The Manara Platform is a system of programs, built on three program arches, designed to cultivate thriving Muslim students who grow into principled leaders.
Manara Connect
Fostering a network that supports and connects students across generations and campuses.
Manara Connect creates opportunities for students to feel a deep sense of connection to the Muslim community across campuses and generations. Through programs like the MSA West Conference, regional socials, and networking events, we provide spaces where students can form meaningful relationships and discover their role within a larger legacy. These experiences inspire them to contribute to their communities and grow as principled individuals.
Programs Include:
MSA West Conference: Uniting 1,000 students annually for workshops, lectures, and community-building.
Alumni Mentorship: Bridging generations to guide students in their personal and professional growth.
Empowering Muslim students through leadership, development, and holistic support.
Manara Uplift equips Muslim students with the tools, knowledge, and resources to thrive as leaders and individuals. Through programs like the Servant Leadership Summit, which trains student leaders to serve their communities with purpose and skill. In addition, Manara Uplift provides holistic support to address the unique needs of Muslim students, including mental health, financial assistance, and spiritual guidance.
Programs Include:
Servant Leadership Summit: Guiding Muslim student leaders to develop the vision, skills, and resilience needed to uplift their communities and lead with integrity.
Crisis Support Initiatives: Providing financial assistance for students during emergencies, including advocacy-related challenges and basic needs crises.
Empowering Muslim students to advocate for justice and inspire change.
Manara Amplify equips Muslim students to lead social change through principled advocacy and activism. With programs like the Islamic Sacred Activism (ISA) Cohort, students gain the skills to engage in policy, community organizing, and justice-focused movements, all while staying rooted in Islamic values.
Programs Include:
ISA Cohort: Training students to lead advocacy efforts and social movements guided by Islamic principles.
Rapid response and Advocacy support: Providing resources for student-led demonstrations, legal aid, and security during critical moments of activism.
Advocacy & Organizing programming: Offering tailored organizing sessions and workshops throughout the year upon request.
For over 25 years, Manara West has been at the forefront of uplifting Muslim college students and fostering leadership across the West Coast. Our impact speaks for itself:
25,000+ Muslim students convened through events, conferences, and programs.
Over 210 students trained on Islamic organizing strategies
240+ programs held for Muslim college students since founding
Administered over $60,000 in student rent relief during COVID-19
Distributed over $90,000 in rapid response funding to student organizations
Empowering Muslim students starts with action. Here’s how we turn vision into real change:
Step 1: Connecting our Students
Muslim students crave community above all else, especially during the challenging years of university. Our cohort programs and events, such as the Conference, help foster companionship and lifelong friendships that connect students across campuses.
Step 2: Enriching Our Students
Once connected to each other and the wider Muslim community, Manara West can better understand students' needs both on and off campus. Through our Regional Councils and student engagement, we enrich their lives by offering training, classes, and services.
Step 3: Activating Our Students
When our students feel invested in, they are ready to advocate for change in their communities. Manara West helps activate students and stands shoulder to shoulder with them to amplify their voices during moments of opportunity and need.
Your donation can make a difference. Donate now to raise the next generation of Muslim changemakers.
For over two decades, Manara West has been the hub for Muslim students to connect, grow, and lead. Built by students, for students—our platform empowers the next generation to create impact, strengthen their faith, and uplift their communities.
