RabaTEENS is a nurturing space for deep and meaningful Islamic spiritual mentorship with compassionate and caring mentors. We design fun, creative, and positive educational experiences to help teens grow confidently and comfortably into their faith.


Class Description


This course is an inspiring journey into the rich contributions of Black Muslim women scholars to Islamic thought, leadership, and social progress. Over several weeks, students will explore the stories, achievements, and enduring legacies of these trailblazing women, whose voices have often been marginalized but remain vital to the tapestry of Islamic scholarship. Designed for teen girls, this class celebrates the unique intersection of faith, race, and gender, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity and resilience within the Muslim ummah. 

Students will engage with the historical and contemporary achievements of Black Muslim women in Islamic studies, exploring their work in theology, activism, and community building. Through thoughtful discussions, they will analyze the challenges these scholars have faced, including the intersections of racism, sexism, and Islamophobia, and reflect on their perseverance and faith. By centering these narratives, the class promotes a more inclusive understanding of Islamic thought and demonstrates how diverse voices enrich the field of scholarship. 

By the end of the class, students will have gained a profound understanding of the significance of Black Muslim women’s contributions to Islamic scholarship and the lessons they can apply to their own personal growth, drawing strength from examples of faith, determination, and leadership.  



Class Outline


Week 1: Introduction to Black Muslim Women’s History

The first week sets the stage for exploring the rich history of Black Muslim women by introducing both historical and contemporary figures. Students will learn about the lives and contributions of women such as Phoebe, the wife of Bilal  رضي الله عنه, who played a significant role in early Islamic history, and Nana Asmā’u, a renowned 19th-century scholar, poet, and educator in West Africa. The session emphasizes the importance of studying these figures to recognize the often-overlooked contributions of Black Muslim women to Islamic scholarship and community building. Through reflection and discussion, students will begin to see the relevance of this learning in celebrating diversity and amplifying underrepresented voices.  


Week 2: Black Muslim Women in the Civil Rights Era 

This week focuses on the lives of influential figures like Betty Shabazz, educator and wife of Malcolm X, and Maya Angelou, who embraced Islam during a pivotal time in her life. Students will explore the intersection of the Civil Rights Movement and the Muslim experience, highlighting how Black Muslim women contributed to the fight for equality and justice. By contextualizing their work within the broader struggle for civil rights, students will gain a deeper understanding of their legacy and the ongoing relevance of their efforts. The class will discuss the courage and resilience these women demonstrated and how those values can inspire action today.  


Week 3: Black Muslim Women in Sports & Entertainment 

This session examines the achievements of modern trailblazers like Ibtihaj Muhammad, the first American Muslim woman to wear a hijab while competing in the Olympics, and Halima Aden, the first hijabi model to achieve international recognition. Students will reflect on the significance of representation in fields where Muslims, particularly Black Muslim women, have historically been underrepresented. Discussions will center on how these women’s successes challenge stereotypes and inspire others to embrace their identities unapologetically. Students will consider the importance of diverse role models and how representation shapes perceptions within and outside the Muslim community. 


Week 4: Black Muslim women in Activism and Leadership 

This week highlights modern activists and leaders such as Ilhan Omar, the first Somali-American Muslim woman elected to U.S. Congress, and Margari Aziza Hill, co-founder of the Muslim Anti-Racism Collaborative. Students will explore how these women navigate the challenges of advocating for justice and equity while amplifying the voices of Muslim women. The class will discuss their contributions to social justice, humanitarian efforts, and empowering marginalized communities. Through their examples, students will gain insights into the importance of advocacy, leadership, and the role they can play in fostering positive change. 


Week 5: Reflection & Empowerment 

The final week encourages students to synthesize what they have learned and reflect on the inspirational lives of Black Muslim women. Students will write about the figures that resonated with them the most and discuss the impact these women have had on their understanding of faith, identity, and activism. The session will culminate in the creation of a personal manifesto, where students outline their own aspirations and how they plan to embody the lessons of empowerment, resilience, and leadership. This reflective activity celebrates the journey of the class and encourages students to carry the legacy of these extraordinary women forward in their own lives.

Class Activity Materials

Pen and paper

Required Book

None

Class Day & Time

Sundays 11:00am - 12:00pm CST 

Session dates: January 12th - February 9th 

This class is for teen girls ages 12-17 years old 

*Please note: Enrollment into the RabaTEENS program is on a per-student basis. If two (or more) students are planning to attend a class together by sharing a screen, each student will need to enroll for class individually. Students must attend Zoom live sessions. Classes are NOT recorded.

Certificate of Participation

A certificate of participation will be given to students who complete the class.

Refund Policy

No refunds are issued once the session begins. 

Black Muslim Women Scholars

Meets once a week for one hour (5-week session)

Instructor

Anse Leanna Abdelmaged

Anse Leanna Abdelmaged serves as the Administrative Coordinator for Daybreak Press. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Prairie View A & M University and later returned to school at the University of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ campus for a M.A in Education. She has worked as an educator in both public and private schools for over 15 years in the U.S. and abroad. Raised in Indiana, Anse Leanna has lived in several states and countries overseas over the years. Since converting to Islam as an adult, Anse Leanna has studied Quran recitation and memorization, Arabic, fiqh, and tafsir. She has attended local mosques and centers in addition to institutes locally and globally including Zaytuna College, Bayyinah, and Ribaat. Anse Leanna has two adult children and two grandsons. She enjoys helping Muslim women learn to read the Quran, and she prays that Allah (swt) will bless us all wnith the Quran as a companion in this life and a witness to our benefit in the next.