This site documents my journey in Islamic learning and service and serves as a platform for my work in education, research-informed outreach, and community development.

I pray that any benefit found here is accepted by Allah, and I ask His forgiveness for any shortcomings or errors.

My Religious Background and Journey

I am an American Muslim, born and raised Christian in Columbus, Ohio. I accepted Islam in 1998 at age 17 after years of searching that began when I first encountered Malcolm X through Spike Lee's film at age 14. That encounter opened questions about faith, identity, and justice that ultimately led me to Islam.

I've shared more of that story in podcast conversations, and once the most recent episode is live, I'll link it here, inshāʾAllāh.

Education

Soon after accepting Islam, I traveled to Makkah to study Arabic and the Islamic sciences. I later completed an American Imām Certificate program under Shaykh Khalid al-Halawani and have continued learning from scholars and senior imams in the U.S. and abroad.

My education has been shaped both by traditional scholarship and by the practical demands of teaching, preaching, and serving Muslim communities in North America.

My work centers on Islamic education, youth development, and community engagement.

Yaqeen Institute I currently serve with Yaqeen Institute as a Presenter and Outreach Coordinator. My work focuses on developing educational content that addresses contemporary challenges facing Muslims—including Islamophobia and misconceptions about Islam—as well as foundational topics for those new to or curious about the faith.

Noor Islamic Cultural Center I serve as Youth Director at Noor Islamic Cultural Center, where I oversee programming, mentorship, and leadership development for young Muslims in Central Ohio. Learn more at niccyouth.com.

AlMaghrib Institute I coordinate online and onsite programming for AlMaghrib Institute and represent the organization at major conferences and conventions—continuing the legacy of the late Shaykh Muhammad Alshareef, raḥimahullāh.

Siraaj Institute I am honored to serve as an instructor with Siraaj Institute, facilitating structured learning experiences for committed students. Explore courses at siraajinstitute.org.

In addition to these roles, I regularly deliver khuṭbahs and teach at mosques across Central Ohio and beyond.

Professional and Community Work

Personal

I am blessed with my wife, Sana, and our three children. Before transitioning into full-time Islamic work, I spent over 20 years in technology and IT. That experience continues to shape how I think about systems, communication, and building sustainable community initiatives.