"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” (Hellen Keller) One individual who has become the quintessence of hard work and success is Madeel Abdullah Hagura of Philadelphia Majlis, this month's Shining Star. His hard work and sacrifice serve witness to the extraordinary amount of success he has achieved at a young age.   

Madeel grew up in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia. After high school, he attended Drexel University for four years earning a Bachelors of Science degree. While at Drexel, Madeel was awarded 2^nd Honors (i.e. ranked No. 2 overall in the Bioscience Major). Madeel also started the university’s first Ahmadiyya Muslim Student Association (AMSA). Currently, he is in his third year at Thomas Jefferson Medical School, working studiously towards becoming a Doctor of Medicine (MD). Madeel is interested in surgery, and wants to specialize in Orthopedics; but also maintains that he still has many options available.   

When not burying his head in countless textbooks, Madeel can be found serving the majlis and jama’at  tirelessly. Not only does he serve as the current Qaid of Majlis Philadelphia, but he is proactive in Tabligh (Propogation of Islam), along with the rest of his family. Every weekend, Madeel drives the Philadelphia Tabligh Trailer into Downtown Philadelphia / Center City which is loaded with Islamic and Ahmadiyyat Literature in an effort to spread the cause of Ahmadiyyat.  

One can only ask, “How do you find the time to fit this in?” Madeel remarks “Many times I have thought to myself that if I miss Jummah or the Khuddam meeting, I can catch up on a lot of work. However, I have seen on innumerable occasions the exact opposite. Being involved in the Jama’at for the pleasure of Allah has benefits on multiple levels and will help you spiritually as well as in worldly affairs.” 

Madeel’s dedication to his faith while pursuing a career in medicine speaks loudly on how his character is enriched, and how much value he places on servicing his religion.

Profile complied by Asif Jamil, Baltimore Majlis.