On Saturday, January 21, the Islamic Center of Southern California held its 20th Anniversary American Muslim Achievement Awards. Indeed, it was a very successful event with tickets being sold out three days before the event, but sales continuing to the last minute. Approximately 350 people attended this awards ceremony meant to honor Muslim Americans whose contributions to their fields have benefitted society at large.

The program began with a silent auction in the Grand Ballroom Foyer.  Dinner was served in the Grand Ballroom.  Master of Ceremony, Soha Yassine, introduced the speakers. Dr. Maher Hathout, Spokesperson of ICSC, talked about the Center’s mission and ideology and its unique approach in establishing the American Islamic Identity based on the Holy Quran and the authentic traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).  Man-made rules, cultural and ethnic behaviors were not considered as sources of Islam. Chairperson of the Board of ICSC, Hassan Zeenni talked about ICSC’s various accomplishments and achievements i.e. the New Horizon Schools, Muslim Public Affairs Council, the Academy of Islamic Thought, and the newly established Bayan College.

Mr. Zeeni then presented the Achievement Award to Dr. Osman Shinaishin, senior program manager at the National Science Foundation Office of International Science and Engineering, and Mr. Omar Hamoui, an entrepreneur with deep roots in the mobile industry and founder of AdMob.  The award reflected the exceptional contributions these individuals made in their fields of work and to the community at large and demonstrated that through their achievements, American Muslims can excel in any field, thus improving their communities and the world.

View a recap of the evening here:

Both recipients gave inspiring speeches.  Dr.Shinaishin talked about the religious aspects of time and the responsiblility we have before Allah (SWT) to use our time wisely and benefit our fellow human beings with the unique skills each one of us possess.

Omar Hamoui talked about the struggles he went through establishing his start-up companies.  After failing four times, he was able to create AdMob, which was a huge success.  The similitude of Muslims in America are like start-up companies as we face the same issues as a minority group.  However, with steady perseverance and patience we will make it to become a large influential force in America, Insha Allah.  Omar left the audience with three valuable advices:

1.  Wisely manage your time and live each day as if it was your last

2.  Wisely manage your resources and use them efficiently

3.  Think differently, think outside the box, and be innovative in your approach. Do not be discouraged by failure as they are in reality building blocks for success.