S2:E6 Ikram Carpan Part 2

This is part two of my conversation with Ikram Carpan.

And part one, Ikram gave me a new perspective on child development. It's all about letting young people be involved in their own decision making and problem solving--and creating a need for them to learn. 

•  If you'd like to reach out to Ikram to talk about his community development ambitions, you can reach him at: ikramcarpan20@gmail.com

He also talked about growing up in Russia, Bangladesh and Turkey, and coming to Canada after his family was targeted by the Turkish government for being involved with the Gulen movement.

In part two, Ikram talks about arriving in Canada, about his teaching philosophies, and his thinking about how people of all races and religions can find a common humanity. As I said in part one, It is a fascinating young man. And I think you'll enjoy part two. 

Highlights

[2:20] Starting Life & Building Connections in Canada
Ikram shares his initial experience of moving to Canada, from quickly making friends to obtaining his permanent residency. He contrasts his relatively smooth transition to those of his friends who faced challenges, highlighting the varying journeys immigrants go through upon their arrival.

[4:20] Addressing Problem Solving in Education
Ikram speaks about the need to change the way young people are educated. He stresses the importance of guiding them in how to approach problems and the process of finding solutions. He also draws a distinction between external rewards and intrinsic motivations.

[15:40] Learning through Guided Freedom & Curiosity
Ikram shares his philosophy of education. He believes in guiding students' inherent will and curiosity toward constructive outcomes. Instead of spoon-feeding knowledge, he prioritizes asking the right questions, instilling responsibility, and fostering a love for learning.

[21:00] Redefining Education & Nurturing Souls 
Ikram passionately speaks about the true essence of education. He believes it's not just a profession but a responsibility to guide, nurture, and shape the future. 

Ikram discusses the importance of nurturing and connecting with the soul rather than the mind. He believes that to truly reach out to others, especially children, one has to connect at a soulful level.

[28:00] Embracing Diversity in Waterloo Region 
Greg introduces the topic of the Waterloo Region in Canada and its growing multiculturalism. Ikram responds by discussing personal perspectives, biases, and the importance of seeing beyond surface-level differences to connect with the souls of individuals.

Ikram passionately conveys the notion that by understanding oneself, being empathetic, and fostering a mindset of personal accountability, we can cultivate a better world. He emphasizes the importance of joy, understanding, and genuine interactions in creating harmonious relationships.

[34:40] Influence of Literature & Self Reflection
Ikram recalls a thought-provoking quote by Turkish scholar and reflects on the way individuals interpret texts differently, drawing inspiration from both the Quran and his own Islamic background.

Ikram and Greg discuss the importance of being open-minded and not rigidly holding on to certain truths. They explore the idea that interpretations of religious texts, like the Quran and the Bible, can differ based on an individual's mindset.

[42:00] Teaching & Embracing Community Greg compliments Ikram's perspective and wisdom at a young age. Ikram's aspirations to learn from local institutions like YMCA and his endeavors to make a positive impact in the Kitchener-Waterloo region are discussed.