCHOLOGIST & TRAINERMs. Maheen Zahra is an Associate Psychologist. She is working to conduct individual support sessions for students with Learning-Emotional and Behavioural difficulties under the supervision of a Child psychologist. She has conducted training sessions with mothers, teachers & youths on various topics including; Stress Management, Anger Management & Assertive Training, Personality grooming. Ms. Maheen has designed and conducted a ABC for Child-well being twelve-week short course designed to teach parents a positive parenting style approach that promotes children’s development, health, and well-being and guides healthy behavior and emotional development.
Ms. Insia Fatima
CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTMs. Insia is an accomplished result-oriented Clinical Psychologist who is competent in Play therapy, Applied Behavior Analysis, Pre-Marital Counseling, Pre-Parental Counseling, Parenting Training, and Couple Therapy.She is working with the Institute of Professional Psychology, Bahria University Karachi Campus, and Bahria Medical and Dental College as a faculty member and with I-CAN as a Consultant. Ms. Insia has designed and conducted a Positive Parenting Practice eight-week short course designed to teach parents a positive approach that promotes children’s development, health, and well-being and guides their behavior and emotions. Almost 30 years of international research with thousands of families have shown these strategies are effective and prove that children that grow up with positive parenting are more likely to do well and are less likely to develop behavioral and emotional problems.
Email:insiafatima4@gmail.com
Tatheer Fatima
MPHIL EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGYMs Tatheer has completed from Institute of Professional Psychology, Bahria University. Currently working in Fatimiyah College. Having 5 years of experience in student counselling, career guidance, academic problems, behavioral and emotional counselling with adolescence and adults. Conducted various workshops on multiple topics with mother’s from various platform.She can provide services on parentals awareness regarding childhood development, children academic, behavioral and emotional problems. Moreover, Motivation enhancement sessions, Anger and Stress management, Creating Mindfulness for well-being, personal therapy as in positive counselling can be offered.
Ms. Shan e Zainab
Mphil Clinical Psychologist (Candidate)ICAN Focal Person
Shan-e-Zainab is psychology graduate from Bahria University. She has completed M.Phil (clinical psychology) from the highly prestigious Institute of Clinical Psychology (ICP) Karachi along with Diploma in Complementary therapy (NLP/ Hypnosis). Along with a professional degree she also has completed several certificate courses including managing children with Learning disability, healing with art therapy, Remedial teacher training for the children with Down Syndrome, Psychiatry certificate course and certified course on Trauma Informed Care etc. Mental health has always been her area of interest along with its advocation, therefore she has conducted several trainings courses for young women on-site and virtually regarding mental health and wellbeing including ‘positive psychology’ and ‘path towards healing’. She has also participated in several international researches under the subject of mental health and wellbeing. She has been associated with children for a decade now, has taught in various schools and carried out internships in various department of psychology. Above all, she is a passionate, hardworking and a zealous individual when it comes to the work and welfare of the society and community.
Email:Shanezainab97@gmail.com
Ms Mohadisa Fatima (Mphil Candidate)
Associate Clinical PsychologistShe is a graduate from the Aga Khan Examination Board, achieving the notable distinction of securing the third position in social sciences across Pakistan and earning recognition as a meritorious award holder. Subsequently, she completed her graduation in clinical psychology from the University of Karachi, an internationally recognized institution of higher learning.
Her academic journey was enriched by active participation in an international research project focused on the subject of Intergenerational Trauma and Resilience.
She attended several training sessions in early childhood development and participated in child psychology symposium by the Child Adolescents Development Program (Hussaini Foundation) and annual conferences organized by the Kazim Trust.
In addition to her academic pursuits, she dedicated her time and expertise to meaningful initiatives, serving as an organizing team member for the 2022 summer camp for special children at Liaquat National Hospital and contributing to a winter camp for special need children at the Kazim Trust.
In her professional role as an Associate Clinical Psychologist and Peer Advisor, she conducts individual support sessions for children and youths facing learning and emotional difficulties. She has also conducted training sessions, covering a diverse range of topics, targeting mothers, teachers, and young individuals through various platforms. She has been working in ICAN team previously named as CADP from 5 years now.
