Muslim Singlehood

Youth Changing the World!

by Zarinah El-Amin Naeem

Yesterday, I spoke to about 300 students ages 12 – 19.  The topic was Operation Clean Water, Niyah’s drive to build water wells in Sierra Leone, West Africa.   We discussed issues of the “Haves” vs the “Have Nots.”  I showed pictures from my travels and the students were able to visualize how your life circumstances can be altered just by your location, not your intelligence or aptitude. 

At the first school, Riverside Academy West in Dearborn, Michigan.  Ms. Iman Khalid, a high school teacher impressed on the students that “You are not guaranteed the things that you have, these are truly blessings so you must feel for others.”    After seeing pictures of children in other areas who have no choice but to drink brown water infested with parasites and traces of sewage, as well children fetching water in 5 gallon Jerry Cans and carrying the heavy loads for more than a mile, Riverside students were challenged to carry loads of books to simulate the weight of water.   Walking around the gymnasium with the loads on their heads, the students quickly tired.   When asked for their reflections, one student said, “I don’t think it’s fair at all.” 

Inspired and energized, in just an hour Riverside Students raised over $100 towards the water well project and each student committed to raising $15 each, a goal they came up with themselves!    The students will be selling popsicles on Wednesdays to supplement the monies they get from their families as well.    

Youth can and will change the world when given the opportunity!

Thank You to

Ms. Iman Khalid, the Principal Mr. Saab, and all of the teachers, students and staff at

Riverside West Academy!