Voices, Skills & Stories: A Month of Growth, Grit, and Grace
Dear Mozaic Family,
This July, the Mozaic Center came to life in every sense of the word. The hum of conversations, the rustle of yarn, the rhythm of Arabic storytime, and the focused energy in classrooms created a warm symphony of community engagement. What unfolded this month was not just a packed calendar of programs, but a vibrant expression of what happens when heart, vision, and hard work come together. Each program, no matter how small, played a part in building a collective sense of purpose and belonging.
From the first class to the final closing du’a, the commitment of our volunteers, teachers, and families was felt in every corner. Behind each program were hours of preparation: materials organized, spaces cleaned, snacks arranged, and curriculum thoughtfully developed. We are deeply grateful to everyone who gave their time, skills, and energy to make this month so meaningful. It’s your dedication that transforms events into memories, and ideas into impact.
As you read through this month’s highlights, we hope you feel the heartbeat of our center—a place where everyone belongs, and where growth is nurtured through compassion, curiosity, and connection.
💬 English as a Second Language (ESOL) Class
Our ESOL classes have become a powerful space for transformation, not only in language learning but in confidence building. Week after week, our adult learners are practicing the English they need to navigate work, school, appointments, and everyday life. Through activities that focus on real-world conversations, they are building the tools to thrive in their new environments. Many are parents who want to better support their children’s education; others are professionals hoping to return to work in a new country. Every class is filled with resilience, laughter, and determination.
This month, we saw a wonderful milestone: several ESOL learners visited the Mozaic Library and began reading English books on their own. This moment of independence is no small feat—it’s the result of consistency, patience, and support from our dedicated instructors. Tasnim Satya, Asma Yousef, and Durkhanai Stanikzai have been leading classes with warmth and enthusiasm, ensuring that each learner feels seen and encouraged. Their gentle, motivating presence has helped create an environment where mistakes are embraced as part of the learning journey.
Our goal is to grow this program even further, especially by offering more one-on-one reading practice. If you’re interested in becoming a reading tutor, we would love to hear from you. It’s a simple way to make a big difference in someone’s life. Email us at mozaic501c@gmail.com to volunteer, or support the program at: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
Photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1c3YgI6_1gCAbMghzcdrBCUOowzerjxPI?usp=sharing
💼 Career Info Session with Purecare Insurance
Our online career session with Purecare Insurance was a strong step forward in supporting our community members’ career growth. The session introduced a new opportunity for participants to become licensed healthcare insurance agents. For many attendees, this was the first time they had access to such clear and comprehensive information about a viable, flexible job path that accommodates their family responsibilities and future goals.
Participants were engaged and excited, asking insightful questions and connecting with the representatives from Purecare. The speakers broke down the qualifications needed, day-to-day job tasks, and potential earnings in an accessible and friendly manner. This transparency helped build trust and opened doors for those who may not have otherwise considered this industry. Several attendees expressed interest in registering for the training program right away.
We see this program as the beginning of a longer journey. Mozaic hopes to continue building professional bridges for our community by offering more career exploration workshops in the future. These programs help participants move from financial uncertainty toward independence and confidence. Help us sustain career readiness initiatives like this by donating at: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
📖 Arabic Storytime & Nasheed Club
For the first time ever, Mozaic launched Arabic Storytime—and the response was beyond anything we expected. Children from diverse backgrounds gathered to listen to beautiful, culturally rich stories in Arabic. Laughter and excitement filled the room as our young attendees connected with the language in an immersive, joyful way. The session wasn’t just about reading aloud; it was about creating a living, breathing experience of the Arabic language.
Accompanied by nasheeds and crafts, each session offered a unique blend of learning and creativity. What made it even more special was the blend of children who spoke Arabic at home and those who were just beginning to learn. Through group activities and shared storytelling, these children formed bonds that crossed language barriers. They painted, sang, and created together—and in doing so, they created a space of belonging and cultural pride.
