Born in Pakistan, raised in Chicago, Dr. Samreen Vora longed for a different spiritual experience. Allah ta’ala works in mysterious ways and while Dr. Samreen knew nothing of Minnesota, Allah set her on a path. Seven years ago, work brought Dr. Samreen to the Minnesota area and soon after, she heard about Rabata. She longed to visit, but the location felt unfamiliar and daunting. However, after the RCC opened its Arden Hills location, she knew it was time.

As an educator, this time of the year is always bittersweet for me. While the semester draws to a close with exams, class parties, and grades, I also feel a sense of sadness for the ending of another calendar year. This season always marks for me the end of one part of my journey in this life, and the inception of the next. For me, it invites reflection, closure, and anticipation. As the calendar draws to a close, it prompts me to look back upon the experiences, challenges, and growth that have shaped me over the preceding months. It also inspires me to cast my gaze forward, brimming with aspirations, resolutions, and the promise of fresh beginnings.

With great joy and much confidence, the Ribaat Academic Institute announces the 2023 recipient of the Andrea Scholarship: Kori Majeed. Kori Majeed holds many titles and epithets, and soon hopes to add Ribaat Teacher, and insha’Allah one day, Ribaat Scholar to the list. Mrs. Majeed, self-proclaimed serial learner, considers education as a necessary tool in propelling all her ideas forward. She lives a life of beautiful intentionality and purpose, and as a result, she exudes faith in action. Kori works in multiple spaces, online and offline, public and personal, encouraging others to do the same.