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My apologies for getting this "top of the month" column out to you more than a week into January, but I have a good reason! The family and I  just returned this weekend from an epic trip in which we were able to, by the grace of Allah (S), visit the three most holiest and important masajid for Muslims – Masjid Al Aqsa in Jerusalem, Masjid Nabawi in Madinah and the Haram/Ka'ba in Makkah for Umrah.

In between we visited countless other mosques and sites that are important in Islamic history in a journey to teach our children more about this faith they were born into beyond what they read or hear about in lectures or 

. It was pretty special, especially our  24-hour-stint in Jerusalem given the ongoing war and genocide in Gaza.

(Have you emailed or called your elected officials to demand  a ceasefire? Here is 

And so now we're back and playing major catch up, trying to re-acclimate to the general routines and responsibilities of our lives as we dive into 2024 and look forward to all there is to come at Haute Hijab.

And baby, there's a lot happening with HH that we are super excited about!

 with a number of new hijab products and a brand new category of hijabs for you, something we've been wanting to bring you for the longest time. Now, I'd like to be able to tell you what this new hijab category is, but what's the fun in that? Share your best guesses with us in the comments below!

The Dome of the Rock in the Al Aqsa complex.

I will say though that it's a hijab category I've been personally waiting for since I joined HH five years ago. :)

We're also starting this new year with  a focus on sustainability, our health and  a zen-like approach in our thoughts and intentions. If anything, the last year taught us that we need to be lasered focus with clear intentions in everything we do if we are to achieve whatever our goals are.

The fight against injustice, against oppression, the fight for a healthier planet –  all the things we want for ourselves as Muslim women and for our fellow humans is not something that is easily achieved. It's a long game that we continue to play, and to do so we must  fortify ourselves, our mental, physical and spiritual health.   

We'll be exploring all that on the blog this month, as well as a focus on centering our 

 and prayer, as that is the heart of everything we do as Muslims.

 and  make our intentions to serve you in the best ways possible, continue to build community, and use our platform to stand up for justice. We have a long ways to go, but we have our faith and trust in Allah (S) to see us through.

 Allah (S) alone is sufficient for us and He is the best protector.

New Year, New Hijab Category and New Launches to Whet Your Appetite!

As 2023 comes to a close, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the past year with you. A few weeks ago, at one of our all-hands meetings, we were talking about how this year was full of crazy ups and downs, both for us as well as the global community. To say it’s been hard doesn’t begin to cover what everyone is going through, especially oppressed and targeted communities around the world.

The past few months alone, with the genocide in Gaza, has shaken us as Muslims (and humans) to our core, and we’ve been vocally expressing our horror at what is happening in real time on our social media accounts as well as engaging in charitable projects to do whatever we can to help support Palestinians and call for a ceasefire.

This comes months after our hearts were shook by the enormous devastation in northern Turkey and Syria in the wake of two horrific earthquakes last spring, leaving thousands upon thousands dead and even more displaced. Our 

CEO Melanie traveled to Turkey with Islamic Relief USA

 to bear witness and fundraise for relief efforts, which we continued prioritizing through Ramadan.

It is because of you that we are able to raise money for the causes and social justice movements that mean so much to all of us. With your support, we were able to raise thousands for earthquake relief in Turkey and Syria last spring through your direct donations and shopping dollars while learning in-depth about what 

relief works looks like in the wake of a devastating natural disaster

Melanie in Turkey with Islamic Relief USA.

When France banned the abaya for women in public schools in September, we covered the story as part of our #CantBanUs campaign and offered free hijabs to our HH Fam in France. Your fierce support of our work around hijab bans helped facilitate this! (Check out 

this timeline of how hijab, burkini and abaya bans

 have taken a stronghold on French Muslim women.)

, one of the few aid organizations on the ground in Gaza right now.

And in the backdrop of all this was what we are actually here to do: Design, create and provide you with the very best hijabs and hijab products to help your lives and experiences as Muslim women. That is the reason Haute Hijab exists: to create a world where every woman feels her most comfortable, most beautiful, most faith-filled and most powerful self.

We want to extend our deepest gratitude and love to you – our Haute Hijab fam. We exist to serve you and your hijab needs, but we also exist to serve you and our community of fabulous women in a community-building capacity. It’s one of the foundation pillars of this company. And so we're a hijab company, but sometimes that entails going hard on the causes that strike deep in our hearts and affect our 

Your support throughout all this means the world. You’ve stuck with us through thick and thin, through our ups and downs and our striving to serve. It is because of you and your continued support and encouragement that we are ready to launch several new products in 2024, including a new product category!

