Dorchester, MA — The 14th Annual Mu’tamar, hosted by the Boston Islamic Center (BIC) and Masjid Alrowda, concluded this Thanksgiving weekend after three days of faith-centered learning, impactful lectures, and meaningful community engagement. Held at Albert Holland High School of Technology, the gathering continued its legacy as one of the most significant Islamic conferences in the Greater Boston region. This year’s theme, “Building a Prophetic Community: Strengthening the Ummah through the Sunnah,” guided the teachings and reflections shared throughout the weekend.
Attendance was lower than in previous years, a change organizers anticipated due to the shift in venue. Lead organizer Hamdi Jimale explained, “Six of the previous Mu’tamars were held at English High School, but this year we transitioned to this location due to technical needs. Even with the change, the team is very happy with the outcome.” Despite the smaller turnout, the atmosphere remained vibrant, and sessions were well-attended and engaging.
The conference welcomed scholars from across the country, each offering timely guidance and reflections. A major highlight was the presence of Sheikh Yusuf Abdi Abdulle, former Imam of BIC, who served the Boston community for more than 15 years. He now serves as the Executive Director of the Islamic Association of North America (IANA), a national organization that provides support and educational leadership to Islamic institutions across the United States. His return was warmly embraced by the community.
During a Q&A session, a young attendee asked him for advice on choosing a spouse. Sheikh Yusuf responded with timeless counsel: “You should consider three things: Does the person have a good relationship with their parents? Does the person pray and have a connection with God? And finally, is the person able to provide for a family? If these questions are checked, then consider him or her. Forget the other materialistic conditions.”
Also featured was Sheikh Horsed Noah from Ohio, widely known on social media for his counseling and practical guidance for both parents and youth. One of his most moving sessions focused on how the Sahabah Saw and described the Prophet, Peace be upon him (PBUH), exploring the deep admiration the early companions had for the Prophet and how those descriptions continue to resonate today. He encouraged attendees to embody prophetic qualities, kindness, humility, patience, and integrity as they navigate modern-day pressures and responsibilities.
The Mu’tamar also welcomed Imam Hassan Mohamed from the DMV area, who delivered insightful presentations on the Benefits of studying the Life of the Prophet PBUH and the Public Ethics of the Prophet PBUH. He emphasized that prophetic character is not only essential in personal life but also vital in public interactions, civic engagement, and community leadership. His message reminded attendees that honesty, justice, and compassion are foundational to strong and ethical communities.
Over the course of three days, the Mu’tamar offered a well-rounded set of programs for families, youth, and elders. Activities included Qur’an recitation competitions, parent and youth workshops, roundtable discussions, and a youth basketball tournament. The diverse programming ensured that attendees of all ages found meaningful opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.
Among the parents who attended was Umu-Zizi, a mother who said she and her husband benefited greatly from both the workshops and the parent seminars offered throughout the weekend. Her children participated in the youth basketball activities, giving the family a well-rounded experience of learning and recreation. “It is a well put-together program,” she said, expressing her appreciation for the structure, planning, and impact of the Mu’tamar.
A special moment during the Mu’tamar was the recognition of Ahmed Mohamed, founder of CSAV Events in Newton, who received the Community Spotlight Award for providing exceptional audiovisual services to the Mu’tamar for all 14 years. Reflecting on the honor, Ahmed said he remembers when the Mu’tamar first began in 2009. He added, “My father always reminded me to serve the community in any form or shape. This work is part of his legacy, and I’m proud to continue it.” His dedication and consistency were applauded by attendees.
Parents, youth, and elders described this year’s Mu’tamar as uplifting, educational, and spiritually grounding. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with their faith, strengthen family bonds, and hear guidance rooted in prophetic teachings that address both personal and community needs.
As the 14th Annual Mu’tamar came to a close, organizers expressed appreciation for everyone who attended and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing this cherished tradition. The Mu’tamar remains a cornerstone event for Boston’s Muslim community—an annual space for learning, reflection, and renewal.
Abdullahi Hussein is a community journalist focused on uplifting immigrant voices and local stories in Boston. He is also our director of editorial and development.
