Ijtema Inspiration
Submit your own Ijtema Inspiration. Email us at: inspiration@mkausa.org
My first National Ijtema was in 2004 when I was 11 years old. I remember sitting right next to the speakers and getting a major headache from it. I didn’t care. I've been to 5 out of the last 6 Ijtema'at since. Why do I keep coming back if I had a bad experience the first time? Because, honestly, there is NOTHING like a National Ijtema in the USA. You have to come to see what I am talking about. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Ahmed Malik, Dallas, Texas
When I was in Pakistan, I never attended an Ijtema of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya because we were not allowed to hold such an event. I've been in the United States since 1992, and have attended the National Ijtema of MKA USA ever since. The Ijtema is a source of pride for Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, and bonds you in everlasting brotherhood. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Syed Saadat Ahmad, Silver Spring, Maryland
I enjoy attending the Ijtema because being reunited with my brothers and listening to the speeches enhances my faith. The worst part about the Ijtema is that it has to end; but the growth in spirituality I attain always remains with me until the next one. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Mubarak Bashir, Rochester, New York
I am attending the National Ijtema to recharge my spiritual batteries which lose charge if I stay away from the company of the righteous. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Muzaffar Ahmad, Fishers, Indiana
I enjoy each moment of the Ijtema from watching Atfal narrating the poems of the Promised Messiah (as) to hearing our African brothers singing their traditional Kalima Recitation, "La illah ha" to seeing the khuddam playing volleyball and other sports. Once, I asked our National Secretary Tarbiyyat, "how do I raise my children in the same manner that you raised your American-born children?" His reply was, "never miss a Jama'at event with your child, especially the National Ijtema." I'm a member of Majlis Ansarullah, and this year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema with my 11 year old son because we are Ahmadi Muslim Americans.
Pervaiz Khan, Detroit, Michigan
I enjoy attending the National Ijtema because of the spiritual strength and power I feel when surrounded by a large group of Ahmadi Muslims. I remember attending an Ijtema about 8 years ago in Pennsylvania. At the time, the area was undergoing an extreme drought. Imam Azhar Haneef was addressing the Ijtema, talking about faith in Allah, and the power of prayers, relating the history of early pioneers in Islam. Imam Sahib mentioned the drought we were facing and advised all present to sincerely pray to Allah for rain. Before the end of the speech, by the Grace of Allah, heavy rain began to fall and continued to pour down for the next day or so. It was awesome to witness the effects of our group prayers so immediately. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Abdur-Rahim Latif, Woodbridge, New Jersey
I remember taking the MKA pledge under at least three Sadaran before our current respected Sadr, Faheem Younus Qureshi. Though each Sadr had different styles, each strengthened my faith in Khilafat, especially during Ijtema time. Their loving guidance and calm demeanor despite a massive responsibility was and is inspirational. But for obedience to Allah through Khilafat, how else would our Sadaran lead such a premiere event? This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Qasim Rashid, Richmond, Virginia
Last year, I came to the National Ijtema of MKA USA for the first time and after attending it, I immediately realized that this is the event that I must come to every year. I was moved by the inspiring speeches, the brotherhood, and love which I saw on the face of every young Ahmadi Muslim. My spiritual level was definitely enhanced and refreshed. The most enjoyable moment for me was when the melodious Tahajjud prayer started. The voice of the brother leading the morning prayer was like out of this world; everyone was truly enjoying the prayers. The religious and sports competitions were great fun! You could see the best of best competing with each other. If you have yet to attend the National Ijtema, do it this time and you will agree that your time was not wasted. It has something for everyone. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim living in America.
Syed Ammar Bin Talha, Dallas, Texas
When I first became a khadim, I used to think of the hassles of going to the Ijtema. Like, “why should I leave the comfort of my home and go to this place where there will be boring addresses and all guys sharing showers and toilets etc.?" Then I reluctantly attended a few of them, and disliked them immediately due to those very reasons. However, something still kept me coming back every single year. I now realize, that it's that grand feeling of brotherhood that is amongst us khuddam invariably. It is absolutely priceless. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim living in America.
