Sarah Soleman 

Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with a young finance officer from MYNA whose story is as inspiring as it is relatable. At just 16, he’s navigated the challenges of high school while taking on significant responsibilities within the community. What follows is an in-depth look at his journey—from the first hesitant steps into a new world of connection to the role in managing funds and shaping events at MYNA.

Discovering MYNA

His introduction to MYNA wasn’t what he expected. Recalling his very first mini camp three years ago, he explained how a family member—his cousin—introduced him to the camp. Initially, he wasn’t particularly excited; after all, his winter break was cut short, and he was less than thrilled about missing the usual routine. However, what he found at MYNA was far more profound than he anticipated.

"I didn’t have a deep connection with other Muslim friends before MYNA. Being in a public school, there weren’t many opportunities to meet people who shared my background. But at camp, I discovered a true sense of community and brotherhood," he shared.

At the age of 14, when he first attended, he began forming bonds that would later become a vital support system—something he cherishes deeply even today.

Stepping into Finance

His transition from camper to committee member marked a turning point in his life. After enjoying a couple of camps, he decided to apply for a position within the committee—specifically in finance. “I applied for finance because I wasn’t drawn to roles like outreach or chairing, but I felt a real pull to help with fundraising,” he explained.

In the role, he is responsible for:

• Fundraising: Engaging in initiatives such as cold calling former camp parents for donations.

• Event Management: Organizing events that not only raise funds but also build community spirit. For instance, he described an event in January where he negotiated discounts for supplies, ensuring that the profits outweighed the expenses.

• Resource Allocation: Managing merchandise and coordinating snack bar supplies to support camp activities.

What he loves most about finance is the dual impact it has—raising funds for MYNA while earning hasanat (good deeds) and contributing to an organization he genuinely loves.

Memorable Moments

One moment, in particular, stood out for him. It was an evening at camp when the group spent hours discussing their day. As the night deepened and many were on the verge of sleep, they decided to pray Tahajhud together. The experience was transformative: praying through the early hours, joining Fajr prayer, and eventually finding himself so exhausted that he drifted off on the prayer mat.

“It was one of those beautiful, raw moments of connection and spirituality that you never forget,” he recalled.

This memory not only cemented his commitment to the camp but also deepened his spiritual connection with the community.

Challenges and Growth

The journey from a camper to a committee member hasn’t been without its challenges. Initially, the shift from being a participant to a leader was daunting. He had to learn how to balance the expectations of being a role model while still being a teenager himself.

"I had to overcome the mindset of 'I’m just a camper' and take on real responsibilities—setting a good example for the younger kids and managing tasks effectively," he said.

Additionally, juggling the demands of junior year in high school with his responsibilities at MYNA has tested his time-management skills. Yet, these challenges have only made him more resilient and resourceful.

Looking Ahead

When asked about the future, it was clear that while his experience in finance has been enriching, though his aspirations lie in a different field. He plans to pursue a career in medicine, aiming to become a doctor after attending college—specifically with UVA in mind. Despite the shift in career focus, the lessons he has learned at MYNA about responsibility, community, and leadership will undoubtedly serve him well in any path he chooses.

Advice for Fellow Muslim Youth

For those standing at a crossroads, wondering whether to step out of their comfort zones, his advice is both simple and profound:

“Don’t be afraid to take on challenges. Step out of your comfort zone, and always strive to help your community however you can.”

His words resonate deeply with anyone who has ever felt uncertain about stepping into new roles or taking risks. They remind us that growth often lies on the other side of discomfort.

In a world where young voices are too often overlooked, this finance officer from MYNA shines as an example of how early experiences can shape lifelong commitments. His journey is a testament to the power of community, the importance of taking on responsibility, and the value of pushing through challenges to find one’s true calling.