About this Event
Join us for a book reading of 'Lion on the Inside' by author Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir, followed by a positive affirmations bracelet making activity facilitated by Mu'mini. This book often focuses on themes such as courage, self-confidence, and inner strength. Young girls will have the opportunity to discuss the book, reflect on key themes and lessons and create positive affirmation word braceletes with words from the book or those that resonate with them personally. Get creative and vulnerable with your fellow Muslim sisters and create lasting friendships. Wear your bracelets whenever you need a boost of
confidence or a reminder of your inner strength!
Mu'Mini is on a mission, and that mission is to raise proud believers, one MINI step at a
time! They provide families with an array of Islamic-inspired workshops and
resources that are designed to educate, entertain and empower our little ones.
Their passion is to ensure that each child is equipped with the necessary
knowledge, skills and confidence to become an active, engaged and proud Muslim in their community.
Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir started playing basketball when she was only three years old, and she’s been playing ever since.
Bilqis began wearing her hijab every day when she was in high school. She currently holds the Massachusetts State high school basketball scoring record, with 3070 points! Bilqis later became the first Muslim woman to play NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) Division I basketball wearing a hijab. She was invited to the White House three times and was recognized by President Barack Obama for her achievements.
Bilqis trained hard and made it to the professional basketball level. However, the professional league had a rule prohibiting headgear larger than five inches, which meant she would not be allowed to wear her hijab on the court. So, Bilqis had to choose between her faith and the sport she loved.
She chose her faith, advocated for Muslim women and girls in sports through her nonprofit organization Muslim Girls Ball Too, and played a key role in pushing the professional league, FIBA (International Basketball Federation), to change their rule regarding headgear and hijab.
Today, Bilqis is a wife, a mother of three boys, an athletic director, motivational speaker, a children’s book author, and creates sports programs, sports leagues and opportunities for Muslim girls and boys across the globe.
Open to ages 7-12
This event is taking place at MLSE LaunchPad: Room 2&3
Things to keep in mind:
- This event is exclusively for females.
- Photos will be permitted, so don't forget to capture those memorable moments!
- Tournament games won't interfere with any scheduled workshops.
- If you're able, please consider donating what you can to support this event.
- Please register for the workshop only if you're fully committed to attending. Given the limited spots available for this free event, we aim to avoid last-minute cancellations or no-shows. Your cooperation ensures that everyone has a chance to participate.
—
This complimentary workshop is part of the 2nd Annual MWSBL x Hijabi Ballers Tournament: Unite to Compete. Unite to Connect taking place at MLSE Launchpad on May 19 & 20. The event features free workshops, wellness sessions, a Modest Activewear Exhibit and a Celebrity 3v3 Game, in addition to a women's only basketball tournament. This event is curated to celebrate and unite Muslim female athletes and allies. Although this event is for females only, you do not need to identify as Muslim to take part - your allyship is valued and appreciated! You may also attend the event on a drop-in basis and take advantage of other programming going on throughout the day. For a full list of programs and features at the event, please visit www.mwsbl.com or check us out on instagram: @mwsbl_ or @hijabiballers
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
MLSE LaunchPad, 259 Jarvis Street, Toronto, Canada
CAD 0.00
