He is an activist and volunteer who has been deeply involved in community work for more than four decades.
Post- 9/11, he worked tirelessly on interfaith initiatives — organizing open mosque days, “break the bread” gatherings, and outreach programs to present a positive and accurate image of Islam. He has worked tirelessly against Islamophobia for decades and remains steadfast in his commitment to combating hate, promoting understanding, and defending the rights and dignity of Muslim communities. He has organized rallies to challenge hateful rhetoric, and advocate for Muslim citizens to exercise their Constitutional rights.
He served as the Chairman of the Burial Committee and was instrumental in establishing the first Muslim Funeral Home services at MDQ Bayshore — the first of its kind ever in the state of NY— ensuring that families could honor their loved ones in accordance with their faith.
He went on to serve as President of PAANA for more than seven years. He played an instrumental role in securing the Pakistan Day Resolution passed by the New York State Assembly; and, for the first time ever, the Assembly session was opened with the recitation of the Holy Qur’an — both historic milestones achieved for the very first time in the state’s history.
For over 11 years, he served as Chairman of the Muslim Advisory Board of Suffolk County, acting as a vital bridge between the government and the Muslim community, fostering dialogue, addressing concerns, and ensuring representation in matters of public policy.
He addressed profiling issues by opening dialogue with law enforcement agencies and creating ways for both the community and agencies to work together to address concerns and ensure safety.
He consistently reached out to politicians and local leaders, encouraging the community to engage in the political process and regularly inviting them to visit Masajids, listen to concerns, and build relationships.
He successfully challenged a negative and misleading school assignment about Islam that was being taught to high school students. After reviewing his concerns, the school acknowledged the issue and replaced the material with accurate, positive, and comprehensive information that he provided.
He also served as a trustee for a nonprofit organization PK Center dedicated to drug rehabilitation, helping vulnerable individuals and families find a path to recovery.
He played a key role in the effort to have a street named in honor of Officer Adeed Fayaz, who was tragically killed during an attempted robbery.
He is the founder of a nonprofit organization Voice of Muslim Americans that promotes harmony and raises its voice against Islamophobia.
Above all, he is a devoted family man —happily married over 35 years, and the proud father of three children, whose future drives his lifelong dedication to building a better and more inclusive society.