40 YR. NOM. BIOS | The Atlanta Masjid

40 Y.O. NOM. BIOS

UNDER 40 YEARS NOMINATION BIOS

Jayda

Ahmad

UNDER 40 YRS. NOM. VOTING

Give the year and location you took your Shahadatain.

2013 Location: Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam

What is your marital Status? If married, how many years?

Married. 1 year & 3 months.

Highest Level of Education

Bachelors Degree

What is your Occupational or Job Title?

Community Organizer

How many years of service do you have in your current occupation?

4 years

List your significant occupational service accomplishments.

1. Established and currently manages a national non-profit organization dedicated to serving Muslim young adults.
2. Successfully initiated and managed young adult programs and events for the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam.
3. Completed an internship as a project developer at a reputable development company.
4. Applied a grassroots approach to organize and implement social events within the Muslim community.

These accomplishments highlight my experience and contributions in community organizing demonstrating my commitment to serving and enhancing the community.

What is your current/former Masjid affiliation?

Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam

List the community service you are involved or have been involved in. Please provide the length of service.

1. Interfaith Work with Focolare Movement: I have been involved in events and currently maintain a relationship with the movement.

2. Mohammed Schools of Atlanta: Served as the Alumni Representative on the Consultative board for 2 years.

3. The Muslim Mix Non-profit organization: Served as the Program Director for 1 year.

4. IMAN Atlanta Organization: Worked as the Volunteer Coordinator for 3 years.

5. Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam: Currently serving as the Lead for the Young Adult Committee.

6. Muslim Culture Con Non-profit Organization: Currently holding the position of Chair.

List the leadership skills and expertise you would bring to the Majlis Ash Shura Board.

I have acquired valuable leadership skills and expertise through my experience serving on boards, committees, and in various leadership roles. Here is a list of what I can bring to the Majlis Ash-Shura Board:

**Leadership Skills:**
- Effective Communication: I excel in conveying a clear vision and goals to inspire and engage community members.
- Active Listening: I am skillful at understanding the needs and concerns of the community.
- Problem Solving: I am skilled at identifying and addressing issues, and offering innovative solutions.
- Empathy and Resilience: I am empathetic and do not give up in the face of challenges and setbacks.
- Accountability, Strategic Thinking, Inspiration, and Adaptability: I possess these essential leadership qualities.

**Expertise:**
- Program Development and Evaluation: I have expertise in creating and assessing community programs to ensure they meet their goals.
- Organizational Management: My experience in managing organizations can be an asset in coordinating board activities.
- Networking and Collaboration: I have a strong network and enjoy collaborating with others to achieve shared objectives.
- Community Development: I understand the principles of community development, helping identify needs and resources effectively.

These skills and expertise will contribute to the effectiveness and success of the Majlis Ash-Shura Board in addressing the community's needs and aspirations.

What is your vision for and commitment/contribution to the Atlanta Masjid Community?

IWDM regularly reminded us that "Al-Islam is not a plan for individual life directly, but a plan for community life, and it is within community life that you find the best of individual life." Our community is our responsibility, and by taking responsibility, I want to support The Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam in its mission to provide a center for religious development, and social, educational, economic, and cultural enrichment.

My vision for the community is to continue building a sense of unity, connectedness, and an organizational structure to facilitate consistent programming and services for the Masjid. Insha’Allah, this will help strengthen our Islamic social identity and achieve a robust Islamic community life with active involvement from our community members.

I am committed to contributing to this vision through active participation, leadership, and dedication to the growth and well-being of the Atlanta Masjid community. This includes collaborating with community members, providing support, and working towards the shared goal of creating a vibrant and flourishing Islamic community that embodies the principles of Al-Islam.

In three years, where do you envision the progress of the Ummah will be, as a result of your service on the Majlis Ash Shura?

As a representative and leader for young adults in our community, I envision a continuous progression in bridging generations while building for the future of our Ummah over the next three years. My service on the Majlis Ash-Shura will focus on fostering unity, collaboration, operational structure, community programs, and the active involvement of all community members, regardless of age. This approach will lead to a more cohesive Ummah, ensuring that it can serve the spiritual and social needs of its members and the wider community.

What is your birth month?

July

What are we doing well at the Atlanta Masjid?

Alhamdulillah, the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam is thriving, and there are several aspects in which we are excelling. We have been a steadfast institution for 65 years, a testament to our longevity and continued commitment to our community. The leadership that initially founded and guided this community over the years has successfully passed on its values and vision to subsequent leaders, contributing to our current state of strength and stability.

