Toronto Hosts 24th Annual UMAA Convention, Bringing Together Over 5,000 Shia Muslims to Discuss Social Impact and Youth Empowerment
Toronto Hosts 24th Annual UMAA Convention, Bringing Together Over 5,000 Shia Muslims to Discuss Social Impact and Youth Empowerment
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The 24th annual convention of the Universal Muslim Association of America (UMAA) brought together more than 5,000 Shia Muslims, scholars, religious speakers, professionals and young people in Toronto, Canada, to explore practical ways of translating religious identity into meaningful social and civic engagement.
The three-day event took place from October 9 to 11, 2026, at the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre, coinciding with the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday period. Participants from across North America attended the gathering to discuss the role of Shia Muslim communities in strengthening civic participation, community service and public responsibility.
According to the English-language service of Shia Waves News Agency, this year’s convention was held under the theme “The Next Chapter: From Identity to Impact.” Organized by UMAA under the leadership of Azmat Hussain and Wajahat, the event was supported by local Islamic centres and civic organizations, with the participation of the Imam Hussein Media Group in Canada.
The convention aimed to identify practical approaches for translating the teachings, values and spiritual heritage of Ahl al-Bayt, peace be upon them, into tangible social initiatives, humanitarian services and constructive civic engagement within Western societies.
The programme featured plenary sessions, specialized discussions and educational workshops, bringing together prominent religious scholars, intellectuals, preachers, international eulogists, academics and Shia professionals. Speakers included Dr. Syed Ammar Nakshwani, Dr. Mehdi Hasan, Sheikh Muhammad Hilli, Sheikh Noor, Sheikh Mustafa Akhund and international thinker and preacher Zahra Alavi.
Discussions focused on strengthening Shia institutions, investing in the abilities of young people and adolescents, encouraging innovation in religious outreach, addressing emerging intellectual challenges, promoting interfaith dialogue and expanding humanitarian initiatives.
Speakers emphasized that preserving religious identity remains essential for Shia Muslim communities, but argued that identity and historical awareness should serve as foundations for meaningful service to society rather than ends in themselves. They highlighted the importance of developing sustainable initiatives capable of benefiting both present and future generations.
The convention also placed particular emphasis on empowering younger members of the community and expanding opportunities for their participation in public life. Dedicated youth sessions, professional networking workshops for Shia professionals and interactive family programmes were organized to encourage collaboration and strengthen civic and social engagement.
A representative of the Imam Hussein Media Group also addressed participants during the closing session, highlighting the media organization’s participation in the event.
The gathering concluded with discussions on the future direction of Shia Muslim communities in North America, underscoring the importance of institutional development, youth leadership, religious outreach and humanitarian service in translating shared religious values into lasting social impact.
