Our History is American History

The first Banaatun Noor summer camp was held in 1987 in York, South Carolina. This historic event was the first of its kind in American history. Camp participants helped lay the bricks for the foundation of Masjid al Fatimah, the first Mosque in the state of South Carolina.

The attendees of the inaugural Banaantun Noor Ladies camp are now mothers and grandmothers who continue the legacy of empowering the next generation. Our Alumni give back by teaching and mentoring, offering their time and expertise in various fields to benefit Muslim ladies in America.

Banaatun Noor Intl.

The purpose of Banaat tun Noor International is to enhance and enrich the lives of women and children physically and spiritually by providing women's resource and relief centers, seminars, workshops, conferences, as well as annual winter and summer camps. Banaat tun Noor further aims to assist women in pursuing and expanding their personal educational goals by providing assistance and support in developing skills that will enable them to find better jobs and/or establish businesses.

Banaat tun Noor International seeks through these activities and supports to insure that all women and children receive a chance at a better life no matter their background and/or life circumstances untimely bringing out of the darkness into the light.

Our Founder: His Eminence El Sheikh Syed Mubarik Ali Shah Gi

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

Our Founder

His Eminence Sheikh Gillani

Founder & Spiritual Visionary

At the heart of Banaat TunNoor International stands the blessed vision of His Eminence Sheikh Gillani a scholar, guide, and reformer whose life was devoted to illuminating hearts through authentic Islamic knowledge and spiritual discipline.

Sacred Lineage & Spiritual Authority

Sheikh Gillani was a direct descendant of the Holy Last Messenger ﷺ through both noble Imams, al-Ḥasan and al-Ḥusayn (may Allah be pleased with them), and a direct descendant of the Sultan of the Awliyāʾ, Ghawth al-Aʿẓam Abdul-Qadir Gilani. From this sacred lineage, Allah ﷻ blessed the Ummah with a Murshid Kamil (May Allah be pleased with him) a complete guide whose teachings united sound scholarship with spiritual refinement.

Life & Service

Born on August 15, 1936, Sheikh Gillani was a Pakistani Sufi religious leader of the Qadiriyya ṭarīqah. His tireless service produced institutions that continue to educate, guide, and uplift communities across generations. He founded:

• The Muslims of America

• The Islamic Post

• Muslim Scouts of America

• International Qur’anic Open University

• Banaat TunNoor International

The Banaat TunNoor Vision

Banaat TunNoor International is among the longest-standing Islamic educational programs for women, approaching its 40th anniversary of camps. Sheikh Gillani’s vision was clear and transformative:

to educate Muslim women in authentic Islamic knowledge and bring them out of darkness and into the light.

For nearly four decades, BNI programs have realized this vision nurturing women grounded in faith, illuminated by knowledge, refined in character, and prepared to serve their families and communities with confidence and compassion.

A Living Legacy

The light ignited by Sheikh Gillani continues to shine through Banaat TunNoor’s curriculum, spiritual practices, and community service. His legacy lives on, knowledge lived, faith embodied, and guidance passed forward generation after generation.

Banaatun Noor Administration

President - Sheikha Syeda Zainab Gillani, M.P.A, M.F.A.

Sheikha Syeda Zainab Gillani serves as the Founder of Lighthouse Academia Group as she is dedicated to the building of educational institutions that provide beneficial knowledge to encompass all aspects of a student’s life including academic, spiritual, physical, and intellectual.

Mrs. Gillani studied for over ten years under the direct tutelage of Sufi Master of the Qadri order, Hazrat El Sheikh Syed Mubarik Ali Shah Gillani Hashmi Al Hassani wal Hussaini (may Allah be pleased with him), spiritual custodian of the shrine of Hazrat Mian Mir of Lahore, Pakistan. She was appointed by him during his lifetime as his spiritual successor.

Under Sheikh Gillani leadership she oversaw the American Muslim Medical Relief Team (AMMRT) international reliefs efforts in West Africa, the Americas, and South East Asia. Seeing American Muslims come to the aid of their Muslim brothers and sisters all over the world has greatly contributed in changing many people's perceptions of the West and helping build bridges in the name of brotherhood, fostering dialogue, and combating extremism.

More recently, she led a team of American doctors, nurses, Muslim Boy Scouts (MSA), and volunteers to provide free emergency medical care to victims of Pakistan's devastating floods.

Mrs. Gillani holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Development Studies from the University of Waterloo, a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Birmingham, UK, and a Master’s degree in Documentary Film Directing from Raindance-De Montfort University.

Her mastery of sufi literature can be found in the perceptive editing of books on sufism such as the famous Sakina-tul-Awliya (Tranquility of the Saints), authored by Dara Shikoh, son of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and student of the great saint of Lahore Hazrat Mian Mir. As an experienced documentary filmmaker and historian Mrs. Gillani produced the film ‘Mingling of Oceans’ (Majma ul Bahrain) to offer the world the framework for a pathway to spiritual enlightenment and peace in the modern world through lessons from the accounts of students like Mughal Crown Prince Dara Shikoh Qadri.

