Join us for a deeply personal interview with Brother Ali, a renowned hip hop artist and activist. In this episode, we explore Brother Ali's incredible journey: from growing up with albinism and being embraced by the black community, to converting to Islam at 15, and his outspoken stance on critical issues like Palestine that led to his marginalisation by influential powers.

- Early Life & Albinism: Brother Ali shares his experiences growing up with albinism and finding acceptance within the black community.

- Conversion to Islam: Hear about Brother Ali's spiritual journey and conversion to Islam at the age of 15.

- Advocacy & Cancel Culture: Discover how his advocacy for Palestine and other causes has impacted his career, leading to his "cancellation" by some in the industry.

- Entertainment Industry: From performing on Jimmy Fallon and Conan O’Brien to appearances at Glastonbury and Coachella, Brother Ali reflects on his changing career.

- Relocation to Istanbul: Brother Ali discusses his move to Istanbul and his reflections on America.

- Relationships with Legends: Insights into his connections with Yasiin Bey, Chuck D of Public Enemy, Rakim, KRS-One, and Dave Chappelle.

Brother Ali’s openness and honesty provide a unique look into the mainstream entertainment world and the challenges faced by Muslims. His story is one of resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to truth.

#BrotherAli #HipHop #Islam

In this episode, we discuss:

• Relocating from USA to Istanbul

USEFUL LINKS

- Watch this episode on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric?sub_confirmation=1

- Brother Ali

https://www.instagram.com/brotheraliisblind/

https://www.facebook.com/brotherali

https://www.youtube.com/@BrotherAli_Travelers

- NEW ALBUM: Brother Ali's new album Love and Service - available on Spotify and other streaming platforms, as well as physical copies at https://www.brotherali.com/

- MUST-WATCH VIDEOS

The Collapse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0WACI8OJSI

Cadillac: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxZHHkBSQbo

- Support Independent Artists like Brother Ali, whose voices are often silenced. By supporting independent music, we ensure that important messages and diverse voices continue to be heard.

SUPPORT US

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SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER

https://muslimcentric.substack.com/

KEEP IN TOUCH

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Isam Bachiri is a singer, songwriter and artist who was one of the founders of the award-winning Danish hip-hop group Outlandish. They had a global hit, including a number 1 in Germany, with their cover of the song Aicha and one of their songs even featured on the video game FIFA 07.

We explore his Moroccan roots and his relationship with his father, who moved to Denmark in 1967 as an undocumented migrant We speak about Isam’s evolution from a shy introvert into a global superstar, and how he coped with the challenges of fame and celebrity whilst staying true to his faith.

He tells me about saying no to performing on Big Brother, turning down Netflix acting roles, how Hajj came at the right time for him, and his lifelong support for Palestine.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Parent’s journey from Morocco to Denmark

#outlandish #aicha #isamb

USEFUL LINKS

- Watch this episode on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric?sub_confirmation=1 

Aicha (Video) https://youtu.be/f0nFTdKlKLw

Look Into My Eyes - Palestine (Video) https://youtu.be/DkwxMYiyd_M

Celebrating Ramadan (Video) https://youtu.be/ubiNIqIxmJM

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/isamb_official/

Book: Fædreland / Fatherland by Isam B and Tarek Omar

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https://muslimcentric.substack.com/

KEEP IN TOUCH

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric?sub_confirmation=1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muslimcentricpodcast/

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Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com/

All links: https://linktr.ee/muslimcentric/

Azeem Muhammad is an American Muslim comedian celebrated for his role in the groundbreaking comedy tour, 'Allah Made Me Funny'.

Growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, Azeem talks candidly about growing up in difficult circumstances as an introverted young man who loved to read. His life was shaped by the rise of hip-hop and gangster rap. His attempt to become a drug dealer was short-lived due to the strong guiding presence of his mother.