Having previously held the position of a psychology lecturer at Habib Girls Higher Secondary School, she now serves as the lead of the Emotional Counseling Society, allowing her to impart knowledge and provide emotional support to young minds.
she is actively engaged with the Aga Khan University Examination Board (AKUEB), where she serves as an E-Marker for Psychology examinations and holds the responsibility of an outsource board examination member. Her expertise in working with children and youth has proven to be invaluable in these roles.
In summary, her academic and professional journey has endowed her with a deep understanding of psychology, a commitment to enhancing the well-being of children and youth, and a dedication to making a positive impact in the field of psychology.
Mohammad Basit Bhojani
PSYCHOLOGIST & CERTIFIED CAREER COUNSELORMohammad Basit Bhojani is a certified career counselor, psychologist and trainer. He offers his services as wellbeing counselor at Habib Public School and to individual clients. He has command on working with adolescents, youths and young adults. Mohammad’s expertise lies in careers, relationship issues, psychoeducational sessions, stress, anxiety and depression.
Email: bhojani.basit@hotmail.com
Sabira Kanji
FAMIPY THERAPIST- REMOTE SESSIONS AND TRAININGSSabira Kanji is a clinical psychologist, mentor, and systematic therapist. Sabira was born in Tanzania, but she was brought up in Pakistan where she completed her master’s in clinical psychology. Sabira then lived in London, earning her second master’s degree in family and systemic therapy from Kings College. After Sabira’s schooling was completed, she married and migrated to Tehran, Iran.
Sabira’s experiences include working as a clinical psychologist and a student counselor at the renowned Ziauddin Medical University in Karachi, Pakistan. Sabira also has teaching experience that she obtained through teaching behavioral sciences to medical students. Sabira has experience working with children with special needs at the Institution of Behavioral Psychology (IBP) in Karachi, Pakistan. In Tehran, Sabira is currently mentoring parents who have children with ASD (autism spectrum disorder). Sabira has an interest in working with families whose children have special needs or any form of mental illnesses because she believes, “when a child is diagnosed with a disability, all the family members get affected. They may struggle with feelings of anger, loss, remorse, sorrow, and irritation on their own,” Sabira finds that disabilities influence the daily lives, careers, relationships, and mental health of disabled children and their families.
Email:Sabira_y@yahoo.com
Insiya Bhalloo
PHD CANDIDATE (SLP), MSC (SLP, 2021), HBA WITH HIGH DISTINCTIONA graduate from UTSC’s Psycholinguistics Specialist program (Honours, B.A in Psycholinguistics, Specialist and Minor in Psychology, 2018), Insiya is especially interested in facilitating the development of culturally-effective speech-language and literacy assessment and therapy tools. Conversant in multiple languages (including Urdu, Swahili, Gujrati and Farsi), Insiya is passionate about contributing to the research field of multi-literacy and language-specific research – one of the many reasons why she enjoys her work as an MSc student (2021) and now PhD Candidate at the Bilingual and Multilingual Development Lab at the University of Toronto (Department of Speech-Language Pathology, Temeerty Faculty of Medicine).. Her MSc and PhD projects focus on development and relevance of a culturally/linguistically-appropriate Urdu phonological processing tele-screening tool. The fun digital tool will be freely available to educators, speech-language pathologists and researchers in Pakistan. You can access our free-for-use Urdu phonological awareness tool by contacting Insiya Bhalloo directly (insiya.bhalloo@mail.utoronto.ca)
Ms. Marium Rehmani
ART & DESIGN PRACTITIONERMarium is a student of Fine Arts at Indus Valley School of Art And Architecture. She has been a part of the team as a volunteer since 2014. She has planed multiple camps since the time. Recently marium has conducted many art courses online to teach beginners different mediums of art. She has designed, planed and conducted multiple short courses to teach watercolour art, pastel art and the genealogy of art theories. Marium believes that art is for everyone and thus she tries to reach to as many people as she can to help them discover their artistic side. Marium has planed and conducted various sessions on art and self-discovery using different techniques for participants to connect through self-exploratory art sessions.