Each and everyone of us at Haute Hijab – from our product development team to our operations team to our marketing department to our blog and content team to our Founder Melanie – want to extend our love, prayers and appreciation to you. Everything we brainstorm, research, design and develop is with your best interests in mind, and we cannot wait for the coming year to show you what we’ve been up to!

Waves of love for our HH Fam! Image source: Pexels

Every email you send, every comment you post, every DM you send, everything you suggest, every encouragement you give – we are always listening, sharing your words between us in our internal channels so that we remember and continue to improve for your sake and the sake of Allah (S).

All this is to say that we love you, we appreciate you, and Haute Hijab couldn’t exist without your support. We are here to serve you, but we are fueled by your care, your drive, your determination, your friendship and your love.

So thank you, dear HH Fam! We pray you have a wonderful coming year, and we ask that you pray for HH as well, for us to be able to serve you in the best way possible and to grow and thrive. Please pray for our brothers and sisters in Palestine and those who are oppressed and living with injustice all over the world.

P.S - HAVE YOU CALLED YOUR REPS TO DEMAND CEASEFIRE YET?? 

Dear HH Fam, Sending You All The Love and Gratitude As We Close Out This Year

 It's time for our annual #LikeYouMeanItHH end-of-the-year reflection time when we discuss what it means to renew our intentions around hijab and various aspects of our lives. While in past years, we’ve reflected on what it means to "wear it [hijab] like you mean it," this year, that focus felt too narrow and out-of-touch with the realities of our current world and lives. These are difficult, challenging, painful, somber times - for a number of reasons. And we want to explore what it means to live and focus “like you mean it” against the backdrop of everything we are enduring. We invite you (and ourselves) to renew our intentions and reflect on what our faith, families, and commitment to fighting for justice mean to us.

In a world rife with conflict, crises and widespread oppression, pursuing justice transcends being merely a noble endeavor; it emerges as a profoundly demanding and necessary one for the preservation of our humanity and our ummah. This reality holds particularly true for Muslim women, who navigate a complex intersectionality of faith, gender and the harsh realities of global injustice.

The unique challenges we face reflect not just the external world's turmoil but also the internal conflicts that arise from constantly balancing these dimensions. Our role in this landscape is not passive; Muslim women often find themselves actively at the forefront of social justice battles. We become advocates and voices for change, representing their communities and the larger fight against systemic inequalities.

As we explore what it means to engage in social justice work in a truly meaningful (and non-performative way), we must reflect upon what matters to us and who matters to us? If we cannot want for our fellow Muslim, our fellow sisters and brothers in Islam and our fellow humans what we want for ourselves in ways that are pleasing to Allah (S), then who are we?

What does it mean to engage in social justice work “like you mean it?” Why is it a struggle worth doing?

This struggle to fight for justice across different landscapes and in the myriad of ways injustice exists in our communities is far from straightforward or effortless. It is not merely physically draining, requiring immense dedication and perseverance, but also emotionally taxing. Whether you’re engaging in charitable work or fighting against racial injustice, disability rights, educational equity, climate justice, poverty justice or justice for oppressed communities like 

, Rohingya Muslims, Ugyhur Muslims and on and on, the fortitude needed is immense.

to learn how to educate yourself about Palestine and be a supportive ally. Click 

 to learn about the situation in the Congo and Sudan and how you can be a better ally. Click here to learn about "

Navigating a landscape marked by inequality and prejudice demands a high emotional toll. The burden is further compounded by frequent misunderstandings and misrepresentations of our faith and the faith of others. These misinterpretations create additional barriers, making our fight for justice not just about changing policies or attitudes but also about reshaping perceptions. And this fight can be painstakingly slow with incremental victories along the way.

So then, why should we engage? Why should we find that which we are passionate about changing and dive deep into it?

Enjoining good and forbidding evil is one of the basic principles of our faith. In the Quran it states, “You are the best community ever raised for humanity—you encourage good, forbid evil, and believe in Allah. Had the People of the Book believed, it would have been better for them. Some of them are faithful, but most are rebellious.” [Quran, Al-Imran 3:110].

explanation of the ayah in Islam Question & Answer states

, “Enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil is a mission which will never end until the Hour begins. It is obligatory upon all the ummah, rulers and subjects, men and women, each according to his or her circumstances. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: ‘Whoever among you sees an evil action, let him change it with his hand [by taking action]; and if he cannot, then with his tongue [by speaking out]; and if he cannot, then with his heart [by feeling that it is wrong] – and that is the weakest of faith.’” [Narrated by Muslim, 49]

Living a Life of Justice Inspired by Islamic Principles & Personal Conviction

As Muslim women advocate for change, they are simultaneously engaged in a battle to defend and clarify the true principles of Islam – a religion that, at its core, advocates peace, justice and equality. This dual struggle underscores the resilience and strength inherent in their pursuit of justice, reflecting a deep commitment to societal transformation and personal and spiritual integrity.

