You never thought you would witness something beyond your imagination, and you didn't know your coming generation would be so caring and responsible to your planet and communities. But what you saw on November 10, 2024, in a small hall crowded with over 300 participants, was unique, unparalleled, and the first of its kind in the Muslim community. It was the gala event of a five-year-old educational institution dedicated to respecting and preserving the environment through studying nature and communicating meaningfully with divine creations.
The Southern California-based Arts and Wilderness Institute, the brainchild of three young and dynamic women, introduced its vision of a thriving Muslim community to serve humanity.
The Art and Wilderness Institute (AWI) commits to connecting with nature, raising awareness, and promoting values of stewardship through our outdoor, hands-on, "get muddy" learning philosophy. Students in its educational programming range from budding two-year-old naturalists to tenured retirees.
It believes in giving back through a variety of projects and leadership opportunities. Students plant trees, raise money to dig wells, assist refugees, and lead hikes for the elderly. It adheres to the belief that genuine learning is achieved through acts of stewardship and service. Collaborating with numerous partners and actively contributing to making a wider positive impact. It is more than an Institute; it is a community, a prototype for Muslims everywhere.
Sama Wareh, Syma Aslam, and Dr. Khadeeja Abdullah are well-accomplished, successful women. Their dedication to raising younger Muslims with awareness of their responsibilities toward the environment was evident in the event's organization.
The organizers focused on teaching and respecting nature in every minute detail. People sat for four hours in awe and amazement, learning about the community's journey and dedication.
They did not use plastic or any material that might hurt nature. They asked the participants to bring their Tupperware to carry back extra food. Furthermore, they created their homemade healthy drinks and trained their students to serve as waiters and waitresses, whose smiling faces spoke of their commitment to others.
The food was healthy, and the best thing was that the program began and ended on time. Speeches were short and relevant. They did not complain or cry. They assured us through their actions that they believe in saying what they do or want to do.
An organization like this is unique in the Muslim world. A community that cares for all is rare in our world. Yet, the three women made it possible. They are creating a generation whose arrival we and they have been waiting for long. They are the ones they have waited for, and they are here.
Our social and moral responsibility is to support them in every possible way.
They want to create a retreat center and a self-sufficient village in harmony with nature.
Visit their site and donate to strengthen them.
Established in 2019, the Art and Wilderness Institute traces its roots back to smaller-scale operations preceding its official founding. Prior to the inception of AWI, students were already engaged in learning under the guidance of Sama Wareh. The institute's formation was catalyzed during a camping trip, where Khadeeja Abdullah, Sama Wareh, and Syma Aslam Chaudhry found themselves beneath the branches of an Elderberry tree. During this conversation, they envisioned a plan to expand community participation in classes and events, creating AWI.
Driven by a shared desire to create a space where community thrives around the central theme of connecting with nature and giving back, AWI has embarked on a remarkable journey. The success of this venture is attributed to the unwavering support of our community, coupled with the proactive involvement of parents and students who have taken the initiative and assumed leadership roles.
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