Dr. Sana-e-Zehra Haidry
PHD-LANGUAGES AND BRAIN SCIENCESI am a Scientific Researcher, Psychologist, International Mental Health Professional and a Clinical Linguist. I bring with me the knowledge, working experience and unique combination of expertise encompassing Research, Counselling, Teaching, Training, Psycho-Educational Assessment, Test and Scale Development, and Project Management under Psychology, Education, Health and Linguistics domains. I did my first masters in Psychology and secured first class second position in the department and third position in the whole arts faculty of Karachi University, Pakistan. My second research masters’ degree was in Public Health with specialization in International Mental Health for which I travelled to The University of Melbourne, Australia on an Australian Developmental Scholarship.
My protocol on ‘identifying the training needs of mental health professionals for their effective participation in mental health system reforms in Pakistan’ earned me a first-class honours (H1). I completed my third research masters-European Masters in Clinical Linguistics (EMCL), under Erasmus Mundus Scholarship in 2011 and developed a ‘dyslexia screening tool for Pakistani population’ as my research project. Subsequently, I was admitted to Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorate (EMJD) program – International Doctorate for Experimental Approaches to Languages and Brain (IDEALAB), which I completed in April 2017 and successfully defended my thesis on ‘assessment of dyslexia in the Urdu language’ (https://research.rug.nl/en/publications/assessment-of-dyslexia-in-the-urdu-language).
This was a novel study that resulted in the first comprehensive assessment tool to assess dyslexia in Urdu and also because it was the Centre for Language and Cognition Groningen’s (CLCG) first research initiative to explore Urdu language processing. After obtaining the doctorate degree, I continued my research work as a guest Scientific Researcher at University of Groningen (RuG) and initiated two major internationally collaborative studies with Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), Pakistan and Bahria University (BU), Pakistan. First study revolves around testing an assessment protocol to assess reading, writing and spelling issues in university students. As part of the second study, we developed a computer-game (remedial intervention) based on my Urdu Dyslexia Test. I have also supervised research & theses, and designed and delivered courses for Bachelors’ and Masters’ students. Moreover, I have received a comprehensive and diversified training on Brain Health (including impairments such as dementia) awareness, prevention, assessment, management and care from Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), Trinity College Dublin/ University of California, San Francisco (https://www.gbhi.org/). After graduating, I am now a Senior Atlantic Fellow for Equity in Brain Health (https://www.gbhi.org/sana-e-zehrahaidry).
Email:sanahaidry@yahoo.com | sana.haidry@gbhi.org
Zoya Hasnain
ECE TRAINERS AND MONTESSORI DIRECTRESSTEACHER (ECE TRAINERS AND MONTESSORI DIRECTRESS) MS. Zoya has been in the field of teaching since 5 years. She has received training in Research of Science of Reading (SOR) specialized teaching method to aid young readers. She holds a diploma in Montessori training and has completed certified Trainer (Froebel teacher training center) programme. She has also conducted sessions for mothers and children through fun and play activities and interactive games to develop confidence building, effective parenting strategies and become confident readers.
Email:giya.fatima@gmail.com
Naba Lakhani
artistNaba Lakhani (aka Noon Laam) is a self-taught artist who has been keenly interested in beauty of the higher intelligence since her childhood. Hence, she decided to pursue religion and spirituality as her major. Her services to this platform is helping her fulfill her life purpose with more power and grace. Ms. Lakhani is truly honoured to be a part of ICAN and hoping for a better future on a collective level.
Sukaina Mustafa
psychologistSukaina Mustafa is an educational psychologist, currently working in therapy coach as a counselor and a behavioral therapist.
She is motivated to work for the betterment of the community and specially her area of interest is to work with children, the problems a child faces with in the family or in the school, have an experience of working with special needs children, dealing with children’s behavioural issues, guiding parents with the problems they face while dealing with their children at home.
“All kids need is a little help, a little hope, and someone who believes in them”
Saima Masoom Ali (PhD)
(PhD) in psychologyThis is Saima Masoom Ali (PhD), in Psychology and post doc from University of Leicester UK. I am
working as an Assistant Professor at the department of Psychology, University of Karachi. I am also
working as a departmental Student Advisor. Courses and services offered by community helped me to
groom. I completed Course on “Intelligence in teaching” Organized and sponsored by Fatimiyah
Education Network in 2005, which made me aware of my passion of teaching. After completion of my
research of post doc I disseminated my work at Two Days Child Psychology Symposium arranged by
Child and Adolescent Development Programme, Hussaini Foundation. I have completed my diploma in
clinical psychology from institute of clinical psychology in 2009 after that I started my practice at Taj
Complex; there I served many community clients. Previously I have conducted few sessions on child
development and parenting including workshops on Mindfulness and Relaxation at Hussaini
Foundation-Child, Adolescent development Programme. I have worked on national and international
grants. Currently I am working as a collaborator in a project Wounds of Wisdom with Dr Sajida
Hassan. I have also conducted two workshops to train trainers’ of the workshop.