Hamid A. Malik, West Bloomfield, Michigan
I attend the National Ijtema to undergo self Tabligh, to make new friends, and to reconnect with old ones. I love to learn from our new converts why they joined Islam-Ahmadiyyat, so I can appreciate even more the wealth of 'gold' I'm blessed with. I am always happy to see the amazing talent in our khuddam and our younger brothers - our atfal. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Nasir Rana, Boston, Massachusetts
I've increased my attendance at the National Ijtema in the last few years, and each year my attachment and longing for it grows. I keep meeting new friends and continue improving my spirituality with every Ijtema attendance. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Sardar Anees Ahmad, Waterloo, New York
How did the Justice League come about? Clark Kent (Superman) and Bruce Wayne (Batman) went to their Local Ijtema and became friends. While volunteering at the Atfal Rally, Batman met Robin. Then as the National Ijtema started, the superheroes finally united. The National Ijtema: where superheroes arise. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Hiba tur Rafiq, Stafford, Virginia
Having originally been in Pakistan, this will be my first time attending the National Ijtema of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya USA. I think that it is always inspiring to see a lot of youngsters gathering at the same place and talking about Allah and brotherhood! This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim living in America.
Umair Jamil, Long Island, New York
My favorite part of the National Ijtema is the Mufti Muhammad Sadiq Award ceremony. I get to hear first hand from those who gave so much of their life and time for Islam; how they found the truth and how it changed their lives. The stories are inspirational and I walk away with my own faith strengthened. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Ahmad Chaudhry, New York, New York
One Allah. Two Khuddam as brothers. Three days of blessed fun. Four plus one times of prayer. All under one flag of Liwa-e-Ahmadiyyat, one dedication of service, and one stamp of brotherhood. National Ijtema is not any event, it is my home. Every year I get one chance to return to a home of great brothers. Will you be coming to our home this year? This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Safeer Bhatti, Davie, Florida
The National Ijtema is truly one of the greatest events of brotherhood out there. The feeling of being a part of Ijtema is so incredible that it’s not something I can do justice to with words. An Ijtema is like Lay’s Potato Chips, “can’t have just one.” Once you go for the first time, you will keep coming back, and in fact you may find yourself questioning, ‘why is there only one National Ijtema a year!?’ This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Saad Karamat, Los Angeles, California
I first met many of my favorite people at an Ijtema at one time or another. Each Ijtema gives me the chance to reunite with them. And, each Ijtema gives me the opportunity to meet even more people. This Ijtema, I hope to have the chance to meet with you. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Salaam Bhatti, Long Island, New York
While recalling last year’s Ijtema, a group of Khuddam and I drove from Dallas to Milwaukee. The drive was long and tiring, and I thought I would not have the energy to participate in and enjoy the Ijtema as I had hoped. Once arriving to the Ijtema, I felt a wave of energy rush through my body and was given a second wind which took me through the whole weekend. It was quite a spiritual experience for me. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Waqas Hussain, Dallas, Texas
Being Ahmadi Muslims, I think we have an advantage over other Muslims around the world; and that is we hold such events like Jalsa Salana and National Ijtema on yearly basis. Especially during the National Ijtema of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, we get to listen each year to new inspirational messages from our Jamaat's faithful Murabians. From across the country, we Khuddam get the chance to know other Khuddam from other cities and states. In addition, my further inspiration is listening to Sadr Khuddamul Ahmadiya, Dr. Faheem Younus Sahib as he addresses about the ABC’s: Allah, Brotherhood and Communication, over and over again during every Ijtema. During those three days, I get to work and participate with other Khuddam in Waqar-E-Amal, Security and Ziafat duties. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Syed S. Hasan, New York, New York
I enjoy attending the National Ijtema because it is your main event for Khuddamul Ahmadiyya. You start with the local, regional and then the National event. It’s a spiritual upliftment and everyone should do whatever it takes to attend this event. My life, soul, and year is incomplete if I don’t attend. The competitions, sports, food, and fun times make you want to come back each year. So, I say to all, no matter what your state is, do whatever you have to do to attend this grand and blessed event of MKA. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Furqan Mehmud, Fitchburg, Massachusetts
I’m originally from Pakistan, and I came to the United States 2 years ago. It is said "Union is Strength," and events like Jalsa / Ijtema provide us the means to unite and to feel the strength. When I spend time with brothers from all over the country, it strengthens my faith and sets my spirit on fire when I analyze myself by knowing each other and sharing thoughts. It heightens my urge to advance in the path of Allah. And I cannot afford to miss such an event as I have grown in a country (Pakistan) where we Ahmadis are deprived of such gatherings by the country's constitution. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim living in America.