Azeem’s life was turned around in an instant when he saw Louis Farrakhan on TV, leading him to join the Nation of Islam. From that point on, a journey of self-discovery and discipline unfolded, intertwined with his pursuit of comedy.

Azeem shares his experiences of providing entertainment to Western Muslims in the aftermath of 9/11, shedding light on the complexities of belonging and acceptance, particularly for Black Muslims within the broader Muslim community.

Join us as we delve into Azeem's story of resilience, transformation, and the power of laughter in navigating life's challenges.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Early life and childhood.

#comedy #muslimcomedy #noi #nationofislam #farrakhan #AllahMadeMeFunny #islam #humour #muslim #racism #funny

USEFUL LINKS

- Watch this episode on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

- Azeem Muhammad

https://azeemcomedy.com/

https://www.instagram.com/azeemcomedy/

https://www.facebook.com/AzeemComedy/

https://twitter.com/AzeemComedy

- Allah Made Me Funny

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allah_Made_Me_Funny

===

SUPPORT US

If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.

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Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com

A captivating and thought-provoking conversation with esteemed Muslim thought leaders.

In this episode, we are honoured to host a panel featuring prominent Islamic scholar Shaykh Ruzwan Mohammed, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain Zara Mohammed, and seasoned media relations strategist Osama Saeed.

Together, they engage in an enriching dialogue covering a wide spectrum of topics, offering insights and perspectives that promise to broaden your understanding and stimulate critical thinking. 

Topics discussed include #gaza #palestine #islamophobia #muslims #israel #antisemitism #muslimleadership #media #piersmorgan #mainstreammedia #theoryofchange

In this episode:

Recorded 31 January 2024

USEFUL LINKS

- SHAYKH RUZWAN MOHAMMED

Desert Island Gems interview: https://youtu.be/HuoEr_L_KXw

https://www.isyllabus.org/teachers/

https://www.iidr.org/people/21-ruzwan-mohammed/

- ZARA MOHAMMED

https://twitter.com/ZaraM01

https://www.instagram.com/zara_m02

https://zara-mohammed.com/

- OSAMA SAEED

https://osamabhutta.scot/

https://uk.linkedin.com/in/osamasbhutta

https://instagram.com/osamasbhutta

https://twitter.com/osamasbhutta

===

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Website: https://www.muslimcentricpodcast.com

*NOTE -  This episode discusses suicide. If you are affected by suicide or are worried about someone, please see the links at the end of these show notes*

Muslims die by suicide too.

This may be an uncomfortable reality for many within religious communities but is an important issue for us to discuss. Research suggests that discussing suicide does not make it more likely but may actually help people get the right support.

My guest is Professor Rory O’Connor, a Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Glasgow who has been working on suicide research for over 25 years. As the head of the Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory at the University of Glasgow, President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, and Past President of the International Academy of Suicide Research, Professor Rory brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation.

As well as contributing to BBC documentaries on the subject, his award-winning book “When it is darkest: Why people die by suicide and what we can do to prevent it” addresses the common questions, myths and misunderstandings surrounding suicide.

In this interview, Professor Rory not only shares leading research on the topic but also opens up about his personal experiences of losing people to suicide. This episode aims to foster understanding, dispel myths, and encourage dialogue around a critical issue affecting communities worldwide.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How to talk about suicide

USEFUL LINKS

- Watch this episode on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

- Professor Rory O’Connor

https://twitter.com/suicideresearch

https://suicideresearch.info/

https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/healthwellbeing/staff/roryoconnor/

https://www.instagram.com/oconnor_roryc

Trustee & Podcast Host, MQ Mental Health Research

https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/category/mq-open-mind-podcast/

President, International Association for Suicide Prevention

https://www.iasp.info/our_team/rory-oconnor/

Past President, International Academy for Suicide Research

https://suicide-research.org/

- Book

When it is darkest: Why people die by suicide and what we can do to prevent it

Professor Rory O’Connor

https://amzn.eu/d/deKVide

- Article

A Muslim parent’s story of losing his child by suicide

https://inayatscorner.wordpress.com/2021/07/15/goodbye-to-my-dear-son-adam-salih/

https://inayatscorner.wordpress.com/2022/07/06/my-son-adam-suicide-one-year-on/

SUPPORT US

If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.

