When I received the news that I had been chosen to represent Mimber Academy at the Global Association of Islamic Schools (GAIS) 2024 conference in Malaysia, it felt like a divine invitation to a journey beyond my imagination. A wave of gratitude, humility, and awe washed over me—was I truly being entrusted with the opportunity to stand among intellectual pioneers, seasoned educators, and visionaries shaping the future of Islamic education? In that moment, I made a silent commitment: to absorb, to reflect, and to carry back every insight, lesson, and inspiration from this incredible gathering. From the second I stepped onto the plane, I knew this was more than just a conference; it was a transformational experience waiting to unfold.
A Sacred Calling
The thought of attending such an intellectually charged and spiritually uplifting event filled me with questions: Why me? What does Allah want me to learn from this gathering? How can I share this enlightenment with the world? These reflections accompanied me throughout my journey, making every step feel purposeful.
On arrival, the very ambiance of Mardhiyah Hotel enveloped us in an air of serenity and purpose. The soft, soul-stirring hymns that filled the lobby felt like a divine welcome, reminding us of our responsibility as educators. This was no ordinary conference; it was a sacred calling to connect, learn, and grow.
The Conference Begins
The five-day conference opened with a workshop in a breathtaking library, built by a visionary king who valued education over monuments—a thought that deeply resonated with me. Each session was a treasure trove of insights, with professors and veterans sharing wisdom and panel discussions fostering solution-based thinking. The overarching theme, “Revival Rooted in Tradition”, sparked reflection on what truly needs revival—our faith, our practices, or our connection with Allah. Every moment was an invitation to rethink, relearn, and reconnect.
Moments that Left Me Speechless
Among the many sessions, Dr. Sameer Mehmood’s talk stood out. He said, “The soul doesn’t reside in the body; the body resides in the soul.” Even now, these words echo in my heart, reminding me of the depth of our spiritual existence.
Dr. Waquas Ali’s session on Ilm 2 Amal (Knowledge to Action), Dr. Farah’s exploration of the Shakhisiyah Curriculum, and the introduction to 5D Thinking were equally transformative. Each session was a call to action, a reminder that as educators, we are architects of not just knowledge but also character, resilience, and faith.
A Shared Vision
The stalls showcased groundbreaking innovations in education, all driven by a shared mission—to serve the ummah, nurture resilient leaders, and restore our collective identity. It felt as though every participant carried the same torch, illuminating a unified vision of khair and purpose.
A powerful theme emerged: collaboration over competition—a shift from me to we. The true path forward lies in breaking echo chambers, building bridges of knowledge, and embracing collective action. This realization was both humbling and deeply empowering.
Beyond the Conference
Each morning began with zikr and Quran recitations, grounding our days in spiritual rejuvenation. Anecdotes from Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) life infused every moment with inspiration, setting the tone for intellectual and emotional enrichment.
Visits to institutions like IISSA and Little Caliphs introduced us to visionary leaders like Sister Fareeda, whose unwavering dedication to education left a lasting impact. A reflective nature walk led to a soul-stirring discussion on Gaza, where educators like Ms. Samar and Sister Zainab were developing trauma-responsive curricula, showcasing empathy in action.
Lessons and Legacy
Malaysia’s humility and substance-over-style culture was evident everywhere—even in its advertisements, which prioritized meaning over glamour. This reinforced the value of authenticity in all aspects of life.
By the end of GAIS 2024, my intentions, purpose, and spirit felt renewed. More than just a conference, it was a collective vision come to life, uniting a global community of educators committed to serving the ummah.
A Note of Gratitude
I am deeply indebted to Mimber Academy for this opportunity and to the team that made every moment of the journey seamless. GAIS 2024 was not just an event; it was a life-altering experience that redefined my perspective as an educator.
As I reflect on those five days, I carry with me not just memories but a profound sense of responsibility to implement what I have learned. My journey to Malaysia was a journey into the heart of Islamic education, and I return with the resolve to be a beacon of light for those I serve.
Alhumdulillah, this was a journey of the soul, mind, and heart—a revival rooted in tradition and fueled by purpose.
Ayesha Firdous
Training Lead
Mimber Academy