In 2008, Mrs. Gillani used her keen business acumen to launch a successful international retail business. Her global outlook in business management has set her retail business up for success as she adapts and propels the organization forward through great customer experience and satisfaction.

Vice President - Khadijah Smith, M.P.A

Khadijah Smith serves as the Vice President of Banaat Tun Noor International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing faith, leadership, and service among young women and the broader community. She has served with Banaat TunNoor International for over 20 years, bringing deep institutional knowledge, continuity, and unwavering dedication to the organization’s mission.

In her leadership role, Mrs. Smith supports the development and oversight of spiritually grounded programming, educational initiatives, and community-centered projects designed to foster growth, resilience, and purpose. Her long-standing service has played a key role in shaping programs that emphasize character development, leadership training, and sustainable community impact.

Mrs. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in Community and Human Services from Empire State College and a Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) with a concentration in Nonprofit Management from Westchester University, Pennsylvania. In addition to her academic credentials, she holds a Diploma in Islamic Studies from IQOU College, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and spiritually informed leadership.

Guided by integrity, accountability, and vision, Mrs. Smith brings a thoughtful and compassionate leadership style to her work. She remains deeply committed to building sustainable programs that empower individuals, strengthen families, and serve the evolving needs of the communities supported by Banaat Tun Noor International.

Treasurer - Khadija B. Salaam, M.S.Ed.

H. Khadija B. Salaam came to Southside Virginia from Pennsylvania. She graduated from Central Virginia Community college, Liberty University and earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She currently holds a master’s degree from Old Dominion University in Special Education K-12 General Curriculum and graduated with honors in leadership.

With experience in leadership and administration, she has developed programs, managed, and led professional development. H. Khadija is bi-lingual and is certified in the language of Arabic and has a passion for life-long learning.

BNI Board Members

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

Dr. Bilqees Abdallah is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in family and women’s health, including obstetrics. She brings over 14 years of clinical experience in diagnosing, treating, and managing patients with acute and chronic illnesses, as well as complex co-morbid conditions, with a strong emphasis on preventive

In addition to her professional work, Dr. Abdallah has dedicated more than 15 years of volunteer service to Banaat Tun Noor International, where she has played a key role in overseeing health and wellness at BNI camps. Her longstanding commitment has helped ensure medical preparedness, safety, and overall well-being for participants, staff, and volunteers.

Dr. Abdallah earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Chatham University in Pittsburgh. Her combined professional expertise and sustained service reflect a deep dedication to compassionate care, community health, and stewardship.

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H. Amira Aatiyah

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

Rooted in both professional excellence and spiritual growth, H. Amirah Attiyah brings a unique blend of accounting, nursing, and Islamic scholarship to her role in Banaatun Noor. Her educational background consists of a degree in accounting providing a strong foundation in stewardship, organization, and analytical thinking, which continues to inform her approach to leadership and collaboration. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing at SUNY Delhi University . H. Amirah Attiyah is currently furthering her Nursing education at Maryville University while also pursuing Islamic education at IQOU Theological College, deepening her commitment to service, ethics, and holistic care.

For more than 20 years, she has traveled abroad as a Taliba (student) of Hazrat Sheikh Syed Mubarak Ali Shah Gillani (RA), a path that has shaped her character through disciplined spiritual practice and a focus on inner excellence and integrity. Her long standing administrative role at Banaatun-Noor is founded upon relationship-based networking, trust, and community impact, and strives to show up as a spiritually anchored healthcare professional who serves with compassion, accountability, and a mindset of continuous growth.

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Amira Maryam Abdus Salaam

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

Amira Maryam Abdus Salaam

M.S. Biomedical Sciences

BNI Officers

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp graduated with high honors from Springfield Technical Community College, earning an Associate in Arts in Entrepreneurial Studies. She furthered her education at Empire State College, where she obtained a Bachelor's degree in Business Management and Economics. Hajarah Taylor-Mapp brings a wealth of knowledge and energy

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Uthman Aziz

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Uthman Aziz currently works as a project manager for New York State Energy Research & Development Authority in the Single Family Residential department focused on assisting low to moderate income families with their energy needs. Uthman has a background in the utility industry as well as experience in community development, municipal liason, and volunteer coordination. Uthman holds a Masters degree in public administration from Binghamton University and has served on both the Putnam County Economic Development board and the Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development. Uthman is excited to bring his experience and commitment to family and community to BNI.

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Elizabeth L. Giles

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Elizabeth L. Giles

Elizabeth Giles is a devoted mother of five and a committed community leader with a strong dedication to faith, service, and youth development. She holds an Associate’s degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences and is currently continuing her studies at IQOU Theological College and SUNY Oneonta.