Moreover, the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam has fostered a sense of unity, love, and family among its members. This close-knit community has played a significant role in our success. Our ability to maintain these qualities and traditions is a testament to what we are doing well at the Atlanta Masjid. We will continue to build upon these strengths to ensure the well-being and growth of our community.

What can we improve upon?

Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam can make several improvements to enhance its operations and community engagement. Specifically, we can work on:

1. Communication Systems: Implement more efficient communication systems to foster better information exchange between leadership and community members, ensuring everyone is informed and engaged in Masjid activities.

2. Generational Bridge-Building: Develop strategies and programs aimed at bridging generational gaps within the community, encouraging active participation and shared ownership across all age groups.

3. Masjid Development: Focus on the continued development and growth of the Masjid, creating an environment that accommodates the evolving needs and expectations of our community members.

By addressing these areas, we can further strengthen our community and ensure that the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam remains a vibrant and responsive institution for all.

Shaheerah Bradshaw

UNDER 40 YRS. NOM. VOTING

Give the year and location you took your Shahadatain.

2011-Shadatain institute Oakland CA took Shahidah with Faheem Shuaibe. My parents were in the first resurrection and I attended Clara Mohammed schools in Oakland CA I was also born to Muslim parents before taking shahadah at 11 years old.

What is your marital Status? If married, how many years?

Not Married

Highest Level of Education

Bachelors Degree

What is your Occupational or Job Title?

Affordable Housing Funding Associate Director

How many years of service do you have in your current occupation?

7 years

List your significant occupational service accomplishments.

My first accomplishment is being awarded by the university of Miami and Facebook (META) for my work in disaster and emergency response. Secondly, being able to facilitate the development and implementation of government housing programs by collaborating with key stakeholders to ensure that affordable housing and services are available to all. Last but certainly not least serving over 3,000 families in the past 7 years to ensure safe spaces for them to be and grow their family.

These accomplishments highlight my experience and contributions in community organizing demonstrating my commitment to serving and enhancing the community.

What is your current/former Masjid affiliation?

Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam 2017 - Present

List the community service you are involved or have been involved in. Please provide the length of service.

Currently I volunteer at Mohammed schools of Atlanta in the 3rd grade class and Soccer program.

List the leadership skills and expertise you would bring to the Majlis Ash Shura Board.

The leadership skills I would be able to deliver on is providing additional support to the goals and key objectives to the Majlis Ash Shura board. I have a myriad of experience from working in faith based communities, non profit, finance and grant funding, resource coordination, social services, event planning, mothering and having a family, and a student of Al-Islam. All of the key attributes would be a great addition and to represent for the under 40 position. I believe that my abilities will be able to help with the transformation and development of the masjid and the Muslim community at large in Atlanta.

What is your vision for and commitment/contribution to the Atlanta Masjid Community?

Since 2015 I decide to relocate to the community to continue with the mindset of growth. I was able to finalize that relocation in 2017; having volunteered and being able to contribute not only as a supporter but also brining business to the community my vision would help to actualize what is shows to be collective, and inclusive. I see a visit where people don’t feel indebted to participate but motivated to participate in an established way of things to continue with the legacy of success.

In three years, where do you envision the progress of the Ummah will be, as a result of your service on the Majlis Ash Shura?

I envision a completely renovated facilities of the masjid and the school. I truly see opportunity to upgrade facilities and services on a regular basis. I envision the community becoming more impactful by modeling what it’s means to be fully self sufficient and taking that model and sharing it across those in the IWDM administration.

What is your birth month?

May

What are we doing well at the Atlanta Masjid?

Being welcoming to those who relocate and families. I appreciate the staff and volunteers who have supported me during my own transition which is why I want to see the community prosper.

What can we improve upon?

I believe that transparency is key to improving upon any changes or information. I think there peoples gossip has affected the way other participate in the community. It isn’t affected mine in the way to steer me away from participating but also inviting those same people to change their perspectives and still contribute in a way when really and truly the options are slim when it comes to a organization that is on the heels of 65 years of faith based programs. I would like to see a community awards and recognition program be implemented to recognize others who were in the past and current community members and the congregation for their support this includes vendors, volunteers, or anyone who has contributed to the impact and the vibes of masjid itself.

Summiyah Austin Siddeeq

UNDER 40 YRS. NOM. VOTING

Give the year and location you took your Shahadatain.

1985 - Saint Louis, Missouri

What is your marital Status? If married, how many years?

Married, 21 years

Highest Level of Education

Bachelors Degree

What is your Occupational or Job Title?

Business Owner at Halal Madina Market located in Atlanta Masjid plaza.

