ISNA Atlanta Regional Convention 2025: A Celebration of Faith, Community, and Empowerment
By Crystal Habib, ISNA Communications and Social Media Coordinator
| | |
The ISNA Regional Convention Atlanta 2025 in collaboration with MANA (Muslim Alliance in North America), MYNA (Muslim Youth of North America) and YMTA (Young Muslim Talent of America), held at the vibrant Gas South Convention Center in Duluth, GA, on November 1-2, was a remarkable celebration of faith and community. Kicking off with an invigorating opening session, attendees were greeted by the visionary words of Joshua Salaam, President of MANA, alongside influential figures like Farhan Syed of ISNA and Efan Quadri from YMTA. Their collective message was one of empowerment and unity, setting an inspiring tone for the days to follow.
Among the highlight sessions was "Power of Faith: Unveiling the Strength of Faith for Self and Society," featuring the profound insights of Akanke Rasheed, Shamsi Ali, and Muhammad Bin Yahya Ninowy, moderated by Nabile Safdar. This discussion deeply explored the essence of faith as the cornerstone of a Muslim's existence, emphasizing that faith is not just a declaration but a heartfelt commitment. The speakers engaged the audience with thought-provoking reflections, urging participants to recognize the transformative power of belief in both personal and societal contexts.
In the session on the "Role of Islamic Education in Identity Formation," speakers Majida Abdul-Karim and Habeeb Quadri delved into the vital role of Islamic education in shaping the identities of youth as they navigate their dual heritage of being both American and Muslim. They emphasized that Islamic schools are not only centers of academic learning but also nurturing environments that reinforce core values. As one insightful quote highlighted, “Islamic schools emphasize core values, fostering a strong moral foundation for young Muslims to navigate contemporary challenges.” The speakers passionately articulated the necessity of these educational frameworks in cultivating character and strengthening community bonds, ensuring that young Muslims have the skills to thrive in today's complex world.
In the impactful session titled "Indifferent World: Sufferings in Palestine, Syria, and Sudan," speakers Shamsi Ali and Mohammed Awad confronted the dire humanitarian crises plaguing these regions. Their discussions were not only honest and heartfelt but also aimed at raising awareness and fostering solidarity with those enduring tremendous suffering. As Erfan Quadri poignantly remarked, “Dua is very important,” highlighting the significance of prayer and spiritual support in times of crisis. This session served as a reminder of the pressing need for empathy and action in the face of human suffering.
The session titled "Countering Islamophobia with Positive Action," moderated by Nabile Safdar, featured insightful contributions from Hiba Ghalib and Nabila Islam, who addressed the challenges posed by Islamophobia with thoughtful perspectives. Hiba Ghalib emphasized a proactive approach, stating, “We are not here against everyone who is here to harm us; we are here to help them.” The speakers passionately advocated for education and interfaith dialogue as essential tools for combating prejudice and fostering understanding, highlighting the importance of building bridges in an increasingly polarized world.
The convention culminated in an inspiring awards banquet that celebrated excellence within the community. The ISNA Muslim Organization Award was presented to Sr. Sumaya Khalifa of the Islamic Speakers Bureau, recognized for her exceptional outreach efforts with the quote, “In acknowledgment of distinguished innovation and effective outreach through ISB.” The ISNA Community Service Award was awarded to Imam Furquan Mohammad for his significant contributions to Dawah and community leadership, with a recognition quote stating, “In recognition of distinguished service in Dawah and interfaith dialogue.” The ISNA Outstanding Youth Award honored Mukhtar. The banquet featured special performances and heartfelt moments, making it a truly memorable celebration of faith and community.
The impactful sessions, dynamic speakers, and recognition of awardees created an atmosphere of camaraderie and inspiration. Attendees left energized, equipped with newfound perspectives on faith, identity, and social responsibility, all of which reinforce the vital role of community in nurturing a brighter future. The Atlanta Regional Convention 2025 was not just an event; it was a vibrant gathering of minds and hearts, united by the shared goal of uplifting one another in faith and action.
| | |
ISNA Congratulates Newly Elected Leaders
The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) extends its heartfelt congratulations to Ghazala Hashmi and Zohran Mamdani on their historic victories as Lieutenant Governor of Virginia and Mayor of New York City, respectively.
