The Rudha Al-Husaini Memorial Scholarships

The memorial scholarship and bursary were established in loving memory and honour of Marhum Sayid Rudha Al-Husaini (Al-Rohani), whose life was defined by compassion, service, resilience, education, and love for his family, community, and the Ahlul-Bayt (as). The love for his community was so much so, that one of his final wishes in his will was the establishment of one scholarship and one bursary, awarded to the youth of the Al-Mahdi Islamic Community Centre.

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About Sayid Rudha Al-Husaini

Born in Najaf, Iraq, Sayid Rudha’s journey traversed through four years in humanitarian camps in the Saudi Arabian desert before finding refuge in London, Ontario, Canada with his family in 1995. His resolute determination and tireless work ethic propelled him to academic excellence, culminating in the completion of his undergraduate, master’s, and dentistry degrees.

As a dedicated dentist, Rudha served with distinction at St. Joseph’s Dental Clinic in London and Petrolia Dentistry in Petrolia, Ontario, where his meticulous care and compassionate demeanour endeared him to colleagues, staff, and patients alike. He approached each interaction with warmth, humour, and genuine concern for the well-being of those under his care, often extending his support beyond office hours to ensure their comfort and peace of mind.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Sayid Rudha possessed an uncanny ability to forge deep connections with individuals from all walks of life and ages, leaving an enduring mark of friendship and inspiration wherever he went. His commitment to the Al-Mahdi Centre Mosque community manifested in various leadership roles within the local mosque, particularly as the mosque’s resident reciter, where his melodious voice and unwavering faith resonated for over 15 years, touching the hearts of countless souls and embodying the essence of compassion and service.

Rudha was incredibly devoted as a brother, son, father, and husband, and his family was incredibly important to him, but Rudha’s profound impact extended far beyond the confines of his immediate circle, encompassing strangers, friends, and extended family. He was the soul of his community and served as a mentor, guidance counsellor, career coach, father-figure, and dear friend to so many. Whether extending a helping hand to newcomers in the community or comforting the ailing with boundless empathy, he exemplified the virtues of kindness, generosity, and familial love that endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rudha’s departure leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew him, yet his enduring spirit and boundless love serve as guiding beacons of hope and inspiration for all who were touched by his presence.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to illuminate our lives with the warmth of his love and the brightness of his spirit.

https://www.youtube.com/@sayidridhaalhusaini


Scholarship Information, Eligibility, and Application Instructions

This scholarship honours the legacy of Dr. Sayid Rudha Al-Husaini — a dedicated dentist, lifelong learner, and beloved community leader whose journey from Najaf to London was marked by resilience, determination, and academic achievement. Sayid Rudha deeply believed in the importance of education, determination, and the potential of the youth in his community, often forging strong bonds with many of them and encouraging them to excel in society, education, and Islam. Awarded annually, this financial need-based scholarship recognizes a student who demonstrates outstanding academic excellence and a strong commitment to their educational journey, reflecting Dr. Rudha’s tireless pursuit of Islamic and academic knowledge in addition to personal growth.

– Prospective or current post-secondary student (Undergraduate, Graduate, PhD, Post– -doctorate and College programs eligible)
– Minimum cumulative average of 80% in high school, or the previous year of study
– Demonstrated Financial need
– Demonstrated commitment to academic growth and future goals
– Official member of the Al-Mahdi Islamic Community Centre


– Completed Scholarship Application including supplemental questions below:
– Statement on your academic and career aspirations and how this scholarship will benefit you (250 words)
– Statement on how Sayid Rudha influenced, motivated, or inspired you (150 words)
– Proof of enrolment from your educational institution
– Transcript

To Apply: Download and email completed application and supplemental documents to [email protected]

This scholarship celebrates the legacy of Dr. Sayid Rudha Al-Husaini, whose life was rooted in compassion, service, and spiritual leadership. As a dedicated member and reciter at Al-Mahdi Centre for over two decades, Sayid Rudha left a profound impact on his community, not just through words but also through his actions. This award is presented to a youth who exemplifies these same values through active involvement in community service, particularly within the Al-Mahdi Centre or the broader Shia Muslim community.

– Demonstrated volunteerism or leadership within Al-Mahdi Community Centre
– Commitment to service, leadership, mentorship, or uplifting others
– Prospective or current post-secondary student (Undergraduate, Graduate, Ph.D, Post-Doc, and College programs eligible)


– Statement about professional, academic, and life goals (500 words)
– Statement about volunteer, service and extracurricular experience related to Al-Mahdi Islamic Centre (250 words)
– Statement about how Sayid Rudha influenced, motivated, or inspired you (150 words)
– Resume
– Proof of enrolment from your educational institution
– Name of a reference who holds an official position at the Centre

To Apply: Download and email completed application and supplemental documents to [email protected]

Important Information:

Applications will be reviewed by a panel on the basis of completed materials, quality of written answers, demonstrated financial need, and for academic or volunteer excellence.

Deadline to Apply: Applications will be accepted until September 30th, 2025 for the 2025-2026 academic year. Successful applicants will be contacted in October.
Amount: $2000 each
Number of Recipients: One for each scholarship
Renewable: Students are welcome to apply to each award they are eligible for, but can only receive one. Students can re-apply for a maximum of two years.

For Any Questions: please contact [email protected]