Khalil I. Rantissi is a Research Associate with the YSMENA Program at Western University, contributing to CIHR-funded projects that improve culturally responsive HIV, sexual, and mental health care for MENA newcomer youth across six Canadian provinces. He has coordinated national teams of community research leads, streamlined ethics approvals, and developed bilingual recruitment and consent tools that expand accessibility and inclusion. He has facilitated arts-based research methods such as photovoice, collage, and storytelling circles, and presented findings at academic and community forums.

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As an artist and community facilitator, Khalil integrates creative practice into advocacy and knowledge mobilization. His mixed-media and painting works have been showcased at Toronto Newcomer Week, and he has led collaborative art workshops for the Trans Photovoice project and other newcomer initiatives. His artistic projects, including Where the River Meets the Fire and Roots & Blooms, highlight resilience, identity, and community healing.

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Alongside his research and artistic work, Khalil serves as a Settlement Counsellor, where he supports refugees and immigrants in housing, legal, mental health, and employment pathways. With a Master’s in International Studies and Diplomacy and certifications in Agile Project Management, Results-Based Management, and Gender-Based Analysis Plus, he brings over a decade of experience advancing equity, inclusion, and arts-based community empowerment.