5 Outstanding Muslim Startups You Should Know About

Name a better duo: Deen and startups intended to bring you closer to Allah...We’ll wait.

Behind nearly every fiery Muslim entrepreneur there is a mission to create something for the Ummah that will enable them to do things right and bring them closer to Allah. From hardware to software, there are a plethora of resources out there designed for Muslims by Muslims. Here’s our list of Muslim founded Startups that are contributing to the betterment of the Muslim world. Show them your support by utilizing their products/services and following them on social media.

Are there any other successful or up and coming Muslim startups we should be aware of? Let us know in the comments below!

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Salam Sisters

The standard brand that comes to mind when it comes to girls dolls is none other than Barbie. Barbie recently released new dolls that were meant to represent real women as opposed to the unrealistic approach that they took previously.

However, what’s lacking in their selections are dolls that dawn the hijab. Fortunately, Salam Sisters noticed this and decided to fill the gap in the market by launching their own line of hijabi dolls!    

These dolls are meant to represent diversity in ethnicity and faith. Each doll in this line comes with her own story and a removable hijab because “all girls should have the right to choose how they dress”.

salamsisters.com

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Collab Deen

An app brought to you by the cutting edge technology that seeks to connect every Muslim to their mosque community in a way that’s never been attempted before.

In a fast-paced digitally dominated era, creating an app that promotes collaboration is nothing short of genius. CollabDeen's mission is to utilise the latest in application software to help engage local Muslim communities across the globe. 

They hope their innovative app will help engage communities, increase mosque attendance and improve the efficiency of communication. You could think of it like a social media for your local mosque. Some of the app features include push notifications, event reminders, location updates. and an AR Qibla feature. 

The Android BETA app has been launched on their site with the iPhone equivalent expected to be released soon. We’re counting down the days until this app is officially launched!

collabdeen.com

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The Journal For Muslims

Just as the name implies, this journal is intended for Muslims who wish to focus their energy on establishing a strong relationship with Allah. According to the creators, this journal is the secret weapon for accomplishing exactly that. The journal is filled with prompts that were carefully crafted by Muslim scholars and effective psychological research. 

Start your day right by reading a verse from the Quran and mapping out what you’re grateful for. It’s an easy and unique way to strengthen Iman and inspire self-improvement.

journalformuslims.com

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Greylines

Have you ever expressed even a remote interest in calligraphy before? Tauheed Faheem says he has grown as an artist because of his faith. Upon going viral with his calligraphy and designs, he was approached by many who were interested in learning the skill. He figured the best way to teach effectively on a mass scale was to create a workbook to inspire creativity.

In his words, “Not everyone will become a calligrapher, but everyone can become an artist”. Considering his own journey with calligraphy and how it has taught him valuable lessons, he hopes others can find the same.

tauheedfaheem.com/greylines

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The Pocket Sejadah

Japanese based company Takva has created the “world’s first handmade travel prayer mat”. A lot of thought was put into the quality of the mat, hence why it is both lightweight and waterproof. The prayer mat folds into a pocket-sized item that’s easy to slip into a pocket or purse.

When folding, the designers took into account the importance of cleanliness of prayer, which is why the clean parts where you pray on never meet the parts that touch the ground. Each mat also comes with its own bag, which is conveniently attached to the mat itself. The designs offered are inspired by Islamic geometry and currently come in three different styles.

takva.co

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Author: Momina Tashfeen

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With Art In Mind | What It Means To Be a Muslim Conceptual Artist

Art in its various forms gives us an insight into the life, thoughts, and feelings of an artist. It also provides a gateway into the artist’s experience of the world. Perfect examples of this are the 40,000+ years old cave paintings that depict animals and animal-human hybrids, found on the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. These cave painting have been identified as being the earliest example of human art, with anthropologists explaining that they provide us with evidence of the artists’ spirituality, as well as their ability to express abstract thoughts.

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Traditionally the art world has been dominated by a select few, but with the rise of social media, artists are now able to share their work directly with the world without having to first go through gatekeepers.  As a result of this, groups of people that have been previously underrepresented in the art world are finding their own voice and telling their stories through their pieces.

