Shazia was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan. She was part of a loving and vibrant interfaith community, which became a normal part of life. She was trained in Karachi as an OB/GYN and also holds a BA in Islamic Studies, with special interest in Islamic Psychology and Counseling. She is blessed with a husband, three children and a grandchild.

Her academic research in psychiatry led her to co-author War Trauma in Veterans and Their Families. She offers Islamic Counsling, in addition to Muslim education and support groups, as a behavioral coach. Shazia is passionate about the well-being of youth and has authored books for young minds.

Shazia speaks Urdu, English, Punjabi and Hindi. She can also read, write and understand Arabic.

You can often find Shazia sharing in a variety of programs at Retreat House. She is part of the leadership team of Common Ground, our monthly lunch-and-learn about values and issues discussed through a multi-faith, experiential lens. Shazia joined the RH Board in 2025. She also enjoys yoga, gardening, herbs, reading, cooking and helping people.

Nico began his meditation journey as a teenager, and has practiced in a wide variety of traditions from cultures around the world.  He believes that meditation is an innate and universal experience available to everyone.  It has been one of the great inspirations of his life, and he loves sharing his perspectives and experiences with friends from all backgrounds as we walk together on the path of love and awareness.