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Greenbelt, MD
Shawwal 18, 1447~ April 6th, 2026.
In a moment that felt both historic and deeply human, NASA’s Artemis II mission has reignited something the world hadn’t felt in decades: a shared sense of possibility for the first time in more than 50 years.
As the rocket thundered off the launchpad last Thursday, April 2nd, carrying four astronauts on a journey around the Moon, its impact has already been felt far beyond the launchpad. Almost a year ago at ILIA, six Baltimore youth felt that ignition in one of our programs’ employer visit to NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center at George County, Maryland.
This transformative visit, as part of ILIA’s summer internship series, gave students a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s leading space research facilities! From satellite engineering labs to mission control centers, the youth were immersed in the science and strategy behind NASA’s work in climate monitoring, space exploration, and planetary defense.
Although it was only a day, it was an immersive introduction and discovery of STEM for our youth along with their instructors, Zain Nisar and Shane Ford. They engaged with NASA professionals, explored real-world applications of science and engineering, and saw firsthand how a possibility like Artemis II comes to life!
The NASA Goddard visit was a part of ILIA’s broader mission to expose youth to real-world careers and mentors who reflect excellence and vision. It was one of the many opportunities of bridging inspiration to reaching the stars…and our very own moon! Because days will come that by empowering young people with the tools, guidance, and opportunities, these seeds will grow, creating a stronger and more equitable future that lies ahead.
Who knows, maybe the next astronaut will be from Maryland!
Because when a rocket launches, it doesn’t just carry astronauts. It carries dreams, too, like Artemis II!
You’ve seen what’s possible, now it is your turn! Apply for ILIA’s Leadership Lab and become the next generation of innovators, and explorers!
For our Baltimore residents, here are additional resources for you to check out!
Join our Grads2Career April Cohort for FREE! Join here and get paid!
Be the next one to reach the stars by reserving a slot for our FREE EmpoweReer Program.
Make the most of your Summer by signing up for our Summer Camp!
Join ILIA’s Leadership Lab!
For more information, visit baltimore.islamicleadership.org and follow us on Instagram @islamicleader for more updates!
About Islamic Leadership Institute of America
About Islamic Leadership Institute of America
ILIA is America's first dedicated educational institute to Islamic leadership development and education. Since its inception in 2009, ILIA has engaged with 9000+ students through programs and classes. The organization is youth-led and its services are open to all individuals, regardless of faith. It also operates a scholarship program, Youth Crisis Line, youth dorm and a number of youth-led projects. Learn more at www.islamicleadership.org
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