Meet the Voices Behind the Vision
Dr. Durdana Islam
Dr. Durdana Islam is the Chairperson of the Kahanee Board of Directors and brings deep experience in natural resources management, climate action, social justice advocacy and gender equity. Raised in Chittagong, Bangladesh, she grew up listening to family stories about the 1952 Bengali Language Movement and the 1971 Independence war, which shaped her lifelong commitment to history, identity and voice. After immigrating to Canada, she completed a PhD in Natural Resources at the University of Manitoba, where her work centred on the lived experiences and knowledge of Indigenous fishing communities. She previously served as Chairperson of the Manitoba NDP Status of Women, Gender Equity and Gender Diversity Committee and is a strong advocate for women facing gendered racism and domestic violence. In 2022, she was nominated for the Empower Women Award by the Government of Manitoba and has also founded the Waverley Climate Action Team while serving on the board of the Islamic Social Services Association. Her leadership reflects Kahanee’s commitment to climate justice, care and storytelling, and she is deeply invested in creating spaces where history, authenticity and connection are honoured and shared.
Young Durdana was very energetic, full of life and bubbly. She had a very positive outlook in life.
I remember neighbors used to come to my Nanu (grandmother) with their issues and my nanu would listen to both parties and then try to mediate. At a young age, I used to be fascinated to see how my Nanu used to help bring peace in families among parents and kids, husbands and wives. Even at a young age, I saw how a couple would come crying to see her and when they left after meeting her their faces were mostly calm. My Nanu knew ways to communicate and be calm in the storm. She provided safe space for many who were struggling. To this day, I remember those memories and I wish I could be half of the woman my nanu was!
Peace starts at home. Peace begins with you and I - in conversations, in dining tables, in board rooms, in classrooms.
Kahanee brings people from all walks of life together in stories to build a sense of community. Something that I hold very close to my heart to create a sense of belonging, peace and harmony.
Youth gives me hope. When I look at the young generation, I find it inspiring how they are transforming and being a catalyst of a peaceful world.
