Dual Identity
As twins, Jasmine and Adam have probably shared a lot of things in their lives, not to mention their common experiences growing up at the Islamic Center as active Muslim Youth Group (MYG) members.
Jasmine credits volunteerism and involvement in helping shape her Muslim identity.
“I recently represented the Muslim Youth Group at an interfaith event by Habitat for Humanity on the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks,” she says. “Through interfaith leadership programs, I’ve learned more about other religions as well as my own. I learned to question, do my own research and create my own identity,” says Jasmine, who also participates in MAJIC (Muslims and Jews Inspiring Change.)
“I stay involved because I am still constantly learning about myself and my religion. The Islamic Center helps me follow along that path and dig deeper,” says Jasmine who believes the Center invests in the Muslim youth, ensuring great leaders for years to come. “This is something I appreciate as a young member of the Muslim community and as an American.”
For her brother Adam, the Center has also offered similar experiences and growth. As a member of the MYG, Adam enjoys the rewards from volunteering with them as well as the camaraderie.
“It’s a place where we can vent and make good friends,” he says. “I met some of my best friends here at the Center. I also learned a lot from MYG. I use the knowledge I gained from our sessions and I probably will for the rest of my life. Maybe I’ll even pass it on eventually,” he adds.
Of course, one of his favorite memories is the annual MYG Ski Trip.
“Those were so fun. We just hung out and got to know each other. This brought us closer and when people heard how much of a family we were, it made them want to come to MYG even more,” he says.