News

On November 7th, MALA convened over 150 community builders, influencers, and philanthropists at the Chicago History Museum to celebrate MALA’s progress and reflect on the importance of leadership, cultural exchange, and mentorship. The keynote address at the Gala was delivered by Chicago native and 6-time grammy winning poet and lyricist Malik Yusef.  Malik spoke about […]

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 by

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next month, MALA Co-Founder, Emil Aldaddah will be honored by the Chicago Cultural Alliance at their annual MOSAIC gala. Emil will be awarded the prestigious Outstanding Community Leader Award for his dedicated work to create opportunity and important cultural dialogue in his community. Emil has long been a pillar in his community, and his work