Previously: Strategic Partnership Manager Entrepreneur

How many years of service do you have in your current occupation?

1 Year as Business Owner of Halal Madina Market. 7+ years as Strategic Partnership Manager

List your significant occupational service accomplishments.

— Graduate of Founder Gym - a highly competitive Silicon Valley course focused on raising capital for technology startups.
— Designed and taught digital literacy required courses for all first year students at Agnes Scott College
— Created strategic partnerships with Jamaican government offices (with ministries of finance, investments and tourism) to further a local project.
— Globalized business connections by participating in technology entrepreneurship summits in Atlanta, Rwanda, Jamaica and Haiti

What is your current/former Masjid affiliation?

Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam

List the community service you are involved or have been involved in. Please provide the length of service.

Atlanta Masjid Ansari Board (2 years), Muslim Holiday Team (2 years). Co-Chair of Youth Development Outreach Services at Atlanta Masjid (2 years). Mohammed Schools of Atlanta Sister to Sister Program (6 years). Lupe Fiasco Foundation (3 years), Kile's World Foundation (1 year). Muslim Student Association Agnes Scott College President (2 Years)

List the leadership skills and expertise you would bring to the Majlis Ash Shura Board.

Design thinking, empathy, iterative processes, clear & thoughtful communication, critical thinking, and technical expertise.

What is your vision for and commitment/contribution to the Atlanta Masjid Community?

I once attended a conference in Montreal, Canada representing Indigenous people. There, a project was presented as a futuristic visioning of community life 1000 years into the future. I was deeply moved by the intentionality of designing a future centered on healthy family life, no drugs or alcohol consumption, leaders in government, religious life, education, business and more.

This experience made me realize that making a real impact means thinking beyond the here and now. What do we want for our community a thousand years from now? How do we set the stage for that future today? These questions guide how I approach community work—always aiming for a sustainable and prosperous legacy that spans generations

In three years, where do you envision the progress of the Ummah will be, as a result of your service on the Majlis Ash Shura?

I envision us embracing our roles as creative visionaries, fostering innovation, and embodying a bold yet compassionate approach to community development, InshaAllah.

What is your birth month?

April

What are we doing well at the Atlanta Masjid?

We are maintaining weekly jumah attendance, increasing our youth programs, growing our business life and gaining new members daily.

What can we improve upon?

I believe we need educational and economic intentionality that spans beyond our business community and into personal sectors to ensure that all members can afford to live in the community we are growing.

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Kinda

Abdus- Saboor

UNDER 40 YRS. NOM. VOTING

Give the year and location you took your Shahadatain.

I was raised Muslim

What is your marital Status? If married, how many years?

Married, 16 years

Highest Level of Education

Doctorate Degree

What is your Occupational or Job Title?

Attorney, Consultant

How many years of service do you have in your current occupation?

11 years

List your significant occupational service accomplishments.

Senior Lecturer of Law at Georgia State University College of Law: Taught lawyering seminar and Juvenile Law. Worked on cultural awareness initiatives at national institutes committed to equitable legal education. Developed and facilitated the inaugural cultural awareness seminar for first-year law students. Served as a mentor to law students throughout their tenure at GSU.

Associate at Secret Firm, P.C.: Worked as the sole associate at small family law firm. Worked directly with Senior Attorney on developing case analysis and strategy, drafting legal documents and consulting with clients. Legal work in personal injury, family law, criminal defense, and business law.

What is your current/former Masjid affiliation?

Atlanta Masjid/Masjid An-Nur

List the community service you are involved or have been involved in. Please provide the length of service.

Though I have not held a formal position in community service with an organization since college, throughout my professional career, I often serve the community by providing informal pro bono legal support. I frequently consult on family law and other legal matters. Additionally, I have provided pro bono services drafting documents to aid in business and/or legal matters for community members. I also consistently support fundraising efforts via donations and other charitable drives and projects in any way possible.

List the leadership skills and expertise you would bring to the Majlis Ash Shura Board.

Through my professional experience as an attorney, I have honed my skills in legal analysis and strategic planning. My analytical mind, coupled with an inherent empathetic nature helps me to effectively consider multiple sides of an issue, while considering the impact - directly and indirectly - on those involved. Further, I have a keen understanding of formal process and procedure, which will aid in maintaining order and consistency in Majlis function and performance.

Complementing those skills, through my practice of law and my family life (as a wife and mother of 4), I have developed a strong sense of structural organization and planning. In order for any entity to run efficiently and effectively, proper planning is necessary. I will contribute to the Atlanta Masjid planning proactively and managing logistics to ensure that those plans are upheld.

