OUR MISSION
ISF aims to increase American Muslim representation in media and government and protect the interests of our communities by improving public policy and public opinion.
Ramadan Mubarak!
Join us this month in shaping a future that reflects the strength and diversity of our shared humanity.
Theory of Change
Comprehensive Support for Lasting Impact
ISF empowers the next generation of American Muslims through dynamic leadership development initiatives and strategic funding opportunities, facilitating their access to careers within influential sectors.
Our unique incubator model provides support at every career stage: funding, mentorship, career counseling, job placement, and hands-on professional experience through internships and fellowships.
This proactive approach serves as a direct intervention to combat Islamophobic policies and media narratives targeting our community.
Values and Beliefs
Religion, culture, and race should not be barriers to equity, justice, or opportunity.
All people should be treated with dignity and respect, and the voice of every citizen plays an integral role in creating inclusive communities that encourage participation by all.
Impact strategy should rely on data, not guesswork.
By targeting fields that shape society, we gather measurable evidence of impact and refine our approach to maximize results.
Muslim voices and perspectives belong in positions of power and influence.
We position ourselves to take action before challenges arise, ensuring our voices have a platform when our communities come under threat.
Since 2009...
$3.67M
Invested to empower future leaders
746
Awards granted, creating change in key fields
661
Emerging leaders supported
100%
Graduation rate among ISF alums
88%
Work in their chosen fields, compared to 26% national average
Public Policy
Shaping Equitable Systems
By increasing American Muslim voices in policy spaces, ISF’s work strengthens our governing bodies at every level.
Our alums have the support and training to help expand civil rights protections, address racial and religious profiling in law enforcement, and advocate for inclusive immigration policies that respect the dignity of all individuals.
Our awardees become vital forces fighting for international human rights initiatives that align with values of justice and equality.
One of the beauties of this scholarship is that you have the power to use your dollars and use your hearts to really invest in these beautiful leaders.
Antonio López
2017 & 2023 Scholarship Recipient
Current role: Mayor, City of East Palo Alto
Public Interest Law
Advocating for Justice and Equity
Our support of law students and early-career professionals in public interest law improves equitable access to legal representation and promotes diversity within the judicial system.
ISF alums are positioned to challenge discriminatory practices, address disproportionate targeting of religious communities, promote workplace equity, and fight for immigrant rights.
ISF’s support also ensures that emerging leaders have the resources and networks to grow in their careers and make a lasting impact—building a legal system that upholds justice, equity, and dignity for all.
It means the world to me ... that there are people out there who are invested in the next generation of Muslim American leadership, Muslim American civil rights workers, and people who are fighting to make this world and country a more just and welcoming place. This scholarship has made a lot possible for me.
Farooq Chaudhry
Attorney, Scholarship Recipient
Film
Amplifying Voices, Changing Narratives
ISF opens doors by supporting talented filmmakers who tell authentic stories and reflect the diverse experiences and contributions of the American Muslim community.
Our work ensures that emerging professionals across the film industry have the support they need to challenge stereotypes, amplify underrepresented narratives, and use the power of storytelling to drive cultural change.
By investing in emerging writers, directors, and others who help produce and promote films, ISF is helping fill gaps in mainstream storytelling and highlight the nuanced, diverse realities of Muslim lives.
It has been so long since I have felt this safe and cared for in a film environment, and I feel more inspired than ever to dream big and keep doing the work. ISF has changed my life in so many ways. I hope to continue learning from and being with you all for many years to come.
Samina Saifee
Film Grant Recipient
Media
Elevating Public Discourse
ISF creates opportunities for equitable access to the media landscape and nurtures early-career professionals so they can report on issues affecting marginalized communities, challenge harmful stereotypes, and amplify voices that are too often silenced.
By investing in young reporters and journalists, ISF ensures that the news that influences public opinion reflects the diversity of our society. Our commitment to cultivating ethical journalism amplifies our collective voice and transforms media into a tool for equity and progress.
ISF media alums advance social justice, combat misinformation, improve media literacy, and ultimately create a more balanced and civil society.
ISF has become a major player for the Muslim American community as we work toward representation in the media. This organization offers guidance and support for aspiring journalists, as well as a well-connected network for careerists looking for their next move. I truly believe ISF will take our media representation to the next level in the coming years.
Reem Nasr
News Associate at CNBC
2013 Scholarship Recipient
ISF Blueprint for Change
ISF’s proven model drives change by investing in talented, passionate individuals, equipping them with the skills to shape policy and culture, and following their career journeys. This strategic, long-term approach creates a multiplier effect: Every career we launch strengthens the civic fabric of our nation and advances justice, equity, and inclusion for all.
145
More Attorneys and legal advocates fighting for equal rights
80
More Journalists writing and reporting in newsrooms
200
More Filmmakers bringing our stories to screens, big and small
282
More Attorneys and legal advocates fighting for equal rights
Projections for 2030
Over the next five years, ISF will empower hundreds more leaders to drive systemic change across key decision-making spaces.
Get Involved
Supporting scholars and early-career professionals is a direct way to transform both lives and public perception of Muslim communities.
Join us in shaping a future that reflects the strength of our shared humanity.
Stay updated on what's happening at ISF!
Thanks for subscribing! Please check your email for further instructions.