Awakening Through History: Salahuddin and the Liberation of Al-Aqsa – Lessons for Today

A heartfelt thank you to MAS CYP and the MAS Dallas Chapter for organizing a powerful and deeply resonant evening at the MAS Dallas Youth Center. The event, “Awakening Through History: Salahuddin and the Liberation of Al-Aqsa – Lessons for Today,” exceeded expectations and drew nearly 200 attendees, primarily youth and their families. The level of engagement underscored the growing appetite for purpose-driven, historically grounded dialogue among the next generation.

Dr. Yasir Qadhi, Dean of TISA, delivered a keynote address that set a compelling tone for the night. His message went beyond historical analysis. It was a call to conscience, action, and leadership. The atmosphere was charged not just with learning, but with a shared sense of responsibility and urgency.

Serving as emcee, Ustadh Ayman Taleb, TISA’s Community Relations Consultant, brought a deeply personal dimension to the evening. His reflections on his travels to Palestine, especially Al-Khalil, added an emotional depth that moved the audience beyond passive listening. His storytelling catalyzed a shift in the room. Participants were not only intellectually engaged but emotionally invested.

TISA also hosted a small informational booth, not to promote, but to be present, listen, and connect. Our Student Council President, Javeria Ahmed, had meaningful exchanges with several attendees. One particular moment stood out. A 17-year-old visitor, energized by the event, expressed his aspiration to join TISA’s MAIS program. When told he would need a bachelor’s degree first, he smiled and said, “You’ll see my application soon.” His father later returned to express support and make a spontaneous donation. This interaction highlighted the tangible impact of the evening.

Our CSO, Abdullah al Mamun, engaged in productive discussions with MAS Dallas leadership around joint initiatives. One promising idea that emerged was a tailored leadership development track specifically for MAS youth. The concept generated strong enthusiasm and will be explored further in upcoming strategy sessions.

Overall, this was not just a successful event. It was a strategic inflection point. It fostered spiritual reflection, inspired practical commitments, and deepened organizational alignment. We are profoundly grateful to MAS CYP and MAS Dallas for their partnership and hospitality. We look forward to building on this momentum through continued collaboration and shared leadership development.