Kosefobamu Waheedah

Every program has its essence, but some always stand out as defining moments of reflection, growth, and renewal of our purpose in life. As the upcoming sisters’ seminar approaches, the anticipation is building, not just for another gathering, but for an experience designed to strengthen faith, sharpen purpose, and equip Muslim Sisters’ for the challenges of today’s world.

In a brief sit-down ahead of the program, we asked a few of the sisters deeply connected to its vision to share their thoughts. They  spoke candidly about why this seminar matters, how it addresses the struggles of modern Muslim sisters, and what attendees should look forward to.

The Chairperson: Sis. Yasirah Sodamade

What is the MSSN Akinyele Area Council Sisters’ Seminar really about, and what vision is driving this year’s edition?

The MSSN Akinyele Area Council (AAC) Sisters’ Seminar is designed to enlighten and empower Muslim sisters in both secondary and tertiary institutions. It addresses crucial aspects of their lives, including health, social life, and faith. The vision for this year’s edition is driven by a desire to remind sisters of their core purpose amidst the distractions of modern trends. This year’s planning committee wants to show sisters that there is a richer life beyond social media scrolls and fleeting trends and that true fulfillment comes from a deeper understanding of their identity and purpose.

As preparations intensify, what unique experiences and values should sisters look forward to on the 21st of September?

This year’s seminar is all about bringing sisters together to celebrate their diverse contributions and achievements. We’re creating an environment where Muslim women can connect, challenge stereotypes, and work toward collective progress. Beyond the inspiring talks, sisters can look forward to a fun-filled day with interactive games like spelling bees and Kahoot, offering a chance to win exciting prizes while building connections with their peers.

Why would you say this seminar is a must-attend program for every sister this year?

This seminar is a must-attend because it provides sisters with a unique opportunity to learn about their rights and the social and health issues that affect them. We have a lineup of experienced lecturers who are experts in their fields. Notably, Dr. Olanlege, a consultant in gynecology with over 25 years of experience, will be addressing a sensitive topic that affects many sisters and their relationships, providing valuable insights that are not easily accessible elsewhere.

Balancing spirituality, academics, and personal life is a common challenge. How is this seminar designed to help sisters achieve that balance?

We understand the challenge of balancing multiple aspects of life, and our seminar is specifically designed to address this. The topics and speakers have been carefully selected to show sisters how to be smart, academically sound, and have a fulfilling personal life while remaining conscious of their faith. Our lecturers are living examples of people who have successfully balanced their careers, personal lives, and religion, and they will serve as role models to reassure sisters that this balance is not only realistic but achievable.

In what ways will this year’s seminar prepare sisters to make a meaningful impact beyond their classrooms and lectures?

This year’s seminar goes beyond traditional lectures. We’ve incorporated an interactive panel session where sisters can ask questions, contribute to discussions, and engage directly with the speakers. This format ensures that the program is truly for them, empowering them to think critically and apply what they learn in their everyday lives. By fostering active participation, we aim to equip sisters with the knowledge and confidence to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Should participants be expecting any exciting surprises that will make this edition unforgettable?

Yes, absolutely! We’ve planned a few exciting surprises to make this edition truly memorable, but a surprise wouldn’t be a surprise if we revealed it now. You’ll just have to be there to find out!


Social and Welfare Officer 3: Sis. Muhsinah Sharafdeen

The Sisters’ Circle plays a vital role in MSSNAAC. How would you describe its mission in supporting female Muslim students?

To answer the question, I would like to paint a female Muslim student, specifically secondary students as eggs that can be handled neither too softly nor too harshly. They must be nurtured with care, right from their young ages. The MSSN AAC Sisters’ circle contributes to the religious and personal life of female students with her impactful sessions through secondary schools coordination, a weekly gender based spiritual diet session at the extra mural among other programs. In short, the mission is to guide female students to be standard bearers of Islam.

Apart from the upcoming seminar, what other programs or initiatives does the Sisters’ Circle engage in for the growth of sisters?

To be a source of growth for sisters, the Sisters’ circle engages in monthly lectures, online programs as well as the impactful sister seminar.

As someone within the Circle, how are the preparations going, and what excites you most about this edition?

Alhamdulillah. This edition, being my third, appears to be one of the most memorable right from the planning stage. From the incomparable trending of our flyers to the active participation of sisters in the general group. May Allah make it an outstanding success.

What do you think sisters stand to benefit the most when they attend on the 21st of September?

All the sisters including myself will not be present on the 21st of September to listen to the usual talks. This is a program that promises to answer our dilemmas on our social media life and even the proper relationship talks from mothers who have walked the phase we are currently in. It’s more than paying for a counselling session!


Assistant Directorate of Studies 5: Sis. Islamiyyah Olayemi

If you could describe the upcoming seminar in three words, what would they be – and why?

