In today’s turbulent world, the need for effective and ethical leadership has never been more urgent.  To address this need, the CEEOL—a partnership between TISA and Rabata, two institutions committed to developing Islamically knowledgeable and ethical leaders—has ventured over the past year to craft a distinctive short course. This program brought together a thoughtfully designed curriculum, engaging and experienced faculty, and grasped the most qualified students from all over America, who show a record of service, motivation, vision, and passion for effective community development. 

This three-day training took place in the heart of urban academia, at the University of Houston Student Center South in the beautiful and spacious Ballroom, from Friday, Nov. 1 through Sunday, Nov. 3. The students were gifted Kindle and paperback versions of their course materials, greeted by TISA and Rabata personnel, and tended by volunteers around the clock. To ensure a seamless experience so they could focus on their learning without distraction, the students were treated to Houston’s best halal meals along with an all-access refreshment table to keep them energized. Congregational salah took place in the ambiance behind our skillful reciters from among our faculty and students. 

What happened in that room was powerful and dynamic. Like a shepherd uncovering the eyes of its flock, the students realized their true potential in this safe space. Friday evening was a space to not only get to know the faculty but also for students to let go of their inhibitions and get to know one another. Students formed gender-like groups, where they would work together throughout the weekend to process and synthesize the material, which they would then present to their peer groups for feedback all with the guidance of the faculty. They brought out their best, from poems to power points, laughter to tears. The leadership qualities of our Prophet Muhammad SAW became the new uniform for a diverse room of brothers and sisters, brown, yellow, white, and black, from various backgrounds and destinations, and who would return to diverse homes with a clearer vision. 

Saturday was transformative, where students experienced a heightened sense of purpose and recognized their own potential as future leaders leaving them with a renewed sense of responsibility.  The workshop started soon after fajr and ended with a keynote address from Ubaydullah Evans, who traveled from afar just to close the day with a thought-provoking, dynamic address that left a lasting impact on all present.

By Sunday, the cohort had forged lasting friendships and built a supportive network that extended well beyond the course. Students left, not only with certificates acknowledging their hard work and dedication, but they were also ready to return to their communities with a clearer vision, renewed purpose, and a deep sense of determination as leaders prepared to make a lasting impact in the world around them.

– Dr. Mona Islam (Visiting Faculty/Board Member, TISA)