Lastly, growing up in this community, I have the benefit of seeing our community through several stages of my own life. I witnessed the needs of the community though the lens of a child, teenager, college student, young adult, and now mother and adult. That unique perspective will benefit the Majlis in advocating for all members of the community.

What is your vision for and commitment/contribution to the Atlanta Masjid Community?

I have been thinking a lot about the future of the Atlanta Masjid community since I was nominated for this position, which just happened to fall around the time the masjid celebrated its 65th anniversary. The Atlanta Masjid community has come so far, and yet the potential to evolve is limitless. Where should we be going? What does the next 65 years look like? And who will be involved in maintaining the momentum?

While I don’t yet have the answers to those questions, I believe that I can critically and consistently commit myself to playing an active role in crafting the vision and manifesting it. The foundation of this community was built on the desire to create a sustaining community that served as place of worship and community life. Our predecessors succeeded in developing that. Now it is time for us to take that community to the next level - Islamically, financially, socially, and in every other facet. And when I see that community, it’s a utopia that has the businesses, the social spaces, the emotional support, and of course, Islamic foundation. I am committed to that vision: the details of which I think we are still in the stages of figuring out.

In three years, where do you envision the progress of the Ummah will be, as a result of your service on the Majlis Ash Shura?

Insha’Allah, I hope that in three years I would have consistently been present in leading the Atlanta Masjid toward a more financially and organizationally sustainable entity. While our community has done an amazing job at carrying us throughout the 65 year tenure of its existence, I believe that we have the capacity to go further if we utilize resources that fall outside of the community as well. I would like to play a role in expanding our reach outward. I think that our financial growth is contingent upon expanding our reach beyond our membership to provide the financial backing of our operations. Beyond that, utilizing the financial experts in our community to develop financial systems that utilize more modern approaches to fundraising and wealth building.

I hope that we will also have more of a commitment to carving out intentional spaces for community members at different phases of life. Our programming touches on a number of general topics, Alhamdulillah. I believe it would be beneficial to develop programming and services that are catered to the youth and elderly that have formal structure/plans that support the community members at those pivotal stages in life. Additionally, I hope that I play a part in creating some sort of family support system that aids in producing healthy long-lasting marriages and family development. And in the instances of divorce, supporting and navigating healthy co-parenting.

What is your birth month?

February

What are we doing well at the Atlanta Masjid?

Creating and maintaining community. The Atlanta Masjid has the most potent community life that I have ever witnessed at any masjid. The energy is unmatched. And I think that the masjid does a great job of fostering that sense of community consistently, amidst tragedy and triumph.

What can we improve upon?

In any space, there is room for improvement. While I believe that the Atlanta Masjid does a phenomenal job at fostering community life, I think that there are some gaps in how we are shaping the community. In addition to the points I made in responses above, there are three areas that standout as areas with potential for growth: Islamic studies program, partnership with Mohammed schools, and serving the needs of all members of the community.

First, I would love to see a formal Islamic studies program through the masjid - one that has been crafted with a wholistic curriculum with structured levels and a process for advancement and matriculation. Alhamdulillah, the Quranic studies program has just started and we are heading in that direction and there may be other things happening behind the scenes, but I believe we would greatly benefit from that as a community. Of course, everyone is not able to immerse themselves in Islamic studies, so integrating structured programs that provide a more flexible alternative would lead us to a more learned community and thus a stronger, Muslim community.

Second, I would like to see a more formal partnership between Mohammed Schools and the masjid. I believe there exists great potential for developing a strong Islamic studies and Arabic program at the school through collaboration with the masjid. I also believe the Islamic studies and Arabic programs are just the beginning, and that such a partnership could support the school in becoming a top tier educational institution in Atlanta.

And lastly in regard to our community members, I have noticed a void in two demographics: teenagers and the mature youth. With our teenage and high school aged community members, we have an undoubtedly created a safe space for our next generation. I think, to them it feels like home. They feel comfortable. They seem content. But I have noticed that our teenagers sometimes drift and then come back. I think that we need programming and structure that keeps our teens and young adults present through those formative years of identity development and islamic identity. Similarly, I think our community could benefit from structured services and programming for our mature youth to ensure that they are receiving the support and services that they need in that latter phase of life. Along those same lines in service to the community, I think a more structured support of building sustaining families, integrating principles from social work and psychology, would help us to build stronger families.

With that being said, I also recognize the strains of our community. We are stretched thin with capital - financial, social and human capital. All of the things I identified requires capital. And changes and growth take time. It is easy to point the finger, I am hoping to have the opportunity to also be a part of the progress that is sure to come.