ILIA January 2026 News

ILIA enrolled 27 students in its 4‑week intensive Grads2Careers, Youth Project Management program, designed to help young adults transition confidently into the workforce. Through structured training, hands‑on experience, and employer engagement, participants gained skills and support for meaningful employment. Due to low attendance, the program has been postponed to April 13th, 2026, ensuring stronger participation and greater impact for the next cohort. Read more!

ILIA delivered the Friday Khutbah at the Maryland Turkish‑American Community Service and Education (MARTI) center, bringing worshippers together for reflection, guidance, and spiritual renewal. The khutbah emphasized faith, resilience, and community responsibility, strengthening ties with the Turkish‑American community and reinforcing ILIA’s mission of empowering youth and families through leadership and service. Read more!

Islamic Leadership Institute of America (ILIA) has officially launched Safe Haven, a Maryland state‑funded program addressing rising anti‑Muslim hate crimes and digital threats. The first workshop at Makkah Learning Center introduced families and youth to practical cybersecurity and safety tools. With 20 workshops planned across Maryland, Safe Haven is building stronger, safer, and more resilient communities. Read more!

ILIA participated in the Career Fair organized by the Mayor’s Office of Employment Development (MOED) at Baltimore City Community College (BCCC). The event connected job seekers with training and employment opportunities, resulting in 11 enrollments. By engaging directly with Baltimore residents, ILIA strengthened workforce pathways and expanded awareness of its career readiness and empowerment programs. Read more!

ILIA hosted an information table at Maryum Islamic Center (MIC), highlighting the Juvenile Empowerment Program and the Southwest Virginia Community Empowerment Center (SWVA CEC). Families and youth engaged with ILIA staff, received program materials, and learned about opportunities for coaching, mentorship, and community empowerment. The event strengthened awareness of ILIA’s initiatives across Maryland and Virginia, ensuring resources remain accessible and impactful. Read more!

ILIA delivered the Friday Khutbah at Howard County Detention Center (HCDC), engaging incarcerated youth and adults in reflection, guidance, and spiritual renewal. The khutbah emphasized resilience, repentance, and community responsibility, reinforcing ILIA’s mission to empower individuals in challenging circumstances through faith, leadership, and service. Read more!

ILIA released the 5th issue of Muslim Connector, focusing on the theme of legacy. This edition highlights stories of resilience, leadership, and community impact, encouraging readers to reflect on the legacies they build for future generations. By centering youth voices and community narratives, Muslim Connector continues to inspire dialogue, empowerment, and collective growth. Read more!

ILIA hosted an information table highlighting the Juvenile Empowerment Program and the Southwest Virginia Community Empowerment Center (SWVA CEC). Families and youth engaged with ILIA staff, received program materials, and learned about opportunities for coaching, mentorship, and community empowerment. The event expanded awareness of ILIA’s initiatives in Southwest Virginia, ensuring resources remain accessible and impactful for local communities. Read more!

ILIA delivered the Friday Khutbah at Masjid Al‑Muneer, engaging worshippers in reflection, guidance, and spiritual renewal. The khutbah emphasized themes of faith, resilience, and community responsibility, reinforcing ILIA’s mission to empower youth and families through leadership and service. Read more!

ILIA's Work Personality Assessment (WPA) Program, designed to help youth participants identify strengths, workplace preferences, and career pathways. Through structured assessments and coaching, students gained valuable insights into their work styles and future opportunities. The program reflects ILIA’s commitment to empowering young adults with tools for self‑discovery, confidence, and long‑term career success. Read more!

ILIA expanded its EmpowerOne Young Professional Coaching Program in Ellicott City, enrolling three students in January 2026. This personalized initiative offers one‑on‑one coaching for young professionals and college students, helping them clarify goals, overcome challenges, and build confidence. By focusing on individualized guidance, EmpowerOne equips participants with the tools to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Read more!