Recent studies have highlighted the significant role of Muslim women in philanthropy. The “U.S. Muslim Women’s Philanthropy Report 2023” reveals that seven out of ten Muslim American women actively participate in one or more organizations, accounting for 94% of the total zakat contributions.
Additionally, research indicates that Muslim women exhibit higher levels of prosocial motivation, leading them to be more inclined towards charitable giving, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
These figures highlight the significant role Muslim women play in supporting communities.
In this article, we delve deeper into the various ways Muslim women contribute to societal well-being and the challenges they overcome.
7 Muslim Women Supporting Communities in Need
1. Dr. Hawa Abdi (Somalia) – Providing Healthcare and Shelter
Dr. Hawa Abdi, a Somali physician and human rights activist, was a beacon of hope during Somalia’s civil war.
As the founder of the Dr. Hawa Abdi Foundation (DHAF), she established a hospital that provided free medical care to over 90,000 displaced people, primarily women and children.
Her sanctuary for internally displaced persons (IDPs) offered healthcare, education, and farming training, empowering communities to rebuild their lives.
A fierce advocate for women’s rights and social justice, her humanitarian efforts earned global recognition, including a Nobel Peace Prize nomination.
Her legacy continues to inspire those fighting for healthcare and dignity.
2. Muzoon Almellehan (Syria) – Champion for Girls’ Education
Muzoon Almellehan is a powerful example of how Muslim women are supporting communities in need. She fled Syria at 14, seeking safety in refugee camps.
Instead of giving up, she encouraged young girls to stay in school.
She became UNICEF’s youngest Goodwill Ambassador and the first refugee to hold this role. Today, she fights for the rights of girls in crisis zones to get an education.
She believes that knowledge is a path to security and empowerment.
Her story proves that education can break cycles of poverty and give young girls hope for a better future.
3. Dalia Mogahed (United States) – Muslim Advocacy and Social Justice
Dalia Mogahed is a leading voice in how Muslim women are supporting communities in need. As the Director of Research at ISPU, she studies
Muslim representation, Islamophobia, and social justice.
She served as an advisor to President Barack Obama, shaping policies on Muslim affairs. Through research and advocacy, she challenges stereotypes and pushes for accurate media representation of Muslims.
She empowers Muslim women to engage in civic life, ensuring their voices are heard.
Her work is shaping a more inclusive society, proving that advocacy and knowledge can drive change for marginalized communities worldwide.
4. Fatima Naoot (Egypt) – Fighting for Women’s Rights and Social Reform
Fatima Naoot is a strong example of how Muslim women are supporting communities in need.
As an Egyptian poet and journalist, she uses her platform to speak out against gender discrimination and advocate for women’s rights in Islamic societies.
Through literature and media, she challenges outdated norms and promotes progressive interpretations of Islam that empower women.
She also encourages economic independence by supporting skills training and job creation programs.
Her work helps women gain financial security and self-reliance.
By pushing for social reform, she continues to inspire change and create new opportunities for Muslim women worldwide.
5. Ilwad Elman (Somalia) – Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
Ilwad Elman is a powerful example of how Muslim women are supporting communities in need.
As a Somali-Canadian activist, she works to rehabilitate former child soldiers and counter violent extremism.
She leads programs at the Elman Peace Centre, providing education, vocational training, and reintegration support.
Her work also tackles gender-based violence and advocates for women’s empowerment in conflict zones.
She represents Somalia in global peace talks, pushing for policies that create lasting change.
Through activism and humanitarian aid, she helps rebuild lives, proving that peace begins with opportunity, education, and the protection of human rights.
6. Laila B. Alawa (United States) – Founder of The Tempest, Amplifying Muslim Women’s Voices
Laila B. Alawa is a leading voice in how Muslim women are supporting communities in need.
She founded The Tempest, a media platform that gives Muslim women and marginalized groups a space to share their stories.
The platform covers news, personal experiences, and analysis, focusing on underrepresented voices.
Through digital activism, she challenges Islamophobia and fights for accurate representation of Muslim women in the media. Her work promotes social justice, inclusion, and diversity.
By using media as a tool for change, she empowers women to control their narratives and speak up on important global issues.
7. Yasmin Mogahed (United States) – Spiritual Guidance and Women’s Empowerment
Yasmin Mogahed is a shining example of how Muslim women are supporting communities in need.
As an Islamic scholar, author, and speaker, she empowers women through faith and personal development.
Her books and lectures focus on mental well-being, resilience, and self-empowerment. She advocates for a balanced understanding of women’s roles in Islam, helping them find strength through spirituality.
She also creates safe spaces where Muslim women can discuss faith, trauma, and personal growth.
Her work continues to inspire women to embrace their faith, overcome struggles, and lead fulfilling lives with confidence and purpose.
Conclusion
Water is a basic human right, yet millions struggle daily to find safe drinking water. Women and children suffer the most, while preventable diseases claim thousands of lives.
Giving Sadaqah and Zakat for water projects is one of the best ways to earn continuous rewards while saving lives.
Take action today. Donate, spread awareness, and help us build a future where clean water is accessible to all.
👉 Donate Now to Build a Hand Pump – Every drop matters!
