« Previous 1 2
1 2 Next »
Zareen Malik
Zareen Malik of Texas Muslim Women's FoundationIn the war on ignorance, Muslims are fighting a tough opponent. The propaganda that a surprising number of non-Muslims believe, from the roots of extremism in the Qur'an to women being subjugated by men, pose challenges for both sides. And even within Muslim communities, prevalence of certain practices and beliefs are an obstacle to reform. But to bring about change, one must first reach out to one's own community. That's what the Texas Muslim Women's Foundation (TMWF) is doing. Founded in 2005, TMWF is run by and for Muslim women and aims to dispel the stereotypes about their roles while also encouraging women to become actively involved in their communities. But the two goals go hand in hand, by forcing 'outsiders' to face the reality while asserting Muslim women's independence. Find out more in this week's Non-Profit Spotlight.
Non-Profit
Texas Muslim Women's Foundation
Founded
April 2005
Website
www.tmwf.org
Name
Zareen Malik
Age
27
Hometown
Dallas, Texas
Current residence
Dallas, Texas
Education
The University of Texas, Austin, MA in Social Work, 2004;
Austin College, Business, 2001.
Work Experience
Texas Muslims Women's Foundation
Ethnicity
Pakistani/Indian
About the non-profit
The Texas Muslim Women's Foundation is about all Muslim women for all Muslim women. TMWF was established to help non-Muslims understand that Muslim women play many roles just like women of other faiths, and to help overcome stereotypes that many have about Muslim women. Our mission is to empower, promote, and support Muslim Women and their Families through Educational, Charitable and Social Services.
Most notable milestones
We recently had our first fundraiser on September 9, 2006. We brought in Dr. Azizah Al-Hibri of Karamah (Washington, D.C.) to speak on the topic of the concept of justice in Islam. The event was phenomenal and we exceeded expectations by having over 400 guests in attendence. Our next event features Reza Aslan, the author of No god but God, to speak on the role of women in the future of Islam. One of our main objectives is to streamline influential and notable speakers and bring them into our community to talk about women and Islam.
What's the niche?
We are the only not-for-profit organization in our area that strives to enhance the image of Muslim women. Our long term objective is to estabilish a Domestic Violence Shelter that will have Islamic core values at its base.
What's the biggest challenge?
Since we are a Muslim organization run by women, for women, that is enough to create obstacles.
What's in store for the future?
To establish a Domestic Violence Shelter with Islamic core values, to establish chapters on a statewide basis, and to become a "fund" for financial assistance to families in need.
Who would you like to be contacted by?
People passionate about women's issues, Muslim organizations.
« Previous 1 2
1 2 Next »
Best way to keep a competitive edge
Be strong in your beliefs and have faith in the greater good of humanity.
Guiding principle in life
I've learned from this experience that starting any sort of business/non-profit, takes time and patience. With patience, comes challenges, and through these obstacles by overcoming them as a team can only make us stronger.
Goal yet to be achieved
Become the Secretary General of the United Nations.
Mentor
My parents - their success didn't happen overnight, it was because of their hard work and belief that they could succeed. They are such strong individuals, and they continue to inspire me on a daily basis.
What motivated you to get started?
My masters program at the University of Texas, Austin- I had two mentors, both social work clinicians, who opened my mind to the world of social services.
Like best about what you do?
I get to meet the most amazing individuals from all walks of life!
Like least about what you do?
The need to be instantly gratified is my biggest weakness!
At age 10, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A nurse.
What was your first job?
Camp Counselor.
Biggest pastime outside of work
Running!
Person most interested in meeting
Barack Obama because he's our next president :)
Favorite book
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden.
Favorite cause
UNICEF
« Previous 1 2
1 2 Next »
Also this week
Don't forget!
Young & Professional Profile | Rearview | News2Know
|
Top of Page
Blog
Young & Professional Profile 
ConnectionPoint