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=====

**GETTING HELP IF YOU ARE SUICIDAL**

Support is available. Inshallah things will get better so do not feel you have nowhere to turn. Here are some options to consider.

1-Call or text a helpline

Supports in UK – Note services may vary depending on where you live

- Samaritans: For everyone

Call 116 123

Email [email protected]

- Muslim Youth Helpline: Faith and culturally sensitive support by phone, live chat, WhatsApp or email. We offer non-judgemental, confidential support 7 days a week, 365 days a year including bank holidays and Eid.

https://myh.org.uk/

- Papyrus: Prevention of young suicide HOPELINE247

Call 0800 068 41 41

Text 07860 039967

Email [email protected]

- Shout Crisis Text Line: For everyone

Text "SHOUT" to 85258

- YoungMinds Crisis Messenger: For people under 19

Text "YM" to 85258

- Worldwide: Please contact support in your country.

Find A Helpline - International Association for Suicide Prevention

https://findahelpline.com/i/iasp

https://www.iasp.info/suicidalthoughts/

2-Talk to someone you trust

This could be a friend or family member.

3-Contact a health professional

In the UK, you can,

Call your GP

Call the NHS 111 or 999 if it is an emergency

Preacher Moss is a distinguished American comedian, writer, and educator, best known for his pivotal role as the founder of the groundbreaking comedy tour, 'Allah Made Me Funny.' This tour played a crucial role in boosting the confidence of Muslims worldwide in the aftermath of the events of 9/11 in 2001. Collaborating with fellow comedians Azhar Usman, Mo Amer, and Azeem Muhammad, Preacher Moss embarked on a journey that not only entertained but also served as a source of empowerment.

Beyond his success in the stand-up comedy realm, Preacher Moss's talents extended to writing for renowned figures such as Damon Wayans and George Lopez. Despite achieving trailblazing success as an American Muslim comedian, Moss, often referred to as the O.G. (Original Gangster), deliberately resisted the allure of mainstream comedy career opportunities, steadfast in his commitment to uphold his faith without compromise.

Born into a Christian family in Washington DC in the 1960s, Moss's formative years were shaped by the harsh realities of racism. His parents, both civil rights activists, embody the spirit of change—his father a Black Panther, and his mother having crossed paths with Martin Luther King Jr.

As a Sunni Muslim, Preacher Moss was inspired by Imam Warith Deen Muhammad but also benefited from the discipline and self-dignity espoused by the Nation of Islam.

Delving into his unique perspective, Preacher Moss shares his experiences of being Black within the Muslim community, shedding light on how he navigated the challenges of racism within this diverse group.

His story not only entertains but also serves as a platform for fostering understanding and unity. Listen in as Preacher Moss opens up about his unique journey, offering valuable insights and inspiring anecdotes that transcend the boundaries of comedy.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Early life and childhood. Growing up in an active civil rights household.

#comedy #muslimcomedy #AllahMadeMeFunny #islam #humour #muslim #racism

USEFUL LINKS

- Watch this episode on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

- Preacher Moss

https://preachermoss.com/my-story

https://www.instagram.com/preachermoss

https://twitter.com/PreacherMOSS

https://www.facebook.com/preachermoss

https://www.youtube.com/@PreacherM1

- Allah Made Me Funny

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allah_Made_Me_Funny

- Interview with Brother Ali (Travelers Podcast)

https://youtu.be/iX9__GYxkv8?si=UKO6gPcXVGxZgALr

https://youtu.be/9iRZ3XRcPPo?si=p_jNPSuxP9CKwFX3

SUPPORT US

If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.

