Abdulatif Al-Sheikh

Biography

Abdullatif Al-Shaikh is a distinguished professional with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering with Management Sciences from the University of Waterloo. He also holds a certification as an Immigration Practitioner in Laws, Policies, and Procedures from the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC).

As the Founder and President of the Canada Arab Congress on Middle East and North Africa Relations (CACMR), formerly known as the Canadian Middle Eastern Council (CMC), established in 2016, Abdullatif focuses on fostering diplomatic and governmental relations between Canada and the MENA region. His work is dedicated to building bridges, promoting understanding, and fostering positive relations.

In addition to his role at CACMR, Abdullatif is the CEO and President of Canadian Business Partners (CBP), facilitating investments between North America, Europe, and the MENA region. He is also a former President and Vice President of the National Council on Canada-Arab Relations (NCCAR) in Ottawa.

Abdullatif's contributions extend to the Jeune Chambre De Commerce Algérienne Du Canada (JCCAC) in Montreal, where he served as a Governor. He has also been appointed to the Premier’s Council on Youth Opportunities for Ontario, advising on public policy in various domains, including the economy, jobs, and civic rights. His advocacy focuses on amplifying the voices of Middle Eastern, Arab/North African, refugee, newcomer, Muslim, and other minority youth.

In his political career, Abdullatif has held positions such as Vice President of Fundraising and Organizational Chair in several Federal Liberal Associations and continues to serve on their boards. His work with the Canadian Aid Organization included developing programs for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Iraq in partnership with the United Nations and other international NGOs.

During his time at the University of Waterloo, Abdullatif founded and led the Society of Arab Students (SAS), which grew to over 500 members and was recognized as the club of the term in Winter 2016. His leadership efforts were acknowledged by the university's president, and the Federation of Students named him the student leader of 2016. Additionally, he co-founded the Talent for Syria concert initiative, raising over $100,000 to build a school in Turkey for Syrian refugees in collaboration with Human Concern International.

Abdullatif has also served as a Campus Ambassador for the Canadian Arab Institute (CAI) and played a significant role in resettling Syrian refugees across Ontario in 2015-2016. He is currently pursuing a Private Pilot License (PPL) at the Canadian Flight Academy in Toronto.

A seasoned traveller, Abdullatif has visited over 35 countries across four continents, enjoying learning about different cultures and exploring the world.