It is rare to find a beautifully humble demeanor coupled with a confident persona, as exemplified by Sister Monia Holleman. Since moving to the Sacramento Area with her husband Zach in 2015, Monia has ensured that the masjid is not only an integral part of her life but the focal point of her existence. She quickly got involved in volunteer projects and took classes in sacred knowledge to grow in Ilm and spirituality. Three years ago, Monia was selected to join the elite Warethaat group at Tarbiya Institute.
Monia has an outstanding education. She received a master’s degree in public policy and now serves as the City of Sacramento Department of Water Resources grant manager. She embodies the signs of an insightful leader who has found a way to achieve work-life balance in inspiring ways. Monia serves as the volunteer director of the Nizami Order at the Tarbiya Institute, managing the Islamic growth of over 60 students with the utmost diligence and sincerity. She truly exemplifies the Quranic paradigm:
وَتَعَاوَنُوا۟ عَلَى ٱلْبِرِّ وَٱلتَّقْوَىٰ
“Cooperate in righteousness and piety” (Quran 5:2)
in all parts of her life.
Monia and Zack’s baby son, Ibrahim, is touted as the next imam of the community. He's famously known for stealing the limelight from Imam Azeez, when he constantly climbs up his pulpit and delivers a few sentences in his incomprehensible baby words, or mumbles the Quran as he hears the Imam recite, stealing everyone’s hearts in the process.
Monia’s parents relocated from Los Angeles to Roseville to be closer to their daughter and become an integral part of the Tarbiya family.
Monia’s journey is more than just a story of dedication; it’s a testament to the power of service, faith, and balance. Through her humility, strength, and unwavering commitment to her community, she demonstrates a special type of leadership focused on uplifting others, fostering growth, and embodying the values of faith in her every action. Her ability to balance family, career, and community service is a reminder that when we prioritize connection and purpose, we find the strength to make a meaningful impact.