The Quran and hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad (saw) are replete with teachings emphasizing the importance of social justice. For instance, Surah An-Nisa (The Women) in the Quran advocates for protecting women's rights and underscores the importance of fairness and justice in society. Moreover, Prophet Muhammad’s (saw) life serves as a testament to these values, as he championed the rights of the marginalized, including women, the poor and minorities.

Islamic teachings advocate for a balanced approach to justice encompassing kindness, compassion and empathy. The concept of 'Adl (justice) in Islam is not limited to legal justice, but extends to social and economic justice, emphasizing the importance of equality, fairness, and the eradication of discrimination in all its forms.

Some of us have been engaging in social justice work in a variety of ways for a long time. For some of us with our daily responsibilities, that work looks like educating ourselves, having challenging conversations with loved ones to share truths around justice issues and the amplifying and sharing of other people’s work in the field. For others, social justice work becomes a larger part of our lives if not our whole life’s work. There are so many ways to engage. The point is to engage. Here are six ways you can get started:

Muslims protesting against former President Trump in 2017 around the time of the travel ban; image source: Twitter.

The first step towards embodying justice is gaining knowledge. Understanding Islamic teachings on justice, human rights and the dignity of all individuals is crucial. Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, equipping Muslim women to advocate effectively for change.

 Active involvement in community work allows for applying Islamic principles of justice practically. Whether volunteering at a local shelter, participating in community dialogues or organizing awareness campaigns, these activities reinforce the Islamic tenet of being a beneficial member of society.

 One of the most effective ways to embody justice is to advocate for policy change. This can involve lobbying for laws that protect the rights of the marginalized, participating in peaceful protests, or using platforms like social media to raise awareness about injustices.

4. Practice inclusivity and intersectionality:

 Embracing inclusivity and intersectionality is crucial. Recognizing that the struggle for justice is interconnected across different communities and issues is essential. Through their unique perspectives, Muslim women can bridge gaps and foster solidarity among diverse groups.

Maintaining spiritual resilience is vital in the face of constant challenges. Regular prayer, meditation and reflection based on Islamic teachings can provide inner strength and patience. Self-care is not selfish; it’s necessary for long-term engagement in social justice work.

 In a world where misinformation about Islam is rampant, Muslim women can embody justice by continuing to be voices of reason and compassion. By dispelling myths and showcasing the true, peace-loving nature of Islam, we can challenge stereotypes and promote understanding. By just living our lives as compassionate, kind, fair and strong Muslims, we are an example to those around us.

For Muslim women, the path to embodying justice is continuous and evolving. Rooted in our faith and driven by a profound desire for a just world, our journey is one of resilience, courage and unwavering commitment. Drawing on Islamic teachings and our personal resolve, we navigate a challenging world, striving to make a difference, one step at a time.

This journey is about confronting external injustices and internal growth as we embody the principles of justice in our daily lives, 

Upholding Justice in a Turbulent World Is Challenging & Necessary; Here's 6 Ways We All Can Do So

We’re looking at almost 60 days (since the time this was published) since violence and war broke out in Gaza, which has turned into an ongoing genocide of Palestinians in Gaza. October 7th was the catalyst for everything Israel has done since then, but as many have pointed out, the violence, oppression, apartheid state, killings, brutality and aggression disproportionately targeting Palestinians has been going on for decades prior.

 to date, thousands of them children. And there is no end in sight. Meanwhile, there is ongoing conflict and the 

death of thousands in Sudan and the Congo

, Muslims in India are facing ongoing violence and persecution (as are Rohingya Muslims and Uyghur Muslims in China) and on and on and on.

It’s hard to think about anything else, do anything else. And yet, we have an obligation to keep moving forward, to trust in Allah (S), to continue planting seeds, as the 

 and doing whatever we can to enjoin good and forbid evil. To build bridges with fellow bridge builders, to live with humility, humanity and kindness, to push back against hatred and to stand up for justice.

At our last monthly meeting where we plan out what we’ll be focusing on in the coming month with products, content and community care, we knew that December brings about our annual #LikeYouMeanItHH end-of-the-year reflection time, when we typically discuss what it means to renew our intentions around hijab and various aspects of our lives.

This month of reflection typically has been one of our deepest and connection-driven months of conversations with you all about why we wear hijab, what our intentions are behind it, how to feel confident wearing it, supporting each other and so on. We look forward to it every year to talk through some deeply personal things with you, which is so helpful to us as a company and for us as (Muslim) women.