One of these previously underrepresented groups are talented Muslim female artists of all nationalities, such as Haneefah Adams, Munira Yussuf, Dua Saleh and Elhaam Sahebdin, to name a few. These artists are using various forms of media, such as poetry, photography, painting, film and food to present and share their stories.

I recently had the opportunity to talk to Elhaam Sahebdin, a London based British-Mauritian conceptual artist, about her work, inspiration and the direction she hopes her art will take her in the future.

As a conceptual artist, who has spent most of her life in East London, Elhaam is inspired by the diversity of her community to create art that encourages social inclusion, respect and tolerance. She uses the zentangle art form of creating images from repetitive patterns; a form that is found to provide artistic satisfaction and an increased sense of personal wellbeing, which is in keeping with her ethos of the duality of the process of creating art, and the outcome.

What medium do you use to create your art? 

My work is drawn with fine liners and filled with coloured pencils, as these were the two items I had in abundance at home. I do plan on experimenting more using watercolour as I feel that would unlock a more flexible and vibrant palette.

How does your faith inspire your art?

The values in Islam encourage me to create. Living most of my life in Newham, London, the diversity of the community inspired me to create art that encourages social inclusion, respect and tolerance in the community, especially in times of division and hate. I want my work to be able to connect with anyone, regardless of their faith, background or experiences, to bring us together.

What is your creative process?

My ideas revolve around a feeling or a shape of what I'd like to create which I then turn into a mood board by collecting images or scribbling notes of potential ideas in my notebook. Gradually, I'd build a mini skeletal version and then the real size shape on my sketchbook. After this, most of it is improvised, the colours, patterns and shapes. I work on it as and when I have some free time, in between work and home. I love being able to start and stop as it can get quite tiring and I like showing my family and asking them for advice on colours or patterns and getting them involved in the process.

What advice would you give to Muslim women thinking of pursuing a career in art?

Make time to experiment with different mediums and themes, as it's good to go outside your comfort zone. Work with whatever little you have before investing - making art should not be something you find expensive or stressful. Be proud of your work and don't be shy to say it's yours!

Where do you see your art taking you in the future?

At the start, I never thought beyond my sketchbook and prints and frames. However, as I met and worked with new people, I realised it can go beyond that. I have worked as a guest designer for The Larder's take away coffee cups and launched my own set of greeting cards. I recently finished a design with a friend to be used in an embroidery format and have potential plans with another for a book cover. I'm excited to see what else I find in the future.

With the extraordinary amount of talent available and the freedom to directly exhibit it, Muslim women will continue to share their stories through their art and inspire others to do the same.

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 Author: Muinat Adeyemo

You can find Elhaam’s work on Instagram - @elhaam.artist and her website

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The Children of the Diaspora: Islam and Identity in 21st Century Britain

On my travels, I recently had an eye-opening conversation. It was honest, concise and most importantly factual. I was questioned whether I classified myself as identifying with a British or Arab identity. I was taken aback by this question as I have never truly felt I exclusively belong to one specific identity. Always placing myself in an identity limbo. Neither one or the other. This conversation raised conflicting issues concerning the embodiment of identity within myself and other individuals who share these same internal issues.

The Oxford dictionary defines identity as “the characteristics determining who or what a person or thing is.” This generation of young Muslims living in London identifies their culture with their religion; Islam, as opposed to their place of birth or residence. This article will discuss and attempt to establish the issue. First, a quick history lesson.

Between the 1950’s - 1980’s Britain received tens of thousands of migrant’s post-WWII. Nationals from Ukraine and Poland migrated to the U.K from Soviet-controlled areas, Indians migrated during the 1950’s as a result of receiving independence from Britain and later went on to work as bus drivers, opened corner shops, post offices, and textile factories. Pakistani’s migrated as a result of the controversy surrounding the partition of India and later the independence of Pakistan. Some went on to secure employment in textile industries based in Lancashire and Yorkshire alongside the food processing industries of Luton & Slough. A few decades later, the civil war in Somalia led to a large number of Somali immigrants which reflects the current Somali population in the U.K. Regardless of the intricacies involved, the migrants who travelled to the U.K shared one primary motivation. The desire for employment opportunities.

