In a time when children spend increasing amounts of time on phones, tablets, and computers, the MIC Crochet Guild is offering young girls something refreshingly different—a chance to unplug, create, and develop a skill that can last a lifetime.
The Crochet Guild has launched an 18-class program designed to teach students the art of crochet in a completely tech-free environment. Through guided instruction, participants learn essential crochet techniques using yarn, crochet hooks, needles, scissors, and specialty materials while building confidence, creativity, patience, and focus.
The program encourages students to continue practicing at home with their own crochet hook and practice yarn. While project materials remain safely stored between classes, students bring back their practice pieces for evaluation, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.
One of the unique aspects of the initiative is its community-centered approach. Every completed class project will be sold at a fundraising bazaar, with all proceeds benefiting the masjid. Students whose handmade creations are sold will also receive appreciation tokens, giving them the joy of contributing to a meaningful cause while seeing the value of their craftsmanship.
The program was developed and is facilitated by Nazek Salahudeen, whose lifelong commitment to education, social work, and community development has shaped this inspiring initiative.
Speaking exclusively with Madiha Masood, Salahudeen shared the vision behind the Crochet Guild.
“Our goal is to give young girls a healthy alternative to spending hours on phones and computers. We want them to discover the joy of creating something with their own hands, develop patience, confidence, and a practical skill they can use throughout their lives.”
Salahudeen’s passion is rooted in decades of humanitarian and educational experience. Originally from Lebanon, she served as a social worker specializing in family and community development and worked extensively with parents of children with disabilities, particularly deaf children and children with psychological challenges.
She later served for nearly four years as the supervising social worker at Abu Dhabi Central Hospital, overseeing social workers across multiple departments. Her dedication continued at the Abu Dhabi Handicapped Center, where she first taught deaf students before moving into arts, crafts, and vocational training at the Sheltered Workshop. There, she worked with students ranging from those with severe intellectual disabilities to highly functioning blind and deaf individuals, helping them gain practical skills and independence.
After moving to the United States with her husband and three children—including a profoundly autistic son—Salahudeen pursued higher education later in life. Beginning college at the age of 43 and graduating at 50, she went on to serve as a lower elementary teacher, high school science teacher, and substitute teacher.
She is also the founder of the AL-Basit Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to water well projects, orphan care, and community development overseas, serving communities solely for the sake of Allah.
The Crochet Guild is supported by dedicated administrators Sister Arshia Khan and Sister Sabah Shaudhry, whose efforts help ensure every class runs smoothly and provides a welcoming environment for participants.
During the class visit, excitement filled the room as students proudly showcased their handmade creations. The young girls enthusiastically displayed beautifully crocheted pieces and shared how surprised they were by how quickly they had learned new techniques. Their smiles reflected not only the joy of creating something beautiful but also the confidence that comes with mastering a new skill.
As a guest, Madiha Masood encouraged the students to continue learning, reminding them that practical skills are valuable investments for the future. She praised their creativity, dedication, and enthusiasm, emphasizing that hobbies like crochet foster patience, discipline, and entrepreneurship while preserving the tradition of handmade craftsmanship.
The MIC Crochet Guild stands as an inspiring example of how community-driven educational programs can empower young girls with creativity, confidence, and lifelong skills—proving that sometimes the most meaningful lessons begin by simply putting the screens away and picking up a ball of yarn.
