Daraja: Stairway to Your Higher Self

Exploring MANA’s Mission, Vision, and Exciting Projects for 2024

In this episode, we take a closer look at the inspiring work of the Muslim Alliance of North America (MANA), a grassroots organization dedicated to empowering Muslim communities through social justice, spiritual development, and advocacy. MANA’s mission is to uplift underserved populations, foster unity, and drive impactful change through innovative programs and collaborative initiatives. Guided by a vision of equity, faith, and service, MANA plays a critical role in addressing the challenges faced by Muslims in America while building bridges of understanding and progress. We’re joined by two remarkable guests: Joshua Salaam, Chaplain at Duke University and a leading voice in the Muslim community, and Akanke Rasheed, Vice President of MANA, who share their unique perspectives on MANA’s work. Together, we discuss MANA's recent partnership with MASCON, a conference that focuses on professional and leadership development in the Muslim community, and its initiatives to engage youth and cultivate future leaders. We also explore details of MANA’s upcoming 2024 Convention in Chicago, an event poised to unite thousands for workshops, discussions, and transformative experiences. Tune in to learn more about MANA’s vital mission and how you can get involved! As a bonus all listeners all guests who register using Code "MANA100!" will receive free full access to MASCON 2024 in Chicago. Links: MASCON: https://masconvention.org/ MANA: https://manajustice.org/ Akanke's Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/10L8eCBRPGRl6vIyuAIzgD?si=fNDpvGP0TKi5FeO-zB04Gg&nd=1&dlsi=d4e02faeb5624322 Joshua Salaam: https://students.duke.edu/personnel/joshua-salaam/

A Conversation with Amina Demir, COO of Zakat Foundation

In this episode of Daraja, host Umar sits down with Amina Demir, the Chief Operating Officer of the Zakat Foundation of America, to delve into the challenges, opportunities, and intricacies of leading a global humanitarian organization. The discussion highlights the impactful services provided by the Zakat Foundation, which is dedicated to addressing poverty, providing relief, and empowering communities worldwide through the Islamic principle of Zakat—an obligation of charity that serves as a cornerstone of compassion and social equity. Amina also shares her personal journey of growth, the lessons she’s learned as a leader, and the values that guide her work. This episode provides an intimate look into her experiences, the mission of the Zakat Foundation, and the critical role of zakat in modern philanthropy. Whether you're interested in humanitarian leadership, nonprofit innovation, or the transformative power of giving, this conversation offers a wealth of insight. Links: - Zakat Foundation of America - https://www.zakat.org - Zakat FAQs - https://www.zakat.org/zakat/faq - Zakat Guide - https://www.islamic-relief.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/zakat/

Veganism and Islam

In this episode, Umar sits down with Zehra Abbas to delve into the unique journey of being a Muslim vegan. This conversation highlights how Zehra embraces a values-centered approach to veganism, rooted in Islamic principles and prophetic teachings that advocate for compassion, respect, and environmental stewardship. Throughout this episode, the first in a two-part series, Umar and Zehra discuss the challenges, opportunities, and benefits of a vegan lifestyle from a Muslim perspective. They also touch on Zehra's impactful work, inspired by the timeless principles of Islam and universal ideals. Join us for an inspiring conversation that transcends dietary choices and explores a holistic way of living in harmony with faith and the world around us. Links: Zehra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zee-hra/ Studio.89: https://studio89.org/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/studiooo89/ Green Islam: https://www.greenislam.org/ Environmental Calculator: https://www.footprintcalculator.org/home/en ⁠50 Reasons for a Plant Forward Future⁠ [https://www.canva.com/design/DAGSF1wRaIY/f4zO5-Fr4RMgAGDsQ0fmIg/edit?utm_content=DAGSF1wRaIY&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton]

Palestine, Politics, Prejudice, and Peace

In this episode, Umar and Rush Darwish engage in a thought-provoking discussion covering Palestine, prejudice, the presidential race, and peace. Rush sheds light on the struggles in Palestine, emphasizing the humanitarian impact and the global political forces at play. He also addresses the reality of prejudice in various forms, recounting personal experiences and the challenges activists face when fighting for equity and justice. The conversation then delves into the 2024 presidential race, focusing on the uncommitted voters and those choosing alternative candidates. Rush explores the implications of how we exercise our right to vote, highlighting the importance of making informed decisions, even when disillusioned by the primary contenders. He stresses that voting is not just about choosing a candidate but about exercising a fundamental right that can influence change on a larger scale. Throughout the episode, Rush underscores the importance of unity, bridging divides, and working toward lasting peace, both locally and globally, in the pursuit of justice and human rights. Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/rush-darwish-0929868 https://twitter.com/rush4congress?lang=en https://abpaillinois.com/abpa-president-rush-darwish-named-to-il-sec-of-state-elect-giannoulias-transition-committee/ http://www.rushphotovideo.com/

Empowering Change: Dr. Reem on Leading and Multiplying Impact

In this episode, Umar sits down with Dr. Reem, a global thought leader in cybersecurity and digital transformation, particularly in the energy sector. Dr. Reem, a passionate and empathetic leader, shares insights from her extensive 23-year career journey, including her role as the Digital Transformation Leader at Kuwait Oil Company, where she spearheaded innovative changes in corporate solutions and digital oil fields. As the first female CISO in Kuwait’s oil sector, she made significant strides in elevating the country’s national cybersecurity maturity. Dr. Reem’s leadership extends beyond technology, as she is a founding partner of Women in CyberSecurity Middle East (WiCSME), and she advocates for inclusion and diversity in the tech world. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes her belief in being a “multiplier”—someone who not only grows from individual successes but creates opportunities that benefit the broader community. Her involvement in global forums and commitment to building stronger teams showcase her dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation. The episode delves into her journey as a mom, a servant leader, and a woman breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field, inspiring others with her belief that when one rises, everyone rises. Dr. Reem's Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/reem_al_shammari_let_your_passion_lead_the_way?subtitle=en LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-reem-faraj-alshammari-b6324159 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-reem-faraj-alshammari-b6324159] Dr. Reem on the web: https://www.govinfosecurity.com/authors/dr-reem-aishammari-ciso-kuwait-oil-company-co-founder-women-in-cyber-i-3707