The U.K opened its borders to the respective nations mentioned above to fill labour shortages post WWII. This migrant work became an integral cog in the British economic engine. However, the primary issue lies not with the government's open borders approach, rather the general population's perception of the migrants as a threat to their employment and potential housing development thus led to a growing sense of discontent. Integration, which is a vital element to societal progress for ethnic minorities became a burdensome task and thus easier to abandon. As a result, the creation of clusters around the U.K, especially around south-west England gained momentum. Slough became a Pakistani dominated area. Southall and Birmingham are regarded as Indian dominated areas. and West and South-London areas are closely associated with African and South-East Asian minorities.

The creation of clusters formed not only because the ethnic minorities found it difficult to integrate because of the unwelcoming nature of some British nationals. But also, because they found it difficult to re-create the cultural and societal norms they abode in their respective homelands. What happens when the country you migrated to was never fully prepared to welcome you and your homeland becomes a no return zone? You lose a sense of identity and essentially become a citizen of nowhere. A phrase which has gained currency in the last 12 months. One becomes incensed and regretful for leaving their homeland. These negative feelings, as an extension of nurture, extended to the offspring of 1950 – 80’s migrants.

The offspring of the early 21st century migrants or – the current Muslim generation – grew up with this atmospheric pessimism. As a result, the migrant’s parents, after forming their respective clusters, began to identify with one common aspect shared among the migrants: their faith. Religion is an option, not an identity.

Proclaiming faith as ones’ identity is not only short-sighted but desolate. One must research and understand their culture, regardless of which one chooses to adopt: their inherited culture or geographical base. When one achieves this, a fusion of cultural and religious identity will mould an enhanced sense of self-perception and solidarity.

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Author: Ahmed Issam

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25 Ideas: The Ultimate Eid Gift Guide

We are now more than halfway through the month of Ramadan, the days seem to have flown by! With the last 10 days rapidly approaching and Eid al-Fitr just around the corner, here are our recommendations for the coolest gifts to get this Eid.

(Psst, click on the headings to direct you to the product site)

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1) Ghida Mugs

We all know an avid tea or coffee drinker, who never seems to have enough mugs. Or maybe you are looking for one yourself and wouldn’t mind giving one away. With this set of 2 Arabic inscribed mugs, you are sure to bring something unique to the table.

‘The novelty of this collection lies in the power of Arabic calligraphy as an artistic, communicative tool. Through blending calligraphic, illustrative, and other fine art techniques, SDH uses one of the renowned scripts of the Islamic world – Thuluth – to create decorative items that emanate a rich and delicate presence. 

Ghida says it best. These beautifully designed mugs come adorned with the words 'Al-Ikbal, Al-Ishraq', translating to mean 'Prosperity, Radiance’.’

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2) Tuniq

Get a loved one fresh for Eid or maybe even Jummah with these ethically sourced traditional garments. Grab a hand-made chechia or maybe even a Kadroun cloak handwoven from hayek fabric. Tuniq source a range of clothing and products from Tunisia, working with weavers and artisans who have perfected their craft over generations.

Check out their latest designs and products!

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3) My First Eid Onesie

Finding something for the littlest of children can be difficult, so most people resort to buying clothing. Buy something comfortable and cute for the occasion with this cotton onesie. There are also many other variations which you will enjoy browsing through.

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4) Beni Laptop Stickers

Brighten up somebody’s laptop with these North African inspired ‘Zalij’ geometry style laptop stickers from Beni. These vinyl decals come in a variety of elegant designs and are perfect for adding that personal touch to a laptop.

'Our geometric vinyls are our first offering of products. We were inspired by Zalij geometry, an artistic process developed in 14th century North Africa that depicts the infinite harmony of life. Every stroke, every shape and every colour has an intimate meaning that represents this harmonic existence. It is an art form infused with lessons and virtue'

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5) VSSL Survival Kit

This is an odd one, but it had to be included. This product is great for the outdoorsy people in your life, the ones who go backpacking without a second thought, or maybe the kids like going camping and you want to make it more fun. This compact survival kit has the basics you need in case something goes wrong. Forgot the lighter fluid? Need a torch? It’s all in one place.

