May 2018 Ribaat Student of the Month – Zena Jones
Zena Jones is a social worker, who resides in Michigan but is originally from Miami, Florida. She is the mother of three young adults and has quite the busy schedule between family, work and her volunteer commitments.
“I work with diverse individuals and groups,” shares Zena. “I usually have less than a ‘New York minute’ to get to my destinations.”
With such a hectic lifestyle, it can be hard to make time for pursuing spiritual growth and seeking Islamic knowledge. A close friend introduced Zena to Ribaat, and she decided to take advantage of the online program.
“I’m able to fit it into my schedule,” says Zena. “It has brought such relief to my heart, and to learn from female scholars has just brought so much more light to my days.”
Zena has been able to listen to lectures between her daily affairs and found great benefit. She feels enhancements in her life even as a recently new student.
“We walk around with this burden of shame which hinders our growth to better ourselves,” says Zena. “This past semester, I have been able to release that burden and discharge it from my heart. Through Rabata, I learned that repentance can bring so much strength and healing with it.”
At this point, Zena wishes to share her studies with youth and families in her community as a support in their daily lives. She plans to do this through dawah services and other activities. Her volunteer work includes Day of Dignity in Detroit, Michigan, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as well as Feeding America and the American Red Cross. In her free time, Zena enjoys regular exercise, tai chai and eating healthy foods. Her travels have led her to Ghana, Kuwait, Qatar and Abu Dhabi, where she has learned about others in this world.
“I am hopeful that my studies will help me help others near and far,” Zena shares. “I have truly enjoyed my first semester, thus far, and look forward to what’s ahead.”
