About iLEAD

Welcome to the iLEAD Programme, where we are dedicated to empowering Muslim youth and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Established in 2011 by the esteemed Professor Saleem Kidwai OBE, former Secretary General of Muslim Council Wales, iLEAD stands for Islamic Leadership. Our mission is to equip young Muslims with essential skills and a strong foundation in Islamic principles, drawn from the Quran and Sunnah, so they can make a positive impact as leaders in various fields.

Our Approach

At iLEAD, we believe in offering world-class skills training with a distinctive Islamic perspective. Collaborating with renowned organisations and institutions, we provide cutting-edge training programmes that strike a harmonious balance between Islamic beliefs, societal norms, and professional competencies. Our courses combine theoretical knowledge with practical examples, reinforced by teachings from the Quran and Sunnah. Our esteemed team of scholars, including Sheikh Asim Hafeez, Dr. Abdul Azim Ahmed, Dr. Mansur Ali, and others, guide our delegates on this transformative journey.

Our Legacy

Established in 2011, iLEAD has nurtured over 800 alumni delegates who have achieved remarkable feats in their endeavours. Many of our alumni have joined our delivery team, supporting the project's growth and impact. We take pride in being recognized as a professional training course and conduct our sessions in prestigious venues across the city, inspiring our delegates to aim high and recognize the true value of their training.

Continuous Evolution

Over the past 13 years, iLEAD has continuously evolved, incorporating feedback from our delegates and partners. We believe in constant improvement, refining our strategies, and discarding ineffective elements to ensure maximum impact and relevance.

Our Selection Process

To maintain the highest standards, our onboarding process is rigorous, with limited spaces for each programme. Applicants can expect a thorough selection process, including a written application form, a face-to-face interview, and a signed commitment contract. Even unsuccessful applicants gain valuable insights through our professional application process, encouraging personal growth and improvement.

Join iLEAD

If you are a young Muslim eager to unlock your leadership potential while staying true to your Islamic values, iLEAD warmly welcomes your application. Embark on a transformative journey that will equip you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and values to become an exceptional leader and create a positive impact on society.

iLEAD Testimonials

“Joining Ilead was life-changing. The 6-month programme took us on an exciting journey of growth in leadership, communication, and confidence. Each month brought a new venue and unique focused lessons, making the experience even more enriching. We had the privilege of visiting places like the South Wales police headquarters and the Maindy Barracks, gaining valuable insights and real-world perspectives.” — Jude Otri (22/23 cohort)

“iLEAD has provided so many opportunities such as delivering talks to South Wales Police, the Navy and NHS Wales. Through this, we have strengthened the relationship between our community as Muslims and our wider community. The best part has been meeting new people and working with them —individuals I would never have met otherwise. We have all grown in confidence and ability, pushing ourselves beyond our comfort zones. I would certainly recommend anyone to go through this programme and make the most of it; it's not an opportunity that everyone is fortunate enough to have.” — Zena Al-Essawi (22/23 cohort)

“iLEAD has played a vital role in my development as a young citizen, and most importantly, as a young Muslim. iLEAD has offered unique opportunities for us to engage with the workings of the government, the police, and the military, highlighting their roles within society and their responsibilities towards citizens. We have learned the importance of becoming strong leaders, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), through lessons that will leave a lasting impact for a lifetime.” — Alexander Rondel (22/23 cohort)

“ The 6-month ILEAD course was an incredible experience. Each of the 6 sessions enriched me with new skills and a better mindset. It seamlessly blended life lessons with Islam, providing insightful and varied sessions. The course's focus on nurturing young Muslim leaders and networking opportunities intrigued me. The comprehensive topics, well-paced learning, and unity among participants were highlights. I now feel more confident and capable. I wholeheartedly recommend this course for comprehensive leadership learning rooted in Islam. It's been a transformative journey that I'm immensely grateful for.” — Sama Bawazeer (22/23 cohort)