By Sara Kassim
Over 170 relatives, friends and well-wishers gathered in Toronto on Sunday to join in celebrating the 90th birth anniversary of Guyanese-born Canadian, Noorun Nisa Kassim.
The white silky tablecloths were in pristine condition, the cream orchid centre pieces were of the finest assortment, the food was overflowing and the dessert was decadent, as the Kassim’s family marked the “momentous occasion” with friends and relatives.
While living in Guyana, Mrs Noorun Kassim always had a vision for her family to migrate to Canada, with hopes of building a life that would make each member proud. That dream came true, as most of her family members currently reside in Canada, where they have been educated and are now employed.
At the recent birthday celebration, many of Kassim’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren spoke adoringly of the Guyana-born Kassim ‘legend,’ to whom they all expressed gratitude for the enriched foundation she had provided for them.
It was noted that Mrs. Kassim has been the driving force behind her family’s success. Her late husband, Subaydar Kassim, came from a poor background. But although, Noorun was more educated than Subaydar, when they got married, she constantly pushed him to strive to be a greater man. Through her unwavering support, Subaydar was able to further his education and even exceeded expectations. He went into the Royal Air Force and later the Guyana Police Force during the second World War. He retired as a Superintendent of Police.
Moreover, each of her children has become extremely successful in their own right. Her eldest son, Sultan Feroze Kassim, retired as the Deputy Commissioner of Police in Guyana. Another son, Dr Sultan Farook Kassim, who passed away in 1997, was a medical doctor, and held a very prestigious position as Chief Medical Officer in Guyana.
Noorun’s eldest daughter, Bibi Fernando, went on to become a teacher and is now retired. Her daughters, Dolly Dhaniram and Anne Sawh, went on to be executive buyers of Sears Canada. Her youngest son, Winston Kassim is an executive with RBC Royal Bank and he is also the Chair for IDRF (International Development Relief Foundation). Noorun’s youngest child, Ingrid Innes, is the Chief Executive Officer of ICBL (Insurance Company of Barbados Limited) in Barbados.
Noorun has been the rock behind each of these professionals, and they have all attributed their success to the motivation that she constantly provided.
While Noorun recognizes the importance of material gains, she does not forget her roots. She is the daughter of an Imam, and this spirituality runs deep in her soul. She has initiated the building of numerous mosques in Guyana and the greater Toronto area, and many of these community members were present at her 90th birthday celebrations.
She has always been a true believer in lending a helping hand, before the person has a chance to ask. She constantly reminds her family and friends to never forget God, as he will be the one to guide you especially in your times of need.
The 90th birthday celebrations left everyone knowing that Noorun has been living for her family and friends’ successes for most of her life.
The beautiful celebration was especially rare as it allowed Noorun to bask in glory, something she is not accustomed to. Noorun Kassim’s continued legacy is one to be exceptionally proud of.
