This is a reminder that Elections for four (4) vacancies on The Mecca Center Board for a term of three (3) years will be held inshaAllah during the General Assembly (GA) meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 20, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Mecca Center.
Ballots will be available on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at The Mecca Center between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM for early voting (in case you are unable to attend the GA), and between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM during the GA.
The Mecca Center annual report will be presented by the president at the GA meeting.
All candidates listed on the ballot will be introduced to the GA starting at 6:00 PM. Candidates will provide a brief background and their vision for the future of The Mecca Center. Members who are eligible to vote will be allowed to vote.
The Mecca Center 2025 Board of Trustees Candidates
Basel Abushaer
This is your brother Basel Abushaer. I’m a physician and father of six, living in the Mecca Center community. My family and I are regular attendees at prayers, programs, and community events at The Mecca Center, which has been a cornerstone of our spiritual and social life. For the past two years, I have served on the Zakat Committee, helping support families in need and strengthen our community’s compassion and outreach. I wish to serve on the Board to continue advancing The Mecca Center’s mission of fostering growth, unity, and service for all generations. Jazakum Allahu khairan.
Amer Alhussaini
My name is Amer Alhussaini, and I am a dedicated member seeking a position on the The Mecca Center Board of Trustees. For my family and me, The Mecca Center has been our second home since its establishment. Professionally, I am an urgent care physician and medical director , giving me essential skills in efficient operation and resource management. My corporate background, including management roles at Bon Secour and McKesson, provides expertise in solving complex organizational challenges and strategic planning. I will bring a proactive, team-focused approach to the Board, ensuring The Mecca Center continues to serve our community with excellence.
Omar Almusaddy
I graduated from UIC in engineering and am now pursuing a bachelor’s in Islamic Studies, specializing in Islamic Law, at The World Islamic Sciences & Education University. I’m entering my final year at the program and plan to pursue higher education in Islamic Studies. For over 10 years at The Mecca Center, I’ve served as a youth leader, Quran teacher, and Academic program coordinator supporting the newly launched Fard ‘Ayn program. My goal in joining the board is strengthening The Mecca Center’s role as an educational institution, equipping the next generation with the knowledge they need to live life as God-pleasing servants.
Diya Alshahrour
I am 24 years old and nearing completion of my master’s in Clinical Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago. I have been part of The Mecca Center community for 15 years, growing up through its youth programs and Qur’an classes. Over the past six years, I have served as a youth volunteer and, for ten months, as a Youth Coordinator, helping launch the first-ever Fundamentals of Faith Camp. For five years, I have also taught Qur’an to various age groups. As a board member, I hope to bridge the gap between the youth and leadership to strengthen our community’s future.
Rana Awwad
My name is Rana Awwad and I am a proud member of The Mecca Center community. I have served over the past five years in multiple roles—helping create and grow The Mecca Center Scholarship, writing and voicing many of our video projects, and serving as Master of Ceremonies for the 2024 Fundraising Dinner. I also authored a book on The Mecca Center’s history. As a PhD candidate and educator, I bring experience in leadership, communication, and community development. I am committed to helping usher The Mecca Center into a new era of growth, service, and unity, inshAllah.
Bilal Aydoner
I am honored to announce my candidacy for a second term as a Board of Trustee member. Insha’Allah, my aim is to continue offering leadership and support in various community engagements and committees I’ve already been part of, such as, but not limited to; career mentorship, career coffee talks, fundraising, Eid events, and food drives. I live with my wife Amy and 4 kids in Darien. Insha’Allah, I’ll continue to lean in and empower a better tomorrow for our greater community. Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve our community once again.
Rand Diab
I’m completing my first full term on the Mecca board of trustees, also serving on the Executive Committee. Through my work with TMC and other non-profits, I realized that as board members, we play an important role in the direction that the organization takes. It is our duty to be good stewards, by making sure that we strive to please Allah ﷻ and to represent the needs and wants of those that elected us. We must be fiscally responsible, govern in an honest and transparent way, bring value to our community, and embrace growth without leaving a large financial burden for our children.
Nagla Fetouh
TMC is our home. Since 2014, I have participated in MC youth, interfaith, political, service, family, and educational programs. I also served on TMC Youth Committee for about 8 years, supporting weekly programming for middle and high school girls and other youth programs. Recently, I have been involved in the local community where I serve on the Gower 62 School Board as board president and on the Community Action Team at Hinsdale South. If I join TMC board, I would strive to grow MC programs, build stronger bridges with neighboring communities, and bring diverse perspectives of TMC community to conversations.
Ajaz Hussain
Alhamdulillah, The Mecca Center has been my home since its beginning — a place where faith, family, and community come together. As a lifelong educator and dedicated volunteer, I’ve served with passion as Chair of the Education Committee, Treasurer, and Annual Fundraising Chair. Together, we’ve built strong programs for our children and families. Our Baraem Preschool (Quran Blossom) is a shining success — thriving and helping sustain our beloved center. I’m always present, approachable, and deeply committed to serving with sincerity and teamwork so The Mecca Center continues to grow as a vibrant home of faith, unity, and excellence.
Zafer Jawich
My name is Dr. Zafer Jawich, a practicing internist at Silver Cross Hospital since 2000. I am married to Mai Khairallah, and we are blessed with five children. I am excited to express my interest in joining the Board of Trustees at The Mecca Center. I have served as the Department Chair of Internal Medicine and currently serve on the Quality Review Committee, which has strengthened my skills. Outside work and volunteering, I enjoy gardening and swimming. I am eager to contribute my time, energy, and passion to help the Board make informed decisions that will benefit our masjid. May Allah (SWT) bless and guide our efforts.
Amro Kudssi
I am a Technology Executive heading a large-scale software enterprise. I serve as the Technology Director at Mecca Center Board since 2019. I joined the Executive committee in 2024. My committee oversees all TMC technology platforms including, the website, mobile app, network, computers, security, media, phones, classroom equipment, and business software. Volunteering in this community since 2001 has been an honor. I hold a BS in Computer Engineering from Aleppo University. And MS. In Software Engineering from DePaul University. I have two US utility patents. I reside in Westmont with my wife and three children and enjoy swimming, gardening, and traveling.
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