Elizabeth has focused much of her work on youth ad

Elizabeth has focused much of her work on youth advocacy and community engagement. She has served on the Board of The American Muslim Club for seven years and is a co-organizer of one of the largest annual Muslim youth soccer tournaments, helping to foster leadership, teamwork, and positive community involvement among young people.

In addition to her board leadership, Elizabeth has extensive experience in youth mentorship through her role as a BNI staff member, where she oversaw the care, programming, and well-being of more than 100 girls during summer camps. She is known for her dedication, organizational leadership, and compassionate approach to service, and she brings these qualities thoughtfully and consistently to all of her endeavors.

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Abdul Manaan Giles

Elizabeth L. Giles

AbdulMannaan Giles is a dedicated educator and aspiring scientist with academic credentials from Wichita State University and the University of Kansas. As the founder of Ustad OnDemand, he specializes in crafting personalized learning plans for homeschooled and virtual students so they can enter college prepared. Additionally, AbdulMannaan is a budding clinical microbiologist and neuroscientist, conducting research on biomarkers for the early detection and treatment of brain abnormalities, including Alzheimer’s disease.

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Huseenah Adams

Abdul Manaan Giles

Huseenah Adams

Husseenah Adams serves as the Operations Officer of Banaat Tun Noor International, supporting the organization through strategic planning, operational oversight, and program development. She brings a practical, hands on perspective to leadership, informed by her familiarity with the organization’s educational initiatives.

She holds a Bache

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management from Canton University and contributes a strong foundation in organizational planning, ethical governance, and sustainable operational growth. Husseenah is focused on efficiency, long-term impact, and continuous improvement, and is dedicated to strengthening the effectiveness of Banaat Tun Noor International.

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Our History is American History

Banaatun Noor Intl.

Our Founder: His Eminence El Sheikh Syed Mubarik Ali Shah Gi

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

Banaatun Noor Administration

President - Sheikha Syeda Zainab Gillani, M.P.A, M.F.A.

Vice President - Khadijah Smith, M.P.A

Treasurer - Khadija B. Salaam, M.S.Ed.

BNI Board Members

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

H. Amira Aatiyah

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

Amira Maryam Abdus Salaam

Amira Bilqees Abdallah, DNP, FNP-BC

Amira Maryam Abdus Salaam

BNI Officers

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Uthman Aziz

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Elizabeth L. Giles

Hajarah Taylor-Mapp

Elizabeth L. Giles

Abdul Manaan Giles

Abdul Manaan Giles

Elizabeth L. Giles

Huseenah Adams

Abdul Manaan Giles

Huseenah Adams

Banaatun Noor Instructors

Meet Our Dedicated Instructors

Madame Afifa Aziz

Hakimah Raziya A. Mumin

Ustadha Safiyya Clark

Ustadha Safiyya Clark

Hakimah Raziya A. Mumin

Ustadha Safiyya Clark

Hakimah Raziya A. Mumin

Hakimah Raziya A. Mumin

Hakimah Raziya A. Mumin

Ustadha Safiyyah Khafid

Hakimah Raziya A. Mumin

Hakimah Raziya A. Mumin

Ustadha Waliya Begum

Alima Muhsina Abdulkhaafid, Al-Azharia

Alima Durdana Shakir, Al-Azharia

Alima Durdana Shakir, Al-Azharia

Alima Muhsina Abdulkhaafid, Al-Azharia

Alima Durdana Shakir, Al-Azharia

Alima Safiah A. Salaam Al Azharia

Alima Muhsina Abdulkhaafid, Al-Azharia

Alima Muhsina Abdulkhaafid, Al-Azharia

Alima Muhsina Abdulkhaafid, Al-Azharia

Alima Muhsina Abdulkhaafid, Al-Azharia

Alima Muhsina Abdulkhaafid, Al-Azharia

Ustadha Aisha Muqit, Qadriyyah ZBN

Ustadha Aisha Muqit, Qadriyyah ZBN

Ustadha Aisha Muqit, Qadriyyah ZBN

Ustadha Faqeera Raisa Abdul Karim

Ustadha Aisha Muqit, Qadriyyah ZBN

Ustadha Aisha Muqit, Qadriyyah ZBN

Ustadha Amatullah Rauf

Ustadha Aisha Muqit, Qadriyyah ZBN

Ustadha Naseema Abdullah

Ustadha Naseema Abdullah

Ustadha Aisha Muqit, Qadriyyah ZBN

Ustadha Naseema Abdullah

Ustadha Maryam Taylor

Ustadha Fatimah Brewster

Ustadha Fatimah Brewster

Ustadha Fatimah Brewster

Ustadha Fatimah Brewster

Ustadha Fatimah Brewster

Ustadha Khadija Qadria

Ustadha Fatimah Brewster