Meet the Administrative Team

We are excited to introduce you to our dedicated administrative team, the backbone of our organization, ensuring smooth operations and excellence in every project. Each team member brings unique skills and unwavering commitment, and we’re thrilled to spotlight their hard work and passions.

Ghada Awwad

Director of Operations

Sr. Ghada studied English Literature at Birzeit University, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to her role. As the Director of Operations, she now oversees daily activities, manages staff and volunteers, coordinates events, and ensures the smooth execution of all programs. Her responsibilities also include implementing policies and procedures and fostering community relationships.

Her passion for creating a warm and welcoming environment is evident in her work across the masjid’s various programs. One of her favorite aspects of her job is listening to the Friday Khutbah from her office. Sr. Ghada is eager to continue expanding programs and events for the community, striving to exceed the expectations of everyone who walks through our doors.

Mhd Yaser Heimour

CPA, Comptroller

Br. Yaser joined the Mecca Center with the opening of the new building at the beginning of 2017. He came from Syria with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, a master’s degree in finance, and more than 10 years of experience in corporate accounting. He has been instrumental in managing and improving the Mecca Center’s finances. Accuracy, integrity, and compliance are the three pillars of his work. Notably, Br. Yaser achieved his CPA licensure while growing at the Mecca Center, showcasing his dedication to professional excellence and continuous learning.

Nader Hamdan

Civic Engagement Director

Br. Nader Hamdan has been a cornerstone at The Mecca Center for six years, serving as the Youth Program Manager since February 2018 and Civic Engagement Director since January 2024. He is currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy and Public Administration at Northwestern. Br. Nader is dedicated to educating the community on policy and legislation, working with interfaith and community organizations, and representing The Mecca Center in various programs and events.

Br. Nader envisions The Mecca Center evolving into a multifaceted community hub, reminiscent of the first masjid in Islamic history, where members connect beyond faith through shared interests, professional networks, and hobbies. His goal is to create programming and spaces for Muslims of all walks of life to connect for the sake of Allah (swt). Nader’s work reflects his commitment to fostering a vibrant, engaged community that thrives on unity and shared purpose.

Phatma Mreiziq

Communications Manager

Sr. Phatma joined The Mecca Center team as the Communications Manager in April 2024. She graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, specializing in Advertising Strategy. At TMC, Sr. Phatma oversees daily communications and marketing operations, develops organizational policies, manages advertising budgets, and collects event feedback to implement effective marketing strategies. Additionally, she handles the design and publication of marketing materials on social media, manages media opportunities, and responds to media inquiries.

One of her personal goals is to effectively communicate that The Mecca Center (TMC) is the community’s true home base. Whether it’s attending prayer, participating in weekly classes, enjoying community events, or savoring the café’s offerings, Sr. Phatma aims to ensure that TMC supports individuals at every stage of life. She envisions TMC as a place where people can take a break from daily responsibilities, meet new people, and grow together.

Aymin Bakr

Administrative Assistant

Br. Aymin Bakr is a dynamic presence at The Mecca Center, where he has served as a part-time administrative assistant for the past two years. He excels in coordinating program logistics, recording detailed meeting minutes, and enhancing data analysis and website maintenance. His dedication spans four years, encompassing both previous volunteer efforts with the Mecca MVMT and professional contributions from his full-time work as an Accountant. 

Br. Aymin’s future goals include establishing classes to improve core skills for the community, such as an Excel crash course. He envisions The Mecca Center as a premier destination for world-renowned scholars, with aspirations for a full-time ‘Aalimiyyah program. His favorite event is the Transformative Tarbiyah Initiative, especially the weekend with Shaykh Majed Mahmoud, which featured in-depth workshops on Jannah and Jahannam and provided invaluable personal interactions with esteemed scholars.

Manal Taqatqa

Administrative Assistant

Sr. Manal Rashid Taqatqa is the friendly face you’ll see at The Mecca Center, where she recently joined as an administrative assistant in May 2024. Armed with a Doctorate in Management from Colorado Technical University, which she earned in 2016, Sr. Manal is all about efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring everything runs smoothly across departments. Sr. Manal’s passion lies in making a positive impact on the Muslim community, and she’s dedicated to serving and growing The Mecca Center. 

Her vision for the future includes expanded facilities that cater to the educational needs of elementary, middle, and high school students at The Mecca Center. With a heart for inclusivity, her favorite events at TMC are those that foster a sense of belonging, making everyone feel at home.