Discover the Prophet’s Character at MYNA’s Winter Camp
By Hiba Qadri
The Muslim Youth of North America (MYNA), part of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), is built upon a foundation of iman (faith), taqwa (God-consciousness), leadership, growth, learning, fun, and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. For over 40 years, MYNA has served as a guiding light for Muslim youth across the continent, acting as an integral part of their development in social and spiritual life.
MYNA offers a variety of programs including MYNA Rugged, an annual spiritual backpacking and trekking retreat specifically designed for young Muslim boys; ISRAA, the all-girls branch of MYNA; Hira Intensive, a three-week summer education retreat; programs in partnership with Miftaah Institute; the annual MYNA Convention; and halaqahs (study circles). But it is within the environment of MYNA camps where all of these pillars come together and create the most amazing experience for the youth. It is in these camps where lifelong connections to the deen are forged by inspiring speakers and engaging topics.
More often than not, when Muslims study Islam, the focus is on the rules, theology, and history of the religion, but they unintentionally forget the character of the person who brought this message to them. For this reason, the theme for the upcoming winter camp is “The Man Behind the Message,” and the focus will be for the campers to embark on a journey to explore the shamail (the physical characteristics and personal qualities), daily habits, relationships, emotional intelligence, and interactions of Prophet Muhammad (salla Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam).
This theme is relevant to today’s Muslim youth who frequently face immense social pressure and feelings of isolation as they try to balance their religion and day to day tasks. Having teens study the various aspects of the Prophetic model, including the way he reacted to those who opposed his beliefs with patience and firm resolve, will give them a blueprint on how to navigate the trials of being a Muslim in the 21st century and instill in them the confidence and inspiration needed to carry themselves with dignity and pride as Muslims.
“MYNA is the reason that I am Muslim today. Like, I was born a Muslim, but I chose to be Muslim after my experiences at MYNA, and I know countless others feel the same way,” said Mahad Mahmood, previous MYNA Secretary and a camper at Pacific MYNA camps for many years.
In continuing with MYNA’s philosophy of “for the youth, by the youth,” the Winter Camp is organized by young MYNA members. These young counselors, workshop leaders, and camp organizers were past participants and are advised by experienced and accomplished peers who are active in their schools and communities. This group of experienced members understand the modern struggle of navigating high school and college as Muslims. As such, the youth leaders organize workshops, activities, discussions, sports and fitness activities, and field days to give campers the best MYNA experience possible. Campers also meet other Muslim youth, share laughter around a roaring campfire, have late-night discussions in their cabins, all of which creates lasting friendships. This connection is instrumental in helping counselors to relate to the campers with advice and mentorship throughout the camp.
But camp is not just a social experience – it is a spiritual transformation. Seeing the way so many youth rush to pray salah in congregation, desire to be a part of the quiet moments of dhikr (remembrance), and participate in the late-night qiyaams is amazing. For many youth, seeing people their own age doing this out of pure love for the deen rather than because someone is telling them what to do is what strengthens their Iman.
“Camp is an interesting thing,” said MYNA President and recurring camper Zacharaya Elfar. “It doesn’t teach you leadership. It teaches you your faith. In doing so, you learn to lead by watching the examples of those around you. Then, you become inspired to volunteer yourself, and you become the next kid’s inspiration. This is what MYNA is, and that’s why we keep going.”
Naturally, parents and youth alike often wonder what happens when camp ends and everyone returns to their respective cities and homes. MYNA camps leave a lasting impact, and with these winter camps being in the mid-point of the school year, it helps many young Muslims get a much needed spiritual boost which fosters a network of like-minded youth around the country.
“Being a MYNA camper is an experience I can say with confidence has opened doors for me that I never knew even existed,” said MYNA Vice President Aliya Omar. “From creating friendships that have come in clutch when traveling anywhere from Boston to Puerto Rico, to gaining lifelong skills and mentorship from counselors, activities, and experiences that have served me far beyond camp, the benefits I have gained from attending MYNA camp are truly endless.”
MYNA camps start a spark that makes youth go back home and become leaders in their local communities. This winter, MYNA will be hosting winter camps across seven distinct regions (South Atlantic, Mid Atlantic, North Central, South Central, Midwest, Northern California and Southern California). The invitation is open to everyone – whether you are a youth looking to register as a camper or a past camper wanting to give back as a counselor, there is a place for you. For parents and community members, you can directly invest in the future of the Ummah by volunteering your time or sponsoring a camper who might not otherwise be able to afford attending. For additional information or to register for MYNA Winter Camp 2026 please visit https://www.myna.org/camp.
Hiba Qadri is a high school student and has served as the finance coordinator for MYNA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. She most recently was the speaker chair for MYNACON41 in Detroit in Sept. 2026.