It is past due that Muslims here in America [Minnesota in particular] start to concentrate and plan for the future. The youth today are the future leaders of our community, and should be the focus of our future planning. It is imperative for the community to invest ample energy, resources and money to encourage and provide the youth with all the necessary skills needed to become exemplary human beings and representatives of this noble tradition. Therefore, with the guidance of GOD Almighty, we have established the first ever scholarship exclusively for Minnesota Youth.
“I am passionate about helping students fund their education along with becoming future leaders in society. MYLA has helped the community in many ways, and yet has the potential to make a much greater impact on many more students.”
Sami’s role includes overseeing all operations of the board, motivating and supporting board members and operations, assessing progress to date on strategic plan, and instituting efficiencies to better fund, expand, and strengthen MYLA. He also manages the MYLA endowment fund, including soliciting donations, overseeing deposits/distributions, growing the fund, and supporting the electronic scholarship application process.
“MYLA is a unique organization in that they not only provide scholarships, but also form relationships with students and provide the tools and resources for those students to become future community leaders. There is a major need for MYLA in the Muslim community, from providing interest free loans to helping low-income students, there is so much we have yet to achieve.”
Aisha’s role includes building relationships with local organizations and institutions, supporting MYLA’s strategic vision and direction as laid out in the strategic plan, executing special projects as needed, and assisting in fundraising for the various funds, including educational awards and endowment.
“I was inspired to join MYLA as it was started by a few active members of the local Minnesota Muslim community, run by and sustained by the local community. The enthusiasm, drive, and dedication of my fellow board members inspires me to push myself so we can realize the further potential and opportunities that lay ahead for MYLA.”
Sumran’s role includes monitoring and growing revenues and overseeing all financial reporting, donor transactions, award letters, scholarship payments, taxes, reimbursements, and payments.
“As a two-time recipient of MYLA scholarships as an undergraduate, I am indebted to the organization. I joined the board in order to give back and help other students receive awards, just like I did. MYLA is the only organization in Minnesota that I know of that provides scholarships and interest-free loans to Muslim students.”
Rima’s role includes coordinating the entire scholarship process, including outreach, applications, review, awards, and networking with mentors.
“As a MYLA scholarship recipient, I always felt compelled to give back to the community and organization that helped achieve my academic dreams with no strings attached. I am grateful that Allah has given me the opportunity to be part of the important work that is being done by MYLA.”
Kimiya’s role includes managing logistics for events, workshops, fundraisers, and award ceremonies, coordinating event timelines ensuring deadlines are met, composing meeting notes and reports, and responding and connecting to scholarship applicants, recipients, and donors via regular correspondence.
“I believe we must be selfless in our commitment to our youth to see them succeed in all facets of life and society. I continue the work of MYLA to reach multiple communities to offer our vision, service and expertise to cultivate a cohesive and productive society.”
Reies’ role includes promoting and increasing awareness of MYLA by creating and managing mailings, flyers, brochures, branding strategies, and other printed and electronic material, and managing publicity of events and activities.