Canada: UMAA Conference Calls for Strengthening Shia Identity, Empowering Youth Leadership
Canada: UMAA Conference Calls for Strengthening Shia Identity, Empowering Youth Leadership
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The 24th annual conference of the Universal Muslim Association of America (UMAA), held in Markham near Toronto under the theme “From Identity to Impact,” called for strengthening Shia Muslim identity and empowering younger generations to take an active role in leading their communities.
The conference brought together a distinguished group of Islamic scholars, religious speakers, reciters, and community and social figures to discuss ways to strengthen the religious, intellectual, and social foundations of Shia Muslim communities in North America.
Participants stressed the importance of raising a generation of young Muslims who are confident in their religious identity, steadfast in their faith, and accomplished academically, intellectually, and professionally. They emphasized that young people should be equipped to make meaningful contributions to society while remaining firmly connected to the teachings of the Holy Prophet and his pure Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).
Speakers also rejected the notion that young Muslims must choose between religious commitment and professional achievement. They called for nurturing a generation capable of excelling in fields such as medicine, law, media, and community service while upholding the ethical and humanitarian values of the school of thought of Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).
The conference highlighted the need to translate love and spiritual attachment to Prophet Muhammad and his family (peace be upon them) into practical conduct in everyday life. Participants underscored the responsibility of parents, educators, and Islamic scholars to provide young people with positive role models who embody these teachings.
Addressing the challenges facing Muslim communities in North America, participants called for greater confidence in Shia Islamic identity amid rising Islamophobia and the activities of extremist right-wing movements. They encouraged young Muslims to take pride in their beliefs and demonstrate their values through constructive behavior, civic participation, and meaningful engagement with wider society.
The conference further emphasized that Islamic centers and Hussainiyas must serve as welcoming and supportive environments where young people develop a sense of belonging and responsibility. Participants called on these institutions to provide genuine opportunities for youth to participate in decision-making, contribute to community initiatives, and assume leadership positions.
In this context, Sheikh Al-Hilli stressed the importance of drawing inspiration from the lives of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) and Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him) in empowering younger generations. He emphasized the need to entrust young people with meaningful responsibilities in the present, rather than limiting their roles to preparation for future leadership.
The conference concluded its messages to young people by affirming that they are not merely the leaders of tomorrow, but active partners in shaping their communities today. Participants encouraged them to draw inspiration from the wisdom of Imam Ali, the purity and virtue of Lady Fatima al-Zahra, and the courage and sacrifice of Imam Hussein (peace be upon them).
They stressed that embodying these values through scientific advancement, professional excellence, social responsibility, and humanitarian service is essential to building vibrant communities and reflecting the principles of the school of thought of Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).