This program planted the seeds for something bigger. We hope to make Arabic Storytime a regular part of our programming year-round. With enough support, we envision building a full Arabic literacy track for kids—through stories, play, song, and conversation. You can support this joyful learning experience at: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
🧶 Youth Crochet Group
Our Youth Crochet Group was a beautiful blend of learning, laughter, and leadership. Each week, young girls gathered to practice their crochet skills under the mentorship of adult and teen volunteers. From basic stitches to more advanced patterns, they progressed steadily, developing not just dexterity but also a deep sense of accomplishment. Every finished project—whether a coaster, headband, or bracelet—was celebrated with smiles and pride.
What makes this group especially powerful is the leadership model built into it. Older youth assist the younger ones, patiently helping them through tangles and missed stitches. This creates a layered learning experience where knowledge is shared, and confidence is built. Our adult volunteers provide guidance while encouraging the younger mentors to take the lead, fostering responsibility, teamwork, and a sense of ownership.
Beyond the crafts, the Crochet Group has become a social and emotional safe space. The room buzzes with gentle chatter, supportive words, and the quiet joy of creating something from nothing. It’s a place where new friendships are formed and community spirit is knitted—one loop at a time. Help us keep this special space going by donating at: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
🧵 Youth Sewing Class
Our Youth Sewing Class was one of the most heartwarming highlights of July. Young participants came into the program curious and left empowered—equipped with practical skills and a strong sense of accomplishment. With guidance from skilled instructors and support from dedicated senior volunteers, students learned how to use sewing machines, read patterns, and complete real projects like tote bags and aprons.
This program stands out for its intergenerational exchange. The senior volunteers, many of whom are retired educators or lifelong crafters, brought not just technical expertise but also deep encouragement and life wisdom. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and their nurturing presence created a warm, affirming environment. It wasn’t just about sewing—it was about legacy, respect, and shared purpose.
Week by week, the young sewers began to take initiative, troubleshoot, and help one another. The final class was filled with joy and celebration as each student showcased their work with pride. We see this class as a stepping stone toward developing future leaders, artisans, and confident young women. Let’s continue to grow this empowering space—support the program at: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
🩺 Tahara Class for Girls
This summer, Mozaic introduced a deeply meaningful Tahara Class for girls aged 12–16, led by our founder, Raghad Bushnaq. The course provided a nurturing environment for young Muslim girls to learn about Islamic purification, hygiene, and personal dignity. It was designed not only to educate but also to empower participants with the knowledge they need to embrace their faith with confidence and understanding.
Over several weeks, the girls engaged in lessons and discussions that were tailored to be age-appropriate, open, and engaging. The sessions emphasized respect for oneself and one’s body, spiritual cleanliness, and practical guidance on daily rituals. What stood out most was the comfortable, trusting space that was created—one where the girls could ask questions, share experiences, and receive support from both their teacher and peers.
This kind of initiative is crucial in building a strong foundation for our youth, especially in a world where guidance on these topics can often feel difficult to find. To support programs like this, visit: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
🕌 Youth Jummah with Dr. Ahmad Rasheed
Mozaic proudly hosted its very first Youth Jummah this July, featuring a powerful khutbah by Dr. Ahmad Rasheed. The event brought together teenagers from across the community in a dedicated spiritual space, offering a chance for them to connect with their faith on a deeper level. The gathering not only centered around prayer but also built community bonds and instilled a sense of responsibility and leadership among the youth.
The khutbah was engaging, relevant, and inspiring—covering themes that resonate with our young generation, such as the importance of identity, kindness, and resilience. As friendships formed and conversations continued beyond the prayer, it became clear that Youth Jummah could become a cherished monthly tradition at Mozaic.
We’re excited to offer more opportunities for our youth to grow spiritually, emotionally, and socially. Help us sustain programs like this one by giving at: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
🎨 Voices of Color: Art Workshop
In collaboration with students from the Washington International School, Mozaic launched “Voices of Color”—an expressive arts workshop for children and youth from refugee families. Designed to be a space for storytelling through creativity, this workshop allowed young participants to explore themes of identity, resilience, and belonging through painting, sculpture, and mixed media.
