Beyond accountability; Finding community

Maktabah Jewels #2: Aisha’s Story

Assalaamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullaah wa barakatuh 🌸

Hiii Maktabah Sisterssss

I trust that you’ve all been doing well and in states of good health and strong imaan

I’m back with my favorite segment — Maktabah Jewels! (with a little surprise at the end of the letter).

As you know each month, we try to feature a sister from the community to ask her about herself and her journey #AtMaktabah so far

Let’s meet June’s #MaktabahJewel; Sister Aisha

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Please tell us a little about yourself:

My name is A’aishah Olalade Abiola, a 200-level student at the University of Lagos. I’m a seeker of knowledge who’s passionate about reading, photography and cooking.

Personal growth, self development, and most importantly, building a strong relationship with Allah are at the heart of my journey.

Right now, I’m in a season of learning, unlearning, and growing spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.

What a wonderful season to be in! May Allaah aid you in your pursuits and ease your Journey.

How did you first hear about Maktabah?

I came across Maktabah on Instagram through @roadtoihsan (Umm Bunny) while searching for a community of sisters focused on growth and spiritual development.

In Shaa Allaah, you’ve found it! Since you joined us #AtMaktabah, what programs have you participated in?

I’ve joined the Weekly Ramadan Reset and Hadaf Circle. What motivated me to join was having clear goals for Ramadan and wanting accountability and reflection. I’m also part of this month’s book club.

BarakAllahu feeki! That’s an impressive lineup. Could you share a quote or session that resonated deeply with you?

Every session I’ve attended has touched me in some way, Alhamdulillah, wallahi it’s hard to pick just one! But a particular line of poetry shared from the book club stayed with me..

"My Relatives pass by my grave, as if they do not know me!

And those who receive my inheritance divide my wealth,

And they even dispute my debts (so they can increase their own share)!

They take their shares and go on with life .

O Allah, how fast they forget me!"

It reminded me how temporary this world is, and how quickly life goes on without us. It made me

reflect on what really stays behind ... our deeds.

How has Maktabah has influenced your life?

Being part of this community has helped me slow down, reflect, and become more intentional with my dhikr and connection with Allah. It reminded me that Islam isn’t a milestone to reach — it’s a lifestyle to live every day.

What’s your favorite time to read or reflect?

Favorite time to read; Sunday evenings. Favorite time to reflect; after Fajr, and on Fridays after Asr.

What word you use to describe Maktabah?

I’ll use two Subtle and serene.

Do you have any advice for a sister who’s thinking of joining Maktabah?

Don’t hesitate. If you’re looking for a space to grow in your deen, feel seen, and be part of a sisterhood that nurtures your connection with Allah — this is it.

You’ll find something beautiful here, in shaa Allah.

In Shaa Allaah you will!

Such lovely words from Sister Aisha.

Jazakunnallahu khayra for reading this lovely piece with me.

I hope you have been inspired to make the bold move and join us #AtMaktabah!

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In other news, this weekend, we’re hosting our first physical event of the year!!

The long awaited Maktabah Community Potluck is here!

An afternoon with the sisters you’ve connected with virtually #AtMaktabah.

Join us for a soulful and wholesome Sunday afternoon.

Our theme for this potluck is Community Check-in, come as you are — something I’m sure we could all use. It already feels like the warmest of hugs.

For those able to attend, check out details on our alumni group and let’s make it a date this Sunday, in shaa Allaah!!

For those too far away and filled with FOMO (my table as well), stay tuned to our Instagram story this Sunday for a takeover by a community member who will take us through the day (while maintaining the privacy of the sisters of course).

Are you as excited as I am?!

Let us know if you’ll be joining us in-person or catching up on stories in the comment section below!

Be sure to tell us what you’ll love to see more from us #AtMaktabah

Until next time,

Fee Amanillaah,

Ammah

Maktabah Hub.