A Volunteer’s Journey: Personal Growth and Impact at the Reviving the Islamic Spirit Convention
The Reviving the Islamic Spirit (RIS) Convention is not only a space for spiritual enrichment but also a hub for community engagement, personal reflection, and professional growth.
For volunteers, the event offers a chance to contribute to a meaningful cause while developing new skills and making lasting connections. Ahmad Siyar Habibi, a dedicated volunteer with Muslim Hands, shared his transformative experience at last year's convention, highlighting how volunteering has shaped his personal and professional aspirations, as well as his commitment to community service.
Personal Growth and Reflection
Volunteering with Muslim Hands at the RIS convention was an eye-opening experience for Habibi, one that fostered personal and spiritual growth. His experience deepened his empathy and sense of service, he says. “Spiritually, it strengthened my connection to the community and the importance of helping those in need.”
One of the most impactful moments for him came during an interaction with children at the convention. “A group of children enthusiastically interacted with the punching machine, eager to participate and learn more about the cause,” Habibi recalls. This powerful moment reminded him of the importance of community engagement and bringing people together for positive change.
Skills and Development
Volunteering at the Muslim Hands booth also served as a platform for Habibi to learn communication and people management skills. He learned how to motivate and inspire others, which is invaluable for any community-driven initiative.
Habibi’s experience was further enriched by workshops and discussions that took place throughout the convention. These sessions not only deepened his understanding of global issues but also gave him a more nuanced perspective on the work Muslim Hands does in areas like healthcare, emergency relief, and water access. “The discussions revealed how systemic challenges intersect and how important it is to provide sustained solutions,” he says. These insights strengthened his commitment to advocate for lasting social change.
Community Engagement
Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering for Habibi was the opportunity to connect with other passionate individuals. "Interacting with other volunteers and attendees inspired me to become more involved in community service," he shares. “The dedication and passion I witnessed reminded me of the power of collective action.” For Habibi, these connections were not just limited to the event itself but also helped deepen his sense of belonging within a larger network of like-minded individuals striving for the same goal—making a difference.
Habibi says organizations like Muslim Hands play a vital role in addressing global challenges. Muslim Hands bridges the gap between those in need and those who can help, he says. As a volunteer, he is passionate about causes that improve access to healthcare and education, particularly for underserved communities.
Career Goals
Habibi’s volunteer experience at RIS influenced his career aspirations. Volunteering gave him a clearer vision of how he wants to contribute to social change. “The experience at the convention reinforced my desire to pursue a career that involves meaningful community engagement and advocacy.”
The skills and insights he gained from volunteering—such as teamwork, communication, and effective fundraising—will serve him well in any future career within public service or nonprofit management.
Habibi was also able to establish valuable connections with volunteers and organizers, creating a network that could be instrumental in advancing his career. “I established valuable connections with experienced volunteers and organizers, whose insights and experiences have inspired me and provided networking opportunities that could support my future career aspirations.”
Future Involvement
His experience at RIS also inspired him to continue working with Muslim Hands. “I’m eager to contribute to more initiatives and work towards positive change alongside a passionate and dedicated team.” He envisions participating in projects that focus on educational outreach, healthcare access, and fundraising campaigns which address urgent needs in crisis-stricken communities.
Overall Impact
Habibi believes his time with Muslim Hands will have a lasting impact on both his personal and professional journey. He feels empowered to advocate for causes that matter most to him in areas like healthcare and education. He says his experience will shape how he approaches advocacy by reminding him of the power of collective action and empathy-driven service. “I aim to bring a sense of passion and commitment to all future projects.”
Habibi’s reflections as a volunteer also highlight a broader message about the impact of events like RIS -- they are not just opportunities for spiritual growth, but also for deepening one’s sense of responsibility toward others.
Habibi's experience at RIS proves the power of volunteering—not just for the individual, but for the community. Through his involvement with Muslim Hands, Habibi’s journey of personal growth, skill development, and community engagement continues to inspire him.
