About Us

Championing Community Development

Dr. Baobaid is a pioneering researcher who has brought critical attention to sensitive societal issues, such as gender-based violence and the involvement of children and women with the justice system in Yemen. His work is distinguished by its depth and cultural sensitivity, addressing complex challenges within tribal and collectivist societies.

After relocating to Canada in 2000, Dr. Baobaid focused on enhancing access to family violence services for Muslim families. He founded the Muslim Resource Centre for Social Support and Integration (MRCSSI) in London, Ontario, fostering dialogue between Muslim communities and mainstream services. His initiatives have significantly improved service accessibility and effectiveness for marginalized communities.

Innovation and Leadership

Dr. Baobaid developed the Culturally Integrative Family Safety Response (CIFSR) Model, an innovative approach to addressing family violence in collectivist communities. This model has been successfully implemented locally and expanded both nationally and internationally, driving positive change in family safety and well-being. He excels in the cultural adaptation of universal best practices, ensuring they are suitable for collectivist communities without compromising their core principles.

Localization of Best Practices

Dr. Baobaid is adept at localizing universal evidence-based practices to meet the unique needs of developing countries and conflict zones. His work ensures that these practices are contextually relevant and effective, promoting sustainable development and resilience in challenging environments.

Collaborations with Government

Over the past 20 years, Dr. Baobaid has gained the trust of the Federal Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, and various private foundations, securing their funding to support strategies focused on the well-being and safety of families and children, particularly within immigrant communities. His ability to build these trusted partnerships has been pivotal in shaping inclusive and culturally relevant policies and programs.

Professional Experience 

Founder & Executive Director

Muslim Resource Centre for Social Support and Integration (MRCSSI)

London, ON

(2009–2024)

Program Development

Created programs utilizing the CIFSR approach to reduce violence escalation and prevent family disruption.

National Expansion

Identified and addressed gaps in services responding to family violence within collectivist immigrant communities.

Service Enhancement

Led the expansion of the CIFSR model to seven cities, addressing family and gender-based violence and child protection concerns within Muslim communities.

Adjunct Professor

Faculty of Education, Western University, London, ON

(2007–Present)

Research Initiatives

Conducted analytical research to identify service gaps for families affected by violence.

Model Development

Developed culturally meaningful models of family violence intervention based on research outcomes.

Previous Roles

Family Counsellor

Family Service Thames Valley

(2004–2010) 

• Provided counseling and support services for individuals, families, and organizations.
• Developed individual treatment plans addressing family relationship challenges.

Men's Counsellor

Changing Ways

(2002–2009) 

• Offered counseling services focused on changing abusive behaviors and promoting healthy relationships.

Founder & Coordinator

Muslim Family Safety Project

(2003–2005) 

• Established initiatives to address family safety within Muslim communities.

Integration Counsellor

Success Resources London

(2000–2002) 

• Assisted newcomers with integration challenges, providing guidance and support.

Founder & Director

Centre of Youth Research and Development, Yemen

(1999–2002) 

• Led research initiatives focused on youth development and societal challenges.

Head of Department of Psychology

Faculty of Arts, University of Sanaa, Yemen

(1997–2000) 

• Oversaw academic programs and research in psychology.

Private Consultant

for UNICEF, OXFAM, and German Association for Technical Cooperation

(1999–2000) 

• Provided expertise on programs related to children in conflict with the law, human rights, and social services.

National Program Coordinator/Psychologist

Criminal Justice System, Yemen

(1984–1992)

• Coordinated national programs and provided psychological services within the criminal justice system.

Development of Innovative Models

CIFSR Model: Pioneered the Culturally Integrative Family Safety Response model tailored for collectivist communities.

• Successfully implemented at MRCSSI and expanded to multiple cities.
• Aimed at addressing gender-based violence and child protection concerns within Muslim and immigrant communities.
• Supported by funding from the Canadian Women and Gender Equality Department and the Ontario Ministry of Community, Children, and Social Services.

Awards & Recognition

Arab Family Organization Award

United Arab Emirates

(2014)

Pillar Community Innovation Award

(2013)

Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal

For contributions in family violence prevention

(2012)

Attorney General’s Victim Services Award of Distinction

Ontario, Canada

(2012)

John Robinson Award

London Coordinating Committee to End Woman Abuse

(2011)

Everyday Hero Award

Centre for Research and Education for Violence Against Women and Children

(2008)

Listed among 500 Most Influential Muslims in the World

The Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre, Jordan

(2009–2012)

Arab Ambassador’s Award

For Outstanding Achievement of Canadians of Arab Descent

(2013)

Community Engagement

Volunteer Facilitator

St. Leonard’s Society, Community Justice Circle

(2004–2011) 

• Facilitated consensus processes involving victims, offenders, their families, and community members to find alternative solutions.

Volunteer Board Member

 London and Middlesex Children’s Aid Society

(2007–2009)

• Contributed to services for vulnerable children and families.

Volunteer Board Member

Inter-Faith Counseling Centre

 (2005–2007)

• Supported programs promoting mental health and well-being.

Volunteer Board Member

London Cross-Cultural Learner Centre

(2002–2003)

• Assisted in multi-service support networks for newcomers.

Volunteer Member

Justices of the Peace Appointments Advisory Committee

(2017–2019)

• Assisted in classifying applicants for appointment as justices of the peace.

Education

PhD in Psychology

University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany

(1997)

MA in Criminal Science & Forensic Psychology

Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany

(1984)

Languages

English

Arabic

German

Key Skills & Abilities

Community Development

Research & Evaluation

Collaborative Dialogue

Facilitation & Mediation