Rio junior Sara Hamdullah, who is from Afghanistan but grew up in Russia, spoke with the Mirada about her role as one of the school’s Muslim Student Association (MSA) presidents and her story.
Who are the officers of the MSA?
President: Suraya Halim, Ajwad Wardak, Sara Hamdullah
Vice President: Laieba Wardak.
Why did you start the club?
I was part of the process in creating MSA to bring Muslims together.
It was founded last year during club rush.
What is the purpose of your club?
To unite all religions, and explore Islamic fundamentals. To bring the Muslim community together and bring more change in the community. We want to help those who don’t have enough information/ knowledge about Islam, and teach them every aspect.
How are you working to unite religions?
We take away fundamentals from all religions and discuss how it aligns with Islam’s (fundamentals).
What events do you have planned for the club?
Iftar (and) mosque fundraisers. It’s currently in the works right now.
For our non-Muslim students, can you explain what Iftar is?
Iftar is a dinner at sunset to break our fast required in the month of Ramadan.
How many members are in your club? Can non-Muslims join?
About 10. Can non-muslims join? Absolutely.
Do Muslim students face any special challenges at Rio?
Muslim students tend to feel isolated and are more likely to stick with their own circles.
Even with challenges, what advantages do Muslim students have?
Muslims have access to the prayer room at all times, which benefits us greatly.
If you could change one thing about Rio and the Muslim student experience here, what would it be?
I would change the social misconceptions about Muslims and encourage more mixing.
What is a social misconception that other students have about Muslim students? What is the actual truth about Muslim students that this misconception misses?
Women aren’t oppressed, and Islam isn’t ISIS. The truth about Islam is as simple as it can get: better ourself to worship God.
Tell us about your own journey, please. Where were you born?
I’m Afghan, but grew up in Russia until I came to Sacramento.
How long have you lived in the US? In Sacramento? Why did your family leave your birth country to come to America?
About six years for a better education for me.
Please tell us about your family.
I have three brothers and three cats.
How important is your faith in your own life?
Just like any other Muslim, my faith is my core. Islam is applied to every aspect of my life.
What is your favorite subject in school? Do you have any hobbies?
English. I love basketball and reading.
What are your plans for after high school? And for your future?
I have plans to major in business during college.