Zeeshan Ahmad, Boston, Massachusetts
In the past 20 years I have only missed two National Ijtema, yet during each Ijtema I have learned something new. It's not just the speeches, but also the camaraderie that is unmatched; Tahajjud, sports, speeches, competitions, dining, prayers, blood drives--where else can you experience all this? I look forward to this event every year. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Zahid Mian, Boston, Massachusetts
Attending the Ijtema is what I look forward to all year. It's a place to make friends for life, and it's a place to be inspired for spiritual journeys to come. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Mujeeb Khan, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The first Ijtema I attended in 1996 solidified the Ijtema as the place to be each year. Never before had I witnessed young men participate in over 36 hours of intense sports and academic competition in pure fun and brotherhood. There were no rude remarks or personal attacks. Games did not end in disruption and arguing. I witnessed more than 500 men and boys enjoy themselves in a wholesome, clean and healthy fashion. For this I have always attended the Ijtema knowing how special and moving this kind of brotherhood is. I am always humbled and excited to make the journey and take others along. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Basiyr D. Rodney, St. Louis, Missouri
I attend National Ijtema as I can't wait to meet so many of my dear Ahmadi Muslim brothers. With a thousand Ahmadi souls under one roof saying Tahajjud and five daily prayers together is spiritually uplifting. I enjoy listening to the stories of Mufti Muhammad Sadiq (ra) Award recipients, as they are very inspiring and strengthens my faith in the truth of Promised Messiah (as). This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Nasir M. Ahmad, Tinton Falls, New Jersey
We Khuddam are very fortunate to have National Ijtema here in the United States. Our brothers in Pakistan are not allowed to do so. The most important thing about the National Ijtema is that it increases our spirituality. Having recently moved here, this will be my first year attending the National Ijtema. I’ve heard great things about the Ijtema from everyone. They have told me that I will be surprised by the inspiring speeches and the brotherhood. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim living in America.
Najm us Saqib, Dallas, Texas
Attending the National Ijtema is something I look forward to every year. As my other brothers have mentioned, it enhances spirituality. Since 1995 as a Tifl, I have been blessed to attend each National Ijtema with one exception in 2005, due to my cousin's wedding. Although I had a family responsibility to engage in, I missed my family of brothers. From the "Deaf Camp" in Maryland, to Cheney University in Pennsylvania, to the Hudson Valley Sportsdome in New York, and now in Milwaukee, there are countless memories that are everlasting. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Waqas Mirza, Silicon Valley, California
I enjoy attending the National Ijtema because of the brotherhood. I see my friends from all over America joining together because they have one thing in common - they are the "Khuddam" or servants of the Promised Messiah (as). I love participating in the educational and religious competitions, but especially the sports competitions. They are a good chance to be competitive and be a part of a team. The most important part of the Ijtema has to be the spiritual uplift I feel from this blessed occasion. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Sohaib Awan, Columbus, Ohio
For me personally, the single most important outcome of the National Ijtema is being in the company of righteous. Listening to the speeches of Sadr MKA USA and others, it truly feels like a fresh breeze of spirituality keeps on rejuvenating my soul and mind. The Ijtema also reminds me of my duties and responsibilities as an Ahmadi Muslim American. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Nauman Mubashar, Los Angeles, California
The first Ijetma I attended was when I was 12 years old. In the beginning, I did not like it very much; in fact I was calling my parents to bring me home, but they made me stick it out and forced me to stay. Looking back, I am really glad they did, because for the first time, I felt true brotherhood; and this bond I haven't found in any other place I've been to. I was with my Ahmadi Muslim brothers these few days. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Nameer Bhatti, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
I have been attending National Ijtema since I was a teenager back in Africa. Attending the Itjema has been spiritually educative. This year, I am attending my first National Ijtema in America, and it will definitely give me an opportunity to meet with people of diverse background to share ideas. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim living in America.