Senator Hashmi becomes the first Muslim woman elected to statewide office as Lt. Governor, and Mayor Mamdani is the first Muslim Mayor of New York, the largest city in America. These milestones mark proud moments for the American Muslim community.
We also congratulate other winners, including Sam Rasoul for winning the House of Delegates District 38 in Virginia.
We wish all leaders success as they serve their constituencies with dedication and integrity.
| |
Call for Proposals Now Open
Visit www.isna.net for more details
| | Use discount code ISNA10 before December 1, 2025 to receive a 10% Early Bird Discount on your General Conference Registration tickets! | | 62nd Annual Convention Featured Videos | | |
Cultivating Piety and Mindfulness in a Distracted World | ISNA62
Main Session 1 at the 62nd Annual ISNA Convention held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL.
Cultivating Piet and Mindfulness in a Distracted World
Relentless noise-politics, media, work, and communal commitments-competed with our finite attention, challenge our ability to balance, and weaken our connection to faith. This session calls to action: a charge to resist the clamor, rise with prophetic clarity, and serve with unwavering integrity.
Speakers: Shamsi Ali and Salam Al-Marayati
Moderator: Faizan Haq
Guests: Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson introduced by Syed Shahnawaz Khan
| | |
Gaza After 2 Years by Br Azhar Azeez | ISNA62
Remarks by former ISNA President, Br. Azhar Azeez in session 6A at the 62nd Annual ISNA Convention held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL.
| | |
MYNA X ICJC Fall Retreat is Here!
The ICJC Youth Department and MYNA are teaming up to host an unforgettable camp in Kansas from November 7–10! Open to ages 12–18 (with opportunities for 19+ to apply as counselors), this retreat is packed with learning, reflection, and fun.
Register now to claim the $25 Early Bird Discount (ends Oct. 11th)! Spots are limited, so don’t wait—secure your spot today at icjc.org/youth
| | PLEASE NOTE THE PRICE INCREASE DATE CHANGE | | |
Voices of Justice: Islam’s Legacy of Speaking Truth
Our winter camps are back and registration is open!
We want youth to rediscover the rich tradition of justice and advocacy rooted in our faith. Voices of Justice will explore how speaking truth to power has always been a part of Islam, beginning with the prophets and continuing through generations of courageous believers. From the defiance of Prophet Musa AS before Pharaoh, to Bilal RA's stand for racial equality, to the compassionate governance of Umar ibn al-Khattab RA, and the economic leadership of Khadijah RA, our history is filled with those who rose against oppression. We want to connect these legacies to modern-day icons like Malcolm X and Sheikh Omar Mukhtar, empowering youth to see justice not as a trend, but as a sacred inheritance.
Join us this winter for an unforgettable week as we delve into this amazing theme!
Register here: myna.org/camp
| | |
MYNA Camp Counselors Needed!
Ready to make an impact this winter? MYNA Winter Camp is looking for dedicated counselors to lead, mentor, and inspire the next generation of Muslim youth!
Camp Dates:
If you’re 19+, passionate about youth, and ready to build lifelong memories, apply now!
Scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/mynawrccapply to apply today.
| | |
Named after cave Hira, to which Prophet Muhammadﷺ would habitually retreat, and where he received the first revelation, Hira Intensive aims to cultivate a vibrant, diverse, and engaged environment for students to focus on spirituality and self-reflection. Hira brings the very best of Muslim American scholarship to young Muslims, facilitating the highest quality instruction with renowned scholars from across the country, as well as a robust personal development curriculum.Student Testimonial
“Everything about Hira struck home to the heart, and really made me think and have helped me change certain habits in my life for the better. Hira was truly a life changing experience that I would gladly participate in a hundred times over.” - Saba T
Click here to learn more and fill out the interest form: https://docs.google.com/forms/u/1/d/1mWjnbbBzFsP0AgF9W2CDkY_Gar0fWfA_5sYf1c41Upk/edit
| | |
ISNA Mental Health
Understand Mental Health - Avoid Mental Illness
| | |
January 31, 2026
Marriott St. Louis West
660 Maryville Centre Dr, St. Louis, MO 63141
Available Tickets:
- Conference Only Ticket - $35.00
- Banquet Only Ticket - $50.00
- Conference and Banquet Ticket - $75.00
- Youth Ticket (12-18 yrs) - $25.00
- Banquet Table of 10 - $500.00
| | |
A Program of ISNA
#POWEREDBYISNA
| | Are You Subscribed to Islamic Horizons Magazine? | | The November/December Issue is here! Get your copy today. | |
The First Latino-Led Mosque in the Midwest
Building the Ojalá Foundation
By Nora Zaki
Sept/Oct 25
Illinois is home to over 2 million Latinos, predominantly of Mexican heritage. Of that 2 million, about 820,000 live in Chicago making Latinos the second largest ethnic group in the city as of 2020. With that comes a flourishing Latino Muslim community. The Ojalá (pronounced o-Hala) Foundation is stepping up to meet the growing needs of Chicago’s diverse Latino Muslim community...
