Who we are
A stronger Ummah is built through systems that last.
Our mission
Our vision
A thriving, connected Muslim community in America where faith is lived confidently, families are supported, and Islamic values are preserved and expressed through strong institutions, resilient networks, and positive engagement.
Our strategy
Structured for impact
An integrated
ecosystem of services
Structured for impact
Six commitments that
shape every program
Service before spectacle
Programs are measured by who they actually serve, not by how they photograph. If it does not help a family, it does not stay on the calendar.
Systems, not events
A single event moves a moment. A system moves a generation. Everything UMA builds is designed to run without its founders.
Rooted in Islam
Qur’an and Sunnah are the framework, not the decoration. Every program has a spiritual center and qualified teachers.
Unapologetically local
Oakland’s inner-city Muslim families are the priority. Programs are designed for their realities, budgets, and schedules.
Unity across institutions
UMA partners rather than competes. Five
masjids and community centers currently host our work.
Accountability to donors
Money raised is reported on. Campaign supporters receive updates on progress and allocation.
How we got here
From informal
circles to a working ecosystem
2020 — Response during a pandemic
MIRT is born during COVID as a community-based emergency response option, and Muslim Town Hall is created so that "shelter in place" does not derail Muslim wellness. Imam Amir Rashad starts the "Deen Team" the same year.
2022 — Identity and role
Qawamun launches in California as an answer to the gender and role confusion Muslim boys face in America. In June, MuslimahFly begins strengthening Islamic identity, pride, and sisterhood among women and girls.
October 2023 — First to mobilize
Two weeks after October 7th, UMA becomes the first religious organization to coordinate a Palestine solidarity protest in Oakland, drawing hundreds from diverse walks of life in support of Gaza.
May 2026 — Safety and sport
Five days after the San Diego terrorist attack, MIRT runs a four-hour active shooter training grounded in Qur'anic guidance. That same month, eight masjids compete in the first annual Inter-Masjid Basketball Tournament.
Today — An integrated ecosystem
Six programs run continuously across five borrowed locations, with Akmal Hifth Academy growing from a weekend school toward a full-time Islamic school. The single constraint on growth is space — which is why the Permanent Home Campaign exists.
Where we work
Five partner locations,
generously shared
necessary — borrowed space cannot scale.
Oakland Islamic Community Center
Classroom space for Qur’an sessions, shared with weekend school.
Masjid Waritheen
Halaqahs and community gatherings around the masjid calendar.
Alameda Islamic Community
Youth programming and periodic family events.
Masjid Wahada
Men’s circles and MIRT training sessions.
Jamatus Salaam
Where we work
Frequently asked
Is UMA a masjid?
No. UMA is a community organization that runs programs. We work alongside masjids rather than replacing them, and our permanent home is intended as a program center, not a competing house of worship.
Who can participate in UMA programs?
Anyone in the Bay Area Muslim community. Programs are grouped by age and gender where that serves participants, but no one is turned away for financial reasons.
How is UMA funded?
Community donations, program supporters, and partnership contributions. The Permanent Home Campaign is a dedicated fund separate from day-to-day program costs.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. Coaches, teachers, MIRT responders, event support, and professional skills are all needed. Reach out through the contact page.
