A Maryland-based non-profit 501c(3) educational and research organization founded in 2009/1430, our goal at ILIA is to promote leadership development, education, and research based on Islamic values and principles, through personalized experiential learning leadership programs. 

We primarily serve youth ages 9-25, but also provide services for adults 25+. Our services are open to all individuals, regardless of faith. In addition to our educational and research mission, we operate a Youth Crisis Line. It provides youth development and counseling services for ages 13-27 with support for youth suffering from substance abuse, homelessness, domestic challenges, academic suspension, and unemployment.

The goal of our organization is to develop a new breed of leaders, whose actions are driven by mercy for mankind and serving the Muslim and non-Muslim American population through our innovative and unique 6-cornerstone framework comprising of leadership certifications and clubs; leadership-based tutoring; mentoring, coaching, and counseling; community capacity-building projects; and internships.

What’s Unique About ILIA?

1. Our Premise: That leadership is an innate human capacity that can be developed in everyone

2. Our Methodology: Personalized learning through experience

3. Our Offerings: Six educational pillars: Certificates, Mentoring, Internships, Field Studies, Projects, and Tutoring

4. Our Outcome: Leaders intertwined with their communities transforming challenges into opportunities

Mission Statement

Developing leaders and empowering communities is the purpose we do what we do every day. Since ILIA began, we have enabled hundreds of youth to become more self-aware and empowered. With the boost of confidence, they are making positive impacts on themselves, their families, and communities.

Vision Statement

Over the years ILIA has become a trusted partner to many youth development organizations, such as school systems, community centers, juvenile services departments, government agencies, and parents. Our interns and alumni have moved on to make impacts and lead as agents of change in various aspects of their lives, from the offices of corporations headquarters to the alleys of disadvantaged towns across America.