Ibrahim R. Guye, St. Louis, Missouri
I have been attending the National Ijtema for as long as I remember. During my younger days, I was relegated to the sidelines as an observer while the older khuddam would take part in fierce competition during the sports competitions. I use to think that these older guys were harsh by not letting me play but looking back I was wrong. What I learned is that the Ijtema is not a annual event, but a life long event where you better yourself in every aspect to grow both spiritually and physically to one day becoming the best of the best. Now, as one of those "older khuddam" I would like to apologize to all the youngsters that are sitting on the sidelines waiting for their chance. Don't worry - your time will come, I am proof of that. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Hibbi Iqbal, Chantilly, Virginia
I always look forward to the National Itjema because of the brotherhood and collaboration. Never have I seen such a dynamic and talented group of people working single-mindedly for good. There is such talent and enthusiasm at such events that it makes one think bigger and want to be more on a personal level. This is how Islam is supposed to be - A religion and a community that helps guide, support, and bring out the best in people. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Ronald Abdul Rahim Hubbs, Rancho Cucamonga, Caliifornia
Back in Pakistan, the Khuddamul Ahmadiyya National Ijtema was something that happened only in our dreams because we were not allowed to hold such events. Coming from a background where we were stopped at every single step, and had to shun down every other idea/activity that came to our mind, to now being part of a society where freedom of practicing our religion exists in abundance and holding such events is not forbidden, is simply astounding. My inspiration for attending the National Ijtema of MKA USA is: 1). Whatever we desired to do back in the day is doable in this great country of ours. 2). I can take tons of pictures while I am there, and build a huge pile of treasures for the generations to come. 3). I have the opportunity to meet new friends. 4.) Most importantly, I have the chance to grow spiritually. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Naveed Ahmad Malik, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
To me National Ijtema is the melting pot for Ahmadi youth across the nation. It brings in me the true spirit of brotherhood which ought to exist in a group that claims the responsibility of rejuvenating Islam. Each year I experience something new which leaves me spiritually charged. This event is truly unique in that it is arranged by the youth for the youth. You can't go wrong with that, can you? This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Waqas Malik, Seattle, Washington
I have attended national ijtemaat since 1988. I still remember fondly the links of brotherhood I made with Khuddam (many whom are now Ansar). It only gets better each year! This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Rizwan Alladin, Long Island, New York
The friendship, the competition, the lack of sleep, the brotherhood, the learning, the inspiration, the spiritual uplifting and the recharging I go through a Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Ijetma make me go back to it over and over again. I request all Khuddam this year, to come together and prove that you are an unwavering force of Ahmadiyyat that will make sure that the beautiful name and status of Allah and the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa) is once again duly recognized and established with full splendor in this world, Ameen. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Mansoor Qureshi, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Allah Who is Al-Mutakalim (God that never stop speaking to His chosen ones) says in Surat Rahman, "Is the reward of good not for good?" It is with great emotion and conviction that one of the places I first experienced the true meaning of that lovely verse of the Holy Qur'an was in the National Ijtema of MKA about 8 years ago in Nigeria. I have never missed any Khuddam Ijtema since I became a Khadim 13 years ago, and I can not even remember an Atfal Ijtema I ever missed either. But the last Ijtema I attended before coming to United States was a memorable one. It was during that Ijtema that the news regarding my VISA approval to the United States was delivered. It was a huge surprise and all I could say was Alhamdolillah. Surely, the reward of good is for good and Allah (SWT) actually made me to see that during the Ijtema. Despite the challenges in the US, I have since decided that the only way to appreciate my God is to ensure that I never miss any Ijtema here in America. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim living in America.
Abdul-Lateef Oresanya, Katy, Texas
Ijtema really defines for me the true meaning of a community and where I belong. It gives me a great satisfaction when I am around my brothers who share the same values. Ijtema reinforces my faith every time I attend, specially living in this society. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Haris Raja, Burtonsville, Maryland
I born and raised in Pakistan, and came to the United States 4 years ago. Being raised in Pakistan, our community has been banned on holding all kinds of national gatherings. I remember when I was a tifl, I'd probably attended a few Ijtemaat in Rabwah, but after that we were never given permission from the government to hold it ever since. I came to America in 2005 and this is my 5th MKA USA National Ijtema I have the blessing to attend; I can not express my feeling how lucky we are here. I went to Pakistan last year, and asked my brother who is Qaid of Majlis Goleki Dist. Gujrat, how things going there. His reply was that due to current circumstances, we are not allowed hold even our regular meetings at large level. I hear his state of distress, and look at how fortunate and independent we are here to enjoy our religion
I request my brothers to appreciate and realize how lucky and fortunate we are, that Allah has given us these opportunities to enhance our spirituality, please don't miss it. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim living in America.
