Sheikha Syeda Zainab Adams Gillani

Visionary Educator, Humanitarian Leader, Spiritual Guide

About Sheikha Gillani

Sheikha Syeda Zainab Adams Gillani is a pioneering leader in Islamic education, spiritual guidance, and humanitarian work. As President of IQOU Theological College and Project Manager of the American Muslim Medical Relief Team (AMMRT), she brings a unique perspective on Islamic education, disaster relief, and cultural preservation.

Sheikha Gillani's Insights for Enriching Perspectives

Sheikha Syeda Zainab Adams Gillani brings a unique blend of spiritual wisdom, educational innovation, and humanitarian experience to every engagement. Her talks inspire audiences to bridge cultures, embrace holistic growth, and drive positive change. Her involvement promises to elevate discussions, bridging cultural divides, encouraging comprehensive development, and fostering a commitment to positive societal transformation. This unique blend of wisdom and action is reflected in:

Keynote Speeches: Thought-provoking talks that ignite passion and inspire action.
Workshops: Interactive and hands-on sessions on Islamic education, Sufism, and humanitarian work.
Panel Discussions: Engaging in-depth discussions with other experts on interfaith understanding and global education.
Consultations: Tailored advice for educational institutions and humanitarian organizations.

Recent Initiatives & Notable Contributions

Sheikha Syeda Zainab Adams Gillani, wearing a yellow hijab, sunglasses, and a green and white robe with gold trim, delivers an address at a podium during the IQOU Theological College graduation. Special guests and teachers in traditional Islamic attire are visible in the background against a brick building facade.

IQOU's Historic 2024 Graduation & Convocation

Under Sheikha Syeda Zainab Adams Gillani's visionary leadership, IQOU Theological College hosted its historic 2024 Graduation & Convocation, marking a transformative moment for Islamic education in America.

The event, held at the future campus in Charlotte Court House, Virginia, was attended by international dignitaries and special guests. This milestone highlighted the significance of establishing an Islamic college on a site with historical importance for African American education during segregation.

The convocation celebrated graduates who received Certificates and Diplomas in Islamic Studies through IQOU's innovative virtual programs, setting a new standard for Islamic education in the United States.

Collaboration with the Mamma Haidara Commemorative Library of Timbuktu, Mali

Sheikha Gillani spearheaded a groundbreaking partnership with the Mamma Haidara Commemorative Library of Timbuktu, Mali, under the leadership of Dr. Abdel Kader Haidara, a renowned preserver of ancient manuscripts. This collaboration provides IQOU students and faculty with access to invaluable Islamic scholarly works dating from the 13th to 17th centuries.

By bridging African American Muslims with their rich West African Islamic heritage, this initiative fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Islamic history and culture. The partnership also includes joint research projects, guest lectures, and cultural exchange programs, enriching the educational experience at IQOU.

A diverse group of individuals, including faculty and guests, gather around a table at the IQOU Theological College for the signing of a memorandum with the Mamma Haidara Library. The table displays cultural artifacts and documents, while educational posters about Timbuktu, manuscript preservation, and Islamic history adorn the wall behind them.

Members of the American Muslim Medical Relief Team (AMMRT) pose outdoors holding a banner during flood relief efforts in Pakistan. The team, consisting of medical professionals in white coats and safety vests, stands in front of a body of water, likely representing the flood-affected area they are serving.

Spearheading AMMRT's flood relief efforts in Pakistan

As Project Manager of the American Muslim Medical Relief Team (AMMRT), Sheikha Gillani led a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and volunteers to provide crucial medical aid to victims of the devastating floods in Pakistan.

The team established urgent care centers in severely affected areas such as Jacobabad, delivering emergency medical care, medications, food, and clean water to thousands of displaced individuals.

Their efforts addressed critical health issues, including dehydration, malnutrition, and water-borne diseases, demonstrating AMMRT's commitment to saving lives and alleviating suffering in times of crisis.

Produced "Mingling of Oceans" documentary on spiritual enlightenment

Sheikha Gillani produced the acclaimed documentary "Mingling of Oceans," which explores the life and teachings of Mughal Crown Prince Dara Shikoh Qadri.

The film offers profound insights into pathways to spiritual enlightenment and peace in the modern world, highlighting the historical significance of interfaith dialogue and Sufi teachings.

"Mingling of Oceans" has been praised for its contribution to understanding Islamic spirituality and its relevance in contemporary society, showcasing Sheikha Gillani's expertise in both filmmaking and Islamic scholarship.

A historical painting depicting Mughal Crown Prince Dara Shikoh in discussion with spiritual leaders, including Hazrat Mullah Shah and Hazrat Mian Mir. The central figure, dressed in white, is surrounded by other men in colorful traditional attire, representing various Islamic scholarly and spiritual traditions of the time.

Speaking Topics

With a wealth of knowledge and experience, Sheikha Gillani offers a range of speaking topics designed to inspire, educate, and empower audiences.

Whether addressing the intricacies of Islamic scholarship, the importance of cultural heritage, or the practicalities of humanitarian aid, her presentations are insightful and transformative.

Revolutionizing Islamic Education in 21st Century America
Timbuktu Manuscripts: Reconnecting African American Muslims with Their Heritage
Preserving Islamic Scholarship: From Ancient Mali to Contemporary America
Sufi Teachings and Modern Society: Finding Balance in a Chaotic World
The Role of Sufism in Modern Islamic Studies
Holistic Student Development: Integrating Academic, Spiritual, and Personal Growth
Women's Leadership in Islamic Education and Institutions
Humanitarian Aid: Bridging Cultures Through Compassion
Bridging Faith and Humanitarian Action
Disaster Relief and Community Empowerment
Interfaith Dialogue: Building Bridges Through Humanitarian Work

Transformative Impact on Participants

Participants who have attended Sheikha Gillani's presentations—be it keynote addresses, workshops, or panel discussions—have acquired a rich tapestry of practical knowledge, actionable insights, and a significant boost in inspiration. Drawing from extensive experience in Islamic education, humanitarian aid, and spiritual guidance, these engagements have empowered participants to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Renewed Inspiration and Motivation: Rediscover a sense of purpose and commitment to serving their communities, gaining confidence to tackle complex challenges in education and humanitarian work.
Innovative Strategies for Islamic Education: Learn how to effectively blend traditional Islamic knowledge with modern educational approaches, applicable in various settings.
Enhance Cross-Cultural Competence: Develop improved skills to navigate diverse cultural contexts, fostering better interfaith dialogue and community relations.
Acquire Humanitarian Leadership Skills: Gain understanding of effective methodologies for organizing and managing international relief efforts, based on real-world experiences with AMMRT.
Explore Women's Leadership in Islamic Contexts: Gain practical tools and strategies for women to assume leadership roles in Islamic institutions and communities.
Discover Spiritual Growth Techniques: Learn applicable Sufi practices for personal development and stress management in modern life.
Understand Islamic Heritage Preservation: Explore the importance and methods of preserving Islamic heritage, with insights on the Timbuktu manuscripts' relevance to contemporary Muslim identity.
Enhance Crisis Management Abilities: Gain insights from real-world examples of managing educational institutions and humanitarian efforts during global crises.