But while in past years we’ve reflected on what it means to "wear it [hijab] like you mean it," this year that focus felt too narrow and out-of-touch with the realities of our current world and lives. The fact of the matter is we are a hijab company that is struggling to talk about hijab right now. Our hearts are hurting with yours.

Image source: Pexels; photo by Idriss Belhamadia

These are difficult, challenging, painful, somber times – for a number of reasons. It feels like this is a major turning point for us as Muslims, to break free of the shackles of what we thought was important and to focus on what 

So yes, we will go forth with our #LikeYouMeanItHH campaign. But instead of focusing primarily on hijab, we want to explore what it means to live and focus “like you mean it” against the backdrop of everything we are enduring. We invite you (and ourselves) to renew our intentions and reflect on what our faith, our families, our commitment to fighting for justice mean to us. And yeah, this does include finding strength and purpose in our commitment to wear hijab (for those of us who wear it) and be known as Muslims, especially in these trying times.

So, join us this month in conversations here on the blog and on our social media pages. Continue to pray deeply with us and do whatever we can to push back against injustice. We are a collective of tender- and strong-hearted Muslim women who are here for each other in love and support.

We're also going to bring you some helpful articles and posts on performing Umrah, as many of us tend to make Umrah plans during the Thanksgiving, winter and spring break holidays. And, with 2023 coming to a close, we will have some year-end wrap ups for you.

And yeah, there are some exciting things coming down the pipeline with regards to our hijabs and products, so stick around for that, too.

, as you are forever in ours. Pray for Palestine. Pray for Sudan. Pray for Yemen. Pray for whomever needs our prayers, both personal an collective. Pray for earthquake victims who continue to rebuild their lives in Turkey and Syria. Pray for Uyghur Muslims and Muslims around the world. Pray for our communities here in the U.S. As you continue to pray, do whatever you can to help those in need. And, start everything you do with 

What Does it Mean to 'Live Like You Mean It?' To Enjoin Good #LikeYouMeanItHH?

All this month, we are focusing on the stories of Muslim women working in charity, whether as the head of some charitable organization, doing volunteer work or anything in between. We are exploring what drives these women to give of themselves to others, how they balance that in their lives and what advice they have to encourage others to take up work to help those in need. To donate directly to Wafa House, click 

Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of community service, considering acts of giving and helping as essential to the faith. The Quran and Hadith highlight the virtues of aiding those in need and promoting kindness. Engaging in acts of service is spiritually rewarding and brings a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Through these acts, one deepens their connection with their faith and community, finding personal and spiritual growth. In Islam, serving others is a path to finding true meaning and direction in life, embodying the principle that in giving, we receive.

In a moving interview, Wijdan Abdallah, a dedicated school psychologist and board member of several organizations, serves as the President of 

. She shares her inspirational journey with Wafa House, a pivotal agency offering comprehensive support to families grappling with DV, substance abuse and financial hardships.

Wijdan's commitment to Wafa House began as a volunteer role in 2008. She describes her early days: "After I started as a volunteer, I was hired part-time because we didn't have the budget." This dedication laid the foundation for the agency's growth, enabling it to secure the necessary funding and expand its services.

Wijdan Abdallah on the left; image source: LaunchGood.

 Drawing on her experience as a school psychologist, Wijdan's approach at Wafa House is deeply influenced by her professional background. She explains, "Clients would come in with different issues...I would cater to the immediate and specific issues, establishing rapport and trust for continuous support.” This method has been crucial in addressing the community's varied needs and identifying the agency’s niche.

Wafa House was founded in 2004 by Sr. Dorria Fahmy and Sr. Nawal Kahf to address domestic violence issues in Muslim communities. Sr. Dorria, who at the time was a volunteer for the Passaic County Women’s Center in Paterson, NJ as well as a Domestic Violence Responses Team member for her local police precinct, realized that 

 DV victims of Middle Eastern and South Asian descent were

 “reluctant to leave their abusers in fear of being re-victimized by going to a place where they would not be able to acclimate. [And that] language barriers and cultural [and religious] insensitivity were the most challenging obstacles for victims.”

With the help of cofounder Sr. Nawal, who was a domestic violence counselor, Wafa House was born. The organization has assisted to date more than 3,500 families and on average 1,000 individuals and families every year, according to its 

, with a nationwide client base as well as in the Middle East, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Wijdan's development within the agency mirrors its expansion. She shares her journey, "I transitioned from a role as a clinical counselor and case manager to an operations manager, and eventually assumed the position of executive director." Under her leadership, Wafa House broadened its focus on mental health counseling and social services to include play therapy, psychoeducational workshops and legal representation.

Highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity, Wijdan points out, "Our services are provided to anyone free of charge and in confidence, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, gender or creed ... we're culturally specific because we felt there's a need in our community." This approach has helped to establish Wafa House as a vital resource for those (especially in our Muslim communities) hesitant to seek help due to cultural and language barriers.

Forming partnerships with local imams and religious organizations has been a key strategy for Wijdan. "We try to educate our local imams … about the cycle of domestic abuse," she says, underlining the importance of these collaborations in extending the agency's reach and tailoring its services effectively.

Despite facing significant financial challenges and the threat of closure, Wafa House persevered with Wijdan's guidance and the guidance of its founders. Reflecting on these challenges, she says, "There were times when we were going to shut down...but I saw where we were, how hard we worked to get the grants and wanted to continue." Her determination and vision, along with the help of staff, volunteers and donors, have been instrumental in the agency’s continued success.

A Message of Hope and Empowerment for DV Survivors

Wijdan extends a message of hope to those suffering from domestic violence: "Know that help is available … reach out to someone you trust – a friend or a family member or a local organization. Your safety is a priority, and there are people ready to assist." Her words encapsulate the ethos of Wafa House – providing a safe, confidential space for those in need.

Wijdan's story is a compelling testament to the profound impact an individual can have in empowering communities. Her work with Wafa House is more than a tale of organizational growth; it's a powerful example of how culturally sensitive, comprehensive community service can create meaningful change and offer hope.

Supporting Communities with Cultural Sensitivity – The Story of Widjan Abdallah and Wafa House

 All this month we are focusing on the stories of Muslim women working in charity, whether as the head of some charitable organization, doing volunteer work or anything in between. We are exploring what drives these women to give of themselves to others, how they balance that in their lives and what advice they have to encourage others to take up work to help those in need. To donate  to Pious Projects, click 

If you’re like me, it is always hard to sift through where my donations are going when deciding on a charity. A lot of relief aid organizations seem to spend a lot of time and money on PR, fundraising dinners and administration. Like many, I’ve been trying to zero in on organizations that are delivering aid to Palestine and, specifically, Gaza.

’ “100% impact with 0% admin fees” tagline immediately caught my eye, and just by a quick glance at their website and social media accounts (

) I could tell that this small organization operated differently than others I’ve seen in so many ways. I had to learn more, and spoke with Jumana El-Ammori, the Program Director at Pious Projects, about her work and journey.

Dedicating one’s time and energy to charitable work doesn’t come easy. Jumana shares with me how she started with Pious Projects, what motivates her, and where the work takes her.

I’ve been with Pious for over six years now. I started as a volunteer after seeing the impact my donation made. In Ramadan of 2015, I came across a Pious video that showcased the living conditions in Mali and how the charity builds water wells to help locals access clean,drinkable water. I took all my money after graduation and put it into a water well.

Pious Project Program Director Jumana El-Ammori with a young girl in Gaza in 2022.

The video that I was sent once the well was made and being used was very impactful. I got emotional at how just one donation made a world of a difference in someone’s life. I wanted to do more. I took it upon myself to raise more money in my local community from family and friends to donate towards various Pious Projects, such as mosques, schools and water wells.

I started as a full time administration coordinator doing all the back-end office work by myself. I was the only employee for about a year and worked my way up to my [current] role, which is program director. We started it off with one million donations per year, and now we receive over ten million. It’s very fulfilling to see our growth as a small organization.

We started with a small group of volunteers who are now on the board. One of the local businessmen, who has a lot of connections in the local community, started projects around the Chicago, Bridgeview area. He then got connected on the ground in Mali. In 2015 he took a trip and saw for himself the situation of the locals and how their daily life is a struggle. He decided to post what he saw online and Pious Projects flourished from there.

We started from Mali and now have campaigns and impact [in] over 15 countries, including orphan support to over ten countries.

How do you keep overhead so incredibly low?

The founder has been gracious enough to let us use his office location for free. All our utilities, parking and rent [are] covered, which frees up our administration expenses. Because of this, we rely on donations to [fund] our administrative [costs] to help keep Pious Projects running. We’ve seen that when given the voluntary option to add on an admin tap, we almost always receive the extra funds instead of having to use a portion of your initial donation to cover costs.

Jumana in Gaza last year with Pious Projects.

I was scheduled to be in Gaza this year in October. Alhamdulillah, I was able to go last year and see how meaningful our work is on the ground. We are doing something that is unimaginable by many people. To be able to slaughter fresh meat and pass it out to families who haven’t been able to afford to eat it in a long time, to see the joy in their faces, it changes something in you. This year we were scheduled to be on the ground to work on our 15 programs that were scheduled, obviously that didn’t happen.