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6) Play Dough Arabic Letter Cutters

Kids love play dough. They can’t get enough of it, as parents you want to make playtime educational as well as fun. These Arabic letter cutters are great, kids can recognise the letters and learn while playing.

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7) Afra Kids Backpacks

Indonesian company Afra Kids have designed Islamically inspired backpacks, t-shirts and lunchboxes for children. Their designs are colourful, interesting and thoughtful, perfect for the little Muslims in your life. 

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8) Kilim Rugs

Kilim style rugs are all the rage now, and these high-quality hand woven rugs are sure to be a crowdpleaser. Depending on the size of the rug they can be quite pricey however the quality is definitely there.

‘For the collecting of products, every summer our collectors go to Bergama, Anatolia and collect vintage and handwoven kilims from villagers’

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9) Live True Custom jewelry

Ever wanted to see your name beautifully sculpted into the Arabic language? Live True provides just that by using the skills of their calligraphy team to transform your chosen word into a unique heart-shaped gift of affection. You have the option of choosing between three materials: Stainless Steel, 18K Plated gold, or 18K Plated Rose Gold.

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10) Islamic Poster Print  

We all love a good bit of design and typography, you can give someone both, with a bonus of an Islamic reminder. 

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11) Miswak

The simple Miswak has been redesigned so you can carry it everywhere without wondering if you should be putting that thing in your mouth!

"This began as a design project at the School of Visual Arts in New York, where Lebanese designer Leen Sadder and her classmates were asked to redesign the first thing they threw out after leaving class. Leen went home that night and threw out an empty tube of toothpaste"

While researching the history of oral care, Leen came across the cultural and medicinal benefits of the Miswak, and decided to re-introduce it to the Western world. She came up with a simple name and brand and designed a prototype for a Miswak holder and cutter that would make it easier to cut and carry the Miswak.

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12) Companions Clues Game

We love the idea of a gift you can give to a whole family because buying gifts for individuals can get very expensive. This beautifully illustrated and thought out game is great for gatherings and family activities. Learning Roots have many wonderful resources for children so have a browse.

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13) Kids Prayer Mats

Get your kids excited for their Salah with these colourful prayer mats by Ibraheem toy house. The prayer mats come in four different colours and styles each with their own unique imagery. The mats are made out of felt and also include extra padding for comfort.

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14) The Seerah Trail Puzzle

This is more for the children, but I have found myself putting this together. Again, it's another ‘game’ from Learning Roots, but their stuff is just so brilliant we had to include more on the list.

‘Capture the seerah instantly with the Seerah Trail. This giant floor puzzle maps out the main events from the life of the Prophet Muhammad (S) and is filled with 20 removable tags that allow your child learn, test and label the highlights of the Messenger's (S) story. The map measures 87cm by 58cm and contains a double sided timeline map 77cm long which explains the main events in the order they took place’

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15) Halal Beauty Box

So many cosmetic and skincare products today have nasty ingredients that really aren't good for us, this halal goody box contains various products that are natural, organic and halal. It is a great alternative to the Birchbox and the products are much more wholesome. This is a great gift idea for a friend, or buy one and divide the products.

‘Everything with the tag of pure luxury and indulgence. Thus it will be a delightful combo of products that offer sheer pampering for your skin, sweet tooth and senses. So expect things such as sublime beauty products, nutritious (and delicious) nibbles, art and fragrance for your home, and books to get lost in… We’ll leave the rest to your imagination!

We go to great lengths to find you the very best. Take our word that what we offer you are all 100% halal , natural, eco-friendly, fair-trade and allergen free. And not only that most of them are award winning ranges.’

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16) Blackseed Toothpaste

Nigella Sativa often called Black seed is one of the prophetic foods which can be found in the books of Hadith. Research has also found that black seed has extraordinary health benefits. This new health kick has inspired a bunch of products that utilise this seed, and now you can get it in your toothpaste!

