“We need to instill a sense of responsibility in our children. They need a deeper purpose. Adding an element of faith within education allows for positive questioning and for them to look beyond just getting a degree.” — Reem Al-Sulaiti

Today at #QIYADA2026, we hosted a profound conversation on “When Values Become Decisions: Rethinking Muslim Leadership.” Exploring leadership as a daily, lived responsibility with our speakers Prof. Joel Hayward, Sharif H. Banna, and Reem Al-Sulaiti, moderated by Basel Ghazoghli.

“Leadership is responsibility; The etymology of the words themselves gives you a sense of what it is about. ‘Mas’uuliyya’ (responsibility) is taken from the prophetic tradition: all of you are responsible for your flock.” — Sharif H. Banna

If you could give one piece of advice to young Muslims what would it be? Reem Al-Sulaiti answers: “Your intentions need to match your actions, and you need a sense of accountability toward what you plan to do. If your heart is in it, you will deliver and give it your all.”

“We shouldn't rush towards leadership or think it's a right... Not everyone is designed to be a leader. Being a good follower is the first step to becoming a good leader.” — Prof. Joel Hayward

“Business and organizations are outcome-oriented; the destination is more important than the journey. But for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), while outcomes mattered, how those goals were delivered was his primary responsibility.” — Prof. Joel Hayward

IMI joins Qiyada 2026 for a conversation on how values shape leadership. Join us Friday, 25 September at 5:30 pm, Multaqa, Education City. #Qiyada2026 #IMI

Two days in Sarajevo. Twenty-five countries. One conversation still unfolding. Thank you to everyone who joined us. Stay tuned for what’s next! #IMI_BeyondEastandWest

Bringing everyone together for one final photo. Our speakers, organizers, and volunteers - thank you for making this conference possible. #IMI_BeyondEastandWest

What did the conference leave with one of its attendees? Musaddiq shares what he learned, what stayed with him, and his reflections on the experience. Thank you, Musaddiq, for sharing your thoughts with us. #IMI_BeyondEastandWest

Hear from Dr. Omar Suleiman as he reflects on the main themes of today’s lecture and conversation. #IMI_BeyondEastandWest

“When the Prophet ﷺ was being beaten by his own people, he still prayed: ‘O Allah, guide my people, for they do not know.’ Even though they were trying to kill him, he still felt an affinity towards them, and he still cared for them. He still wanted good for his people. When you refuse to become part of the oppression of those who oppress you, that itself is a form of resistance. There is something beautiful about refusing to let hatred take your heart, because you still care about people.” Dr. Omar Suleiman #IMI_BeyondEastandWest