Community Fellows - Interfaith at Augsburg - Augsburg University

We are excited to announce two Community Fellows joining the Interfaith Institute team this year. They are available to speak to student groups, classes, and others at Augsburg University. Please reach out to Prof. Najeeba Syeed if you would like to arrange a meeting: syeedn@augsburg.edu

Abdirahman Mukhtar

Abdirahman (Abdi) Mukhtar is passionate about the health of the young people in his community. A coach for numerous sports teams, dedicated mentor, and passionate youth worker over two decades, he is widely known on the West Bank of Minneapolis and in the Somali American community in Minnesota for his community work. When he realized opioid overdoses were killing East African young adults in heartbreaking numbers, he set about eliminating the shame that often prevents his Somali community from talking about addiction and getting help for children or grandchildren. He founded Daryeel (the Somali word for “care”) Youth to be a non-judging beacon of light for young people in the throes of active addiction. He welcomes all to his Friday night gatherings, where he supplies food, clean clothing, personal hygiene products, a first aid kit with Narcan, and dressings for wounds. His compassion has earned him the trust of his community, especially parents who are trying to help their children reclaim a healthy life.

Nasrieen Habib

Nasrieen Habib is a humanitarian entrepreneur and community leader advancing equitable access to outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, and community well being. As the founder of Eco Jariyah and Amanah Recreational Project, she leads initiatives that remove barriers to nature, promote sustainable living, and create inclusive spaces for underserved women and their families. Through Eco Jariyah, Nasrieen develops ethically sourced, climate conscious apparel, including the Hiking Hijabie and Hiking Ummah lines, designed to increase accessibility and representation in outdoor spaces. Her work also supports global community initiatives focused on clean water access, orphan sponsorship, and essential resources for families both locally and globally. She is also the founder of Hiking Hijabie, a community-based outdoor initiative that has engaged over 800 members through programs such as hiking, kayaking, camping, and skill building activities. These programs are designed to improve physical and mental well being, foster social connection, and create safe, welcoming pathways into outdoor recreation. Nasrieen’s broader work includes leading zero waste initiatives, facilitating environmental education, and partnering with local agencies, park systems, and nonprofit organizations to expand community centered programming. She brings a culturally responsive approach to her work, ensuring programs are inclusive, accessible, and reflective of the communities they serve. Drawing from her spiritual values and lived experience as an immigrant, as well as her connection to her African heritage, Nasrieen is committed to building cross cultural connections, increasing access to public lands, and fostering a shared responsibility for environmental care and community resilience.