RISE Is Paving Pathways
Paving Pathways is a space dedicated to amplifying the voices of Muslim women who have engaged with our programs and found empowerment, community, and growth along the way. Through their stories, we witness the impact of inclusive, value-driven initiatives that honor identity, foster leadership, and support long-term transformation. These testimonies reflect the heart of our mission as a nonprofit committed to creating meaningful opportunities and paving pathways toward a more just and inspired future.
Annie Qaiser: SHERO
"As a mission-driven entrepreneur, being involved with RISE has been empowering, strengthening my confidence in my faith and cultural identity. I deeply value the experiences and insight gained from being featured as a Shero attending various events as both a market vendor and a panel speaker. I am consistently impressed by the diverse talent and knowledge the RISE team highlights at their events and grateful for a space at the RISE table."
binta bah: business incubator winner
“Through RISE and their small business incubator, I was able to grow my small business to the point where I was able to quit my job and pursue this full time; I now have two brick and mortars and even hired an employee. I got the confidence that I could do this and I did it. I would absolutely recommend the incubator to anyone who is looking to start a business".
rahma ali: RISE VOLUNTEER
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selma karaduz: rise events attendee
"I have been to many RISE events and workshops, from their annual conference to their economic empowerment workshops and most recently I took their self defense class for a second time! I didn't expect to remember so much from just doing the class last year. I have some concepts down now like dropping low, always facing your opponent and moving yourself away instead of trying to move them. This class is so impactful!"
chantal lastname: expressions writer & workshop speaker
"I first discovered RISE through Instagram and love how engaged and relevant their organization is. From policy advocacy to self-defense classes, I admired their work at a distance, but felt called to contribute when I saw their strides in period equity and securing free menstrual products in Minnesota public schools. Shortly after, I reached out to contribute a blog about Period-Powered Activism and was recently asked to host the virtual workshop: Five Keys to a Peaceful Period. I've never had a reason to visit Minnesota, but now my RISE sisters make that trip sound like a much-needed reunion. It warms my heart to see the diversity and passion fueling RISE initiatives, and I look forward to collaborating in-person in the near future."
sarah abe: board member
“Over 10 years ago, RISE’s founder Nausheena Hussain told me about this idea she had to uplift the voices and power of Muslim women. Since then, I’ve had the great honor and pleasure to serve as a Founding Board member, watch RISE grow from humble office origins at the back of Rabata’s Bookshop (Daybreak in those days), attended many conferences, brainstorming sessions and events, and now come back to serve on the Board again! RISE has helped me grow in leadership, grow in my career (I work in housing for local government), and grow in my confidence and abilities to support my community. I’m so excited to see how the org will continue to have a positive impact on myself and many others for years to come insha’Allah!”
RISE Monthly Recaps:
This monthly recaps offer a snapshot of the moments, milestones, and memories that shape our journey each month. From workshops and events to community impact and growth, this section highlights the heartbeat of our work—month by month.
