NOI YOUTH RETURN TO THE MOTHERLAND

       By: Saajida Shabazz

Nation of  Islam youth, from Muhammad Mosque #7, did not let obstacles stand in their way of their 1 month sojourn to Ancient Kemet, commonly known as Egypt, Africa. Their enthusiasm was driven by their love for learning and exploration. These New York youth understand the importance of traveling the world and not limiting oneself to one particular community. Their hopes are to learn much on their journeys, which encourages them to see the world from a vast scope and it makes them aware of different cultures, religions, and way of life up close. The believers of Muhammad Mosque #7 are proud to be represented in the Motherland by Bro. Emmanuel Muhammad, Bro. Jaleel Muhammad, Sis. Aliyah Muhammad, Sis. Annisah Muhammad, Sis. Sajeeda Muhammad, and Sis. Maleeka Muhammad.  

This enriching experience was made possible through the International Youth Leadership Institute program (www.iyli.org ) in New York. The International Youth Leadership Institute (IYLI) had begun in 1989. The two men responsible for this program are Founder, Keith Brown and Co-Founder Michael Webb. Through my interview with Mr. Webb he expressed, while residing and working in Africa both men wondered why they did not encounter many people of color in Africa. With 100% belief in the idea that the youth are our future leaders, they strategized and developed the “International Youth Leadership Institute” as a solution. The emergence of IYLI came about with the vision of  its Founder and Co-Founder to open up, “a new career path to African American and Latino high school students, a path that led through high school to colleges and universities to international internships and fellowships to international careers. Even if students did not decide to pursue international careers they would be much better citizens if they understood how connected they are to all the world’s people.”

IYLI is not a program where the youth are sightseeing simply to just say they have been to another country, but they are high school students who are involved in college-level work. Members of IYLI participate in “academic programs based on the framework of history, culture, geography and environment; [which] provide training and exposure to prepare well-informed leaders and citizens. Mosque # 7 youth, Annisah Muhammad says, “I learned that Egyptians were technologically advanced and they excelled in math, science, engineering and art. They created the calendar, as we know today, with 365 days in a year. I know we are great because our many accomplishments of the past are still being marveled over today. This bears witness to the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad’s statement, “You are the Righteous, the Best and the Powerful.” This is an excellent program that, “…prepares Black and Latino secondary school students to assume active leadership roles in their community and global society.” Deidre Muhammad (parent of Aliyah and Emmanuel Muhammad) states, "This trip represents [their role as the] generation of fulfillment. They are making the connection and building the bridges [between youth in America and Africa]. They are studying our original language and representing black youth as we are taught with honor and respect."  This program is beneficial to our communities because, “IYLI reinforces a belief that individuals can improve their society and their world by first developing themselves.” While in Egypt the students participated in ethnography and community service, were students in Arabic class, saw the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinxes, rode camels, bathed in and sailed on the Nile River, etc. Another Mosque #7 youth, Maleeka Muhammad, mentions, “Most people can only say they read about Egypt and the pyramids in textbooks, but I actually got to take pictures throughout Egypt and in front of the pyramids. I learned that there are over 100 more pyramids throughout Egypt but people only focus on the Pyramids of Giza. I also learned so much about the culture of the Nubians at Suhel Village and how their culture is similar to my Muslim household.”  

Obtaining the funds for the trip to Egypt was no easy task for the youth; however the members worked diligently to bring forth their goal. The students worked together and were also supported by their families, friends, and religious organizations. Co-Founder, Michael Webb mentioned that IYLI would not be able to exist if it were not for the support of the community. Though they receive some of their finances through a grant they receive each year, IYLI is a self-sufficient program that relies primarily on volunteers. Donations and events (such as auctions and banquets) are what assist with their expenses. There are many ways alumni and volunteers have and can help IYLI with their mission; through donations, involvement, and membership.

            Lashun Muhammad (Mother of Annisah Muhammad) comments, “At the age of 16 I can speak of my daughter as an international traveler. Thanks to IYLI, this is her second time traveling abroad; although she fell in love with Brazil last year, Egypt has always been her dream. Being at the cradle of civilization- Egypt, a historical site with strong Islamic culture, should serve as a source of pride for the six youth believers.” The youth from Muhammad Mosque #7, along with their IYLI family, are blessed to be able to serve as examples and as a form of  inspiration for all those who may allow life challenges to discourage us from our goals. This just goes to show, when you have the help of Allah (God), family, and your community- YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH WHAT YOU WILL!