On March 5, Women in Law U of T held a bake sale outside Sidney Smith Hall and donated 50 per cent of the proceeds to NISA Foundation, an organization established by Muslim women that supports girls and women in overcoming life challenges. 

This marks the second time the club has contributed to the foundation. In February, Women in Law hosted a bake sale and donated 50 per cent of the proceeds — $260 — to support the organization’s initiatives. 

Mission of Women in Law 

Co-Presidents of Women in Law U of T, Nabiha Habib and Aaliyah Ukadia, explained the motivation behind the partnership in an email to The Varsity. “Women in Law was motivated to partner with NISA Foundation for our bake sale because our club is rooted in supporting women and promoting equitable opportunities. NISA Foundation closely aligns with our values,” they wrote. 

Women in Law aims to provide mentorship opportunities and create a platform to celebrate the achievements of women in law. NISA Foundation’s mission is to transform communities by engaging, equipping, and enriching the lives of women and children so they can reach their full potential. 

“NISA provides a safe haven and holistic support system for women, including many immigrant, refugee, and Muslim women.” Habib and Ukadia added.

The foundation offers a range of services, including providing transitional shelters for survivors of domestic violence across Canada, child and youth programs, a helpline, web-based therapy, and community learning workshops. Since becoming a registered charity in 2019, the organization has established five shelters in Ontario — located in Mississauga, Scarborough, Windsor, Hamilton, and Ottawa — and has provided shelters for 2,470 women and children across Canada. 

“One of the main goals of our bake sale was to raise awareness about both our club and the work of NISA Foundation.” Habib and Ukadia wrote. The club hopes initiatives like the bake sale will highlight the importance of supporting organizations that empower women. 

“The remaining proceeds help support our club’s initiatives, such as hosting events like our Women in Law Panel on March 10, which focused on the law school admissions process and student experiences in law school,” the co-presidents added.