| | |
Spreading Enlightenment Through Calligraphy with Each Brush Stroke
An Interview with Elinor Aishah Holland
by Najia Shuaib
Sept/Oct 25
In the world of Islamic calligraphy, where every line is a testament to devotion, dedication, and precision, New York-based calligrapher Elinor Aishah Holland plays her part to strengthen the connection between faith and artistic expression. For Holland, spiritual text is enough for the mind and the heart. “It supports the faith, and the faith supports the practice,” she said. In an exclusive interview with Islamic Horizons, Holland offered a glimpse into her inspiring path by revealing the intricacies of her craft...
| | |
Evangelical Christians and the Embrace of War
Recovering Jesus’ Non-violent Ethic in an Age of American Militarism
By Dennis P. Allan
Sept/Oct 25
Christian theologian and ethicist Stanley Hauerwas opened the preface to his book War and the American Difference (2011), published 10 years after the United States launched its so-called “War on Terror,” with an admission that he doesn’t remember a time when the country wasn’t at war. The reason was because “the United States has been involved in either open or clandestine warfare for 225 out the 243 years of its existence. Said another way, America can then be considered a nation of war.”...
| |  |
Charity in Islam
How to Give the ‘Correct’ Way
By Syed Imtiaz Ahmad
Sept/Oct 25
The framework and practice of charity in Islam comes from the stories of the earliest Muslims. When someone visited their home, they offered food even though they often did not have enough for themselves. When someone needed clothes, they offered some of their own even though they did not have enough to clothe themselves. They avoided publicly declaring their acts of charity, saying, “We feed you for the sake of God alone, no reward do we desire from you, nor thanks” (Quran 76:9)...
| | | |
ISNA Convention 2026 in Detroit, Michigan
We at the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) are delighted to announce that the 63rd Annual ISNA Convention will take place in Detroit, Michigan, over the Labor Day Weekend, September 4 - 7, 2026.
The ISNA convention is celebrated as one of the largest annual gatherings of Muslims in America, drawing thousands of participants. This convention promises to be an inspiring gathering, bringing together community members, families, leaders, scholars, youth, the business community, and other guests from across the country. With thought-provoking sessions, uplifting spiritual programs, engaging youth activities, interfaith dialogues, and a dynamic bazaar, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
The program will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and special events designed to address timely issues, strengthen community bonds, and highlight opportunities for growth and service.
Detroit, with its rich history and vibrant Muslim community, will serve as the perfect host city for this national gathering of faith, knowledge, and unity.
Convention Highlights:
· Keynote sessions with distinguished speakers
· Interactive workshops and panel discussions
· Networking opportunities for professionals and students
· Special events and exhibitions
· Art Exhibit, Film Festival, Science Fair, Robotics
· Basketball Tournament
· Community recognition and award ceremonies
· Interfaith Events and Activities
· And much more
We invite all members, partners, and the broader community to join us in this landmark event. Your presence will help make the convention a meaningful and impactful experience.
Stay tuned for more details on registration, hotel accommodations, and program highlights.
| | Other Upcoming Events - Save the Date | |
ISNA Is Hiring!
Account Manager
Outreach Coordinator
Interfaith Program Manager
Visit ISNA.NET for more information
| | | | |
