IMAN Staff Doubles Down on Cultivation
IMAN prides itself in cultivating a deep bench of skilled staff and engaged leaders, recognizing the value of empowering each member of the organization to truly embody health, wellness and healing in their own unique way. This past month, the IMAN family made tremendous strides in both personal and professional development.
During the sacred month of Ramadan, IMAN youth leaders and senior staff took a road trip to Centralia, Illinois for a weekend of bonding and rejuvenation. Graciously hosted by a family of longtime supporters, the group spent time in spiritual reflection, enjoying and exploring nature, and connecting with one another’s stories in more profound ways. For some of the younger travelers, this was their first venture to downstate Illinois.
IMAN Executive Assistant Ammiel Mateen and Director of Community Relations Alia Bilal each completed university-based certificate programs last month that significantly enhanced their respective skill sets. Ammiel finished an intensive Human Resources course at DePaul University wherein she studied workforce development and risk management practices. Alia graduated from the highly selective Civic Leadership Academy program at the University of Chicago, further positioning herself as a leader in the city’s civic community.
In the fall, Muslim Run Corner Store Campaign Manager Sara Hamdan will begin her studies at the University of Chicago as well. Sara was accepted into the School of Social Service Administration, one of the nation’s premier social work and social welfare programs. Especially in the current socio-political climate, such opportunities to bolster skills while exploring emerging theories and understanding will only serve to prepare staff to become innovative leaders in the near future.