The sessions were intentionally hands-on and collaborative, fostering a safe environment for self-expression and peer connection. Participants, many of whom were initially shy, began to open up through art. They explored different techniques, learned from mentors, and most importantly, found confidence in expressing themselves. By the third week, students who once sat silently were sharing stories, laughing, and offering help to others.
What emerged was not just art—it was a vibrant expression of young voices often overlooked. Their final works will be part of a community exhibition, giving families, supporters, and the broader public a chance to witness their stories. This project showed the power of art to build healing, friendship, and community pride. Support creative and healing programs like this at: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
🤍 Dealing with Loss with Sister Salma Abugideiri
Grief is an experience that is often carried in silence—but at Mozaic, we believe that healing happens when we share our stories. This July, over 20 participants came together for a heartfelt session on dealing with loss, led by licensed counselor and educator, Sister Salma Abugideiri. Her compassionate guidance and profound understanding created a safe space for community members to open up, reflect, and begin the process of healing.
The conversation went beyond coping strategies; it addressed the very real emotional and spiritual struggles that arise after loss. Through gentle discussion, Sister Salma helped attendees explore healthy ways to grieve while holding onto faith and hope. Many attendees expressed gratitude for the sense of connection they felt during the session, saying they no longer felt alone in their sorrow.
The overwhelming feedback was clear: the community needs more opportunities like this. Participants are already asking when the next session will be, and we are committed to making grief support a more regular offering at Mozaic. Help us build a compassionate and healing environment by supporting programs like this: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
🐎 Equine Therapy with Qaswaa Healing
Healing can take many forms—and sometimes, it comes with four legs and a gentle heart. In partnership with Qaswaa Healing, Mozaic offered a unique equine therapy session this month for selected participants. The session took place in a serene, natural setting where individuals had the chance to interact with horses in a calming, reflective environment. This experience helped participants develop a sense of trust, courage, and calm.
For many, this was their first time being near a horse, let alone engaging in a therapeutic activity with one. Through activities such as grooming and guided observation, attendees learned to manage emotions, reduce anxiety, and build confidence—all without saying a word. Horses are incredibly intuitive animals, and the participants were surprised by how deeply the experience affected them.
We are incredibly thankful to Hanaa Unus of Qaswaa Healing for facilitating this experience with such care and professionalism. These sessions are just the beginning of what we hope will be a lasting collaboration. To bring more alternative wellness programs to our community, please consider donating: https://www.mozaicdmv.org/donate
Bicycles for Summer
This month, Mozaic had the joy of distributing donated bicycles to three families in our community—and the impact was immediate and heartwarming. The children were overjoyed to receive their very own bikes just in time for summer, and their excitement was contagious; one family even called to thank us, with the sound of laughter and squeals of joy echoing in the background.
For the adults, the bicycles meant more than just recreation—they provided newfound mobility, easing the daily challenges of commuting without a car. This simple gift offered not only freedom, but a sense of empowerment and dignity for the entire household.
🧼 Hygiene Drive for Refugee Families
With inflation on the rise and back-to-school season approaching, Mozaic launched a Hygiene Drive to support refugee families in need. Access to basic hygiene items can make a world of difference to a child’s confidence and well-being, and we wanted to make sure no family had to worry about these essentials. Our goal was to not only provide kits but to remind our community members that they are cared for and supported.
The response has been heartwarming—families, individuals, and even local businesses have contributed generously to our registry. Volunteers assembled and distributed hygiene kits that include shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and feminine products. These are the everyday items that often go unnoticed, yet are so critical to a person’s dignity and health. Seeing the joy and relief on the faces of those who received these kits was a powerful reminder of why this work matters.
We invite you to continue supporting the Hygiene Drive by donating items through our online registry or hosting a mini-drive with your family and friends. Every contribution counts. Shop directly from our registry here: https://www.myregistry.com/organization/mozaic-dmv-sterling-va/4880054
