About Karina Hayat

Karina Hayat is a committed business leader, charitable advocate, and guide for up-and-coming entrepreneurs. Alongside her husband, Zeeshan Hayat, she has co-established and led initiatives focused on driving digital transformation and fostering innovation.

Beyond her business pursuits she is dedicated to addressing social challenges, particularly in the realm of food insecurity and homelessness. Alongside her husband, Zeeshan Hayat, Karina co-founded 100 Meals a Week in 2006. This initiative was born from their shared vision to tackle the multifaceted issues of homelessness in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES).

Salma Karina Hayat’s approach integrates not just the provision of meals but also a range of supportive services, including medical care, mental health support, and educational resources. Her hands-on involvement in the program began with preparing and delivering meals directly to those in need, a practice that has evolved into a comprehensive care model benefiting thousands.

In addition to her work with 100 Meals a Week, Karina Hayat co-founded The Muslim Care Centre (MCC) in 2019. MCC collaborates with various NGOs to provide essential support to vulnerable populations, having distributed over 600,000 meals amid the global pandemic. Karina’s leadership and vision extend beyond local efforts, impacting communities globally, including in Pakistan, Tanzania, and Morocco.

Karina Hayat continues to drive change with a focus on holistic support, leveraging her experience to improve the lives of individuals facing hardship and fostering resilience through comprehensive care.