Muslim Forest School for Boys
Adventure with purpose
A weekly outdoor adventure where boys (7-12) meet every Saturday to build character, courage, and a deep connection to their faith and nature.
Our next 7-week Fall cohort begins Nov 08, 2025
$250 for 7 weeks.
November 08, 2025 – December 20, 2025 (Saturdays 9:30 – 12:30)
A different approach
Our program aims to raise Muslim boys that uphold qualities of our Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), while reframing their perspective of real heroes. We focus on the pillar components of what it means to become a true Muslim man. This program facilitates a powerful and constructive channel for a boy’s natural energy, improving both physical and mental well-being and encouraging them to build habits that will serve them for lifetime.
Bi’idnillah,
- Following the Hadith and Sunnah through discussions and actions; they will achieve genuine accomplishments, learning to solve problems, master practical skills, and trust their own capabilities in the real world.
- They will deepen their connection with the creator of this universe and hereafter through versus of Quran and Hadith, Allah (swt)’s names, awareness of what Allah has created in nature for us, gratitude, reflections, stories and discussions.
- Through fitness challenges that helps develop physical and mental toughness, they will be firmly rooted in their faith and be in service of others.
- They will understand the beauty, strength and importance of brotherhood in our deen by practicing various activities as a team that brings unity, empathy, love, and care for each other. They will join a positive and supportive peer group like-minded Muslim boys and learning the true meaning of teamwork, trust, and leadership through shared adventure.
- They will build a deeper connection with Allah(swt) which helps and understand life in the light of Quran and Sunnah. Through various topics of science, they will learn the greatness of their lord, how everything is interconnected with each creation’s unique and great purpose. The signs in science of nature will increases their awareness and firmness in tahwid and gratitude as they see how everything points to Allah(swt).
- Gain emotional resilience & self-mastery through challenges that require patience and focus. They will learn to manage their impulses, handle frustration constructively, and develop the inner calm and perseverance of a true leader.
- This Forest School curriculum will help sharpen their confidence, increase their resiliance and persistance, and further enhance their leadership skills as they work through challanging survival skills.
Enrollment is NOW OPEN for our Late Fall 2025 program
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- ✓ 7 weekly sessions in Centenial Park (Etobicoke), Erindale Park (Mississauga). Further details will be provided once registered.
- ✓ Starting, November 08, 2025 – December 20, 2025 (9:30-12:30pm)
- ✓ All Activity Materials will be provided
- ✓ An Exclusive “Young Steward” Patch Upon Completion
$250 for 7 weeks session
Our Commitment:
- ✓ Usually 1:5 Staff-to-Child Ratio
- ✓ Certified Outdoor Learning Educator
- ✓ Lead by male teachers
- ✓ Fully Insured
- ✓ Rigorous Safety & Weather Protocols
Lead Instructor & Founder
Waqas’s earliest memories were formed on a family farm, where the wilderness was his playground and his teacher. This upbringing forged a profound love for nature that he has carried through life—from hiking and camping to capturing its quiet beauty as a skilled nature photographer.
As a father of three children, he felt the pull of modern distractions and the challenge of screen addiction firsthand. This ignited a personal mission: to reconnect his own boys with the grounding power of the outdoors and to walk a path of modern manhood rooted in the timeless principles of Futuwwah (spiritual chivalry).
He discovered that nature is the ultimate classroom for healing, focus, and discipline. As a certified nature educator, from (TakeMeOutsideCanada and Outdoor Learning) he now combines this professional training with his personal journey to create The Wayfinder’s Path—a program dedicated to guiding the next generation of boys toward becoming strong, faithful, and capable men.
Instructor
Barkat is an adventurer at heart. He enjoys hiking, camping, fishing and honing his wilderness survival skills. He grew up exploring nature and enjoys educating and mentoring youth, by helping others deepen their appreciation for the outdoors and nature. He has traveled to explore his love of nature in China, U.S., Pakistan and across Canada. He studied at Queen’s University, and is an operations manager professionally. Recently, he became a new parent and enjoys spending time with family.
Instructor
Farah is very passionate about teaching children and facilitating their growth. She has her Early Childhood Education from Seneca College, Bachelors in Education from Ryerson and has studied Psychology at York University. She has spent 14 years working in the Region of Peel building extensive and diverse experience working with children of all needs in variety of learning settings.
What parents have to say about our program
Alhumdulillah this time my son came back with a lot more enthusiasm and sense of achievement. Planting a tree all by himself was a great activity to learn from. JazakAllah khair, the credit goes to Nature school team for bringing up ideas and making it possible. 👏
“BarakAllah feek”
My 11-year-old son had an amazing time at the Muslim Nature School! He absolutely loved the hands-on learning activities. I really appreciated how the program beautifully incorporated connections between nature and Islam, helping the children see the wonders of creation through an Islamic lens. I highly recommend this enriching and memorable experience for parents looking for both fun and meaningful learning for their children!
I’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation in my son, who was once shy and hesitant to speak up. After just three classes, he’s become more confident, bold, and articulate in group settings. The program strikes a perfect balance between Deen and Duniya, empowering our youth to become better Muslims and individuals.
What impresses me most is Brother Waqas and his team’s dedication and sincerity. They treat each child like their own, investing in their growth and development. I highly recommend this program to every parent looking to give their child a holistic education.
I’m absolutely thrilled with the Nature Program that my boys are enrolled in! The program has sparked love for nature, comfort and confidence in my boys. They eagerly look forward to Saturday mornings excited to learn new things and apply them in our local park. The program’s unique approach of Sunnah and Hadith, in action has not only nurtured their creativity but also instilled leadership qualities and a deeper connection with their Deen.