‘SprinJene is an organic and natural toothpaste handcrafted to provide gentle and effective oral care. Uniquely formulated by combining science and nature'

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17) Lost Islamic History

The perfect gift idea for the bookworm in your life, Lost Islamic History by Firas Al-Khateeb provides a brief overview of Islamic civilisation up until the 20th century. It’s an easy introductory read packed with interesting facts, images and stories. Its definitely a must have on every bookshelf.

‘Lost Islamic History: Reclaiming Muslim Civilisation from the Past is a short introduction to the past 1400 years of Islamic civilisation. It discusses the history of major empires like the Umayyads, Abbasids, and Ottomans as well as some lesser-known regions of the Muslim world, like West Africa, Muslim Spain, and Southeast Asia’

The book was originally written in English but has since been translated into Turkish and Indonesian. 

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18) Oudh Chips

Who needs commercially bottled Oudh when you can go straight to the source? Pure Oudh sells actual wood chips and bottled oils sourced from around the world. Prices start from £1.50 and can range up to £175 for a bottle.

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19) Qur’an Cube

Social media’s latest viral must-have item. The Quran cube not only serves as an aesthetically pleasing addition to your bed side table but also provides a bunch of neat features. Features include 5 times Adhan, a Quran memorisation tool, educational content and much more.

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20) Rainbow Quran

What better way to end the month in which the book of Allah was revealed, than gifting this colourful Quran to someone dear to you? You can choose from a wide range of colours of which include red, orange, green, teal or royal blue. Each copy has thirty repeating colours inside and is bound in embossed faux leather.

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21) Awra Swimming Shorts

Help the men in your life stay modest with these shorts from Rajoul Store. They are specifically designed to cover the navel to the knee. The specially designed under short material allows the clothing to breathe and feel comfortable while you are active. They also sell ‘Awra Fight’ which is designed for combat sports.

‘RAJOUL Muslim wear is the first Islamic swimsuit for men in the world. Cover your Awra with style while swimming!’

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22) Sunnah Musk

It’s the safe bet, right? Who doesn’t like a good perfume? Sunnah Musk stock a variety of fragrances from across the globe, including scents for both men and women and they are reasonably priced too. 

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23) Beard Oil London

Beard Oils have become super popular - mainly because beards are on trend, but we know that beards are encouraged to be worn by Muslim men. Maybe you know someone who is trying their hardest to grow one, or maybe someone has always had a beard and takes great pride in their facial hair, then gifting some manly scented oils is a great idea.

‘Born and bred in London, we have noticed how the fabric of the city has changed where once the beard was uncommon but has now become a mainstream feature worn with pride. We’re here to cater for all types of beard growers, from the stubbly geeks to the full flowing beardsmen. We like to consider ourselves more as a community and a movement, rather than just an enterprise.

Our aim is to help the fellow man take pride and maintain his glorious beard or stubble using the best products available.’ 

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24) Magazine Subscription

Whenever I don’t know what to give to someone I think books. You always learn something useful from them, and you never know, perhaps it will be their next favourite. Even better for a bibliophile is more reading material - and if you know they’ll love reading a magazine with interesting new content every week/month this will tick all the boxes.

National Geographic, Lonely Planet and Al Jumuah... the list is endless, look around because there is something for everyone. Think cooking, or baking, sewing, or sports. Usually, there is a discount for yearly or half yearly subscriptions so it's a lot cheaper than buying each new issue. 

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25) Emma Apple Kids Books

Emma is an awesome multi-talented author and illustrator. She has published a number of Islamic books for kids that answer frequent questions such as ‘Where is Allah?’ in a clever and thoughtful manner. Other book titles include ‘How does Allah Look’ and the ‘Owl and Cat’ series. You can purchase the books from her website in both hardback and paperback versions.

‘Hi, I’m Emma Apple! I write and illustrate best-selling Islamic children’s books for families who want unique Muslim and multicultural bookshelves. Through my books, I help kids grasp complex concepts using authentic Islamic sources, scientific facts and characters with character!’

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And that concludes our list, Let us know your favourites by tweeting us: @bahathmag

Authors:

Aaliyah Green

Muhammad Shuwekh

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