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This year’s MYNA convention, held in conjunction with ISNA’s 61st Annual Convention, was an unforgettable event. From August 30th to September 2nd at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas, thousands of youth from across the country gathered under the theme, “Unity in Faith: Journey to Victory.” The program featured 17 engaging sessions, each drawing over 500 attendees per session, and covered critical topics of spiritual growth, unity, and overcoming challenges. Esteemed speakers included Imam Zaid Shakir, Mufti Hussain Kamani, Shaykh Abdulnasir Jangda, Shaykha Iesha Prime, Shaykha Haifaa Younis, Imam Mohamed Magid, and Dr. Yasir Qadhi.
The theme, "Unity in Faith," resonated deeply with the attendees, emphasizing the power of collective effort, transcending cultural and personal differences, and fostering harmony within the Muslim youth community. “Journey to Victory” symbolized each individual’s personal and spiritual growth, a collective push toward overcoming internal and external trials.
"The MYNA program was truly the highlight of the entire ISNA Convention," shared Saleh, a program attendee. "Each session was deeply moving and incredibly powerful. It wasn’t just about learning facts—it was about connecting with our faith on an emotional and spiritual level."
This sentiment echoed across the event, as attendees walked away feeling inspired and uplifted by the remarkable speakers and topics that resonated with the challenges and triumphs faced by Muslim youth today.
Beyond the inspiring sessions, the MYNA track fostered personal connections, provided space for networking, and encouraged meaningful dialogue. One participant, Amira from Chicago, said, "The lectures and workshops really helped me understand my role in building a stronger community. It’s about bringing our hearts together for something bigger than ourselves."
The program also featured workshops that focused on a variety of topics, from practical leadership skills to the role of youth in social justice movements. Over the weekend, MYNA youth leaders also organized special activities, giving participants the chance to bond over shared experiences and future aspirations. The event truly embodied the idea of uniting hearts for a common cause and striving toward personal and communal victories.
The MYNA convention wasn’t just confined to the sessions; the MYNA booth in the bazaar was a hub of energy and excitement throughout the weekend. Youth from across the nation gathered to learn more about upcoming camps, leadership programs, and MYNA's year-round initiatives. The booth was a space for connection and networking, where many attendees signed up for future programs and even reunited with old friends. Volunteers were busy sharing the impact of MYNA’s work, while merchandise and sign-up sheets flew off the tables, reflecting the enthusiasm of the crowd.
"The booth was an amazing opportunity to see how many people wanted to get involved," said Ayman, an attendee from Texas. "It showed that we’re not just participants, we’re building a real, lasting community."
As the MYNA program drew to a close, the energy and excitement in the room were palpable. The sense of unity and purpose fostered throughout the sessions left a lasting impression on both the attendees and the speakers, with several key-note lecturers noting how exceptionally well-planning and executed the MYNA track was.
“This wasn’t just a weekend event—it was a transformative experience,” said one participant.
With hearts full and spirits lifted, everyone left with renewed commitment to their faith and their communities. The powerful combination of spiritual growth, intellectual engagement, and communal bonding will continue to resonate long after the convention.
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