State of the Muslim Ummah

Where do we stand, and where are we headed? This powerful session brings together three distinguished speakers—Dr. Ovamir Anjum, Imam Tom Facchine, and Dr. Mohamed Abu Talib—moderated by international journalist Jamal Elshayyal. The panel explores the state of the Ummah—spiritually, socially, and politically—in a time marked by both awakening and immense trials. Dr. Anjum reflects on the hopeful signs of revival in the Ummah despite decades of setback. Imam Tom calls on viewers to assess their roles: “Where are you in the story? Are you going to be the hero?” Dr. Abu Talib uses the oak tree as a metaphor for hope in hardship and reminds us of the prophetic promise: there will always remain a group who carry the light forward. “There are two billion Muslims… and we are not able to send a few bags of rice to Gaza?” “Part of our iman is to build Noah’s Ark—even when people laugh at you.” “It is a time of awakening—and the more Islam is attacked, the more Muslims awaken.” “Every person must ask: Where are you in the story of the Ummah? Are you the hero?” “A single acorn can grow into a mighty oak that lasts a thousand years.” “This Ummah is full of khayr—some acorns may never sprout, but some will become beacons of shade and strength.” “The Prophet ﷺ promised: there will always remain a group, undeterred by betrayal, carrying goodness.” “We teach STEM like it’s life—and Deen like it’s optional. Even in Islamic schools.” This session challenges us to move beyond an “Islam of five pillars and four walls” and to reclaim our spiritual and intellectual legacy with urgency, courage, and sincerity.