Faith-Fueled Authenticity –  because it grounds the discussions in Islamic values and reflects the call to be real, sincere, and true to oneself beyond digital façades. Nowadays, many people measure their goals and purpose by what they see others achieving through social media, causing some to spend their entire lives chasing clout. This program will be a wake-up call about our purpose in life and how sisters can achieve their goals while staying true to Allah and themselves.

Many sisters struggle to balance academics and spirituality. How do you believe this program will inspire them to manage both with ease?

Balancing academics with spirituality is indeed tasking, especially for one who strives to attain excellence in both aspects, since our main purpose as Muslims is to worship Allah. I used to be in that position – and in some ways, I still am – though with gradual improvement. The struggle ranges from attending classes, trying to cover the syllabus, to observing the daily solawāt, attending madrasah, and memorizing the Qur’an. It is a continuous effort for one who doesn’t want to excel in one area at the expense of the other.

I believe this seminar is designed to address that exact struggle by reminding sisters that spirituality isn’t separate from academics, but can actually fuel it. Through relatable discussions, practical tips, and faith-based motivation, it will help sisters see how integrating acts of worship into their daily routines can bring clarity, discipline, and inner peace. It creates a supportive space where sisters are reminded that seeking knowledge is also an act of worship, and that with the right intention, balance is not only possible but deeply rewarding.

Some sisters may still be undecided about attending. What heartfelt reason would you give them not to miss it?

Of course, it is normal to be indecisive about attending a program whose value you may not yet fully see – or to choose something else over it. Honestly, if it were the old me, I might have chosen to sleep instead of going out. But the current me would try my best to attend a program like this, In shā’ Allāh.

To any sister still undecided, I would say this: “Sometimes, the reminder you’ve been praying for comes wrapped in a gathering like this.” This seminar isn’t just another event. It’s a safe space for Muslim sisters to reconnect with their purpose, gain clarity, and feel spiritually refreshed. In a world full of noise and pressure, this is a chance to pause, reflect, and realign—with your Creator, your identity, and your goals. It may be the opportunity you need to get that push, that sense of validity, and that reality check you’ve been seeking. Don’t miss the chance to be among sisters striving just like you. You might leave with the exact spark you didn’t even know you needed. May Allah spare our lives till then and beyond. Āmīn.

In what ways do you see the lessons from this seminar preparing sisters to become role models and agents of positive change in society?

Sisters build the society because they nurture the children who are later poured into it. As the saying goes, “You cannot give what you do not have.” For sisters to become true role models and agents of positive change, they must first be equipped with the right knowledge, values, and orientation – tools that Islam has already laid down. This seminar brings that essential guidance to their doorstep, nurturing spiritually aware, intellectually sound, and socially responsible women ready to transform their world.

It seeks to equip sisters with both spiritual depth and real-life relevance. By addressing issues like identity, purpose, social media influence, and balancing dīn with dunyā, it nurtures confident, principled Muslim women who lead by example. The lessons encourage sisters to embody sincerity, modesty, responsibility, and resilience – qualities essential for role models.

In addition, the organizers have thoughtfully designed various segments aimed at instilling well-rounded knowledge in sisters, covering key areas such as religion, relationships, career growth, and health. Each session is tailored to address real-life challenges while aligning with Islamic values. Participants will leave better informed, more confident, and spiritually grounded.

When a sister understands her worth through the lens of Islam and gains the tools to navigate society with clarity and conviction, she naturally becomes a positive influence – whether in her home, on campus, in the community, or in her career. This seminar isn’t just about learning, it’s about becoming.

With just a few weeks to go, what final word of encouragement would you love to share with sisters as they prepare to attend?

As someone I know often says, “The best gift you can give yourself is to strive constantly to be a better version of yourself.”

Dear sisters, striving to be a better version of yourself does not always mean making a grand change or taking one major step – it begins with small but intentional actions. As the seminar draws near, take it as a gift to your soul and a step towards becoming a better version of yourself. Life moves fast, but moments like this – rooted in faith, growth, and sisterhood – are rare and impactful. Clear your schedule, open your heart, and come ready to receive.

You deserve this. May Allah make it a source of light and lasting benefit for us all. Āmīn.

The upcoming seminar promises to be more than just lectures or discussions – it is a call to realignment, a safe space for sisterhood, and a source of spiritual fuel for navigating academics, careers, relationships, and personal growth.

As the countdown continues, one message stands out clearly: this is not an event to miss. For every sister seeking to reconnect with her purpose, draw closer to Allah, and find strength in community, the seminar offers a timely reminder that becoming a better version of oneself begins with small but intentional steps.

May Allah make it a source of light, inspiration, and lasting benefit for all participants. Āmīn.