NYN Special Correspondent :
Faith, scholarship, and youth participation came together in Albany, New York, as the North American Muslim Alliance (NAMA) hosted its Convention and Mawlid Celebration 2026, bringing Muslim families, scholars, imams, and young participants together for a full day of religious learning and community engagement.
The gathering took place on Saturday, August 22, 2026, beginning at 9 a.m. at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. The program centered on Islamic education and the remembrance of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), while giving attendees opportunities to hear from religious scholars and take part in activities designed for different age groups.
Featured speakers included Shaykh Yasir Fahry, Shaykh Saiful Azam Al-Azhary, Shaykh Dr. Muhammad bin Yahya Al-Ninowy, Shaykh Yusuf Azhari, Shaykh Khushtar Noorani, Mufti Manzarul Islam Azhari, Imam Bilal Khan, Imam Adnan Rokadia, Imam Muhammad Abu Bakr, and Mufti Sajjad Raza Madni. Their participation added a broad range of religious voices to the convention.
A major part of the event focused on children and teenagers through the Children’s Youth Competitions. Young participants ages 5 to 12 joined a painting competition based on “The City of the Prophet (SAW).” Teenagers ages 12 to 18 took part in a speech competition on the character of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and its relevance in today’s world, as well as an essay competition focused on the Prophet as a role model for children and youth.
The program also included a Quiz and Kahoot Challenge for participants ages 12 to 18, testing their knowledge of the life, teachings, and noble character of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Winners received prizes, while participants were offered certificates and free participation in the youth activities.
The convention reflected NAMA’s effort to combine religious scholarship with family and youth engagement. By giving younger participants a central role alongside established scholars and imams, the event created a space where Islamic learning, creativity, and community connection were shared across generations.
The 2026 NAMA Convention and Mawlid Celebration closed as a gathering centered on faith, education, and participation, with youth activities serving as a key part of the day’s broader community focus.
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