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Shaykh Ruzwan is one of the foremost Islamic scholars in the West. Hailing from Glasgow, Scotland (UK), Shaykh Ruzwan obtained a degree in Geopolitics and Arabic before leaving to study in Turkey in the 1990s. He went on to study in numerous Middle Eastern countries including Yemen and Syria. Shaykh Ruzwan graduated from the prestigious Mahad al-Fat’h Islamic Law College in Damascus with a distinction of merit, achieving overall first position in his year of graduation from the college.

On his return to the UK, he authored the iSyllabus Islamic Studies curriculum which has been taught to over 7000 students in 15 cities for more than 10 years. Since the pandemic, it has moved online and now has a global audience.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Early life and childhood

#isyllabus #islamic #islamicstudies #islam #quran #education #muslim

USEFUL LINKS

- Watch this episode on Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

- Biographies of Shaykh Ruzwan

https://www.isyllabus.org/teachers/

https://www.iidr.org/people/21-ruzwan-mohammed/

- iSyllabus Islamic Studies programme

https://www.isyllabus.org/

https://www.facebook.com/iSyllabus/

https://www.instagram.com/isyllabus/

https://youtube.com/@iSyllabus/

https://isyllabusforschools.org/

SUPPORT US

If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, comment and rating.

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Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool is one of the few Muslim global politicians that has been largely successful in balancing politics and faith. His formative years growing up in the South African apartheid system led him to become involved in student politics in the 1980s. Due to his political activism, he was imprisoned by the apartheid regime. He went on to become a close friend and colleague of Nelson Mandela. He held positions of senior political office in South Africa and became the South African ambassador to USA from 2010-2015, spearheading a response to anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia.

For those unfamiliar with the history of apartheid in South Africa, Ambassador Ebrahim describes what it was like. Key milestones include Nelson Mandela’s release from prison in 1990 after 27 years. He went on to become the President of South Africa in 1994.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Formative early life experiences growing up in an apartheid system

USEFUL LINKS

Watch this episode on Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

Article on Islamophobia (2010) from Arches Quarterly magazine

‘South African Muslims Over Three Centuries: From the Jaws of Islamophobia to the Joys of Equality’

Link to article

Social Media

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ambassadorasool

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Peter Sanders is a world-renowned photographer of the Muslim world. If you don’t recognise his name, you will have definitely seen his photos.

Born in the 1940s in London, he became a professional photographer and took iconic pictures of Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones and many more bands of the 1960s.

After becoming a Muslim, he took the early photos of the Hajj and has been taking photos ever since. Brother Peter Sanders has produced books which contain photos that will take your breath away.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Early life in London

USEFUL LINKS

Watch this episode on Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

Websites including photo galleries

https://petersanders.com/

https://www.theexemplars.com/

https://www.artofintegration.co.uk/

Books

• The Art of Integration

Available from https://petersanders.com/product-category/books/

Social Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petersandersphotos/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petersandersphotos/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/petersanders_

SUPPORT US

If you benefited from The MuslimCentric Podcast, please rate, review, like and share.

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Dr Hany El-Banna is the founder of Islamic Relief, the global Muslim charity started in the 1980s. He is a legend in the Muslim ummah – a true visionary. He eventually left the charity he founded but remains as active as ever travelling the world to inspire and train individuals.

The interview was recorded during Dr Hany’s visit to Glasgow, Scotland as part of a film festival showing a documentary about his life. It is a must watch film – see link below.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Early life in Egypt

USEFUL LINKS

Watch this episode on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/muslimcentric

Documentary - Hany El-Banna: The man behind a major global charity (Al Jazeera World)

https://youtu.be/nDBtIOXjJIs

Dr Hany Links

Youtube (2800+ videos): https://www.youtube.com/@hanyelbanna-2162

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theflyingdoctor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/drhanyelbanna

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