Waqas Asghar, Willingboro, New Jersey
The year was 1989, and there was no more room in the car. Somehow my dad convinced them to let me squeeze into the lap of the khadim in passenger seat. Forget that it's a serious traffic violation. Forget that the road trip was 1,400 miles! Long story short, I've been to 20 National Itjema'at since. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Bilal Rana, Detroit, Michigan
My first National Ijtema was in 2004 when I was 11 years old. I remember sitting right next to the speakers and getting a major headache from it. I didn’t care. I've been to 5 out of the last 6 Ijtema'at since. Why do I keep coming back if I had a bad experience the first time? Because, honestly, there is NOTHING like a National Ijtema in the USA. You have to come to see what I am talking about. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Ahmed Malik, Dallas, Texas
I am neither a Tifl nor a Khadim – but a Nasir. I am grateful to Sadr MKA USA for inviting Ansar to their National Ijtema. And, oh boy, did I take advantage of that invitation! Since about 2001, I attended every Ijtema except one or may be two. My main inspiration to attend these Ijtemaat is my son, Harris. He was a Tifl for all these years, and I promised myself to be with him every step of the way, for him to see the importance and blessing of this beautiful gathering. I wanted to be there when he was a bit confused, a little nervous for all those competitions, and to answer any question he had. I am thankful to Allah that He enabled to keep my promise. The Ijtema itself is, and should be, an inspiration. Those small discomforts (too hot; too rainy; long distance driving; too many people in washrooms, especially in the mornings, or lack of water) reminded one how hard life could be, but, then, all these could turn into blessings. The National Ijtema gives one a spiritual lift that lasts for one full year. It brings our focus back. It brings our identity back. And, it brings us close to each other and to Khilafat-e-Ahmadiyya, and eventually to Allah. Do we need any other inspiration? May Allah continue this Ijtema to be a source of blessing for all. This year, I choose to attend the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Waseem Nisar, Chicago, Illinois
I remember taking the MKA pledge under at least three Sadaran before our current respected Sadr, Faheem Younus Qureshi. Though each Sadr had different styles, each strengthened my faith in Khilafat, especially during Ijtema time. Their loving guidance and calm demeanor despite a massive responsibility was and is inspirational. But for obedience to Allah through Khilafat, how else would our Sadaran lead such a premiere event? This year, I’m attending the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Qasim Rashid
Richmond, Virginia
I attend the National Ijtema to undergo self Tabligh, to make new friends, and to reconnect with old ones. I love to learn from our new converts why they joined Islam-Ahmadiyyat, so I can appreciate even more the wealth of 'gold' I'm blessed with. I am always happy to see the amazing talent in our khuddam and our younger brothers - our atfal. This year, I’m attending the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Nasir Rana
Boston, Massachusetts
How did the Justice League come about? Clark Kent (Superman) and Bruce Wayne (Batman) went to their Local Ijtema and became friends. While volunteering at the Atfal Rally, Batman met Robin. Then as the National Ijtema started, the superheroes finally united. The National Ijtema: where superheroes arise. This year, I’m attending the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Hiba tur Rafiq
Stafford, Virginia
I've increased my attendance at the National Ijtema in the last few years, and each year my attachment and longing for it grows. I keep meeting new friends and continue improving my spirituality with every Ijtema attendance. This year, I’m attending the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Sardar Anees Ahmad
Waterloo, New York
When I was in Pakistan, I never attended an Ijtema of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya because we were not allowed to hold such an event. I have been in the United States since 1992, and have attended the National Ijtema of MKA USA ever since. The Ijtema is the pride of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, and bonds you in everlasting brotherhood. This year, I’m attending the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Syed Saadat Ahmad
Silver Spring,Maryland
The National Ijtema is truly one of the greatest events of brotherhood out there. The feeling of being a part of Ijtema is so incredible that it’s not something I can do justice to with words. An Ijtema is like Lay’s Potato Chips, “can’t have just one.” Once you go for the first time, you will keep coming back, and in fact you may find yourself questioning, ‘why is there only one National Ijtema a year!?’ This year, I’m attending the National Ijtema because I am an Ahmadi Muslim American.
Saad Karamat
Los Angeles, California
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