Ghayyur Abbas
Clinical PsychologistGhayyur Abbas is a trained psychologist with extensive experience in patient counseling. He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program.
Ghayyur’s expertise lies in helping patients cope with a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. He has a deep understanding of the complex emotional and psychological issues that patients face, and is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care.
As a patient counselor at Dow University of Health Sciences, Ghayyur works closely with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and goals. He is skilled at building strong, collaborative relationships with patients and their families, and is committed to empowering them to take an active role in their own care.
Overall, Ghayyur is a compassionate and highly skilled psychologist who is committed to helping patients achieve their full potential. His expertise in patient counseling, combined with his passion for community social work and advocacy, make him a valuable member of any healthcare team.
Sukoon Fatima
Clinical Psychologist (Gold Medalist) CPCAB UK Certified Trainee Psychotherapist.NLP practitioner, Certified Gestalt Associate. Certified Hypnotherapist. EMDR Asia trained, (CTA) Certified Professional Coach.
Sukoon Fatima is a highly accomplished clinical psychologist and certified psychotherapist with a deep passion for supporting individuals on their journey towards mental well-being. With a gold medal in Clinical Psychology and CPCAB UK certification as a trainee psychotherapist, Sukoon brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her practice.
She holds certifications as an NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) practitioner, a certified Gestalt associate, and a hypnotherapist, further enhancing her therapeutic toolkit. Sukoon is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and holds the designation of Certified Professional Coach (CTA), empowering her to provide a comprehensive and holistic approach to healing and personal growth.
Throughout her career, Sukoon has worked with diverse populations and addressed a wide range of mental health challenges. Her empathetic and client-centered approach creates a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their inner experiences, gain self-awareness, and develop effective coping strategies. Sukoon believes in the power of collaboration and actively engages clients in their treatment process, tailoring interventions to meet their unique needs.
With a keen interest in multi-literacies and understanding the role of communication in mental health, Sukoon is committed to ongoing professional development and staying at the forefront of advancements in the field. She brings a multicultural perspective to her work, having trained and worked in various international settings. Sukoon’s dedication to her clients’ well-being, coupled with her extensive training and diverse skill set, makes her a valuable asset to the Multi-Literacies Open Network (M-LION). Her expertise in clinical psychology and psychotherapy will greatly contribute to the collaborative efforts of the network in exploring and promoting multi-literacies in different contexts.
Zehra Naqvi
Clinical Psychologist and Training FacilitatorZehra Naqvi Clinical Psychologist, MSc, PMDCP from Karachi University. Currently, she is working as a Students’ Counsellor at community School. In school, besides conducting individual and group sessions with students and parents she is involved in arranging training workshops for the teachers.
She started her career by working as a Co-operative Lecturer at Karachi University. Then, she joined the Neuro-Rehabilitation Unit at Liaquat National Hospital as a Neuro-Psychologist. She conducted assessments and psychotherapy sessions with children having emotional, behavioural and with neurological issues and with different psychological and Neurological adult patients.
In addition, she served as a Research Assistant and Psychologist at Pakistan Institute of Learning and Living (PILL). There, she learned by attending different training workshops on topics like ‘CBT Principles and its application in Clinical Settings’ (organised by PACT) and ‘Practising Interpersonal Psychotherapy-IPT’. After training, she was involved in projects which were ‘Maternal welfare services through Interpersonal Psychotherapy-IPT’, ‘Psycho-education for BPD’, ‘Learning through Play- LTP’ and engaged in Anti-inflammatory and drug-related studies with Schizophrenic patients under the supervision of Dr. Nusrat Hussain and Dr. Imran Chaudhry.
To continue the learning and serving process she is interested in working and promoting the well-being of her community children and adults