Right now we have three teams on the ground, two in the north and one in the south. A big part of why we are able to deliver directly to people in Gaza is because we have an amazing team on the ground in Gaza. They are born and raised there and are committed to delivering and serving their community. With their help, we are able to buy supplies within Gaza. They help us source local suppliers, are able to get the best deals and materials, and can distribute directly to those affected. We have been working in Gaza since 2018, which is why we have been able to purchase from suppliers and have our own facilities that contain our stock and emergency aid.

Our programs include winter clothes and essential drives, food parcels, hot meals, hygiene kits and mental rehab programs. Especially during times of war on Gaza, we are always checking in on our team to make sure they are safe, alive, and if they are able to work. During these difficult times, they are always available and feel like this is their duty to their community and country rather than a job.

It’s amazing that they are able to deliver hot meals in the middle of bombings. It’s a blessing to be able to work with them. We are all feeling this way right now, because our supplies are running low and sourcing materials is difficult. Generally speaking North Gaza is wealthier than the south. A lot of resources come from the north, but this has slowed down due to the current situation especially with regards to food parcels.

From the beginning [of the war on Gaza], it [has been] very hard to carry on with our work in the region because the north is a high clashing area. Our team traveled south, and now our aid is mainly in southern Gaza. You have to keep in mind that we are one small team in Gaza, so we distribute as much as we can. We reach 10,000 people per day, but there are 2.2 million people in Gaza. Unfortunately what we see and hear from people on the ground is accurate, the majority of the population are not receiving the aid it needs. I encourage everyone to check out 

Of course, right now the water crisis is huge. Over the years we have built 20 water desalination plants in Gaza. They are all solar powered and don't rely on electricity. The solar energy charges batteries, [which in turn] enables them to operate even when the sun goes down. These plants pump water from the ground. Through this system we have been able to deliver water to those seeking safety in UNRWA schools and anyone our team can reach. We also deliver water on tanks, but right now anything moving on wheels is a target, so we are depending on providing clean water through our water wells.

Since day one, our water wells have been our main focus. We started in Mali and now have over 4,000 water wells there. This has been huge, to see the difference 10 million dollars can make in terms of bringing clean fresh water to those in need. We have been able to bring clean water to a third of the country, Alhamdulilah. In Yemen we have done medical missions, like restorative eye surgeries. 

The videos we receive of the recipients and how our programs are able to change their lives – it’s very humbling. At Pious Projects, we take it as a responsibility to take care of each other, not just in our own native countries but those around us as well.

What is your advice to others on charity work and getting involved?

I never expected to have a position at Pious; I was just a volunteer to start. Now I can never see myself at a corporate job. I highly encourage everyone to spend time volunteering. We’ll all be better for it. Our lives get busy, and we forget to give back to our communities. Even beyond our communities, I encourage others to see what charities are doing overseas and how they can volunteer with them.

[Start] by putting your foot in as a volunteer, even if you have a career outside this type of work. It’s important to give back. Push yourself as a woman. We are capable of a lot of things. We are able to do so much, and there are endless possibilities.

Haute Hijab will be donating a portion of all sales on #GivingTuesday this year to Pious Projects.

Pious Projects' Jumana El-Ammori Believes Charity Work & Volunteering is Key to Our Humanity

 All this month we are focusing on the stories of Muslim women working in charity, whether as the head of some charitable organization, doing volunteer work or anything in between. We are exploring what drives these women to give of themselves to others, how they balance that in their lives and what advice they have to encourage others to take up work to help those in need.

In a world where cultural narratives are constantly evolving, the 

 podcast emerges as a beacon of understanding and support for American Muslim mothers. At its core, "Mommying While Muslim" is a movement dedicated to empowering American Muslim mothers. It delves into the nuanced challenges and experiences that come with this identity, particularly in a post-9/11 society.

(To learn more about the work of the Mommying While Muslim podcast, check out our story 

The podcast provides a platform for sharing personal stories, offering insights and fostering a supportive community. It aims to validate and support Muslim American women, providing a space for them to connect, learn, and grow together. Hosted by Zaiba Hasan and Dr. Uzma Jafri (both of whom have been writing a monthly column for The Haute Take for the past two years), this platform goes beyond mere discussion, intertwining the personal with the philanthropic, reflecting a deeply rooted Islamic tradition of charity.

Philanthropy, or charity, is a cornerstone of Muslim culture, deeply embedded in its teachings. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of charity, with verses such as, "The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains," [Quran 2:261] illustrating the significance and impact of giving.

