Muslim Civic Coalition Announces New Board President as it Charts Next Chapter During Critical Civic Moment
Chicago, Ill. (Oct. 6, 2026) — As the Muslim Civic Coalition continues engaging, representing, and empowering more communities across Illinois during a critical moment in civic life, it is proud to welcome Ayesha Ahmed as the new president of its Board of Directors. With the election of Ahmed, and in partnership with Executive Director Amina Barhumi, the board will continue to advance the community advocacy organization’s mission and set strategic priorities for its next chapter.
“I’m honored to step into this role at a time when the Muslim Civic Coalition is building on its strong foundation and thinking intentionally about what comes next to expand civic justice and build civic power across our state,” Ahmed said. “I look forward to working with our board, staff, and community to ensure Illinois Muslims and our neighbors always have a say in the decisions that impact our lives. In a defining moment for American Muslims and our democracy, our mission has never been more important.”
Ahmed, an attorney who joined the Coalition board in 2025, will serve a two-year term as board president. She brings over 15 years of nonprofit leadership service, legal expertise, and community advocacy to the organization. She has spent much of her career working to create greater access, opportunity, and representation for communities whose voices are too often overlooked.
She currently serves on the board of Connections for the Homeless and the advisory board of Pro Bono Network, and she previously served on the board of UMMA Center. Across these roles, she has seen the impact that thoughtful advocacy, community partnerships, and people willing to speak up and serve can make in the lives of others.
Ahmed spent 13 years at Nexus Pharmaceuticals, where she served as legal counsel and ultimately as General Counsel for the company. Her experience navigating complex legal, organizational, and business matters has shaped her approach to leadership: listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions, understand different perspectives, and work collaboratively toward meaningful solutions – all trademarks of the Coalition’s approach to collective action.
“The Coalition is entering a new chapter of momentum and strategic growth – one marked by both significant challenges for our communities and meaningful opportunities to build lasting civic power,” said Muslim Civic Coalition Executive Director Amina Barhumi.
“Ayesha’s strong leadership and the expertise of our entire board will be vital as we combat rising anti-Muslim hate, increase civic participation, develop solutions rooted in community needs, and ensure we are fully represented in civic life,” Barhumi added. “The conversations we’re having across Illinois as part of our Statewide Listening Tour will also be an important part of shaping this next chapter.”
Barhumi was selected as the organization’s executive director in February after co-founder Dilara Sayeed stepped down to become CEO of Penny Appeal USA and began her tenure as a Coalition board member. Co-founder Reema Kamran also remains a board member, alongside other community leaders who bring diverse expertise and lived experiences that shape the organization’s work.
Board of Directors Nominations
The Muslim Civic Coalition is currently accepting nominations for new board members as the nonprofit looks to expand its impact, strengthen organizational capacity, and empower more communities across Illinois. The Board of Directors provides governance and oversight of the 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization, while contributing their experience, ideas, and relationships to advance the Coalition’s mission.
Candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about the Coalition’s work are encouraged to apply. We are especially interested in nominees with experience and expertise in nonprofit leadership, fund development, philanthropy, strategy, law and policy, business, and technology.
Learn more, submit a nomination, or apply yourself here. For additional questions, please reach out to info@muslimciviccoalition.org.
About the Muslim Civic Coalition
The Muslim Civic Coalition is a nonpartisan advocacy organization fighting for civic justice and building long-term community power. We combat anti-Muslim hate and create lasting change by uniting people around a shared vision for our democracy. From the statehouse to the ballot box, we ensure that Illinois Muslims and our neighbors have a say in the decisions that impact our lives. Learn more about our voter engagement, public policy, civic leadership development, and community education programs at muslimciviccoalition.org.