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Building Service for TomorrowNational

Serving at Al-Hidayah 2026: MYL behind the scenes

For the first Al-Hidayah in North America, MYL brothers ran registration and supported three days of learning, worship and workshops.

When
Where
McMaster University, Hamilton
The Al-Hidayah 2026 main hall with speakers on stage

Al-Hidayah 2026 was the first time Minhaj-ul-Quran’s residential spiritual retreat came to North America. Over three days at McMaster University, participants gathered around the theme Pure Intentions & Noble Conduct, with lectures from senior scholars, worship and companionship.

MYL Canada served behind the scenes. Before the first guest arrived, our brothers were setting up registration desks, packing welcome materials and making sure every attendee was greeted with care from the moment they walked in. Throughout the weekend, MYL volunteers kept rooms moving, supported speakers and helped wherever they were needed.

Day three brought a set of practical workshops. Ali Malik asked “If AI can do it, why are you still doing it?” and looked at using AI for repetitive work so people can focus on creativity and real contribution. Shaykh Adnan Sohail showed that good intentions need planning and collective action to build lasting communities. Syed Najam explored the Qur’anic view of wealth as a trust, and Shaykh Ibrahim Hussain spoke on reconciliation through sincerity, empathy and the Prophetic example ﷺ.

Al-Hidayah returns to Canada in 2028, in sha’ Allah. May Allah ﷻ accept the efforts of every volunteer and reward them for their service.

Photos

8 photos
  • MYL volunteers preparing the Al-Hidayah registration desk
  • Participants in a workshop room at McMaster University
  • Attendees listening during a workshop
  • A presenter speaking in a workshop room
  • Two participants listening during a session
  • A scholar speaking at the Al-Hidayah 2026 stage
  • Syed Najam presenting “Can You Be Rich and Righteous?”
  • A workshop presenter speaking to a seated audience

Be there for the next one.