Aqsa Akram was born and raised in New Jersey, where she still resides in a multi-generational home with her parents, brother, sister-in-law, nephew and niece. She works as a Health Client Technology Manager.
She was introduced to Ribaat in 2016 by her friend and imam of Masjid Rabata AnseFadiyahMian.One of Aqsa’s favorite aspects of Ribaat is its inclusivity and level of care for everyone.
“It has been a beautiful experience [thus far] Alhamdulillah!” says Aqsa. “I love the concern everyone has for one another. It’s been an uplifting journey with so many feels, in a grounded and balanced way.”
Through Ribaat, Aqsa has learned to reevaluate her relationship with her faith. She shares that it is not about learning rules but also “about consistently applying them.”
“I have learned to be cognizant of raising and maintaining my spiritual self by establishing consistent worship habits,” Aqsa shares, “but not letting that be an excuse for being present with family and friends.”
Currently, Aqsa is working towards completing her Ribaat Teacher Certification this year. After that, she plans to continue onto the Ribaat Scholar Certification.
In her freetime, Aqsa enjoys spending time with her family and friends and loves being an aunt. She also likes to buy books for her ‘to-be-read’ pile.
“Being a Ribaat student has been a humbling experience, and I can’t wait to meet more of my fellow [classmates],” says Aqsa. She feels honored to be selected as April’s Ribaat Student of the Month.
As Salaam Alaikum Aqsa
Congratulation! May Allah swt continue to strengthen you and increase you. Ameen. Your reflection has tangibility and your words reflect my experiences. Congratulation again Jazaku Allahu Khayr
Sr Linda aka Latifah Muhammad