Join the University of Chicago Muslim Students Association for our 26th Annual Eid al-Adha Cultural Celebration and Banquet as we host Muslim scholar and academic Dr. Yamina Bouguenaya and nasheed artist Khalil Ismail for an evening of learning, reflecting, and celebrating. Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Holiday of the Sacrifice” is the second holiday Muslims all over the world celebrate in a year.

In addition, last year, the UChicago MSA went green and raised funds to donate to the Wildlife Conservation Network, Alliance for the Great Lakes, and Coral Reef Alliance. For our 26th year, we hope to continue this tradition of donating a portion of ticket proceeds to a worthy cause. This year’s contributions will go towards the Syrian Community Network’s efforts to resettle and integrate refugees in Chicago. 

We hope that you’ll join us for an evening of good food, good performances, and good company, all while giving back to our community. 

Originally from Algeria, after completing her Ph.D. in Quantum Physics in England, Dr. Bouguenaya lived in Turkey for more than a decade before moving to the United States. By then, her interest had shifted from the world of physics to the vast and much more illuminating inner world of the self and Islamic spirituality. This interest led her to pursue an intensive training in the Islamic sciences under various renowned Muslim scholars. She did doctoral work in Arabic and Islamic Studies at Indiana University and is fluent in Arabic, French, English and Turkish.

Dr. Bouguenaya has published extensively in several of those languages on Islam, especially on Quranic Studies, Islamic theology, and the Islamic philosophy of science. She taught Arabic and Islamic studies in different universities in the US, her last university position being an Associate Professor of Islamic Studies at Carthage College, before she dedicated herself to full-time non-profit work. She offers extensive spiritual counseling and coaching, workshops, classes and retreats.
She is currently the director of a non-profit Quranic spirituality organization called Always Receiving Nur. She loves to teach and share with others the Quranic wisdom that has enlightened and healed her soul.

Khalil Ismail is a creative director and award-winning independent artist and producer. He is the founder and manager of KI Creative Studios, which recently launched its new film directing component. Born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Khalil was inspired from childhood to use creativity and grassroots initiatives to address the often harsh realities of life. This solution-driven vision continues to inspire his conscious music and community service work.
Khalil Ismail has released six studio albums and is currently producing two additional albums. His music has spread to more than 40 countries and has been licensed to major companies including Discovery Channel, PBS, the NBA, CBS Sports, Fox dramas, and Red Bull. 
In addition to his creative pursuits, Khalil now hosts events and programs that combine entertainment with educational workshops, social upliftment forums, and spiritual consciousness, with a focus on topics that impact humanity on personal and community levels. His mission to empower others through art, humanitarian work, and engaging discussions.

Open to the public. Tickets are $10 online and $15 at the door. Purchase tickets here or at the door while available.

Co-sponsored by the Global Voices Performing Arts and Lecture Series and the Muslim Students Association.