Zaiba and Uzma, the forces behind the podcast, extend their mission beyond discussions about 

and interviews with different women working in charitable endeavors. Engaging in charity is in the ethos of their partnership and their humanity. In an interview with Haute Hijab, they shared their commitment to engaging in charitable works, reflecting the Islamic ethos of giving back to the community. Their philanthropic efforts are a testament to their dedication to discussing change and actively participating in creating it.

Exploring the roots of philanthropy, we delve into the inspiring story behind the start of this charitable journey. Zaiba and Uzma illuminate the core values and driving forces that have shaped the podcast duo's philanthropic path, revealing the personal motivations and guiding principles that have led them to impact their community significantly.

Zaiba Hasan of the Mommying While Muslim team.

 My philanthropic journey was inspired by my upbringing in modest circumstances and the transformation to a life of greater abundance. This shift instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility to give back. Deeply ingrained in the Muslim faith is the concept of sadaqa, or voluntary charity, which emphasizes material giving and a sincere commitment to improving others' lives. This principle of compassionate support and empathy is the driving force behind my work in philanthropy.

 One of my favorite hadiths from Sahih Muslim drives me to give back or be resourceful for vulnerable populations. And that is, “Whoever among you sees evil, let him change it with his hand. If he cannot do so, then with his tongue. If he cannot do so, then with his heart, which is the weakest level of faith.”

My family believed in high achievement so I’d have more resources to give to the community later. I was also taught to anticipate needs before asking for help because a power dynamic is set up otherwise. Those in power have more accountability and responsibility to Allah (S), and I don’t want to be in that situation myself. Finally, starting in my childhood home and circling its way out in my adult life, I [want to] “be an asset, not a liability” wherever I am, in whatever ways I can be, using the resources I’ve been allowed to earn in this life.

Key Philanthropic Projects and Initiatives

The journey of Mommying While Muslim in philanthropy is marked by various impactful projects and initiatives. The team shares with Haute Hijab the significant efforts they have undertaken, showcasing how they have integrated philanthropy into their platform and the difference these initiatives have made in the community.

Uzma and Zaiba told Haute Hijab about their larger charity projects, which include sponsoring a women’s interfaith tea, generating $25,000 in funding for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, and providing scholarships to women for spiritual retreats who couldn’t otherwise attend. They also served as leaders in the first American Muslim Women’s Giving Circle, collecting $22,000 in contributions from women nationwide to support three nonprofits critical to our communities.

Dr. Uzma Jafri of the Mommying While Muslim team.

The Mommying While Muslim team also engaged in online fundraising, raising funds for 

 homes for domestic violence victims and 

Zaiba and Uzma have also personally assisted in collecting and distributing in-kind donations to NIH patients and their families.

“What we are most proud of,” they said, “is directing individuals who contact us privately to the resources they need to get through tough times.”

Personal Definition and Meaning of Philanthropy

Philanthropy carries different meanings for different people. Zaiba and Uzma’s viewpoints on the meaning of philanthropy shed light on their unique perspectives on giving and its significance in their lives, offering a more intimate understanding of their approach to philanthropy.

 To me, philanthropy transcends the simple act of giving; it's an expression of deep empathy and a commitment to positively impacting the lives of others. In my eyes, philanthropy is a personal commitment to use one's resources, time and energy to create a more equitable and compassionate world. It's about nurturing a culture of giving and support that uplifts entire communities, reflecting the core values of empathy and communal care that I hold dear.

 Philanthropy is the same as sadaqa to me, giving back, whether monetary, physical, time or using the unique skills and gifts we’ve been given. To me, it is the only recourse to disparity in this world. Again, if we see a wrong, we try to right it using the privileges we all have. When we have more than others, it’s not a testament to our hard work but to the mercy of Allah (S). 

And, WE are being tested to see whether we share the 

or hoard it. Philanthropy is my intercessor on the Day of Judgment. I pray that it is witness to my intentions and that they will be heavy on my scale to earn the pleasure and mercy of Allah (S).

The path of philanthropy has its challenges. The Mommying While Muslim duo shared some of the obstacles they faced in their charitable endeavors and their strategies to overcome them, providing insights into the resilience and adaptability required in charitable work.

“In our philanthropic journey, the primary challenges we've encountered are quite universal yet significant: time and resources. While our hearts want to embrace and support every cause that comes our way, the reality is that our capabilities are finite. The desire to say "yes" to everything is strong, but we recognize it's not always feasible.

