Nureen is intended as an international nonprofit with teams worldwide that create free, high-quality Islamic apps and content.
I have worked at six different organizations and repeatedly saw the same worrying pattern: people start out enthusiastic but end up emotionally exhausted. Newcomers with lots of ideas are often told, “We don’t do it that way here.” I want an organization that gives energy, where everyone feels heard and can be themselves.
After a long search I discovered that this is achievable. Frederic Laloux’s book Reinventing Organizations describes a way of organizing that aligns remarkably well with Islamic values about community and leadership. Organizations like Buurtzorg have proven this works: they started small in 2006 and grew to 850 flourishing teams. This is the way forward for Nureen.
Our organization will rest on three core principles: self-managing teams, wholeness, and flexibility. Below is a brief description of each principle.
Self-managing teams
Nureen will be a foundation where multiple projects can be developed simultaneously by volunteer teams. While providing a clear structure, each team will have the tools to self-manage a project while also seeking advice on major decisions. Through a process of seeking out advice, the foundation collaborates to raise the quality of our products. This is Shura in practice: consulting one another so we can give our best.
Wholeness
Wholeness means bringing your whole, authentic self to work without masks. We will create a safe environment where spirituality, emotion, creativity, logic, and intuition are valued. We do this work for Allah and the Ummah, with the intention of dedicating our actions to this higher purpose. In this way we create a sadaqah jariyah: a continuing charity that transcends generations.
Flexibility
Instead of rigid plans, Nureen will remain responsive to signals from within the organization and the communities we serve. We will adjust course and priorities based on those insights. That means your voice as a newcomer matters. Your ideas and perspective help us improve and find direction. In Islam, we learn to act from istikhara and tawakkul, trusting in Allah’s plan.
How this looks in practice
Nureen consists of teams with members worldwide. Each team comprises enthusiastic volunteers and experienced professionals creating an Islamic app, game, or animation. Every team has a clear structure and workflow to enable coordination and cooperation. Teams feel safe asking for help and foster a deep sense of purpose, fulfillment, and connection. They share their products with other teams to receive feedback and support. Any volunteer or community member can pitch a new idea which, if aligned with Nureen’s vision, can seed a new team or be adopted by an existing team.
Are you excited about this vision? Check out our volunteer and board positions!