York University Students Receive Olive Tree Foundation Awards for Leadership and Community Impact

The Olive Tree Foundation is pleased to announce Ziana Aly and Hiba Yassin as recipients of the 2026 Olive Tree Foundation Student Awards at York University. Both students have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement and a strong commitment to community service, equity, and public engagement. These awards are funded by The Shamim and Farida Siddiqi Family Fund and The Ghulam Sajan Fund at the Olive Tree Foundation.

Ziana Aly, a fourthyear Political Science student, is recognized for her academic work on Islamophobia, colonialism, and political identity, as well as her leadership as President of the Egyptian Student Association. She is also the creator of Office Hours: Politics Edition, a studentled political podcast, and author of From the Arab Perspective, a blog exploring Middle Eastern politics and contemporary Islamophobia.

Hiba Yassin, a firstyear MA student in Political Science, is honoured for her community organizing and research contributions. Her work with Hidaayah House supports Black Muslims and marginalized communities through traumainformed programming. She also serves as a Research Assistant with the Islamophobia Research Hub and previously led mentorship programming with Black Excellence at York University.

“The Olive Tree Foundation is honoured to support emerging leaders like Ziana Aly and Hiba Yassin. Their academic excellence, community leadership, and commitment to advancing equity embody the very purpose of this award. We are proud to recognize their achievements and look forward to the impact they will continue to make within their communities and beyond.” — Naeem Siddiqi, Vice Chair, Olive Tree Foundation

“Ziana and Hiba represent the best of York University — scholars whose work is grounded in integrity, critical inquiry, and a deep sense of responsibility to their communities. Their leadership and dedication to addressing Islamophobia, strengthening community care, and amplifying marginalized voices make them truly deserving of this recognition. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments.” — Dr. Nadia Hassan, York University