“To navigate this, we've shifted our perspective to view each request as a potential opportunity rather than a challenge. We carefully deliberate which projects create the most meaningful impact. This approach involves a thoughtful evaluation of where our time and resources would be best utilized to align with our core mission of making the world a better place for our children.

We've navigated these limitations more effectively by prioritizing initiatives based on their potential for significant impact. This strategy allows us to remain dedicated to our philanthropic goals while acknowledging and working within practical constraints.”

These experiences can be enlightening for anyone interested in the practicalities of philanthropic work.

Starting a philanthropic journey can be daunting. In this part, Uzma and Zaiba offer their advice for individuals looking to make a positive impact through philanthropy. Their guidance could be invaluable for those seeking direction on how to begin their own journey of giving.

“For those eager to embark on their own philanthropic journey but still need to figure out where to begin, we advise embracing the philosophy that no act of charity is too small. Even the Prophet Muhammad (saw) said, ‘To smile in the face of your brother or sister is an act of charity.’ This underscores the idea that impactful giving isn't solely about grand gestures or substantial financial contributions. It's about the intention and the willingness to make a positive difference, however modest the act may seem,” they say.

“Start by identifying what resonates with you. Philanthropy is most effective and sustainable when it aligns with your values and interests. Look around your community; often, the opportunities to help are closer than you think. Whether volunteering your time, sharing resources, or simply offering kindness and support to those around you, every action counts. Remember that it is from the sunnah to look for those in need. Don’t wait to be asked.

“Remember, the goal of philanthropy is to contribute to the greater good. It's about creating a ripple effect of positive change, which often starts with small, thoughtful deeds: A phone call to a grieving friend you haven’t called in years, a meal sent to a new mom you might not know, or a virtual grocery gift card to a senior living on a limited income,” the duo says. “Approach each act of giving with sincerity and a genuine desire to make a difference, and you'll find that even the simplest actions can have a profound impact.”

Zaiba and Uzma in Morocco last year on a trip with 

Drawing from the hosts' experiences will provide valuable tips for individuals looking to make a positive impact through giving and making philanthropy accessible to anyone with the kindness to pay it forward in their hearts.

Anticipation for future projects is always high in philanthropic circles. Zaiba and Uzma shared with me some of their upcoming projects and initiatives they are excited about, offering a glimpse into what's next for their journey of giving and how they plan to continue making a difference.

The podcast duo announced their new status of 

 as a nonprofit. “HAWA was born to preserve, protect and promote women’s independent voices in a platform free from censure, control and financial dependence,” they explain.

The HAWA Collective “ … aims to create a more inclusive and representative narrative in the media landscape by alleviating those challenges with like-minded groups and women already working based on a model of mutual aid, collaboration and collective clout. As a nonprofit, HAWA Collective can now provide the critical support donors, patrons, and women in media need to launch and sustain their voices.”

Juggling the roles of podcast hosts and philanthropists is no small feat. Zaiba and Uzma explain how they maintain balance and how these roles complement each other.

“Balancing our roles as podcast hosts with our philanthropic work is inherently interconnected, as the very foundation of our podcast was laid with a philanthropic spirit. We initiated the podcast to disseminate information and resources, emphasizing, elevating, and amplifying the voices of mothers who might otherwise remain unheard. This objective is a form of philanthropy, as we’ve never had a paywall.

“From the onset, our role as podcast hosts has been deeply intertwined with acts of giving and community service. Our podcast isn’t just about sharing stories; it’s a platform for advocacy and support. Whether we are guesting on other podcasts to share the unique perspectives of American Muslim moms, leveraging our platform to fundraise for various causes, or simply offering our show as a haven for community and understanding, each of these elements is a testament to our commitment to philanthropy. Several representatives from nonprofits have been on the podcast to let listeners know what resources exist and that they need ongoing support to remain an asset to the community.

“In this way, our podcasting and philanthropic endeavors are two sides of the same coin,” they say. “Each episode we produce and every interaction we have with our listeners and guests is an opportunity to further our philanthropic goals. By melding these roles, we’ve created a powerful tool for positive change, fostering a space where community support and understanding are paramount.”

Uzma and Zaiba shared some key takeaways for anyone interested in expanding their work into philanthropy.

 In our journey through both podcasting and philanthropic endeavors, the underlying message we hope to convey to our listeners is encapsulated in our response to the question, "Why you?" — to which we confidently say, "Why not us?"

This mantra is a call to empowerment, an encouragement for each individual to recognize their own potential to make a difference. We want our listeners to understand that they don't need extraordinary circumstances or resources to contribute positively to their communities or to champion causes they care about.

The essence of our podcast and our work in philanthropy is to demonstrate that every voice and effort counts, no matter how small it may seem.