FAQ
What do we need to bring?
We provide all the cool equipment for our adventures! You’ll just need to send your son with a packed snack, a water bottle, and a set of extra clothes. We’ll send you a simple guide on what works best.
Does the group remain at the park location where the children were dropped off?
Yes, they will remain at the park designated for that week’s drop off.
How do you manage risk in the program?
We believe that developing courage (Shaja’ah) means learning to navigate challenges, not avoiding them. We don’t remove all risks; instead, we teach boys how to assess situations, manage challenges, and make responsible decisions. This is a core part of building competence and self-reliance.
A perfect example is our approach to tool use, like whittling with a carving knife. Using a tool is a significant responsibility and an honor. Our instructors introduce these skills progressively, building a foundation of respect, safety, and discipline first. A boy earns the privilege of using a tool by demonstrating his maturity and understanding.
While we create a safe and highly supervised environment, the responsibility of using a real tool comes with the possibility of natural consequences, including minor cuts. This structured process ensures that boys don’t just learn a skill; they build the character, confidence, and sound judgment of a true Wayfinder.
What happens if we arrive late?
Punctuality is a core practice of our program, reflecting the values of respect (Ihtiram) for the group and readiness for the day’s mission. Our sessions begin promptly at the scheduled time.
To honor the group’s focus and flow, we are unable to wait for late arrivals. Shortly after our opening circle, the group will move from the drop-off location to our ‘base camp’ or venture out on a trail. This opening circle contains crucial safety briefings and sets the intention for the day, making it an essential part of the experience.
If you are running late, you must contact the lead instructor by phone. They will share their location with you for you to find the group in the designated park.
What is the refund policy?
Due to the nature of the program and logistics involved currently there is no refund provided after the registration. This also allow us to keep the group size small due to stability.
Do we operate in all weather conditions?
We firmly believe that learning to thrive in all of Allah(SWT)’s seasons is essential for building character and resilience (Sabr). Our programs runs through rain, snow, or shine. In case of severe weather (like lightning storms or extreme wind warnings) when it makes the program or transportation dangerous, we will notify you to cancel.
On cold days, we don’t just endure; we learn and apply skills to stay warm: dressing in smart layers, staying active with dynamic games, building fires, and constructing effective shelters. Dress up instructions will be provided.
Rest assured, we have comprehensive safety procedures and emergency plans to ensure the group’s well-being in all weather conditions.
If you have any further questions or inquiries we are here to help. Please email us at: info@muslimnatureschool.com
Our Values
Our Values (The Wayfinder’s Code)
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Brotherhood (Ukhuwwah) We rise together. Every boy is responsible for his brother’s success and well-being.
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Courageous Action (Shaja’ah) We choose the harder right over the easier wrong. We act with integrity in the face of challenges.
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Selfless Service (Khidmah) We lead by serving. We are entrusted (Amanah) to leave our world and each other better than we found them.
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Mastery & Excellence (Itqan) We pursue excellence in all we do. We build, learn, and act with intention and skill.
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Reflective Insight (Firasah) We seek wisdom within. We practice quiet reflection to see the truth in ourselves and the world around us.
Our Mission
To forge the next generation of Muslim men—strong in spirit, skilled in hand, and steadfast in service to their Creator and community.
Our Vision
A brotherhood of confident and compassionate young Muslim men who serve as guardians of their faith and stewards of the Earth.
A different approach
🏔️ Out in All Seasons, Strong in All Conditions
True character is built when we embrace challenge, not avoid it. Our Wayfinders spend their time fully immersed in the natural world—rain, snow, or shine. This isn’t just about toughness; it’s about learning resilience (Sabr) and finding joy and wonder in all of Allah’s seasons. We don’t run from the weather; we learn to thrive in it.
📖🌳 Nature as a Sacred Classroom
We believe creation is a book filled with Divine signs (Ayat). Our mentors guide boys to slow down, practice contemplation (Tafakkur), and listen with their hearts. Through the patterns of the forest, they learn about balance, interdependence, and their sacred role as stewards (Amanah). Nature becomes more than a playground; it becomes a trusted teacher that deepens faith and inspires awe.
🛡️ Forging a True Brotherhood
Boys don’t just join a program; they enter a brotherhood (Ukhuwwah). This is a community built on shared values, mutual respect (Ihtiram), and righteous companionship (Suhbah). Many return season after season, forging deep bonds with mentors and peers. This lasting community is the foundation where boys support each other in becoming noble and capable young men.
🧗 Courage Through Guided Challenge
Futuwwah (spiritual chivalry) requires courage (Shaja’ah). We provide a safe, mentored space for healthy risk-taking—from mastering a knife for whittling to building and leading a team challenge. By learning to assess situations and trust their skills, boys build real-world confidence and self-reliance that extends into every area of their lives.
🎯 Guided by Mentors of Faith & Character
With low participant-to-mentor ratios, every boy receives the attention he needs to flourish. Our mentors are more than instructors; they are practicing Muslims who embody the principles they teach. They bring deep nature-connection skills, a passion for education, and a commitment to modeling the integrity and compassion of a true Fata (a noble youth).
🤲 A Brotherhood Open to All
We are dedicated to ensuring that as many boys as possible can walk The Wayfinder’s Path, regardless of their financial circumstances. In the spirit of community support and selflessness (Ithar), we strive to remove barriers to access. Learn more about our affordability and support options.
$250 for 7 week session