1. Could you give a short description of chaps 4 change and MYNA?
Chaps 4 Change is a club that [I] and my friends started at our high school! In our club, we focus on reaching out to educators and board members to pitch ideas that we believe will help our school be more inclusive. In addition, we also focus on helping students get involved through projects and events. Similar to that, I have recently been heavily involved in an organization called MYNA which stands for the Muslim Youth of North America! I am so thankful to have been elected as president for this term and as a member of the executive committee, [I] and my coworkers plan monthly events such as fundraising for the homeless and the healthcare workers, hosting toy drives for eid, etc. In both clubs, I really enjoy working with my team and having the common goal of helping the community. Personally, I really like that MYNA allows for me to give back to the Muslim youth in my city and C4C allows for me to provide opportunities to my classmates.
2. What were some challenges you struggled with when creating these groups?
With Chaps 4 Change, I personally faced a bit of backlash. I believe the root of this problem was with social media. Apps like Instagram and Facebook portray information in a different light and furthermore, give multiple people access to view certain things. When I proudly announced I was creating a club focused on activism, some students outspokenly thought it was “stupid” because they believe that our motives derived from common trends. Unfortunately, we did encounter a crowd of people who only saw our actions as ulterior motives but regardless, [I] and my friends continued to reach out to those who showed interest and formed a club based on the grounds of passion and positivity.
3. Are there any tips you would like to give youth who are interested in starting similar groups?
Yes! My first piece of advice is to stay motivated, keep that strong mindset that you started with. My second piece of advice is that when you’re faced with obstacles that seem almost impossible to overcome, don’t be afraid to ask for help. All [kinds] of people are willing to help you, even if they seem like strangers, don’t be shy to ask. My third piece of advice is to not let others' doubts and disbelief turn into your own. Stay strong so that you have no regrets! Lastly, I recommend that you make logical and thoughtful decisions with your best interest at heart.
4. What valuable information have you learned from creating chaps 4 change and joining MYNA?
MYNA and Chaps 4 Change have personally taught me a lot about leadership. Some valuable skills that I obtained with these two positions are how to deliver feedback, set deadlines, speak to authoritative figures, assert my opinion, and much more. When delivering feedback I’ve become aware that I need to be cautious about the tone and language I am using in order to avoid conveying any negative energy. In addition, I also learned that when requesting anything from a coworker I should give them a minimum of a few days and give an additional few days afterward in case they struggle to meet the deadline. This comes with a lot of planning and preparation which is another skill that I obtained as well. Most of all I learned to trust myself and to be confident. When I make a choice, I stick to it and follow through completely.
5. What is your ultimate goal for participating in or creating such organizations?
My ultimate goal with these groups is to help the community. To do this, I first identify and do some research to find what students, youth members, families, etc. need our assistance the most. Then, I work with others and create an idea that would most effectively solve the problem. Afterward, it mainly boils down to planning/programming and obtaining approval from authoritative figures. With this plan, my goal is always met!
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