News

MALA Partners with Facebook to Host ‘Muslims In Tech’ Panel in Washington D.C.

On October 15, 2019, MALA launched the first in a series of panels focusing on Muslims in Tech in Washington DC.  The event co-sponsored by Facebook, and held at Facebook’s beautiful D.C. headquarters.  The panel focused on the personal experience and stories of Muslims in the tech industry.  Panelists included: Ahmed Flex Omar, Deputy Director […]

MALA’s 4 Annual Gala Receives Endorsement From Illinois Civic leaders: Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, Mayor Lori Lightfoot

As our 4th Annual Gala fast approaches, we are honored to announce that MALA has received formal endorsements from some of Illinois’ top decision-makers and leaders in the civic arena.   MALA’s gala has recieved endorsements and commendations from IL Governor J.B. Pritzker, IL Senator Tammy Duckworth, and Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot.     We are honored […]

MALA Co-Hosts Panel on UNGA Sidelines: Eradicate FGM/C

September 19, 2019 On the sidelines of the 74th UNGA, MALA, There Is No Limit Foundation, and Kota Alliance hosted a panel event at the Center for Social Innovation. This event discussed and concentrated on strategies for the global eradication of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). The panel also highlighted the commitment made worldwide to end […]

Stand up and Speak: Public Speaking With a Stand-Up Perspective

Last month, MALA invited community member and stand-up speaker, Amna Awan, to present a special workshop that taught participants how to harnesses the power of public speaking through stand-up comedy techniques and approaches.  This dynamic workshop was a big success, and, due to popular demand, we will be hosting another session this Fall.  Stay tuned […]

MALA Hosts Eid Al-Adha Celebration and Cultural Exchange with Middle East Institute

AUGUST 12, 2019 In celebration of the Eid Al-Adha holiday, MALA partnered with the Middle East Institute (MEI) to host a celebration and cultural exchange showcasing a variety of different cultural traditions of observance from around the world.  Guests connected, shared traditional foods, and participated in henna, paper marbling, calligraphy, and other cultural activities. The […]

Deputy Director Ahmed Flex Omar Speaks at FUND Conference

July 17,2019 This week, MALA’s Deputy Director, Ahmed Flex Omar will speak at the Chicago FUND Conference.  Flex will speak on a panel titled, Growing Your Organization’s Diversity, Equality, & Inclusion, which will address various strategies for improving diversity and inclusion from an organizational perspective.   Flex is a mentor, an advocate, and and leader in the Chicago […]

MALA Hosts Iftar at Azerbaijani Embassy in Washington D.C.

On May 29, 2019, MALA’s office in Washington, DC organized a joint Iftar Dinner with the Embassy of Azerbaijan to celebrate the month of Ramadan, freedom of religion, diversity, and inclusion. This event took place at the Embassy of Azerbaijan with the participation of 30 guests and included welcoming remarks by both the Embassy staff […]

Executive Director Zainab Khan Discusses Identity, Storytelling, and Empowerment in Interview with Salam Plan

JUNE 18, 2019 Last week, MALA’s Executive Director, Zainab Khan sat down with Maria Torrens of Salam Plan to discuss MALA’s work in storytelling, and her own unique perspective on identity and empowerment in America’s Muslim communities and beyond. When asked about her Muslim identity, Khan responds, “I don’t just want to be known as […]

MALA Co-Founder, Emil Aldaddah Receives Prestigious Award for Community Leadership

MAY 10, 2019 This week, one of MALA’s Co-Founders, Emil Aldaddah, was presented with the Chicago Cultural Alliance’s award for Outstanding Community Leadership. Emil’s work to advocate for, and construct important resources in Chicago’s Muslim American communities is inpiring, and this award is much-deserved. The award was presented at the CCA’s annual MOSAIC Gala; other […]

MALA Fellow Isra Omar Featured in 1st Annual Refugee & Immigrant Summit

Isra Omar, one of MALA’s Fellows in the Chicago area, was recently invited to share her journey on a special panel at the 1st Annual Refugee & Immigrant Summit at Northwestern University. The purpose of this summit was to bring our CPS refugee and immigrant students from across the city together to engage in a […]