In this inspiring episode of The Muslim Nonprofit HSow with Tayyab Yunus, we sit down with Dr. Iltafat Hamzawi—a respected physician, mentor, and changemaker—who shares his deeply personal journey from post-9/11 adversity to becoming a leader in nonprofit advocacy and governance.
Dr. Hamzawi reflects on what it means to find your current in life, how misinformation and fear shaped his drive to tell the truth, and how American Muslims can build lasting institutions rooted in both purpose and professionalism. From founding the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU) to advocating for inclusive leadership, this conversation offers practical tools for anyone feeling lost or floating—especially those in early-stage nonprofits.
A must-listen for community builders, aspiring leaders, and anyone passionate about faith, justice, and positive disruption.
🎧 Tune in and don't forget to 🔔 subscribe for future episodes with nonprofit founders, Islamic scholars, and sector experts.
📌Connect and Follow Dr. Tayyab Yunus:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/tayyabyunus/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/tayyabyunus
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@tayyabyunus
🔗 Connect and follow Dr. Iltafat Hamzawi:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iltefat-hamzavi-03832a57/
00:00 - Intro: Floating in the Ocean & Finding Your Current
00:56 - Meeting Dr. Iltafat Hamzawi: Doctor, Mentor, Changemaker
02:24 - How 9/11 Sparked a Mission for Truth and Representation
04:40 - Founding ISPU: From Idea to Institution
06:12 - Challenges of Building Muslim-Led Nonprofits
07:55 - Importance of Governance, Alignment, and Long-Term Planning
09:18 - Staying Mission-Focused & Leaving a Legacy
11:10 - Redefining Sadaqah: Disrupting Traditional Philanthropy
13:12 - Advice for Early-Stage Nonprofits & Board Members
15:18 - Embracing Identity: Proudly Muslim, American, and South Asian
17:05 - Wisdom for the Next Generation of Leaders
18:20 - Closing Reflections & Du'a
Dr. Iltafat Hamzawi's journey is a powerful reminder that finding your path isn't about waiting for clarity—it's about moving with intention through the currents Allah ﷻ places in your life. Whether you're just starting or already leading a mission-driven organization, this episode offers practical wisdom, spiritual grounding, and heartfelt encouragement. May we all strive to leave behind more than just transactions, but legacies that uplift our communities and reflect our faith.
#MuslimVoices #SocialImpact #LeadershipMatters #FaithInAction #NonprofitLeadership #DrIltafatHamzawi #TruthTelling #AmericanMuslims #Dr.TayyabYunus #Themuslimnonprofitshow
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